Forest & Nature Therapy walks with Kelly Hutchison,  ANFT Certified Forest Therapy Guide.
Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
(Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Courtenay-Comox)
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All images are copyright protected by Dave Hutchison Photography.  For image use requests please contact Dave through his website.
Guided Forest Therapy Walk at the Brant Festival, central Vancouver Island.

When: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 9:00-11:30am (Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early)
Age Recommendation: is 16 years plus; No dogs please**
Maximum 12 participants

​Location: Moorecroft Regional Park, 1563 Stewart Road, Nanoose Bay, BC V9P 9E7
(We will meet at the information sign beside the parking lot - washrooms onsite)

Cost: cash by donation (100% of proceeds to the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region)

Join me for a gentle, 2.5-hour guided forest therapy walk at beautiful Moorecroft Regional Park in Nanoose Bay. Together, we will welcome the arrival of spring and celebrate the Brant Wildlife Festival with the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region. I am a certified guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and have been leading walks since 2018. Now at home in the Oceanside community of Qualicum Beach, I weave twenty years of experience in health and wellness into each walk, offering a gentle presence in the forest alongside my husband, landscape and wildlife photographer Dave Hutchison.

All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region (based in Qualicum Beach). A suggested donation of $20–$50 is appreciated, though any amount is welcome (cash only, please). Dave will also be present to offer support during the walk.
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What to Expect



​This is a mindful 2.5-hour walk in nature. It is not a hike or fitness walk. We will move gently, pause often, and spend time in quiet connection with the forest and the surrounding natural world. You will be led through a series of nature-based invitations designed to open your senses, awaken presence, and support a deeper connection with the land and yourself. Walks are slow-paced and short (approximately 1–2 km). This makes the practice accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. We will finish our walk with a light snack and tea. 
Picture
Moorecroft Regional Park, Nanoose, Bay, BC
What to Bring

​To make the most of your forest experience, please dress comfortably and prepare for the weather.
  • Closed-toe walking shoes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended) as forested areas stay cool, even in the summer months
    • Hat, gloves, waterproof gear and sturdy footwear
  • Also be prepared for rain, as we walk rain or shine
  • Water bottle
Being well-prepared helps you relax and enjoy your forest bathing experience. I will provide sit pads and have a first aid kit. For the comfort of others, please avoid wearing strong scents.

Come walk with me and experience the healing power of forest therapy.

​May you find yourself in the forest,
Kelly

Please sign up in the form below.

    Sign up for the Brant Festival Forest Therapy Walk, April 11, 2026

For as long as I can remember, I have treasured time alone in the forest. Sitting quietly, wandering slowly, exploring the woods with
childlike wonder—noticing the little things—the sound of the wind, the soft green mosses, splashing water in the creek, the sweet smell of roses in summer. These quiet walks have become my way of returning to myself, grounding, and noticing the subtle wisdom around me, and within. Come walk with me and experience the healing power of forest therapy.