View Duncan to Port Renfrew in a larger map
Our journey begins at the junction of Highway 18 and the
Trans-Canada Highway a few kilometers north of Duncan, BC, where we’ll ride
toward the town of Lake Cowichan, 27 km (17 Miles) away. This portion of our journey is
beautiful stretch of pavement that is wide and pleasant to ride. You’ll be passing through farmland and
forest, with views of the coastal mountains as you descend into Lake Cowichan.
Lake Cowichan, BC
Nearing Lake Cowichan, you’ll turn left onto South Shore
Road, which will take you into town and the east end of the lake. One of the best places to stop is the
Kaatza Station Museum, which has preserved the regions logging history. The park next to the museum is restful
and offers a fantastic view of Lake Cowichan.
There are a number of small places to have a coffee or get
food in Lake Cowichan so take you’re time and enjoy what this community has to
offer.
Leaving Lake Cowichan heading west on South Shore Road,
you’ll be turning left onto Pacific Marine Road. This road is paved, sort of. I’ve seen every type of motorcycle on this section of road,
however if you’re on a cruiser, sport touring or sport bike, take your time as
the road is narrow, has gravel in places and is loaded with pot holes and
heaves in the tarmac. If you’re
into corners, you’ll have a great time on this road.
Corners!
The scenery along Pacific Marine Road is a mixture of forest
and logged areas. Keep in mind
that this is an active logging area and you may encounter a truck or two.
On of the best places to stop along this route is along the
Harris Creek, where a tall Sitka Spruce stands. It’s a short and easy hike to the tree and there are few
trails that beg to be explored.
Harris Creek Sitka Spruce
The rest of the route into Port Renfrew has a couple of
scenic lakes to visit. Lizard Lake
and Fairy Lake offer camping areas, if that’s part of your plans.
Port Renfrew is a small community on the southwest coast of
Vancouver Island. It offers a few
places to eat and is a common meeting area for motorcyclists who ride from
Victoria, especially on the weekends.
Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is west of the community and is home to one
of the best hiking trails on Vancouver Island, The Botanical Beach Loop Trail.
Overlooking the southwest coast of Vancouver Island near Port Renfrew, BC
This is the end of this part of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. The next entry will take from Port
Renfrew to Victoria.
Gerald Trees
