HomeProtected PlacesMount Elphinstone Provincial Park
Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park adventures

Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park Adventures

Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park offers lush coastal forest trails and panoramic views over Howe Sound, providing a peaceful outdoor retreat near the town of Gibsons in British Columbia.

320
Acres Protected
6
Miles of Trails
12,000
Annual Visitors
2004
Year Established

About Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park

Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park
 

Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park is located on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, just west of the town of Gibsons. The park encompasses a section of rugged coastal mountain terrain, characterized by dense evergreen forests dominated by Douglas fir, western red cedar, and hemlock. Elevations vary, reaching up to around 800 meters, providing visitors with scenic vistas overlooking Howe Sound and the coastal islands. The area was traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for seasonal foraging and travel routes, and its preservation as a provincial park ensures the protection of these culturally significant lands and their diverse ecosystems. Outdoor enthusiasts frequent the park primarily for its network of hiking trails that range in difficulty from gentle walks to moderate climbs. Trails lead through moss-covered forest floors, past small alpine meadows, and culminate at viewpoints that reward hikers with breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The park also supports opportunities for wildlife viewing, with species such as black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and varied songbirds commonly sighted. Mount Elphinstone Provincial Park appeals to visitors seeking tranquility close to urban areas, offering a natural escape that combines coastal mountain scenery, ecological richness, and recreational access. While there are no campgrounds within the park itself, nearby Gibsons offers accommodations and services that complement day visits to the park.

Highlights

Highlight

Panoramic viewpoint overlooking Howe Sound and coastal islands

Highlight

Temperate coastal rainforest ecosystem with old-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar

Highlight

Accessible trail network suitable for day hikes of varying difficulty

Highlight

Close proximity to the town of Gibsons with easy road access

Notable Natural Features

Mount Elphinstone Summit Viewpoint

Offers sweeping views across Howe Sound and the adjacent Gulf Islands, accessible via a moderate uphill hike.

Old Growth Forest Stands

Contains patches of mature Douglas fir and western red cedar trees, showcasing the region’s coastal rainforest heritage.

Alpine Meadows

Small clearings near the summit supporting wildflowers and providing habitat diversity within the park.