The flat, paved paths on both sides of Kitsuksis Creek and easy access make this ~2.5 km loop one of Port Alberni’s most popular places for walkers. Although in an urban setting, the dyke area has some good riparian habitat which attracts a variety of birds year-round, including waterfowl and songbirds.
To add forest birds to your walk: At the north end of the loop, across Gertrude St, the paved paths continue on both sides of the creek through a wooded area before joining via a pedestrian bridge (this loop is ~0.6 km). Just beyond that bridge, on the north side of the creek, a dirt path (marked by a sign) continues creek-side through lush vegetation to the base of a rail trestle and a series of small waterfalls (~300 m).
From the Visitor Info Centre (2533 Port Alberni Hwy, at the Y-junction with Hwy 4), take Hwy 4/Johnston St (heading west) through Port Alberni for ~3.6 km to Margaret St. Turn R onto Margaret St and follow for ~130 m to Burke Rd, then turn L onto Burke Rd (note: Burke Rd has a boulevard separating the opposing lanes; turn L into the far lane). Straight ahead, near the Royal Canadian Legion, is a small parking lot with direct access to the walking paths.