Located on Mayne Island, in the Gulf Islands, this park is a perfect place to appreciate nature. A natural ecosystem, Mount Parke boasts spectacular vistas, forest walks, bird watching and spring wildflowers.
Features
- The highest viewpoint (185m) on Mayne Island
- Views of other Gulf Islands and Salish Sea.
- A variety of wildflowers and birds to observe while hiking the ridge and slopes
Trail Rating: Moderate to Challenging
Size: 49.02 hectares
Location: Mayne Island
Established: 1991
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Things to Do
Follow the winding woodland trail through a forest dark with western red cedar and red alder, giant sword fern and Oregon grape. Listen for ravens arguing overhead, and look for bald eagles and turkey vultures circling in the sky.
The trail leads to the ridge and panoramic views of the land and sea below. In spring, wildflowers cling to the slopes. Blue-eyed Mary, early saxifrage and spring gold are just a few of the resident wildflowers here.
Amenities
There is an information kiosk and toilet at the parking lot.
How to Get There
Take the ferry from Swartz Bay to Village Bay, Mayne Island. From the ferry terminal, follow Village Bay Road. Turn right on Fernhill Road, then right on Montrose Road, which leads to the park entrance. Allow approximately 10 minutes driving time from the ferry terminal.
Photo Credit
Toby Snelgrove