If you’re traveling from Nanoose Bay, BC, the most straightforward route to Notch Hill Viewpoint begins by heading south on West Island Highway (Hwy 19). Drive approximately 25 kilometers, following signs toward Parksville and Nanaimo, ensuring you stay on the main route for a smooth journey.
Once you pass through Parksville, look for the exit toward Little Mountain Road. After taking this exit, ♂️ continue along Little Mountain Road for about 6 kilometers. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to Notch Hill, and turn left onto Notch Hill Road, a scenic route that leads directly to the parking area near the viewpoint.
To optimize your drive, start early in the morning or during weekdays, avoiding peak traffic hours near Nanaimo and Parksville. The roads are well-maintained, but foggy weather in the mornings may reduce visibility, so ensure your vehicle’s lights are on and drive cautiously.
Following this detailed route ensures a efficient and enjoyable trip from Nanoose Bay to Notch Hill Viewpoint, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery the area offers. Remember, the last few kilometers involve a short, well-marked gravel path leading to the viewpoint itself, making it accessible for most visitors with normal vehicles. Safe travels and enjoy your visit!
Step-by-step route instructions for driving from Nanoose Bay to Notch Hill Viewpoint
Start by heading south on Nanoose Bay Road from the center of Nanoose Bay. Continue for approximately 3 kilometers until you reach the intersection with Craig Street. Turn left onto Craig Street and follow it east for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the junction with Highway 19. Merge onto Highway 19 North and proceed for roughly 15 kilometers, passing through the outskirts of Vancouver’s metropolitan area.
Stay on Highway 19 North, listening for signs directing you toward the Notch Hill Viewpoint. After about 25 kilometers, take the exit toward Chemainus Road/Notch Hill. Turn right onto Chemainus Road and follow it for 10 kilometers, passing through rural scenery and occasional residential areas. Keep an eye out for the turnoff onto Notch Hill Road, which will be on your left after approximately 8 kilometers.
Turn left onto Notch Hill Road, then continue for 1.5 kilometers. Look for the designated parking area on your right, which provides access to the trail leading to Notch Hill Viewpoint. Follow the well-marked path for a few minutes to reach the viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding BC landscape. This route ensures a smooth drive from Nanoose Bay to this scenic spot, making your trip enjoyable and straightforward.”
Local landmarks and navigation tips to reach Notch Hill Viewpoint from Nanoose Bay
Start your route by heading north along Nanoose Bay Road, where the large Vancouver Island Regional Park sign marks the entrance to the nearby trailhead. After a short drive, look for the prominent yellow scout hall building on your right; it serves as a useful landmark to confirm you’re on the correct path. Continue straight until you reach the junction with the Park Access Road, where a wooden sign indicates the turn towards Notch Hill Viewpoint.
Follow Park Access Road uphill for approximately 2.5 kilometers, passing by the small parking area on your left, which is often used by visitors heading to local lookout points. As you proceed, observe the series of wooden trail markers with unmistakable blue arrows pointing towards Notch Hill. Keep an eye out for the large oak tree with a carved Vancouver, Canada sign–this marks the final approach before the trail narrows. Once you spot this, turn into the trailhead leading to the viewpoint.
Use the abandoned farm remnants, visible from the last parking lot, as additional orientation points. The trail climbs gradually, revealing glimpses of Nanoose Bay and surrounding islands, which serve as natural indicators that you’ve reached the correct elevation. Stick to the well-trodden path passing through the dense Douglas fir and cedar trees; the final segment is a gentle switchback that ends at the Notch Hill Viewpoint. Enjoy the expansive vistas, confident that these landmarks guided your way effectively from Nanoose Bay to this scenic spot in Vancouver, Canada.