advertise
Vanislander / Landmarks / Parks / MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park on Vancouver Island

MacMillan Provincial Park can be a perfect destination for people to spend a lovely weekend or even a day. Cathedral Grove, placed in MacMillan Provincial Park is among the accessible spots of giant Douglas Fir trees, which some of them are even more than 800 years old.

Why MacMillan Provincial Park

Trails on each side of the highway, lead you to this coastal forest. You will find the biggest Douglas Firs (one of them more than 9 meters in circumference) on the south. And on the northern side, you’ll find ancient Western red cedars standing nearby Cameron Lake. Eye-catching sceneries and the rich wildlife of this park can be an excellent reason for photographers to visit this park evey season. Different colours in different seasons give a unique beauty to this park. You can find some big trees lying on the ground, because there was a severe windstorm on New Year’s Day in 1997 which changed the park’s appearance a lot and the park started to restore some of its trails after that. This storm fell lots of big trees and destroyed parts of the trail system. Some parts were severely hit that they couldn’t even repair them to be reused. The restoration progress started as soon as the storm stopped.

more

less

MacMillan Provincial Park Location

MacMillan Provincial Park is situated on the northwestern side of Cameron Lake on the southeastern side of Vancouver-Island in British Columbia, Canada. Due to its geographical location, you can find some camps and RV sites around it. By going 29.8 km (18.5 miles) to the southeast, you will reach Parksville Community Park. Alberni Valley Museum is also located on the eastern side of the park which is 17.3 km (10.7 miles) away and can be an interesting choice for the ones with historic interests.

more

less

History of MacMillan Provincial Park

The name (Cathedral Grove) is in relation to the provincial government in the 1920s. Cathedral Grove was a famous tourist stop in Alberny Road in the 1920 and 1930s when the trees were owned by Victoria Lumbering and Manufacturing Company. For 15 years, people inspired the provincial government to acquire the lands inside Block 35, Cameron Lake area, known as Cathedral Grove. In 1944 H.R. MacMillan, a famous forester contributed 136 hectares of land for the eternal amusement of people in recognition of trees. Three years later the area was established as a class A provincial park.

more

less

Driving Directions from Victoria Harbour Ferry to MacMillan Provincial Park

Total time: 2 hr 8 min
Distance: 176 km
Route: Fastest route, the usual traffic
 Start at Victoria Harbour Ferry, Victoria, BC V8W 9A4, Canada.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N
– 4 min (1.2 km)
Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo
– Take exit 60 from BC-19 N
– 1 hr 57 min (155 km)
Merge onto Memorial Rd/BC-4 W
– Continue to follow BC-4 W
– 16 min (20.2 km)
Arrive at MacMillan Provincial Park, BC-4, Port Alberni, BC V0R 1G0, Canada

more

less

Driving Directions from BC Ferries Departure Bay Terminal to MacMillan Provincial Park

(via BC-19 N and BC-4 W): Total time: 47 min | Distance: 63.2 km
Route: Fastest route, the usual traffic
Start at BC Ferries Departure Bay Terminal, 680 Trans-Canada Hwy, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2X9, Canada.
Take Brechin Rd to Island Hwy N/BC-19A N
– 4 min (1.5 km)
Take BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W
– Take exit 60 from BC-19 N
– 32 min
(41.5 km) Merge onto Memorial Rd/BC-4 W
– Continue to follow BC-4 W
– 16 min (20.2 km)
Arrive at MacMillan Provincial Park, BC-4, Port Alberni, BC V0R 1G0, Canada

more

less

Vancouver Island Activities near MacMillan Provincial Park

Wild Pacific Trail Storm Watching

Wild Pacific Trail Storm Watching

While hiking Wild Pacific, you are given a chance to enjoy a fantastic storm watching. With hurricane-force winds, both trails of Wild Pacific offer an excellent opportunity to watch storms. Not to mention that overlooking views are provided throughout the hike, which doubles the joy of walking on this long stunning trail.

Florencia Bay Surfing

Florencia Bay Surfing

Start your surfing diary on Florencia Bay Beach, a fairly exposed shoreline that provides exciting and consistent surfing opportunities. Waves that come from different directions and hit the sandy beach and their quality are the prime triggers for you to start your surfing journey on this beach. The usual mellow waves are exceptional and fantastic, and they have made this beach a perfect place for surfing.

Barkley Sound Kayaking

Barkley Sound Kayaking

Those who are planning to engage in the adventure of paddling in Barkley Sound would better schedule their visit for July-August and reserve their seats beforehand. During cold months do not forget to bring rain gear. Besides kayaking, other activities are available in Barkley's good area to be fed on by your souls.

Kwisitis Visitor Centre Storm Watching

Kwisitis Visitor Centre Storm Watching

Have you ever experienced storm watching on a perched deck overlooking an eye-catching view of the Pacific Ocean? If not, Kwisitis Visitor Centre is awaiting you. As a beautiful exhibition for the natural and cultural patrimony of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this excellent Centre offers unforgettable storm watching right on the Pacific shores, which guarantees your fun and adventure.

Camping in Pachena Bay Campground

Camping in Pachena Bay Campground

Make the best of your journey on Vancouver Island by camping in one of the possibly best campgrounds on the southwest of Vancouver Island. Pachena Bay Campground offers a quiet private campsite for those who want to get away from the bustle in towns. Not to mention the beautiful, clean, and sandy beach in which you are provided with every possible fun opportunity.

Wya Point Camping

Wya Point Camping

Find the inside campers of yours while you are camping in Wya Point Campground. In the heart of an oceanside forest, Wya Point Campground offers opportunities for camping, and you are given a chance to choose which campsite you want to spend time at. Crystal water, sandy cove, and tide rocks that offer marine life sights and several beachfront cabins and yurts with ocean-view are available in Wya Point, making it an ideal place.

Long Beach Storm Watching

Long Beach Storm Watching

As one of the main recreational spots in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Long Beach features strong waves pounding the beach. This quality has made this beautiful scenic beach a hot spot for surfing and storm-watching enthusiasts. It is a beautiful and pristine beach on which having a lounge time or walking feels rejoiced. You can lose yourselves in the sand of Long Beach and find them once again.

Bamfield Whale Watching

Bamfield Whale Watching

Adjacent to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Bamfield is a favourable destination for whale watching in the Port Alberni area. To make the most out of your journey in Bamfield, you can do salmon fishing around the coast and enjoy the outstanding birdlife living there.

Broken Group Islands Kayaking and Canoeing

Broken Group Islands Kayaking and Canoeing

Broken Group Islands is one of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve's three main recreational components, which offers paddlers undeniable opportunities to spend time on the water. While you are camping in the wilderness, you may be given the pleasure of watching lagoons, sandbars, blowholes, arches and secluded anchorages.

Sproat Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Sproat Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Do not save money only to pay the bill. Spend it on the adventure and see how awesome it feels. The warm waters of Sproat Lake absorb many visitors from all around the world, those fans of water activities in particular. Sproat Lake wakeboarding and waterskiing facilities increase the attractiveness of the lake.

Additional Information about MacMillan Provincial Park

Parking lot No
Food and drink area Yes
Picnicking areas Yes
Vehicle accessible camping Yes
Pit toilets Yes

Things to do around the MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park is a waterfront park situated on the northwestern part of Cameron Lake. This park has provided some activities for visitors to get amused. You can enjoy hiking and cycling in different trails of the park that can be interesting for you. Eye-catching scenery and landscapes can be found in MacMillan Provincial Park and you can enjoy viewing them whenever you want.

Cycling

Cycling is not allowed in park trails, is only permitted on roadways. You have to use bicycle helmets in British Columbia.

more

less

Hiking

Hiking through the abundant forests of MacMillan Provincial Park can be a perfect experience for you.
The Hike to Get to MacMillan Provincial Park
1-Old Growth and Living Forest Trail Loop
Old Growth and Living Forest Trail Loop is placed near Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada. It has 1.6 km (0.9 miles) length, 48 meters (157.4 feet) of elevation gain and rates as easy. This trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs can use the trail too but must be kept on leash.
2- Living Forest Trail
Living Forest Trail is a loop trail situated near Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada. It has 0.8 km (0.4 miles) length, 25 meters (82 feet) of elevation gain and rates as easy. This trail is mostly used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs can use the trail too but must be on leash.
3- Big Tree Trail Big Tree
Trail is a loop trail situated near Alberni-Clayoquot F, British Columbia, Canada. It has 0.5 km (0.3 miles) length, 16 meters (52.4 feet) of elevation gain and rates as easy. This trail is mostly used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs can use the trail too but must be kept on leash.

more

less

Fishing

Cameron Lake provides fishing chances. Cameron Lake is one of a few lakes in British Columbia known to have brown trout. Remember that all fishers should have an appropriate licence in British Columbia.

more

less

Scenic and Wildlife Viewing

MacMillan Provincial Park has some picturesque landscapes which can be viewed during walking through the park. This park can be a good destination for photographers too.

more

less

Birdwatching

You can enjoy watching different birds in Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park which is placed on the southern part of MacMillan Provincial Park and is 19.2 km (11.9 miles) away.

more

less

What you Can Expect to See Near MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park can be a perfect destination for people to spend a lovely weekend or even a day. Cathedral Grove, placed in MacMillan Provincial Park is among the accessible spots of giant Douglas Fir trees, which some of them are even more than 800 years old.

MacKenzie Beach

MacKenzie Beach

MacKenzie Beach, nestled south of Tofino on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, is celebrated for its expansive sandy shores and family-friendly calm waves, protected by natural rock outcroppings. Located in the heart of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s traditional territory, this pristine beach borders the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, offering a perfect blend of surfing, storm watching, and serene picnicking. Just a short walk from Tofino’s vibrant village, MacKenzie Beach is a top destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation. This article covers how to visit, top activities, permit requirements, and travel tips to experience this iconic Vancouver Island beach, ensuring a memorable coastal getaway.

Florencia Bay

Florencia Bay

Florencia Bay, affectionately known as "Flo" by locals, is a stunning 6km beach nestled in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rock formations, this beach offers a picturesque backdrop for a variety of activities, including surfing, kayaking, boogie boarding, and paddle boarding. Visitors may spot seals and sea lions while enjoying the waves, adding to the area’s natural allure. The beach’s historical significance, originally named “Wreck Bay” due to the 1860 shipwreck of the brigantine Florencia, provides a fascinating narrative for explorers. With its serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Florencia Bay is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic West Coast experience.

Ucluelet Aquarium

Ucluelet Aquarium

Placed in Ucluelet on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, the Ucluelet Aquarium is a gem for tourists seeking an immersive marine experience. This unique collect-and-release aquarium showcases the vibrant marine biodiversity of Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds, offering educational and interactive encounters with local sea life. Whether you're exploring Vancouver Island beaches, tide pools, or nearby attractions like Botanical Beach and Botany Bay, the Ucluelet Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families, marine enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers.

Nahmint Lake

Nahmint Lake

Nestled beneath old-growth rainforests, Nahmint Lake is perfect in many ways. The view of the mountains, which is spectacular by the way; long, deep, and cool water perfect for water activities such as canoeing, and fantastic beaches for camping to enjoy a day or even a whole weekend with your family and friends. Blackies beach offers a breath-taking scenery of the lake great for a long walk along the shorelines of it. Also a great spot to camp and spend quality time with friends and family.

Radar Beaches

Radar Beaches

Radar Beaches is a pristine coastal destination in the Alberni-Clayoquot region of Vancouver Island, BC, that captivates visitors with its expansive sandy shores, rugged coastline, and abundant marine life. Perfect for surfers, beachcombers, and nature enthusiasts, Radar Beaches offers a secluded getaway where the power of the Pacific Ocean meets untamed natural beauty. In this comprehensive guide, discover detailed travel directions, essential visitor tips, permit information, and a range of activities to help you plan the ultimate coastal adventure on Vancouver Island.

Century Sam Lake

Century Sam Lake

Century Sam Lake is a tranquil freshwater haven nestled in the Alberni-Clayoquot region of Vancouver Island, BC. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lush forested surroundings, and abundant recreational opportunities, this hidden gem is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to unwind in a pristine natural setting. Whether you're into swimming, fishing, kayaking, or hiking scenic trails, Century Sam Lake offers a diverse range of activities. In this comprehensive guide, we provide detailed travel directions from , essential visitor information including permit requirements, and insider tips for exploring this remarkable lake.

Keeha Beach

Keeha Beach

Nestled within the rugged wilderness of Pacific Rim National Park, Keeha Beach offers an unforgettable escape for adventurous travelers seeking raw natural beauty. Accessible via a challenging hike through dense coastal rainforest, this secluded stretch of shoreline boasts dramatic sea arches, tide pools teeming with marine life, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of wilderness trekking or the serenity of an untouched beach, Keeha Beach promises a quintessential Vancouver Island experience.

Fry Lake Cave

Fry Lake Cave

Discover Fry Lake Cave, a hidden gem on Vancouver Island that exemplifies BC cave exploration and sustainable eco-tourism. This comprehensive guide provides a scientific look at its geological features, cultural heritage, and practical visitor tips. Whether you’re an experienced cave diver, an outdoor adventurer, or a nature conservation enthusiast, Fry Lake Cave offers a challenging yet rewarding Canadian cave adventure steeped in Indigenous heritage and sustainable travel principles.

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake is a popular destination near Port Alberni for hot summer days. As it is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it, there is a reflection on the water, making a scenic view. Photography, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are suggested while you are in the area. So go on the adventures and pour your heart into them.

Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew has been touted as "The Tall Tree Capital of Canada." It is also best known for its trails like Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and the historic West Coast Trail. Enjoy tens of kilometres of shorelines with amazing beaches. Fishing here is considered an opportunity for anglers. Port Renfrew is heaven for other water activities like whale watching, surfing, and kayaking.

Bamfield

Bamfield

Bamfield is a small fishing and harbour village best known for its magnificent salmon fishing adventures. It offers a wide green area and jungles to hike and enjoy the wildlife. For the tens of kilometres, you have shorelines, amazing islands, and beautiful beaches. It is principally a tourist destination for the West Coast Trail, ocean kayaking, or sport fishing.

Cape Beale Lighthouse

Cape Beale Lighthouse

The first lighthouse established in BC by the Canadian government is the original Cape Beale Lighthouse. It was constructed on the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Rim. The whole complex consists of the keeper's house and the lantern tower. Visitors can access this station by the hiking trail. The lantern tower is not open to the public, but you can enjoy the surroundings and the panoramic views.

Port Alberni

Port Alberni

Port Alberni is a deep-sea port and a city on Vancouver Island. Port Alberni is known as the salmon capital of the world, heaven for anglers. The city with a moderate climate is famous for its breathtaking scenery. The area is surrounded by mountains, freshwater lakes and streams that will carve into your memory. There are several chances for outdoor and indoor activities.

Ucluelet

Ucluelet

Ucluelet is a district municipality in Pacific Rim. After Victoria, the Pacific Rim area is the second most visited tourism centre on Vancouver Island. Ucluelet has a distinctive portion in this field with salt-water fishing, surfing, standup paddleboarding, whale and bear watching, kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking, biking, swimming, storm watching, and beachcombing.

Best Time to Visit MacMillan Provincial Park

Planning your getaway to Vancouver Island  requires careful consideration of seasonal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Below is a detailed overview of the optimal times to visit, along with key factors to consider:

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.

June

Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.

Trail open; most campsites operational.

Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.

July

Warmer temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

August

Warm temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

September

Cooling temperatures; increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for variable weather.

Top Attraction Sites Near MacMillan Provincial Park

Here are some of the top attraction sites near MacMillan Provincial Park on Vancouver Island:

Cathedral Grove (within the park)

 Famous for its ancient Douglas fir and red cedar trees, some over 800 years old.
 Accessible walking trails with interpretive signs

more

less

 Just east of the park. Popular for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing with stunning mountain views.

more

less

 About 10 minutes away. Features a scenic waterfall loop trail, picnic areas, and forested campgrounds.

more

less

A charming seaside town 30 minutes away. Known for its sandy beaches, local shops, restaurants, and oceanfront walkways.

more

less

Most frequent questions about MacMillan Provincial Park

MacMillan Provincial Park is best known for Cathedral Grove, a world-renowned stand of old-growth Douglas fir and red cedar trees. Located on Vancouver Island along Highway 4, the park draws thousands of visitors each year who come to walk among towering trees, some over 800 years old and 75 meters tall. It’s a must-see destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.
Profile Picture

Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

Festival & Events: Don't Miss Out!

What Do You Think about MacMillan Provincial Park