Puntledge to Rotary Riverside Trail
This walk is lovely when you feel a bit spry and like you've got more time to enjoy meandering around the Puntledge River area. It takes us through Puntledge Park - a popular swimming spot in the summer - then along an established residential street to our final destination: Rotary Riverside Trail. Moving time for this tour is ~1.25hrs, though we will take our time to enjoy the scenery and learn about some plants.
Trail stats and terrain to watch out for:
Terrain: Stairs ~4 flights*, bridges*, short bursts of incline*
Distance: ~6 km
Trail type: Out and back
Time to complete : ~120 minutes
*Please keep in mind that, with this terrain, this is an inaccessible trail for those with mobility aids (walkers, wheelchairs, etc). Those who use a cane or have a lack of balance are encouraged to inquire if this trail is right for them.
Book a tour below!
Where to Find Us
Our nature walk begins at Puntledge Park (**keep in mind, the Willemar Ave address on Google Maps is inaccurate!!** Please see interactive map - click the pin and press “directions” to guide you just east of our trailhead). There are paved parking spots at the entrance to the park, near the bottom of the Menzies Ave/1st St hill.
Puntledge Park
~1201 1st St, Courtenay, BC V9N 1B1
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and book a tour.
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Our tours will not be feats of physical prowess and should be easy to complete, however we may be navigating hills or other terrain that could prove difficult for some. Expect breaks as needed by participants and use this time to enjoy the scenery or cheer on your fellow hikers!
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The only gear you need is footwear (with a little bit of grip, if possible) and weather-appropriate layers. We will run rain or shine unless conditions are dangerous.
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Yes, there is an outhouse near the start of the trail.
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You will receive a free downloadable PDF with plant ID information and spots to keep notes.
All participants have three included options to keep notes: print their own PDFs at home to bring along, use the reusable resources that In The Valley Tours provides (to be returned at the end of the tour), or purchase a high quality booklet copy to keep. All writing utensils will be provided for use.
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While first and foremost, our tours aim to teach folks local plant ID, our goal is to have you actually retain that knowledge through note-taking and repetition. This is why we provide simple note-taking resources and lead tours in a way that is engaging and interesting. Studies show our memories are more easily recalled if connected with strong memories, and we aim to create lots of joyful, peaceful, happy memories on the trail :)