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The information here is an AI summary of the advice people in our Discord have shared. Their experiences may not always reflect the accurate process. None of this should be considered financial, immigration, or real estate advice.

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How accessible is Nanaimo for visitors with disabilities?

Tod's wife Jocelyn uses a wheelchair full-time and sits on Nanaimo's accessibility committee. She provided the following overview of Nanaimo sights:

• The City of Nanaimo provides mobi-mats (a wheelchair accessible beach pathway) at several of the most popular swimming beaches, including Departure Bay Park, Colliery Dam, Loudon Park (Long Lake), and Neck Point Park. Location map
• **Maffeo Sutton Park waterfront walkway:** Fully paved, flat, and excellent. Runs south to the Gabriola Island ferry and north to Newcastle Marina — about a slow 30 minute walk end to end. Multiple accessible washrooms, benches and parking spaces available along the route.
• **Morrell Nature Sanctuary:** Two wide packed trails suitable for handcycles and wheelchairs with power assist devices. A winding accessible trail meant for wheelchair users with assistance is near the entrance. Accessible parking and washrooms are available.
• Westwood Lake Park: Recently renovated to include more accessible parking and accessible washrooms. Swimming features a paved, gentle pathway with a sturdy railing. Beach wheelchairs may be available on request.
• **Newcastle Island / Saysutshun:** Very flat trails, most are packed dirt with some gravel and paved sections. Take the water taxi from downtown. The water taxi is not considered wheelchair accessible, but if you can transfer your wheelchair, they can usually accommodate. Camping is possible with advance booking through BC Parks.
• **Nanaimo Canoe and Kayak Club (NCKC):** Two accessible kayaks are available at Long Lake for people with disabilities. Self transfer is not required, but you must be able to lift your own weight vertically to get into the cockpit, or bring a helper.
• Forest Walks: Beban Park has an excellent path through tall trees and forest.