Port Alberni has some amazing local paddleboarding spots to explore. Paddleboarding has become more popular over the past few years, which has inspired us to highlight the areas around the Alberni Valley. We are extremely fortunate to live close to Strathcona Park and have lake and ocean access offering a simple way to stay active close to our community. If you are looking for a new summer activity or just new inspiration we have sussed out the best spots to get started.
Sproat Lake
This is an easy suggestion, but definitely one of the best. We are incredibly lucky to have such an amazing lake on our doorstep with public access. You can easily take an inflatable or fiberglass board to Sproat Lake Provincial Park. Parking is relatively easy, just make sure you get there early on a weekend as the parking lot can fill up fast. There is a small trail leading to the lake access that wraps around to the east giving you more spots to launch.
Taylor Arm Park is also an easy place to launch. We recommend using an inflatable paddleboard since there is a small trail under an overpass you will need to walk under. This park tends to be less busy and offers beautiful quiet views of the lake.
Fossil Park has slightly more secluded public access to Sproat Lake. There is a beautiful old-growth forest trail leading to the lake. The trail takes about 30 minutes to walk making it more suitable for an inflatable paddle board. Once you get there, there is a beautiful pebble beach and flat grassy area to pump up.
Canal Beach
Photo Courtesy of Canal Beach Facebook Page
This previous plywood mill site has been revitalized into a public green space and has access for non motorized water sports, making a great place to paddle board on the Alberni Inlet. This area is on the ocean so be careful of a small tide and possible currents. Click here for more information about the park.
Loon Lake
Photo Courtesy of Mosaic Forestry Management
Loon Lake is situated 10 km east of Port Alberni and can be accessed by the public through the Mosaic Campground sites. Recently, Mosaic Forestry Corp. constructed a public dock, making it easier to reach the lake. There is a small gravel road that you will need to drive down, so it's important to have a good vehicle with proper tires. Both inflatable and fiberglass boards would be suitable.
Nahmint Lake
Photo Courtesy of Vancouver Island Off Road & 4x4
There are two possible access points to Nahmint Lake: Nahmint Lake Recreational Site and Blackies Beach. To reach both points, you will need to drive down active logging roads. The roads are well maintained, but we recommend having adequate clearance and good tires. Once you are at the lake, you will see gorgeous mountain views, a gravel beach, a quiet environment and away from the hustle and bustle of Sproat Lake. If you are looking for an enjoyable quiet paddle with some privacy, Nahmint Lake is the perfect spot for you.
Doran Lake
Doran Lake is located 40 km west of Port Alberni on your way to Ucluelet and Tofino. After turning off Highway 4, you will drive for about 20 minutes down a logging road that tends to be less maintained the further you go. To access this spot, you'll need an AWD or 4x4 vehicle. Since it is only accessible by car, both fiberglass and inflatable paddleboards are suitable for use. Upon reaching the lake, you will find clear water and ultimate privacy, as it's rarely accessed other than by anglers and the occasional local. Most of the lake is rocky, which can make launching a bit tricky, but you'll be able to find a suitable spot if you take a walk around.
Let us know if you've tried out any of these recommended spots by snapping a pic and tagging @portalberniphysiotherapy on Facebook or Instagram. We would love to be a part of your stand-up paddle-boarding adventure!