Vancouver Island Old-Growth Hiking Guide
Vancouver Island is home to some of the most magnificent old-growth forests and the largest trees on Earth. From the idyllic parks mere minutes from Victoria to rugged west coast wilderness areas near Port Renfrew, the “Tall Trees Capital of Canada,” these old-growth forests invite visitors to embark on a journey back in time.
Each old-growth forest is unique, from Francis/King Regional Park, where colossal Douglas-fir trees are found near sunny glades of arbutus and Garry oak, to the lush rainforests of Eden Grove, where ancient cedars tower through the coastal mist.
Whether you’re visiting Victoria for the weekend or spending an extended amount of time on the coast, we hope these old-growth hiking guides help you explore the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. Enjoy!
Victoria Old-Growth Hikes
Greater Victoria on southern Vancouver Island features multiple parks and accessible trails where visitors can walk in the shadow of ancient giants. These open, sunlit forests are different from the misty rainforests of the west coast. The ecosystem is called the Coastal Douglas-fir (CDF) biogeoclimatic zone as Douglas-fir trees are most abundant in the drier Mediterranean climate of eastern Vancouver Island. Find out where you can see the biggest trees near Victoria, BC!
Port Renfrew Old-Growth Hikes
Just two hours up the coast from Victoria is Port Renfrew, located on the edge of southwestern Vancouver Island in Pacheedaht territory. Known as the “Tall Trees Capital of Canada,” the area is home to some of the world’s largest trees and most spectacular old-growth groves. Find out how to visit the Red Creek Fir, Big Lonely Doug, San Juan Spruce, Eden Grove, and more!
