7 Island Hikes That are Better in the Rain
One of the benefits of being in British Columbia’s south coast is that the region’s cool, Mediterranean microclimate makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Better still, the Southern Gulf Islands get less than a third of the rainfall that’s typically seen in Vancouver and the lower mainland, making it the perfect winter destination. But the landscape still changes with the seasons and that means there are some trails that are best saved for cozy season adventures.
Here are seven hikes on the Southern Gulf Islands that are actually better when it’s wetter.
Lyall Creek Trail, Saturna Island
Though a relatively short hike, the Lyall Creek Trail features a scenic waterfall that’s all the more impressive after a few weeks of rain. Passing through a beautiful forest with large ferns and healthy mosses, the hike is almost otherworldly on a rainy day. In the fall, keep a close eye on the creek to see salmon spawning. During a cold spell, you might even be lucky enough to see the waterfall freeze over.
St. John Point Regional Park, Mayne Island
Recognized as a significant conservation area, St. John Point is home to at-risk species and sensitive ecosystems. Not only does a rainy day walk through this 26-hectare waterfront park make for great bird watching but also, the easy hiking opportunities across rocky coastal bluffs, past beaches, and through Douglas-fir and western red cedar forest are perfect for a restorative nature fix.
Channel Ridge Trails, Salt Spring Island
Spanning a wide range of terrain and habitats with over 15 kilometres of trails, the Channel Ridge network provides plenty of tree cover for endless exploring in the rain. Hike in and out of the fog that rolls over the ridge during cool, damp days. Also open to cyclists and equestrians, be sure to find the lookout points for views over St. Mary Lake and Stuart Channel.
Oaks Bluff, Pender Island
A forested hike that climbs up switchbacks and stairs, Oaks Bluff is a year-round local favourite. Ending in two viewpoints with three benches, it’s the perfect spot to fully appreciate the region from 100 metres above sea level. There’s something extra special about watching the rain and clouds fade across the islands over the Salish Sea. Plus, be sure to keep an eye out for migrating whales!
Tapovan Peace Park, Galiano Island
From Sanskrit for a wilderness or forest of spiritual practice, the Tapovan on Galiano Island is dedicated to Sri Chinmoy, an advocate of world peace and a proponent of enlightenment through music and athleticism. When a rainy day brings that special quality of quietness in nature, the signs with messages of peace are all the more poignant.
Chris Hatfield Trail, Salt Spring Island
The lesser-known northern entrance to Ruckle Park, the Chris Hatfield Trail hugs the coastline to Yeo Point and King’s Cove before continuing along to either the heritage farm or to Beaver Point Hall. The secret coves and scenic, rocky overhangs are complemented by the lushness of the foliage in the rainy season where the many shades of green are enough to stop you in your tracks.
