Decided to do a shortish walk today as thinking of doing the walk around Newcastle Island tomorrow. Drove up to Qualicum Bay and managed to find the start of the southern trail. Beautiful walk through dense forest. Hadn’t realised that they had joined the two trails so ended up doing the full 8km.  Very peaceful apart from the birds tweeting. Did begin to wonder when we were around half way through the walk whether it was likely we’d see a bear but luckily we didn’t.
Did see a frog

and a Pine Siskin though

Popped into the Shady Rest for lunch on the way back. Looks like new owners have taken over and lots of refurb going on.