Ultimate Hiking Guide to Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. This guide provides comprehensive details on the most popular hikes, including information on getting there, parking, routes, difficulty levels, dog policies, and the best times to visit.

Google Maps Link to Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Ruckle Provincial Park

Distance: 1.3 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Explore the stunning Ruckle Provincial Park, home to over 15 kilometres of trails winding through diverse landscapes. From serene shorelines to inland paths, there’s something for every hiker. The Ruckle Loops boast scenic vistas of Swanson Channel. Detailed trail maps available at information shelters ensure a seamless adventure.

• Getting There: Located at the southeastern tip of Salt Spring Island, Ruckle Provincial Park is easily accessible by car.
• Parking: Ample parking is available at the main entrance.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring to Fall, when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

Burgoyne Bay

Distance: 6.7 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Embark on an adventure from Burgoyne Bay or Armand Way, both entrances leading to Mount Maxwell Provincial Park. Traverse well-marked trails offering diverse experiences for hikers of all levels. Ascend to the summit via rugged roads accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles, promising breathtaking views throughout the journey.

• Getting There: Situated on the southwest side of the island, accessible via Lee Road.
• Parking: Parking is available at both entrances.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions.

Mouat Park

Distance: Varies

Level of Difficulty: Easy

The main entrance to the trail is located on Seaview Drive, just beyond ArtSpring. Alternatively, access can be found in the 200 block of Rainbow Road, across from the north end of the pool on Salt Spring Island. As the area also hosts Disc Golf, hikers are encouraged to be mindful and share the trails accordingly.

• Getting There: Centrally located, making it easily accessible from Ganges.
• Parking: Limited parking on Seaview Drive and Rainbow Road.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring to Fall.

Channel Ridge

Distance: 2.5 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Discover the Channel Ridge Trails, a captivating network of hiking and mountain biking routes nestled on Salt Spring Island. The southern section invites you to immerse yourself in a serene forested walk, offering glimpses of natural beauty along the way. Although the viewpoint of St. Mary’s Lake may be overgrown, the allure of this scenic trail promises an inviting adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.

• Getting There: Access via Broadwell Road or Channel Ridge Drive.
• Parking: Parking is available at the trailheads.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round.

Daffodil Point Hike

Distance: 3.2 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Daffodil Point Hike is a charming trail known for its seasonal beauty, especially during spring when daffodils bloom in abundance. The trail meanders through a picturesque landscape, offering tranquil views of the surrounding flora and fauna.

• Getting There: Located on the northern end of Salt Spring Island, accessible via North End Road.
• Parking: Limited parking is available at the trailhead.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring, when the daffodils are in full bloom, providing a vibrant and colourful hiking experience.

Chris Hatfield Trail

Distance: 4.8 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

The Chris Hatfield Trail offers a unique hiking experience with its varied terrain and stunning viewpoints. Named after a resident of Salt Spring Island, Chris’s generous donation of land around Cusheon Cove to Ruckle Park was recognized by the creation of the Chris Hatfield Trail. This trail takes hikers through dense forests and open meadows, culminating in a breathtaking lookout point.

• Getting There: Located on the western side of the island, accessible via Musgrave Road.
• Parking: Ample parking is available at the designated parking lot near the trailhead.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with each season offering a different perspective of the trail’s natural beauty.

Mount Maxwell

Distance: 5.5 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Discover Mount Maxwell Provincial Park on Salt Spring Island, featuring a vast network of trails and stunning viewpoints including Baynes Peak. Enjoy the hike on a clear day for safer conditions and to fully appreciate the remarkable scenery.

• Getting There: Accessible via Fulford-Ganges Road and then Cranberry Road.
• Parking: Available at the base of the trails.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring to Fall for the best views and trail conditions.

Mount Erskine

Distance: 3.5 km Round Trip

Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Mount Erskine on Salt Spring Island offers some of the island’s most breathtaking views towards Vancouver Island and beyond. Accessible from two entry points, the park is frequently hiked via the Trestees Trail on its eastern side.

• Getting There: Access via Collins Road or Trustees Trail.
• Parking: Available at both trailheads.
• Dogs: On-leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring and fall offering the most pleasant conditions.

Salt Spring Island’s diverse hiking trails cater to all levels of hikers, offering stunning vistas, serene landscapes, and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, these trails provide the perfect escape to explore the natural beauty of the island.