Start your drive in downtown Port Alberni by heading east on Victoria Quay
Follow the signs for Highway 4 (BC-4) towards Vancouver. Keep left onto Highway 4 East / Alberni Highway.
Route to North Island College
- Stay on Highway 4 for approximately 75 kilometers, passing through scenic areas and small communities.
- As you approach the outskirts of Nanaimo, take the Turnoff for BC-1 (Trans-Canada Highway) heading north toward Parksville and Qualicum Beach.
- Merge onto BC-1 North and continue for about 15 kilometers.
- Exit onto Jingle Pot Road and follow it west towards North Island College’s Parksville Campus.
Final Approach
North Island College’s Parksville campus is located just off Jingle Pot Road. Look for signs directing you to the campus.
Parking is available on-site, and the campus offers accessible entrances and clear signage for visitors coming from downtown Port Alberni.
Additional Tips
- Travel during daylight hours for smoother navigation, especially when entering Nanaimo and Parksville areas.
- Use GPS or navigation apps for real-time updates on road conditions or detours.
- If you’re heading to the North Island College Campbell River campus, stay on BC-19 North from Parksville and follow signs accordingly.
Step-by-step driving route and alternative transportation options from Downtown Port Alberni to North Island College
Start your drive by heading northeast on 1st Avenue from Downtown Port Alberni. Continue for approximately 2 kilometers until you reach the intersection with Highway 4 East. Turn right onto Highway 4 and drive about 22 kilometers toward Parksville. Follow the signs for Highway 19 North, merging onto Vancouver Island Connector until you reach the exit for North Island College located in the Nanaimo area.
Driving route summary
After exiting Highway 4, stay on Highway 19 North for around 16 kilometers. Take the Nanaimo Parkway Exit, then follow signs for North Island College campus directly. The total drive averages 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Make sure to check current road statuses before departure, especially during winter months when snow or rain may impact travel.
Alternative transportation options
If you prefer not to drive, consider taking a BC Ferries cruise from the Port Alberni Harbor to Vancouver Island, then train or bus from Nanaimo to the college campus. Several local bus routes operate between Port Alberni and Nanaimo, with rides lasting roughly 2 hours. Additionally, ride-sharing services like BC-based apps or taxi providers offer direct trips, which can be convenient if carrying luggage or traveling in a group. Canada’s public transportation system is well-developed, making it straightforward to reach North Island College without a personal vehicle. This option is especially useful during winter when road conditions may cause delays.