It’s easy to judge from the sidelines, to point out what’s not working or why something is taking so long. But until you’ve been in it—really in it—you can’t see all the layers.
Bringing a project to life that blends storytelling, public art, construction, environmental care, Indigenous collaboration, trail building, and community needs is . . . a lot. It humbles you. It challenges you. And yes, sometimes it keeps you up at night (just ask my family).
The Campbellton Loop and Trail Completion Project
The project I’m talking about is the Campbellton Loop and Trail Completion Project. Campbellton is located to the west of Campbell River’s downtown core, along the banks of the Campbell River. As project manager and chair of the Campbellton Neighbourhood Association, it’s been one of the hardest and most rewarding journeys I’ve ever taken.
From the outset, our goals were clear: to connect people with Campbellton’s natural beauty and outdoor activities, honour its culture and history, create safe and accessible routes for walking and cycling, boost the local economy through tourism, and encourage people to discover the growing charm of the village.
Now, after two and a half years, it’s complete. With the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport; the City of Campbell River; the Campbellton Neighbourhood Association; the Rotary Club of Campbell River; Island Coastal Economic Trust, and my family and close friends, an ambitious idea has been turned into something that’s helping to shift how people see Campbellton. With the Campbellton Loop now connecting to the cherished Greenways Loop, we have two special routes that together offer a richer way to explore our city.
Following Quinny through the village
The Campbellton Loop is a 7.2-km walking and cycling route that guides people around the Campbellton River Village in a way they’ve likely never seen it before. Along the route are seven unique stations, each one adding a new chapter to the story of a curious young bear cub named Quinny, while offering fresh insight into each location.
There are so many moments from this revitalization project that I’ll never forget. Seeing River Village Park transformed from a dusty lot to a vibrant natural playground with a zipline, climbing logs, and imaginative art. Witnessing Raven Park and Baikie Island come back to life thanks to the Rotary Club of Campbell River, with new trails, native plants, Indigenous art, and a clear welcome to one of the most beautiful places in Campbell River. Sitting at Reflection Point, a small new park we created by the water, where people can simply be quiet, calm, and connected.
“It’s more than a story. It’s an invitation to explore the outdoors, be active, and build memories.”
An interactive quest for all ages
What makes the Loop truly unique is Quinny’s Quest—a playful, interactive adventure following the bear cub around the Campbellton River Village. An optional free app animates Quinny, adding to the experience. Participants join Quinny on his journey, collecting golden apples and gathering wisdom along the way. Each of the stops reveals a new chapter in Quinny’s story while teaching visitors about Campbellton’s historical, natural, and cultural treasures. The adventure starts and ends at River Village Park, where a “quester” can unlock the “Quest Machine” using the numbers collected around the loop.
To carry the adventure beyond the Loop, we created a book called Quinny’s Quest, soon to be available at local businesses. I imagine a grandparent handing it to a grandchild and saying, “Let’s go solve Quinny’s Quest together.” It’s more than a story. It’s an invitation to explore the outdoors, be active, and build memories. It’s the kind of shared experience that turns trail systems into family traditions.
The Campbellton Loop is more than a path. It’s a story, a spark, and an invitation to explore this neighbourhood’s natural beauty and character. Every detail was intentional, honouring the past while building for the future: Indigenous teachings, native plants, and local history—along with public art by the talented Alex Witcombe—are woven into a cohesive, welcoming experience.
The journey to completion
Like any worthwhile journey, there were many challenges—delays, shifting regulations, moments that felt overwhelming. But for every obstacle, there was someone ready with encouragement, a creative solution, or a reminder of why this mattered. Support from the City of Campbell River kept me going through the tough times, and working alongside the Rotarians showed me the generosity and dedication that true volunteerism brings.
“When you see people smiling, exploring, and connecting, you know it was worth it.”
That’s community. And that’s what Campbellton is gradually becoming—a place of connection, resilience, and possibility.
The best things in life are rarely the easiest. They take persistence, collaboration, vulnerability, and vision. But when you see people smiling, exploring, and connecting, you know it was worth it.
I invite you to walk, ride, or quest the Campbellton Loop. Explore each station, let the story unfold, and see Campbellton in a new light.
Because this isn’t just another loop.
It’s a symbol of what happens when we believe in a place—and each other.
