The best walks and hikes in Bodega Ridge Provincial Park

Salt Spring Island is the largest and most populous of the Southern Gulf Islands, with forested hills, farmland, lakes, and long stretches of shoreline. It has been part of the traditional territory of the Saanich, Cowichan, and Chemainus First Nations for at least 5,000 years and, in 1859, became the first Gulf Island settled by non-First Nations people. Today, it’s known for its extensive network of trails and parks, along with a thriving arts scene centred around the village of Ganges.

The north end of the Channel Ridge trail system is reached from several access points on the island, with numbered junction signs throughout the entire 15 kilometres of trails to help with orientation. The rolling paths wind through arbutus groves and pine, opening up at many points to beautiful views over St. Mary Lake to the east and Stuart Channel and Vancouver Island to the west. It's a moderately challenging network overall, with noticeably more climbing than the gentler south end. Since there are many intersections that loop through the area, it's a good idea to have your downloaded komoot GPS route along with CRD's trail map (https://www.crd.ca/media/file/channel-ridge-web-map) to keep you on track.

Channel Ridge South Trail is a lovely, relatively easy stroll through the forest, filled with Douglas firs, cedars, and lush West Coast vegetation. As you walk along this well-kept trail, there are two viewpoints overlooking St. Mary Lake. Though the first might be overgrown, the second spot, with a short spur trail, offers beautiful elevated views across the water. The gentle elevation changes and peaceful surroundings make this a relaxing hike with some of the best inland views on Salt Spring Island.

This is a great spot to see lovely views of St. Mary Lake, the largest freshwater lake on Salt Spring Island, surrounded by lush forests and fields. If you're lucky enough to visit on a clear day, the forested hills rising beyond the lake are a beautiful backdrop, making this an ideal place for a break before continuing on the trail.

This trailhead offers easy access to the Channel Ridge trails and includes a small parking area. From here, well-signposted forest trails meander through mixed woodlands, leading to scenic viewpoints that overlook St. Mary Lake and the nearby hills. It’s the perfect starting point for one of the most popular walks on Salt Spring Island.

Set along the eastern side of Galiano Island, Bodega Ridge Provincial Park protects a rugged stretch of coastal bluff, Douglas fir forest and rocky ridgeline overlooking the Salish Sea. The park is best known for its elevated viewpoints across the Gulf Islands, with sections of exposed rock and Garry oak ecosystem rare within British Columbia. Bald eagles are commonly seen soaring along the ridge, especially on windy days.

A small dirt parking area at the end of Cottage Way provides access to the Bodega Ridge Trail on Galiano Island. The final stretch of road includes narrow switchbacks and limited roadside space, so it can feel tight for larger vehicles. There are no washrooms or facilities at the trailhead.

Climbing through coastal Douglas fir forest and rocky bluffs, the Bodega Ridge Trail leads to sweeping views across the Salish Sea and the surrounding Gulf Islands. The trail steadily gains elevation along the ridge, with exposed sections opening onto dramatic coastal viewpoints that feel surprisingly remote for such a short hike. Expect roots, uneven rocks and steeper sections along the climb, particularly in wet conditions.