Hiking to Squally Reach Viewpoint in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park
The hike to Squally Reach Viewpoint in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is rather challenging but well worth the effort for the stunning views across Squally Reach and Saanich Inlet. The trail winds through beautiful, mature second growth forest and passes a couple of spots with glimpses of the inlet, but you will have to wait to the very end at the Squally Reach Viewpoint for the big view.
The trail begins near the McKenzie Bight Parking area on Ross Durrance Rd, just off Willis Point Rd. You can park in this lot or continue past it a short distance (about 300m ) where you will find some off road parking across from the gate at the start of the Timberman Trail. The trail is approximately 3 kms (1.86 mi) each way and will take roughly 2 hours depending on how much you stop for views, rests, photos etc.
The first section of trail to just past the Cascade Trail Junction is an easy walk through lush west coast forest. This is all second growth forest and you will see lots of signs of past logging as you walk along. In about 15 minutes you will cross the bridge over Pease Creek and come to the junction of the Cascade Trail. This trail leads down to McKenzie Bight and makes a good circle route by joining up with the McKenzie Bight trail. See our post: Gowlland Tod Provincial Park
Signs of old logging along the Timberman Trail
Approaching the trail junction marker on the other side of Pease Creek
There is a good sign post and map at this junction. You will continue strait on following the trail pointing to Jocelyn Hill and Caleb Pike. In another 10 or 15 minutes you will begin a steep climb. The trail is relatively good but there are a lot of exposed rocks and tree roots and the climb is rather relentless!
Smooth, level section of the Timberman Trail before the steep uphill climb.
The steep, rocky uphill climb
While the walk through the forest is beautiful, don’t expect a lot of views of the inlet as you trundle along. On the parks maps you will see the Saanich Inlet View Point listed, but the view here is mostly blocked by trees. The trail eventually tops out with some ups and downs finally leading down into a ravine. Here it crosses a wooden bridge over a small creek. In another15 minutes or so you will come to another trail sign pointing to Jocelyn Hill on the left and Squally Point Viewpoint straight ahead. It’s a short steep climb up and over exposed bedrock to the viewpoint.
One of the only glimpses of the Sannich Inlet from the Saanich Inlet Viewpoint before reaching the Squally Reach Viewpoint
Winding section of the trail after topping out
Bridge in the ravine about 15 mins from the Squally Reach Viewpoint
Trail sign below Squally Reach Viewpoint
The viewpoint itself is on an exposed rocky point much of it covered with luscious bright green moss, at least in wetter seasons. The views across Squally Reach and up Saanich Inlet are amazing. You can even see the coast mountains on the mainland! You will also see the very popular Malahat Skywalk on the ridge directly across from the viewpoint…you will actually be looking down at it! Looking into Squally Reach you will see Spectacle Creek Waterfall plunging into the inlet (best during the winter).
The final climb to the Squally Reach Viewpoint
Saanich Inlet from the Squally Reach Viewpoint
Squally Reach – note the Malahat Skywalk on the right and Spectacle Creek falls lower left
Spectacle Creek Falls on Squally Reach
Views of Saanich Inlet and the Coast Mountains from Squally Reach Viewpoint
The Squally Point Viewpoint is a wonderful place to take some time and enjoy the views. Find a comfortable spot to sit down, have some snacks or lunch and just enjoy this magical place!
Park Map
Click the link for a PDF Map of the park: BC Parks Gowlland Tod Provincial Park Map
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