Extension Ridge can be thought of as a series of escarpments, with relatively flatter "plains" between them. The ridges have dramatic boulders and overhangs amongst jungles of moss, and the plains are characterized by a conglomerate bedrock smoothed by glaciers, with shallow soils forming a unique ecosystem of arbutus groves and "vernal springs" and seeps which foster orchids and the "meadow bird’s-foot trefoil" (<em>Hosackia pinnata</em>) which isn't found in Canada EXCEPT at this location.
This huge area is between Harewood and Extension, to the west of Chase River - or east of Nanaimo Lakes Road.
Despite periodic clearcutting, there are tons of beautiful spots including the locally famous "Abyss", an earthquake fissure about 16 inches wide (wide enough for most people to fall into!).
The Abyss is not some dramatic canyon, or anything. It's just a big crack in the ground. But it's still interesting - and nasty - you would NOT want your toddler or little dog to fall into the Abyss! There are lots of stories about this crack, though I haven't confirmed a single one. For example, I was told a dog fell in, and showed up at Nanaimo River some time later.
This area is also beloved by mountain bikers, who've set up some fun wooden playgrounds in the area. There is a lot of exposed bedrock to ride on, arbutus groves, and long simple downhill trails where you can get some good speed.
Harewood Plains Petroglyphs
There are also petroglyphs here - figures and designs carved into the rock by some of the first people to inhabit this space. I was told the local Snuneymuxw people don't have these carvings in their oral histories, meaning that while the artists were likely ancestors of the Snuneymuxw to some extent, the petroglyphs are VERY old.
The petroglyphs aren't near the Abyss, but it's no surprise that they are in the same general area as a giant crack in the ground. Many peoples of the world have seen holes, cracks, and caves as portals to/from the spirit worlds. Then again, there are also petroglyphs down by the estuary, and on southern Gabriola Island, away from earthquake fissures.
While some of the petroglyphs are still visible, most are difficult to find. Some have been covered by soil, etc., in order to preserve them; vandalism was an issue in the past, and quad/bike riders have unknowingly damaged them when they haven't been cordoned off by stones. The photo here showing the humanoid figure was taken around 2010 and I'm certain the petroglyph has degenerated a lot since then.
Where to Park
This area can be accessed from a number of locations including from McKeown Way, Lotus Pinnatus Way, the Village of Extension, and the neighbourhoods west of Extension Rd. I'll show one approach in this map, showing the approach from Harewood Mines Rd. This should get you started!
Nearby Neighbourhoods
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