Nanoose Bay, BC

Population: 5,000

Highlights:
Northwest Bay Trails – horseback riding, biking and hiking are welcome
Qualicum National Wildlife Area
Local Artist Studios are indicated by road sign
Sail the Georgia Strait
Nanoose Hill – hiking trail
Bald Eagle viewing
Harvest Bounty Festival (approx. August)

History:
The Coastal Salish First Nations tribe, "Nanoose", closely related to the Nanaimo Indians frequented this eastern area of the island. Tribes on Vancouver Island date back over 5,000 years and were the areas only known inhabitants following the last ice age.

Western settlers did not populate the area until the early 1800's.

The Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental Test Range (CFMETR)has operated from Nanoose Bay since 1965.

Climate:
Summer average 19 degrees Celsius
Winter average 4 degrees Celsius