Cowichan Valley Trail, Part 2

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Day 8 


It was a fun day!  Good breakfast at our hotel, then off to the trail head—same one we launched from yesterday.  But today we went the opposite direction, knowing we would go at least to the Kinsol Trestle, and that we would let the trail, weather, and our sensibilities as they developed, dictate how much further, it at all, we would cycle today.

The trail was in good condition, albeit with a few rocky patches.  The 14 kilometers to the trestle was a steady gentle uphill grade.  The scenery was wonderful, and the weather perfect. Three crossings on rural roads and zero cars made for a leisurely carefree pace. 

According to the Cowichan Valley Regional District (one of 27 regional districts in British Columbia) the “Kinsol Trestle is one of eight trestles along the Cowichan Valley Trail route and by far the largest and most spectacular. The Kinsol Trestle is one of the tallest free-standing and most spectacular timber rail trestle structures in the world. At 187 metres in length and standing 44 metres above the salmon bearing Koksilah River, the Kinsol is an incredible structure.”

The history of the Trestle and its restoration/preservation during the period 2007-11 is itself incredible. Wikipedia does a good job of encapsulating it.

As we approached the Trestle, a gentle wind was blowing at us, keeping us cool as we admired the trestle and the views each direction--including down!  We had a light lunch from our packs and had a nice visit with a couple from Switzerland.  Then it was time to decide – go further or return to the Transit.  The ride had been perfect and the trestle was thrilling.  What more could we hope for (except burn more calories)?  So, we made a quick return, completing a 28 km ride. 

We stopped at the Glenora Store and Café on the way back, thinking we might have lunch, but instead opted for dessert!  Lemon pie for Diane and strawberry rhubarb pie with maple black walnut ice cream for Rob. 

After our second shower of the day, we scoped out our ride for tomorrow, and then we scoped out dinner possibilities.  Choosing sushi and seaweed salad at Japan Town proved to be an excellent choice.

Tomorrow will be our last day on the Cowichan Valley Trail, another 44 kilometer ride. 

Stay tuned!
Diane and Rob


Hi, Today I am going to avoid pics of us riding the Trail today - seeking to show you something different. Rob

Diane ready to launch on the ride.

















Bog along side the Trail.
Black Cap berries.









Native Hardhack Bush flower.

The pic you have been expecting, Diane on the Kinsol Trestle. 
Diane's beast at rest on the other side of the trestle.
The Glenora Store and Cafe, the sight of our unearned high caloric reward ... but unabashedly enjoyed. 

(Hmm....Somehow my reward was larger than Diane's :))





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