Epic singletrack, live music, and history in the village of Cumberland
Cumberland is a vibrant recreational community in the Comox Valley that draws active travellers to its extensive trail systems for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running. Rock climbers make the crags that hug Comox Lake to the west of Cumberland their playground, while water sports and boating take place on the lake itself.
Beyond its outdoor activities, Cumberland is known for its artistic culture, expressed through stores, performances, markets and festivals, and a dynamic history that makes the Cumberland Museum a worthwhile visit. Take a walk through Coal Creek Historic Park and notice the heritage houses that line the streets, adding to Cumberland’s charm. Cumberland’s walkable village centre provides a relaxing hub of eateries, event venues, and stores, owned by friendly locals.
Trail running and mountain biking in Cumberland
Cumberland has long been at the heart of mountain biking in the Comox Valley. Its epic singletrack is quickly accessible from the village centre, spanning out 100s of kilometres through flourishing forest ecosystems and up to panoramic viewpoints.
Now, trail running culture is being further buoyed by the opening of Frontrunners Cumberland. The store not only stocks all the gear you might need for time in the dirt on two feet, but the friendly staff are a wealth of local knowledge and also hosts frequent run socials.
Whatever activity is getting you out on the trails during your trip, the Cumberland Community Forest Society (CCFS) and United Riders of Cumberland (UROC) are two local organizations at the heart of trail development and ecosystem preservation.
The UROC hosts several bike events throughout the year and is a fantastic source for maps, trail etiquette, responsible wildlife encounters, and more. The CCFS is a vital tool for educating yourself about the delicate ecosystems you’ll be recreating in and a fun source of inspiration for doing your part to protect them. Consider donating to these awesome local organizations as you head out on the trails!
Family-friendly activities at Cumberland Lake Park & Campground
If you’re more drawn to the water or are simply looking for a spot to unwind, the Cumberland Lake Park & Campground is a popular spot for families, locals, and visitors. Located on Comox Lake, a vital part of the Comox Lake Watershed, there is a cordoned-off swimming area, barbeques (check fire bans/guidelines at the time of your visit), bookable picnic shelters, and a concession stand. You can also rent kayaks and canoes, or join a guided big canoe charter or watershed canoe tour. The park also buzzes with several summer event series, including live musicians at Arts in the Park: Concert Series and family-friendly movie nights.
The car park beside the Cumberland Lake Park & Campground is the launch point for climbing adventures around Comox Lake. The crags here are nicely protected by the forest, so climbing at one of the 300+ climbing routes is an option even on hot sunny days with the enticement of a dip in the lake afterward. As the weather cools in the fall, you might even find pop-up sauna sessions from Nomadic Sauna taking place at the lake.
New Eateries Expand Cumberland's Tasty Culinary Scene
After you’ve got your fill of activities, you’ll want to refuel and recharge. Head back to the heart of the village, particularly along Dunsmuir Street, to explore Cumberland’s eateries. A few recent openings have joined the likes of Rider’s Pizza, Biblio Taco, COOKS Restaurant, Cumberland Brewing Co. and Asian-inspired Niji to expand upon Cumberland’s culinary scene.
Boulder Hill Baking is located beside the Waverley Hotel with a case full of delectable baked treats, from savoury scones and gooey cakes to squares and cinnamon buns. Adding to Cumberland’s food truck scene, Vincenzo’s showcases Italian sandwiches with a nod to the owner’s great-grandfather and his arrival in Cumberland in 1903.
Gonza Okonomiyaki is another food truck serving Japanese fare like okonomiyaki, onigiri, and donburi. Meanwhile, a pitstop at Love’s Ice Cream is the perfect way to end a day of exploring the Comox Valley. We have a feeling you’ll visit more than once to try their flavours made in-house with seasonal, local ingredients!
Discover Cumberland's Musicians and Makers
Cumberland is home to many artists, musicians, and makers. Pick up a memento from stores like Rusty Rooster and Smöl Store, stocking local and independent creatives. Look out for pop-up events advertised by the many colourful posters throughout the village of Cumberland. Time your visit with the Cumberland Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Sunday from mid-June to mid-September at Village Square Park on Dunsmuir Avenue.
For the musically inclined, your trip to Cumberland is incomplete without dropping into Moon’s Records. The Waverley Hotel hosts concerts year-round of hyperlocal and international touring artists. Cumberland Village Works and Mt.Eliah Presents are two local organizations that put musical happenings firmly at the forefront of village life—from concerts and block parties to summer festivals across many different genres. In the fall, Woodstove Festival brings visitors from all over the island together for a joyful music festival where attendees wander between unique venues throughout Cumberland.
Where to stay in and near Cumberland
Make Cumberland your base for the Comox Valley and stay at Cumberland Lake Park & Campground for the quickest access to recreation. The Riding Fool Hostel is also popular with bikers and climbers. For something a little more luxurious, a short scenic drive through Royston takes travellers to the oceanfront Kingfisher Pacific Resort and Spa, while several other hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals are a short drive from Cumberland in Courtenay.
