The Central Vancouver Island Chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of BC, (CVI BCHBC) is a registered non-profit society, whose volunteers maintain an extensive trail system on public lands.  Recreational hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians use these trails with connections next to the Trans Canada Trail off the end of Spruston Road, Nanaimo.  In addition, they have constructed a BCHBC equestrian campground with 20 corrals, 2 outhouses, manure pit, map kiosk. This staging area is behind fenced and locked gates at the end of Spruston road.  This campground is managed by CVI with an agreement with Recreational Sites and Trails BC, with a future transfer of land ownership to the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

For the second year in a row, CVI is hosting a day ride for all equestrians, not just BCHBC members, called the Saddle Up Against Cancer, which is set for Sunday, September 7th 2025. The donations will be given to the Nanaimo Cancer Clinic at the Nanaimo General Hospital, as last year. Two routes are offered, one of 9 kilometres, and the longer one at 13 kilometres. These 2 looped routes will be flagged and mapped, and, there will be guided rides out as well. In addition, lunch will be provided.

There will be a $50 minimum donation to attend this event with all proceeds going to the BC Cancer Foundation for the Nanaimo Cancer Clinic at the Nanaimo Hospital, as last year. No refunds. Cut-off date to register is August 31st. All Riders must show proof of membership with Horse Council of BC and sign a waiver of liability. Overnight camping at the  site is only available to BCHBC members. More information can be found at the CVI Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/2507129342733703.  Questions? Contact cvi.bchorsemen@gmail.com. There is no cell phone coverage at the Ride Site. 

 FIRST: Please register for this event by clicking this link:  Click here to register. Then Donate!