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Discover the Lush Greens of Vancouver Island

Welcome to the verdant heart of Vancouver Island, where ancient forests, lush parklands, and botanical gardens invite you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of nature. Our green spaces are a testament to the island's rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers of all stripes.

Ancient Rainforests

Step into the timeless world of our ancient rainforests, home to towering cedars, Douglas firs, and a rich undergrowth of ferns and mosses. The Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is a must-visit, where some of the trees are over 800 years old. Walking among these giants offers a profound sense of connection with nature’s enduring grandeur.
Nitinat Caves

Nitinat Caves

Caves teach us to face our fears. They are signs of history and are full of secrets. Nitinat Caves are a series of small and not very deep caves between Bamfield and Port Renfrew. It needs a sharp eye to find the entrance along the river. Water flows in them, and they lead you to a canyon with gem green water perfect for swimming. The caves offer you beauty and great scenes.

Mount Douglas Beach

Mount Douglas Beach

Mount Douglas Beach is one of the fantastic beaches that you can visit on Vancouver Island.
Go there at sunset for an experience of peace, Mount Douglas is a small beach, but at low tide, the water opens a wide area, and you will able to see Marine life on the beach.

Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake

For over 100 years, Shawnigan Lake has been a favorite destination, providing cottages for get-away weekends. Besides tourists, people from both Victoria and Nanaimo can spend quality time with their friends and families, it can somehow be considered as the midpoint of Nanaimo and Victoria.

Stocking Creek Waterfall

Stocking Creek Waterfall

Choose Stocking Creek Trail in Ladysmith as your destination and start finding Stocking Creek Waterfall. It is one of the natural attractions of Vancouver Island that looks wonderfully beautiful. Imagine the refreshing water cascading on a little pool between a forest which is aesthetically impressive. But if you want to see the waterfall at its prim, spring and fall are the best seasons.

Seymour Range

Seymour Range

The Seymour Range is a small mountain range that comprises the hills and mountains between the San Juan River and the valley of Lake Cowichan. High quality of hiking up at the peaks, is the surrounding mountains and scenery of valleys and hills covered with lush forest. Experience an enriching journey in the nearby Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park and Cowichan Lake.

Fishy Hole Cave

Fishy Hole Cave

Discover Fishy Hole Cave on Vancouver Island, a lesser-known but captivating destination for adventure travellers and eco-tourists alike. Nestled in the rugged wilderness of Vancouver Island, this cave offers an authentic Canadian cave adventure that combines unique geological formations, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for sustainable tourism. Whether you're an experienced caver or a curious explorer, Fishy Hole Cave is an unmissable stop on your BC cave exploration journey.

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park, with a wide variety of species of flora and fauna, features two lakes, a forest, a playground for kids, and picnicking area. That is why you can do lots of water-based and land-based activities. Among them are swimming, fishing, paddling, windsurfing, waterskiing, hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. This park is a birds' paradise.

Beach Estates Park

Beach Estates Park

If you plan to be away from urban life and spend hours in the woods watching wildlife and get relaxed, take a visit to Beach Estates Park, west of Departure Bay. With a beautiful designated hiking trail, Beach Estates Park is interesting for hikers and runners. The park's nature includes a lush forest with magnificent tall trees, a small river, a rocky beach, and Beach Estates Falls.

Port Hardy

Port Hardy

Port Hardy is a district municipality on Vancouver Island. Every day in summer, the peak season in Port Hardy, ferries depart to popular tourist destinations in BC. Excellent wilderness activities, such as paddling, caving, scuba diving, whale watching, surfing, camping, and fishing, are popular. Lush green parks in Port Hardy are great for a family trip and having a picnic.

Union Bay

Union Bay

Union Bay, a charming seaside village on Vancouver Island’s east coast, is celebrated for its deep harbor—the deepest in Baynes Sound—and its storied past as a bustling coal port from 1888 to 1960. Nestled in the Comox Valley, just 15 km south of Courtenay, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and modern oyster aquaculture. Visitors can explore Heritage Row’s restored buildings, savor fresh seafood at the iconic Highwayman Saloon, and enjoy coastal activities like kayaking and hiking. With its vibrant history tied to the K’ómoks First Nation and coal mining, Union Bay is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. This article guides you through how to visit, top attractions, permit requirements, and travel tips to experience this historic Vancouver Island destination.

Garden Escapes

Vancouver Island is renowned for its beautifully maintained gardens that provide colorful displays throughout the year. The Butchart Gardens, with over a century of horticultural history, showcases stunning floral arrangements that change with the seasons. Whether you're an avid gardener or simply appreciate the beauty of well-crafted landscapes, our gardens are a feast for the senses.
The Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens

Visiting the Butchart Gardens is an outstanding experience that will be remembered for a lifetime. Being in a dreamy atmosphere where colours surround you would refresh your soul. This colourful display is a gem in Victoria, designated by the National Historic Sites of Canada, with a landscape of flowers, trees, grass, sculptures, and fountains.

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens is a place for history enthusiasts and gardens and interior design lovers. It is a 19th-century Victorian home and garden full of everything nostalgic to you. As one of Victoria's oldest homes, it is located overlooking the scenic and historic Selkirk Water/Gorge Waterway. It includes vegetables, cut flowers, a small fruit orchard, and a greenhouse.

Finnerty Gardens

Finnerty Gardens

Finnerty Gardens is a woodland garden in Victoria. With more than 500 species, it has one of Canada's best and largest collections of rhododendrons. Finnerty Gardens has wide trails with lots of room for everyone, even on busy days. This botanical garden is open year-round, with paths, ponds, and benches but the best time to visit is May or April.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is a fantastic natural garden with delightful paths, a creek, and great open spaces. It is home to plenty of native plants, wildflowers, and birds. The garden features one of the largest collections of rhododendrons in Western Canada, with over 3000 plantings. The best time to visit is from March to the end of June when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Did you get fascinated before by a beautiful place that makes you stand steel? The pleasure of watching colourful butterflies from various spices and other creatures in a beautiful garden, the smell which lifts your mood, and the fresh air all feel like you are in a dreamland. If you love walking through a tropical area and are tired of boring visits, don't skip Victoria Butterfly Gardens.

Milner Gardens & Woodland

Milner Gardens & Woodland

Milner Gardens & Woodland is on the list of the top ten public gardens in Canada. It is among old-growth Douglas fir forest, on the edge of an oceanside bluff. The garden is well known for its rhododendrons in spring and Japanese maples in fall. Strolling through the wide walkways makes a great family time. Enjoy it and have tea in its traditional tea room.

Ronnings Garden

Ronnings Garden

Tucked near the northwest tip of Vancouver Island, Ronning’s Garden is a surreal blend of wilderness and curated beauty. Established in 1910 by Norwegian settler Bernt Ronning, this secluded garden thrives amid old-growth rainforests and rugged coastal landscapes. Known for its rare rhododendrons, towering Sitka spruces, and alpine blooms, Ronning’s Garden feels like a secret Eden. Located just 12 km from Cape Scott Provincial Park, it’s a must-visit for hikers, history buffs, and nature lovers seeking solitude. This guide covers how to visit, seasonal highlights, and tips for exploring this off-grid treasure

Tofino Botanical Gardens

Tofino Botanical Gardens

If you are interested in nature and culture, Tofino Botanical Gardens is a chance to learn. Strolling along waterside trails and watching beautiful plants is a great opportunity. Besides walking through stone paths and boardwalks, the herb and flower gardens give you a unique sense of freshness. Attending educational programs about the area's ecosystem is another choice you have.

Abkhazi Garden

Abkhazi Garden

The exotic flora, Japanese Maples, native Garry oaks, splendid rhododendrons of Abkhazi Garden makes it a must to visit when you are in Victoria. Walking and frolicking through this peaceful garden is delightful, especially in the spring and summer, when the flowers are blooming. The pond is full of turtles and Koi, and there is a teahouse perfect for afternoon tea.

Hiking and Nature Trails

For those who love to explore on foot, the island’s extensive network of trails offers everything from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. Explore the diverse ecosystems within the Goldstream Provincial Park or take a scenic walk along the Juan de Fuca Trail. Each trail offers unique sights, from cascading waterfalls and serene lakes, to sweeping views of the ocean and rugged cliffs.

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Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

The Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk makes it possible for you to hike in a paved path where nature is around you. It is easy to find wildlife for photography while hiking. Take your dog with you and choose between hiking, walking, running, and biking. As the trail is suitable for all ages and is close to Courtenay, it is one of the popular hiking trails in the area that gets crowded on sunny days.

Hiking on Mount Manuel Quimper

Hiking on Mount Manuel Quimper

It is time to put your heart into hiking and step into a moderate multi-use trail with some great views along the way and on top. Mount Manuel Quimper has a beautiful summit worth the climb, which gives you excellent vistas of Sooke Harbour and a chance to visit one of the last fire lookouts left on the island.

Hiking on the Mount Benson Loop

Hiking on the Mount Benson Loop

Wear your hiking boots! It is going to be a challenging hike that may take about 4 to 5 hours. The lovely amount of elevation with fantastic views is what you can get hiking on the Mount Benson Loop near Nanaimo. As it is located in a reach environment, take lots of breaks to enjoy the area and get enough energy. If you are not ready for wet terrains, try it on a dry and cool day. You would be satisfied as an experienced hiker.

Hiking on the Nanaimo River Trail

Hiking on the Nanaimo River Trail

About 10 kilometres away from downtown Nanaimo, find yourself on an easy and well-marked hiking trail along the Nanaimo River with a smile on your face! It is a great short walk that impresses you differently at each section. Take your dog with you and get it some exercises too, as it is dog off-leash-friendly. You can find such energy there in the area with the Douglas fir plantation.

West Coast Hikes

West Coast Hikes

Embark on an unforgettable adventure along Vancouver Island's West Coast, where some of Canada’s most iconic hiking trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From the rugged splendor of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail to the legendary West Coast Trail, this region boasts a stunning array of hikes that highlight breathtaking coastal vistas, ancient rainforests, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re craving a challenging multi-day trek or a scenic day hike, trails like the Hesquiat Peninsula and Cape Scott Provincial Park offer unique landscapes steeped in rich history. With paths winding through lush forests, along pristine beaches, and past dramatic cliffs, Vancouver Island hiking delivers an immersive experience in nature’s raw beauty. Discover why this hiker’s paradise is a top destination for adventurers worldwide in this guide to the best West Coast trails.

The Hike to Trent Falls

The Hike to Trent Falls

A relatively short and easy trail in the Comox Valley area is the hike to Trent Falls. Stay on track because its wild nature has much to offer. Hiking along the Trent River with its perfect swimming and fishing opportunities and watching the waterfall with a deep pool under and the wildlife around it brings you joy, especially if you are with the family.

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Don't hike alone! It is an excellent hike for the whole family and pets. Cable Bay Nature Trail is scenic, easy, clean, and wide enough as a family trail. Not only your family but your pet can accompany you. Get the most out of incredible viewpoints. Hike through the forest near the coast and find a nice rock to take a break, grab a snack, and watch the marine wildlife.

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail

Hiking on the Rosewall Creek Trail is a rewarding experience that you reach a beautiful waterfall at the end after an easy hike that may consist of challenges. Enjoy the beauties of the park while passing the lovely well-marked trail with facilities, along the creek and through lush bits of the rainforest.

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop

The East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop is a well-marked trail with beautiful scenery. It is a combination of an easy access road and a more challenging coastal pass, which offers you incredible viewpoints. This excellent trail is along the Pacific Ocean and allows you to see marine life such as whales from a distance.

The Hike to Century Sam Lake

The Hike to Century Sam Lake

The Hike to Century Sam Lake is highly recommended for experienced hikers. You will have everything to make a good adventure! Hiking in a wilderness area with stunning mountain views and a unique landscape would make a perfect day. Beautiful lake, cool caves, stunning nature and wildlife viewing, and forest walk make your experience very rewarding!

Wildlife Watching

Our green areas are vibrant with wildlife, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and animal spotting. Eagles, owls, and a variety of songbirds fill the canopy, while larger animals like deer, black bears, and cougars roam deeper within the forested areas. Guided wildlife tours are available to enhance your experience, offering insights into the habits and habitats of these creatures.
Tofino Whale Watching

Tofino Whale Watching

Make your adventure worthwhile on Vancouver Island by visiting Tofino and not missing its whale-watching opportunities for the world. You may have the chance to gaze upon Orcas, the most widespread marine mammal on the earth. Clayoquot Sound, located near the Tofino, is a sandy shoreline with rich rainforest.

Victoria Harbour Ferry Whale Watching

Victoria Harbour Ferry Whale Watching

Located in the heart of Victoria and adjacent to many whale watching operators, Victoria Harbour Ferry is a starting point for your whale watching tour. Many visitors come here to watch whales annually; not only whale watching but open waterways of Salish make Victoria Harbour Ferry a remarkable place for anglers, wildlife followers and daily tourists.

Creyke Point Whale Watching

Creyke Point Whale Watching

Featuring wildflowers and fantastic sceneries, Creyke Point Trail is a suitable spot for whale watching, bird watching, and nature trips with splendid beaches and forests. So if you are having a great time in Sooke, remember to stop by Creyke Point to have more fun.

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Due to certified whale watching agencies, Fisherman's Wharf Park is a significant place to visit for whale watching enthusiasts. As one of the most prodigious and phenomenal creators worldwide, whales are ample during specific whale watching seasons.

Spirit Bay Visitor Centre Whale Watching

Spirit Bay Visitor Centre Whale Watching

Spirit Bay has a rich community offering settlings for whale watching lovers beside incredible wildlife; therefore, it would be an excellent point to start your Sooke Whale Watching. Plus, it has a cute beach. You cannot get over the beauty of it and its scenic views.

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.

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

As one of the best tourist attractions of Sooke and Vancouver Island, West Coast comprises many outdoor excitements that cannot be denied. You are provided with different wildlife to watch and various food to eat, not to mention that you observe a rare nature that is outstanding. So, chances are high to see different whales and other marine creatures.

Otter Point Park Whale Watching

Otter Point Park Whale Watching

While exploring Sooke Area, if you happen o take a long calm walk on the Otter Point shoreline, you may see whales from the beach. Otter Point Park provided you with other activities, too, such as hiking, wildlife and birdwatching, and also a scenic nature to appreciate.

Ucluelet Whale Watching

Ucluelet Whale Watching

Make your Whale watching experience memorable enough to remember it even with closed eyes. in Ucluelet, you will have ample opportunities to encounter these gigantic marine creatures, and you may be lucky to observe other wildlife too. Those whale watching enthusiasts have the chance to attend the annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival happening at the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Ucluelet and Tofino on Vancouver Island's west coast.

Port Hardy Whale Watching

Port Hardy Whale Watching

Looking for a way through which you can make your adventure on Vancouver Island unforgettable? Do not forget to stop by Port hardy while you are in the northern parts of the island. There you will be able to sight magnificent killer whales, near which you should apply ample caution. However, observing them is better an oops than a what if.

Sustainable Enjoyment

As custodians of these precious ecosystems, we promote sustainable tourism practices to ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to designated paths, respect wildlife, and carry out all litter to help preserve the natural beauty of our green spaces.

Plan Your Green Getaway

Our forests and green areas are accessible year-round, each season offering its own unique charm and array of activities. Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape to clear your mind, an educational family outing, or a rigorous adventure, the greens of Vancouver Island provide the perfect setting.

Explore the Green Haven of Vancouver Island

Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape to clear your mind, an educational family outing, or a rigorous adventure, the greens of Vancouver Island provide the perfect setting. As John Muir once said, "Into the forest, I go to lose my mind and find my soul." Let these words guide you as you explore our verdant sanctuaries, where every path leads not just through the woods, but towards a deeper connection with yourself and the natural world. Come and discover the profound peace and rejuvenation that awaits in the lush, green embrace of Vancouver Island’s forests and gardens.
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