Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan is one of several communities that make up the pristine Cowichan Lake District. A scenic 75 km (46 mi) drive around Lake Cowichan (a map is available) takes you to these communities – Honeymoon Bay with its Wildlife Reserve, Youbou and Mesachie Lake. A mountainous area it is rich with wildlife and an ideal destination for outdoor adventure.  Some of the top activities include hiking, cycling, fishing, waterskiing, kayaking and more. Nearby Cowichan River Provincial Park is popular with outdoor recreation enthusiasts where, amongst other activities, you can do white-water kayaking, tubing, and fishing. This park protects significant stretches of the Cowichan River, a designated Provincial Heritage River internationally renowned for its wild salmon and steelhead fishery. Another park, Gordon Bay Provincial Park, is located on the shores of Lake Cowichan. The warm lake and sandy beach make for great family swimming. History buffs find plenty to interest them in the park, which is home to a second-growth Douglas-fir forest. There are a number of walking and hiking trails with unparalleled views. Visit in April when the wildflowers are at their peak.

Location

Lake Cowichan is located on Hwy 18, 28 km (17.5 mi) west of Duncan in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.

A Step Back in Time

Cowichan Lake’s settlement history began in about 1883 with the arrival of William Forest to Cowichan Bay. In 1884, he and James Tolmie toured the lake with the help of the native Ikilass brothers. Forest, impressed by “the most beautiful spot he had ever seen”, was able to convince BC’s Premier of the day to build a road to the head of the Cowichan River. This was completed in 1886 and settlement began which today is the Town of Lake Cowichan.

Although forestry which was the major industry in this area has declined, tourism has become of economic importance to the community. Now, a significant number of people travel here and beyond to enjoy Cowichan Lake and experience the stunning Caramanah Walbarn.