Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park
Breathe in the fresh air and experience the unforgettable sight of some the oldest and tallest trees in Canada.
Cathedral Grove - MacMillan Provincial park is a BC Provincial Park preserving a section of lush old-growth forest unique to Vancouver Island. The park’s name will make perfect sense when you see sunlight filtering through the soaring 80-meter-high canopy.
Plan to spend a few hours wandering Cathedral Grove's trail system and gazing up at 800-year-old giant Douglas Fir, Grand Firs, Western Hemlocks, and Western Red Cedar trees. Cathedral Grove will give you a sense of what Vancouver Island and the west coast looked like before the arrival of European settlers. Here’s a guide to help you plan a day in the park:
Getting to The Park & Parking
Cathedral Grove - MacMillan Provincial Park is located at the western end of Cameron Lake, only minutes from Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Highway 4, just beyond Coombs. Parking is free, but space may become limited during peak visitation in the summer and on weekends. There is no dedicated RV parking, so to ensure a space, RV drivers may wish to visit during off-peak times.
What To Look For On The Trails
Widest Tree In The Park
To see the oldest and largest trees in the park, take the trails on the south side of the highway. When you walk the Big Tree Trail, keep an eye out for the widest tree in the park, a Douglas Fir with a 9-meter circumference!
Cameron Lake
Use the trails on the north side of the highway to reach Cameron Lake, where groves of Western Red Cedar stand tall, their reflections shimmering on the water. Cameron Lake is a favourite spot for swimming and fishing.
Birds & Wildlife
Depending on the season, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, elk, black bears, woodpeckers, and owls. You can learn more about the park’s unique ecosystem and wildlife here.
Park Amenities & Accessibility
You can access the park’s trail networks from the main parking area. The trails are relatively flat and wide, making it easy to walk and hike, and some trails are accessible. Accessible pit toilets are available near the parking area. You can learn more about all the park’s amenities on the official website.
To protect the delicate local ecosystem, guests should stay on designated trails at all times. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore with you. All guests should be alert for falling branches or trees, especially on windy days. For more outdoor safety guidelines and planning tips, visit AdventureSmart.
Walking Amid Giants
Today I want to talk about one of my favourite places to visit - Cathedral Grove.
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