There's a pretty great spot along the Nanaimo River for clothing-optional enjoyment of nature.

1) Follow Google's directions to the "Pink Rock Nanaimo river access gate."

2) Walk along the path on the other side of the gate. It will fork as it bends left. Take the right fork to stay above the plateau to the left.

3) The path will keep bending left, then there'll be a path to the right. Take the path to the right.

4) The new path will fork again near a large mossy rock (at least, it was mossy summer of 2021), one part staying on the ridge to the right, the other dipping down to the left, take the path to the left this time.

5) Follow it as it descents through the woods, wiggling a bit. Then take it all the way down the long hill.

6) Continue in the direction you were going, but be careful on the rocky path, it's not for the weak-ankled.

7) Duck under some branches and around a bush or two as you veer left towards the water.

8) When you come to a spot with a bunch of rocks, and a giant one on the edge of a river with a small pool between it and the river bank, you've come to the right spot. Strip down as much as you'd like and enjoy.

A few words of caution: Accessibility: As mentioned, the rocks at the bottom can be tricky for those who aren't sure footed and with at least some balance. Behaviour: It can be a pretty busy spot at times, which can be good. There have been several instances of folks playing with themselves or others there.