Hikes on Mayne Island
A peaceful retreat, Mayne Island is often considered the gentlest of the Southern Gulf Islands. Displaying the region’s characteristic beauty, it offers many easy to moderate trails with scenic coastlines, lush forests, and picturesque views. For an active yet relaxing visit, enjoy these 4 must-do hikes on Mayne Island.
Mount Parke Loop
The Mount Parke Loop is the most popular and well-known hike on Mayne Island. The trail takes hikers through a dense forest, with stunning views of the surrounding islands and waters at the summit. The hike is moderately challenging, with a gradual incline to the summit. This out-and-back trail is approximately 4.7km long. The summit of Mount Parke is the highest point on the island and the perfect spot for a picnic or to sit and enjoy the stunning views.
Campbell Point Trail
Part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Campbell Point Trail is another popular hike that’s best enjoyed in the morning sun The trail takes hikers along the coastline, with stunning views of the waters and surrounding islands. At 1.6km, the hike is relatively easy, with a flat and well-maintained trail. Great for birding, hiking, and walking, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.
St. John Point Regional park
A 26-hectare waterfront regional park property, St. John Point is a lovely spot to enjoy the coast, bird watch or take a walk. With relatively easy hiking opportunities to the two beaches and a more challenging perimeter route along rocky bluffs, it’s a great place to explore. Recognized as a significant conservation area, St. John Point is home to risk species and sensitive ecosystems. Known as ŦÁ,WEN by the Coast Salish First Nations, it was important for the coho salmon that were fished in the area.
Vulture Ridge Viewpoint Trail
A 2.3-km out-and-back trail, Vulture Ridge Viewpoint Trail is generally considered a moderately challenging route. Beautiful to visit anytime of the year, the trail ascends the bluff to the summit ridge of Henderson Hill at approximately 80m above sea level, offering breathtaking south west views of Pender Island and over the Salish Sea.
