Trail Overview
Healy Lake is a quiet backcountry destination tucked into the hills west of Nanaimo, reached by a network of winding logging roads through the northwest bay division or from the end of Nanaimo River Road. The drive takes you through working forest and stretches of dense Vancouver Island timber, with the occasional clearing offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The road is generally straightforward but can be rough in places with loose gravel and washboard sections typical of active forest service roads. As you get closer to the lake, the forest thickens, and the sense of remoteness grows. The route ends at a small lakeside recreation site on Healy Lake, a peaceful spot known for its clear water and rainbow trout fishing. It’s a great place to pull over, launch a small boat, or simply enjoy the quiet surroundings before heading back down the mountain.
