The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) has completed construction of a 350-metre section (Phase 1) of the Shawnigan Village Rail Trail between Elsie Miles Park and Shawnigan Wharf Park. This multi-use pathway features a compacted gravel surface suitable for all ages and abilities.

Continuation of this accessible pathway along the rail corridor from Shawnigan Wharf Park to Old Mill Park and between Mason’s Beach and Elsie Miles Park remains subject to the completion of additional trail engineering design and environmental impact assessment studies. This work is to be done at the direction of the CVRD Board in response to feedback received about the proposed Shawnigan Village Rail Trail pathway project proposal earlier this year as envisioned in the Shawnigan Lake Community Parks and Trails Plan. Completion of the additional trail engineering design and environmental impact assessment work will be dependent upon annual funds available through the CVRD’s budget for the Electoral Area B – Shawnigan Lake Community Parks service.

The Shawnigan Village Rail Trail Project is proposed to link Mason’s Beach, Shawnigan Lake Village, Shawnigan Community Centre, Elsie Miles Park, Shawnigan Lake Wharf and Old Mill Park with a multi-use accessible pathway built within the E&N Rail Corridor. The gravel pathway would provide a separated and safe non-motorized (walking and cycling) active transportation route promoting healthy outdoor recreation and community connections for residents and visitors alike.

The Shawnigan Village Rail Trail concept was first identified through community engagement and support in preparing the 2010 Shawnigan Lake Community Parks and Trails Master Plan. The community reaffirmed support for the rail trail idea during preparation of the 2012 South Cowichan Official Community Plan, inclusive of the Shawnigan Village Plan. Phase I of the Shawnigan Lake Village Rail Trail Project between Elsie Miles Park and Shawnigan Wharf Park has been completed and Phase 2 from Elsie Miles Park to Masons Beach Park is underway with a completion date by October 2020.

Below are five information boards about the Shawnigan Rail Trail Project proposal.

Project updates can be found through the links below:

If you have any comments or questions please contact the Cowichan Valley Regional District Parks & Trails Division at parks@cvrd.bc.ca