Amazingly beautiful forest only a five minute drive from the airport!!!
1 / 10

John Dean Provincial Park

4.7
·415 reviews·North Saanich, Canada

Lush provincial park with serene old-growth rainforest trails and breathtaking panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer people, more tranquility

CrowdLow
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Amazingly beautiful forest only a five minute drive from the airport!!!

John Dean Provincial Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer people, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lush provincial park with serene old-growth rainforest trails and breathtaking panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula.

4.7
(415 reviews)

"A heavenly nature escape with fantastic views and tranquil hiking trails."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pointers

Street parking is the only option in winter when the gate is shut. Be respectful and leave room for others. :car:

🥾 Trail Choice

Main trails are wide and easy. Look for signs indicating steeper routes if you seek more challenge. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pickles' Bluffs Viewpoint

Pickles' Bluffs Viewpoint

Saanich Peninsula

Panoramic vistas of the Saanich Peninsula and surrounding waters await. A perfect spot for reflection and photos.

Old-Growth Rainforest Trails

Old-Growth Rainforest Trails

Throughout the park

Wander through a serene, green forest year-round, with ancient trees providing natural shade and a tranquil atmosphere.

Indigenous Cedar Stripping Examples

Indigenous Cedar Stripping Examples

Along main trails

Discover cultural heritage with informative signs showcasing traditional cedar stripping techniques by Indigenous peoples.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

John Dean Provincial Park offers a peaceful escape with lush rainforest and stunning views. It's ideal for quiet hikes and deep conversations, with well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels. Arrive early or on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in nature's serenity. Reddit

Navigating the Park

While trails are generally easy to navigate, some steeper routes exist. Parking can be limited, especially in winter when the main gate is closed, requiring street parking. Be mindful of other visitors and respect parking regulations. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer people, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just another amazing part of Newfoundland’s history #vikings #lanseauxmeadows #newfiecheck #explorenl #unescoworldheritagesite #newfoundland
@explorewithlora
3.8K likes • 54.7K views

🚗 Parking Pointers

Street parking is the only option in winter when the gate is shut. Be respectful and leave room for others. Reddit :car:

🥾 Trail Choice

Main trails are wide and easy. Look for signs indicating steeper routes if you seek more challenge. Reddit :hiking_boot:

This local picnic experience in Newfoundland was a standout experience on the Irish Loop. Lighthouse Picnics operate out of Ferryland, which is about a one hour drive south of St. John’s along the Avalon Peninsula. This day trip offers some of the very best experiences you can have in Newfoundland—a nature hike along the water, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a homemade lunch and fresh lemonade...
@brimitchelltravels
2.9K likes • 57.7K views
reddit.com

Seeking Nature Place Recommendation

🌳 Shade & Serenity

The old-growth trees offer excellent shade, making it a pleasant escape even on sunny days. :evergreen_tree:

🤫 Quiet Contemplation

This park is perfect for quiet hikes and deep conversations, especially on less busy days. Reddit :speech_balloon:

reddit.com

Favourite Lesser Know Hikes?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pointers

Street parking is the only option in winter when the gate is shut. Be respectful and leave room for others. Reddit :car:

🥾 Trail Choice

Main trails are wide and easy. Look for signs indicating steeper routes if you seek more challenge. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🌳 Shade & Serenity

The old-growth trees offer excellent shade, making it a pleasant escape even on sunny days. :evergreen_tree:

🤫 Quiet Contemplation

This park is perfect for quiet hikes and deep conversations, especially on less busy days. Reddit :speech_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(415 reviews)

Reviews Summary

John Dean Provincial Park is lauded as a hidden gem for its tranquil old-growth rainforest, well-maintained trails, and stunning panoramic views, particularly from Pickles' Bluffs. Visitors appreciate its serene atmosphere, making it ideal for quiet walks and nature appreciation. Some find parking challenging, especially during winter months when the main gate is closed.

"Beautiful park with a great view of Saanich Peninsula. The park is covered in old-growth rain forest and is green all year round. The area is super tranquil. The tree provide excellent shade from the sun. The trails are well marked and easy to navigate. Overall a great place to enjoy nature."

Kevin Luo

"Fantastic views and hiking trails. Wonderful place to spend a few hours.
This really is a hidden gem on the Saanich Peninsula. We were there for about 3 hours on a August weekend in beautiful weather and saw at most 15 other people.
If you are looking for a heavenly nature escape, you can't go wrong with this place."

James Green

"This is a beautiful park! Well signed, amazing wild flowers and great views. The main trails are wide enough for two people to walk beside each other. I also appreciated the sign that indicated a steeper route. I delighted seeing the examples of Cedar stripping done the indigenous people."

Nomads Essentials

What People Like

Beautiful views
Tranquil rainforest
Well-marked trails

What People Dislike

Limited parking in winter

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

John Dean Provincial Park is located on the Saanich Peninsula. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking can be challenging, especially in winter when the main gate is closed, requiring street parking. Reddit

Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but driving is generally recommended for ease of access to the park's trailheads and viewpoints. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for routes serving the Saanich Peninsula.

The park features well-marked trails. For easier access to viewpoints like Abraham Collins Lookout and Pickles' Bluffs, follow the newly paved road or head left down the stairs. Steeper routes are also indicated by signs. Reddit

In winter, the main gate is shut, and access is primarily via street parking. Be aware of this and plan your parking accordingly to avoid inconvenience. Reddit

John Dean Provincial Park is situated on the Saanich Peninsula, which is a reasonable driving distance from Victoria, typically within an hour, making it a feasible destination for a day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

John Dean Provincial Park is a provincial park, and typically, there are no entrance fees for accessing the trails and viewpoints. Enjoying the natural beauty is free of charge.

Provincial parks are generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific access might be limited by gate closures, especially during winter months. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours. Reddit

No, advance booking or tickets are not required for John Dean Provincial Park. It's a public park, and you can visit freely during its operating hours.

While the park is generally accessible, be aware of potential seasonal access changes, such as gate closures in winter. Always check for any posted notices upon arrival. Reddit

Provincial parks typically operate from dawn to dusk. Visiting outside these hours may not be permitted and could be unsafe. It's recommended to plan your visit within daylight hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park offers a variety of trails, from easy, wide paths suitable for conversation to steeper, more challenging routes. Trails leading to Pickles' Bluffs and Abraham Collins Lookout are popular for their scenic views. Reddit

Yes, John Dean Provincial Park boasts fantastic viewpoints, most notably Pickles' Bluffs, offering stunning panoramas of the Saanich Peninsula. Abraham Collins Lookout is another notable spot. Reddit

Absolutely. The park is described as tranquil and conducive to deep conversations, especially on less busy days. The lush rainforest provides a peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

You'll find a lush, old-growth rainforest with trees providing excellent shade. The park is also known for its beautiful wildflowers and year-round greenery. Reddit

Yes, there are facilities available. A pit toilet is located at the turning circle near the Park sign, marking the 100th anniversary of the park's opening. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints, especially Pickles' Bluffs, offer breathtaking panoramic shots of the Saanich Peninsula. The lush rainforest trails also provide opportunities for capturing the serene, green environment. Reddit

Yes, the sweeping views from Pickles' Bluffs make it an excellent location for landscape photography, particularly during the golden hours of late afternoon. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting for photography, especially at the viewpoints. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds, allowing for more unhurried shots. Reddit

Yes, the signs detailing Indigenous cedar stripping techniques are part of the park's educational offerings and can be photographed. Reddit

The park sign commemorating its 100th anniversary (opened in 1921) near the turning circle could be a point of interest for historical photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

John Dean Provincial Park is a great option for families looking for an accessible nature outing. The well-marked and wide main trails are perfect for younger children or those who prefer an easier walk. Reddit The park's natural beauty, with its lush trees and potential for spotting local flora, can be engaging for kids. Pack snacks and water, and consider a shorter loop to keep little ones happy. The viewpoints offer a rewarding destination for a family hike.

While the park offers a peaceful environment, it's important to note that it's primarily a nature reserve. There are no playgrounds or specific child-focused amenities. However, the opportunity to explore a forest and enjoy scenic views provides a wonderful educational and recreational experience for families seeking an outdoor adventure. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Those Seeking Peace

For solo visitors or anyone seeking a tranquil escape, John Dean Provincial Park is an ideal destination. The park's reputation for being not too busy, especially on weekdays, makes it conducive to quiet reflection and deep conversation. Reddit The well-maintained trails allow for a safe and enjoyable solo hike, with clear signage to guide your way. You can find plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the serenity of the old-growth forest. Reddit

The park's natural beauty, from the shaded rainforest to the expansive viewpoints, offers a rejuvenating experience for the mind and soul. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. The peaceful atmosphere ensures that you can enjoy your own company or have meaningful conversations without significant distractions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of John Dean Provincial Park

John Dean Provincial Park is crisscrossed with a network of well-maintained trails, catering to a range of hiking abilities. The main paths are wide and comfortable, perfect for leisurely strolls and engaging in conversation, as recommended by visitors seeking a peaceful outing. Reddit For those looking for a bit more exertion, the park also features steeper routes, clearly indicated by signage, allowing hikers to tailor their experience. Whether you're aiming for a short, scenic walk or a more extended hike, the trails offer a consistent immersion in the park's natural beauty.

The park's trail system leads to several key attractions. Following the newly paved road or taking the stairs to the left will guide you towards accessible viewpoints like Abraham Collins Lookout and the popular Pickles' Bluffs. Reddit These spots are highlights for many visitors, offering rewarding vistas after a pleasant hike. The trails wind through the park's defining feature: a lush, old-growth rainforest that remains vibrantly green year-round, providing ample shade and a tranquil atmosphere for all who wander its paths. Reddit

The Scenic Vistas and Natural Beauty

One of the most compelling reasons to visit John Dean Provincial Park is its spectacular natural beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is renowned for its panoramic vistas, particularly from Pickles' Bluffs, which offers sweeping views across the Saanich Peninsula and the surrounding waters. Reddit These viewpoints are frequently cited as a major draw for visitors, providing memorable backdrops for photos and moments of quiet contemplation.

Beyond the grand vistas, the park's interior is a testament to the beauty of the Pacific Northwest's temperate rainforest. Visitors can wander through old-growth forests, where towering trees create a dense canopy that offers excellent shade and a sense of serene enclosure. Reddit This lush environment is a significant part of the park's appeal, contributing to its tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere. The year-round greenery ensures that the park is a beautiful destination regardless of the season, making it a true natural escape. Reddit

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