If you want a big view for little effort, Stoney Hill delivers one of the best coastal panoramas on Vancouver Island — no sweat required. This 3.2 km loop trail winds through mossy coastal forest, arbutus trees, and smooth rock bluffs, giving you that classic Gulf Islands vibe in under an hour.

Most hikers hit the first cliffside viewpoint overlooking Genoa Bay and call it a day… but the real magic is just above it. Keep climbing a few extra minutes, and you’ll reach the upper lookout — a wide-open, jaw-dropping perch with massive views over Sansum Narrows, Salt Spring Island, and the deep blue channels stretching toward Burgoyne Bay.

Stoney Hill gives you those massive West Coast views without the grind. It’s quiet, close to Maple Bay, and one of the easiest ways to feel like you’re standing on top of the island. Perfect golden-hour stop on any Vancouver Island road trip.

Trail Details:

• Distance: ~3.2 km loop

• Time Needed: 45–60 minutes (more if you’re taking photos — and you will)

• Trail Type: Well-marked loop with short side paths to lookouts

• Difficulty: Easy — perfect for families, casual hikers, and road-trippers

• Best Part: Two epic viewpoints — the first is stunning, the upper one is next-level

There is a second lookout, a short drive up the hill. The Stoney Hill Lookout is a 4.5 km out-and-back. It takes about an hour and a half, with a 150 m gain.

It is a beautiful mossy walk to a nice, small lookout.

Park at the yellow gate.