The Cowichan Valley Trail is a Vancouver Island gem, running from Shawnigan Lake to Ladysmith. A must-see along the trail, the curved Kinsol Trestle spans 187 metres and is one of the tallest free-standing timber trestles worldwide. For a more challenging option, try the Malahat Connector and Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail, with sweeping peninsula, city and lake views. Other highlights include the Yos Pole, a custom totem pole provided by the Malahat Nation; Skutz Falls between Duncan and Lake Cowichan; Bush Creek, at the north end of the trail; and Stocking Creek Park between Chemainus and Ladysmith. In Chemainus, check out the town’s striking murals.