Wild Flower and Ecological Reserves

Patty Abbott Visitor Centre Coordinator

1. Bright Angel Park is an easy spot to view the many early blooming flowers especially the White Fawn Lily. These are in abundance on the inner trails leading down to the Koksilah River. This lovely park is located in Cowichan Station off Koksilah Road and is great for the whole family.

2. Cobble Hill Mountain

located in the Village of Cobble Hill is one our favourite hiking and biking destinations. The trails here can be a little more difficult for some who wish to hike to the summit but generally there are moderate trails. White Fawn Lilies and the Western Trillium will dot the trails along the way to the summit.

3. Somenos Marsh Garry

Oak Protected Area boasts some rare wildflowers and Garry Oaks. This area offers the rare Pink Fawn Lily and the rare deep soiled Garry Oak trees. This marsh is also home to over 200 species of birds as well as homes for Beaver, Muskrat, Deer, River Otters, Raccoon and more. To access this area, take Trillium Terrace off Lakes Road to the very end and then left on York Road. Parking is limited to the street.

4. Honeymoon Bay

Ecological Reserve is located on South Shore Road in Honeymoon Bay approximately 2.5 kilometres west of the village. From Duncan take Hwy 18 to Lake Cowichan and follow signs through town towards Honeymoon Bay. The road will divide at Walton Road and drive past March Meadows Golf Course. This reserve is approximately 15 acres and home to one of the largest displays of the rare pink fawn lily. There are many other species of flora including bleeding heart, California-tea, wild ginger, Trilliums, Solomons seal and many more.

5. Stoney Hill Regional

Park is a 3.2-kilometre loop featuring incredible views of Sansum Narrows and Saltspring Island. This park has a wonderful display of Arbutus trees and Garry Oak as well as many different wildflowers. Some of the different varieties that you may see include Yellow Pond Lily as well as nice displays of Foxgloves.

6. Mount Tzhouhalem

located in North Cowichan is a haven for hikers and mountain bikers but also boasts an 18 acre Ecological Reserve with breath taking vistas of wildflowers till the end of May. The reserve is also home to Garry Oak and wildlife. To access the reserve park at Kaspa Parking lot in The Properties and sub division off Maple Bay Road. Once parked take the Danalyzer Trail which will lead you right to the Ecological Reserve and if you wish to continue this same trail will take you to the white cross.

7. Ladysmith Ecological

Bog Reserve northeast of Ladysmith is quite large at approximately 380 acres. We recommend the Yellow Point Park loop which is about 5.3 kilometres. This is an easy trail and features many beautiful wildflowers as well as a great place for avid bird watchers. Follow Trans Canada Highway north and follow the Yellow Point / Cedar exit then merge onto Cedar Road then turn right onto Yellow Point Road for 3.6 kilometres and turn left for 750 metres.

Wildflowers can be found from March to late May in many of our areas and are usually found along streams and creeks as well as alpine meadows. They come in a variety of colours throughout the season. We have a wonderful selection of books on wildflowers at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre at 2896 Drinkwater Road in Duncan.

Understanding the CanadaGAP Program, 8:30-4:30 both days, Virtual - on Zoom, $25, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/267866274237