We Wai Kai Nation River Trail Loop

pre-construction

We Wai Kai Nation reserve is located within the city limits of Campbell River, occupying about 121 hectares and is home to 60% of the Nations community. This area includes the Quinsam Crossing Economic Development Area, which has much development completed and more ongoing and planned. It features a Shell gas station, liquor store, cannabis store, and restaurant, with more planning underway. In addition to these businesses, there are key community services also located in the community including the Quinsam Wellness Centre, a Head Start Pre-school Program, a learning center and sport fields as well as the Band Administration Office. There is a recognized need for a safe and efficient trail system that the community can depend upon to safely travel to services and key amenities that is free of motor vehicle traffic. This will become increasingly important as more development is planned and the volume of traffic increases. The proposed River Loop Trail will not only provide the community with easy and safe walking access to key amenities and services but will also ensure that there are natural areas protected. The River Loop Trail is made up of a 1.6km gravel loop with 2 smaller trails accessing the Quinsam River. It will feature interpretive signage about local flora and fauna, traditional usage, historical information, and feature points of interest along the route. With a variety of benches, rest areas and interpretive stops, the trail will appeal to a diverse usership with focus also on mobility impaired individuals, children, and the elderly. The objective of the trail is not just to link the We Wai Kai Nation community to the Quinsam River and economic resources but is also intended to be enjoyed by tourists and local Campbell River residents using services offered at Quinsam Crossing. The trail can also be used as a learning tool for youth as well as others as part of programming about history, the importance of the Quinsam River and area and will allow a safe route free of vehicle traffic for the community. With the completion of the trail it will be one step closer to linking the Campbell River/Elk Falls Trails to the Greenways loop trails.