Colliery Dam Park

Imagine a green oasis where industrial history is harmoniously interwoven with wild nature. Colliery Dam Park is a picturesque area covering over 27 hectares in the city of Nanaimo. The park is renowned for its unique dams that form tranquil lakes within the Chase River system, creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation in the heart of Canada.

The main highlight of this location is the Harewood Colliery Dam, built at the beginning of the 20th century. It serves as a living reminder of the region's coal-mining past and is recognized as a cultural heritage site. Today, instead of the noise of the mines, only birdsong and the splash of water can be heard, and the old engineering structures have become an integral part of the landscape, attracting history buffs and photographers alike.

Visitors will find dense forests, a network of well-maintained trails, and two clear lakes that have become a favorite spot for locals. With a rating of 4.6 based on numerous reviews, Colliery Dam Park remains one of the city's most soulful and accessible attractions, offering guests a rare opportunity to see how nature reclaims space once altered by humans.

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In the park, everyone will find an activity to their liking, from active exercise to quiet contemplation. An extensive network of hiking trails of varying difficulty allows you to explore the secondary-growth forest and the banks of the Chase River. While walking, you will find information plaques that tell the amazing history of these sites and the characteristics of the local flora and fauna.

The summer season turns the park into a real resort for locals. In the two lakes formed by the dams, you can swim in clean and refreshing water. It is a great free alternative to ocean beaches, particularly popular with families. Additionally, the lakes attract fishing enthusiasts looking to spend time with a rod in the quiet surroundings of the scenic dams.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are dedicated areas for picnics and birdwatching. You can settle on the shore with a book or simply enjoy the view of the dam spillway, where water flows beautifully over concrete structures, creating the effect of a natural waterfall. This place is perfect for momentarily forgetting the rhythm of the city and recharging.

Getting to the park is straightforward, as it is located at 635 Wakesiah Ave, just a 10–15 minute drive from the city center. For those arriving by private vehicle, free parking is available on-site. Cyclists will also appreciate the convenient bike paths leading to the park from the central neighborhoods.

If you plan to use public transport, look for buses within the Nanaimo Regional Transit System. Routes passing through the Harewood area (such as the Harmac Route) have stops within walking distance of the entrance. A taxi ride from the central waterfront is also quick and convenient.

For walking enthusiasts, the journey from the center takes about an hour (approximately 4–5 km). The route passes through quiet residential areas, allowing you to get a better feel for the city's atmosphere. In any case, it is recommended to use navigation apps to choose the best route depending on the time of day.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the region's industrial past. The Harewood Colliery Dam and Chase Dams were constructed by the Western Fuel Company between 1910 and 1911. They were originally built for a very practical purpose: to provide water for washing coal and to meet the needs of miners and work animals directly within the mines.

Interestingly, over time, the industrial water supply system became vital for local residents. Houses located along the pipeline began connecting to the network for domestic needs, bringing clean water to most households in the South Harewood area. When the coal era came to an end, the dams were transferred to the city and became the foundation for a recreational zone.

In 2012, the park faced a threat: city authorities planned to decommission the dams for safety reasons. However, the local community, including activists and representatives of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, stood up to protect the site. Thanks to their efforts, the dams were preserved, and today they are an officially recognized cultural heritage site, serving as a reminder of the days when coal was the heart of the local economy.

For a leisurely stroll along the main trails and a look at the historic dams, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most visitors. This time is enough to enjoy the views and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the waterfalls and lakes.

If you are planning a full day of relaxation—including swimming in the lake on a hot summer day, a picnic on the grass, or a complete hike through the entire trail network—you should set aside 3 to 4 hours or even half a day. Families with children often spend more time here, relaxing in the shaded areas by the water.

Colliery Dam Park is open to the public daily, allowing guests to enjoy nature in both the early morning and the evening. Official operating hours are from 06:00 to 23:00, Monday through Sunday.

Access to the grounds remains free year-round, though it is worth noting that lighting on the forest trails may be limited after dark. Swimming in the lakes is most comfortable during the summer months when the water is sufficiently warm.

Exploring the park's surroundings allows for a deeper dive into the history and culture of the region. Very close to the nature trails, you can find both unique historical sites and cozy urban neighborhoods that have preserved the charm of past decades.

A walk from the park toward the coast will give you access to architectural monuments and iconic city landmarks that will perfectly complement your tourist itinerary.