This BC park has its own Niagara Falls that’s almost as high as its famous namesake

With a stunning mix of beauty and biodiversity, Goldstream Park in British Columbia has it all.

Majestic 600-year-old trees, cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers, and a river that meets the sea.

As there’s so much here to see as well as seasonal phenomenons like the annual salmon run, multiple visits per year are definitely warranted!

“It’s a world that seems far removed from the urban adventures of British Columbia’s capital city, whether the visitor is a hiker seeking inspiration from this magnificent example of the great outdoors, or a naturalist looking to add to their notebook,” states BC Parks. “There’s something new, different, and exciting every month of the year at Goldstream Park.”

Trails and waterfalls to check out

According to BC Parks, Goldstream boasts a network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, from wheelchair-accessible hikes to more challenging adventures along creeks and up past abandoned gold digging sites from the days of the Gold Rush.

For starters, the iconic Goldstream Trestle Bridge Trail offers panoramic views of the lush canyon below, while the more rugged Mount Finlayson Trail rewards hikers with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscapes. History lovers can embark on the Gold Mine Trail, exploring remnants of the area’s gold rush history while enjoying the serenity of the forest.

As visitors venture through the meandering trails, they’ll come across tons of towering Douglas firs and ancient red cedars, which provide a sanctuary for a variety of birds, from hummingbirds to bald eagles, to turkey vultures.

Another trail leads waterfall hopefuls to the stunning ‘Niagara Falls,’ which cascades 47.5 metres down a rocky cliff into a crystal-clear canyon pool below. It’s almost as high as its famous namesake!

As well, you can check out the smaller Goldstream Falls situated in the northwest part of the park, next to the campground.

Speaking of, Goldstream Park has over 300 campsites to choose from – 152 reservable front-country sites and 173 vehicle-accessible sites.

Located just 16 km from downtown Victoria, this park is a fantastic add-on if you’re visiting anywhere in the southern part of the Island.

Visiting during fall

As mentioned earlier, visitors come to this park to witness salmon spawning, which is best viewed during fall!

BC Parks states that the best time for viewing is late October through November.

During this period, they do warn that there is congestion on Hwy #1 while cars park and exit the day-use area, so be cautious if you are visiting then.

Additionally, you can help “prevent disruption of salmon spawning by keeping pets on a leash and out of the water at all times.”

So there you have it, Vancouver! If you’re looking to check out a park that feels like new every time you visit, this is it. Be sure to stay safe, and on marked trails.

Goldstream Park

Where: 16 km northwest of Victoria, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

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