Grab Your Boots and Get Outside! Richmond BC’s Top 5 Parks

Getting outside for some fresh air and activity is essential to one’s overall well-being. Yes, even on days when the weather is lousy. Richmond, BC has some fantastic parks that can make being outside fun, even on the worst of days. Here is a list of some of my favourite local parks, so grab your boots and get outside!

1.Garry Point Park

An iconic waterfront park in the Steveston neighbourhood of Richmond that features beach access, walking trails and gorgeous views! Take a stroll through the Kuno Garden - a Japanese-style memorial garden, or ride your bike past Scotch Pond, a notable local heritage site. The park is also home to the Fisherman's Memorial Needle, a memorial dedicated to the lives and deaths of fishermen working out of Steveston.

With a large open area and undulating landscape, this is also known to us locals as a great place to fly kites. So next time that wind blows in, round up the kids, grab a kite and head over to Garry Point Park to take hold of that breeze!

2.Richmond Nature Park

Richmond Nature Park includes approximately 200 acres of raised peat bog featuring walking trails, a plethora of wildlife and an interpretive Nature House which is open daily. Inside the Nature House, you will find displays, games, various activity kits and an on-site naturalist who can answer any questions that you may have about Richmond’s nature.

Depending on the time of year, you are likely to see a variety of birds and an array of colourful foliage. The shortest of the trails in the park is wheelchair accessible, while all other paths are soft-surfaced, so you’ll definitely need your boots for this one!

3.Iona Beach Regional Park

Where the river meets the ocean, this regional beach park features an expansive beach front, walking trails and plenty of space to explore! When the tide is out, you can stroll through tide pools and maybe even find some treasures in the sand. Be sure to find out when the tide is due back, it comes in quickly, and you don’t want to get stuck out there. In addition to exploring the beach, you may encounter rare plant life or see a variety of birds during your visit. Iona Beach Park is located along the Pacific Flyway, making it the perfect place for migratory birds to stop during their travels. If you haven’t been to this local favourite, check it out the next time you are in the mood for a little outdoor adventure.

4.Terra Nova Rural Park

In the Terra Nova area of Richmond, this 63-acre park offers visitors of all ages an engaging outdoor experience. Whether strolling through the web of trails, soaking up views from a quiet park bench, exploring the onsite farms and gardens or frolicking in the one-of-a-kind playground, this park has something for everyone. In addition to the onsite community gardens, the park also hosts The Sharing Farm, a local initiative where produce is grown and donated to the Food Bank.

As you meander through the trails, keep your eyes and ears open, as you’re sure to enjoy the sights and sounds at this local gem. Stunning glimpses of the Salish Sea can be caught at various points throughout the park, and you are also likely to see an assortment of birds as this park is also located on the Pacific Flyway. Rain or shine, head over to Terra Nova Rural Park, you’ll be glad you did!

5.Garden City Community Park

Right in the heart of Richmond, Garden City Community Park is a great place to get outside and enjoy some fresh air! This park boasts a popular playground that is fun for people of all ages, a bike terrain park and an off-leash area for your fur babies too! Walking along the network of trails is a great way to get those steps in with a variety of places to stop along the way to take in views or enjoy a picnic! The park is also home to an arboretum containing a wide variety tree species from the Pacific Rim. Whether you’re in the mood to relax or to play, this park will check all the boxes for you and your family.

If you are a long time Richmond resident, new to the area or just passing through, check out one of my favorite local parks today!