The Cowichan Valley Trail will take you from Duncan through Lake Cowichan and down past the Kinsol Trestle following former CN and E&N railway lines. With many access points and 8 trestles, it's a beautiful trail to walk, jog or bike. From the Island Spirit Team, we hope you enjoy your time in the Cowichan Valley.
All the Island Spirit Legacy Caches are within a 2 steps of the trail unless otherwise noted. Tthere is no need to bushwack or trample the vegetation.
Western Yew
The Western Yew is a small tree that is native to British Columbia. It features drooping branches and prefers to grow in shady forests. Unlike other cone-bearing trees, Yew trees have separate male and female trees. The male trees are identified by their pollen cones, and the female trees by their seeds that are encased in a bright red shell called an “aril.” The arils of the Western Yew look like berries, but don’t be tempted to eat them as they are toxic to humans. Yew trees always grow here and there in a forest, but never in a grouping.