Gowlland Tod Trail

Although lengthy, the Gowlland Tod Trail is an amazing hiking route for both casual and experienced hikers that will produce some breathtaking views and a few short physical challenges along the way. As previously mentioned, the main challenge of this route is the overall length and brief sections of steep hiking that provide a nice bit of variation along the route. As there are a few intersecting trails along this hike, you might want to bring a GPS or trail map in order to stay on the correct route.

The hike sets out from the trailhead and immediately enters into the thick, shady cover of the forest. On your left, you will pass by several small marshy ponds before arriving at the Saanich Inlet Viewpoint. Take a few moments to admire the views across the deep blue water before continuing southwest to the Squally Reach viewpoint for another amazing sightline across the water. Continue making your way further into the park, as the trail winds through the forest and into some more rugged and exposed terrain.

A quick but steep climb uphill will take you to the top of Jocelyn Hill for some scenic views across the Finlayson Arm to the west before continuing south to reach the summit of Holmes Peak. Roughly 1.3km of hiking through a mixture of light forest and open clearings will bring you to the end of the Gowlland Tod Trail. From here, turn back and retrace your steps along the same route to gain a different perspective on the day’s hike while you make the return journey to the parking area where you began.