Malahat Nation has partnered in plans for a new elevated “skywalk” that would give tourists a stunning view of their territory on Vancouver Island.  

The proposed wooden Malahat Skywalk is a 650-metre forest pathway leading to a tower with a climbing spiral ramp, inspired by elevated forest walks in Europe. 

The skywalk, north of Malahat Summit in the Cowichan Valley, would conclude at a 40-metre-high sightseeing lookout tower with views of Finlayson Arm and the coastal mountains.  

Malahat Nation has partnered with a new company on the project called A.Spire by Nature, led by two people who founded the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish.  

David Greenfield, principal of A.Spire by Nature, said the attraction would combine nature-based tourism with cultural tourism experiences led by Malahat members. 

“The Malahat Skywalk will offer opportunities for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in local storytelling, cultural celebration and natural interpretive education,” he said in a statement. 

Applications to build the project have been submitted to local and provincial governments. If approved, A.Spire by Nature and Malahat hope to start construction this fall and open the attraction in June of 2020.   

Malahat Nation Coun. George Harry Jr. added that his community’s leadership is proud to partner on the project.  

“Not only is it a tourism experience that speaks to sustainability and the connection to our land, but it will also provide opportunities for many generations of the Malahat Nation to come,” he said. 

“We look forward to telling the stories of our people and welcoming the visitors to our community.” 
Community consultations are still taking place, and more information can be found at www.malahatskywalk.com.