Hikes on Galiano Island

Though Galiano Island is best known for its lively foodie culture, it’s also home to a handful of not-to-be-missed day hikes. With stunning views that look down both Trinconmali and Swanson Channels, Galiano’s trails offer a chance to experience the Salish Sea both up close, and from above. Whether exploring the island’s western ridge, or accessing the remote Dionisio Point Provincial Park at its northernmost tip, you’ll find sweeping views, remnants of Japanese settlement, natural sculpted tafoni, and the bliss of island living. Ready to hit the trails? Here are four must-do hikes for you next Galiano Island getaway:

Mount Galiano 

The most iconic photographs of Galiano are taken from the top of Mount Galiano, and with good reason. As the highest viewpoint on the island, the picturesque south-facing panorama is a well-deserved reward after a steep climb through the forest. From this vantage point, you can spot all of the other Southern Gulf Islands as you watch the ferries travel through Active Pass and beyond. Access to Mount Galiano is within a Nature Preserve, owned and held in trust for the people of the island by the Galiano Club. Be sure to pay back this kindness with respectful trail use.

The Bluffs

Named for the magnificent 100m shoreline ‘bluffs’ located high above Active Pass, Bluffs Park is a local favourite that is likewise under the guardianship of the Galiano Club. Hike the trails from Sturdies Bay to get to the top by foot or access the lookout by car. There are plenty of trails to keep exploring once you’re at the top. Plus, with a perfect grassy ledge for picnicking, surrounded by Garry Oak and Arbutus trees, you can rest in the midst of soaring eagles overhead and waves crashing far below.

Bonus: join a trail building party led by the Galiano Trails Society, a registered charity that develops and manages more than 100 km of hiking trails across the island, and make your visit a regenerative one. You’ll leave the island better than you found it and meet the dedicated, passionate islanders who make our communities so special. Held the last Sunday of every month at 1pm. No experience necessary.

Bodega Ridge Provincial Park 

Follow the cliffside ridge of the island through Bodega Ridge Provincial Park with expansive views to the west across to Wallace Island, Salt Spring Island, and the mountains of Vancouver Island. Choose a 4km out-and-back trip, or the full 8km distance from Cottage Way to Manastee Road to add some rugged, forested terrain. Either way, you’ll move in and out of groves of arbutus trees and manzanita bushes that make up the islands’ unique ecosystems.

Dionisio Point Provincial Park

A boat-access only park at the island’s northernmost tip, Dionisio Point is an unparalleled gem in the Southern Gulf Islands. A rocky headland lined with sandy beaches and picturesque bays, this remote, serene location offers endless exploring across sandstone shelves, varied shoreline, and wildflower meadows. Spend time watching the currents in Porlier Pass and if you’re lucky, you’ll see the richness of the marine wildlife.