The small Lone Tree Hill Park offers just one trail, a meandering and fairly steep rocky trail through forest that opens out to a rocky summit - home of the Lone Tree and resting place of the gnarled Douglas-fir stump of its predecessor.

Hikers will be rewarded with truly spectacular views of Victoria, the Malahat, the Gowlland Range and the seemingly close Olympic Mountains in Washington.

While admiring the great views, watch for Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Turkey Vultures riding the thermals above. Lone Tree Hill is particularly spectacular in the spring, when wildflowers such as fawn lilies, shooting stars and common camas grace the hillside.

A young Arbutus is the new Lone Tree

A perfect little trip from downtown for visitors who want to catch the essence of life in Victoria - especially if linked with a visit to Goldstream Park Provincial Park further along Highway 1.

Suitable for all hikers, the summit is reached in a brisk half-hour walk either way. The solitude and tranquility at the top of the hill is well worth the time and the exercise of the hike - the view is an optional extra!

Follow the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria, and take the Millstream Road exit. Turn right on Millstream Road and continue to the junction of Millstream Lake Road. Turn left to continue on Millstream Road to the park entrance on the right. Allow approximately 30 minutes driving time from Victoria.

Click for companies that offer Hiking & Backpacking services, or visit our Recreation section for more information on Hiking and Backpacking in British Columbia.

Trail information for Vancouver Island is provided in three superb Hiking Trails guides by the Vancouver Island Trails Information Society.