Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is a very popular urban park and floral garden destination located in the City of Victoria in British Columbia (B.C.), Canada. Since 1882 Beacon Hill Park has been a sightseeing fixture and travel highlight for many who visit the City of Victoria located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Beacon Hill Park is an activity destination for many in Victoria who enjoy activities like biking, walking, roller blading, jogging, birding, sightseeing, relaxing and picnicking. For many in the region the park is often the scene for wedding photos, family reunions and group functions. The Victoria park measures over 81 hectares (200 acres) and is decorated with a well maintained walking trail system, green grass playing fields, birding ponds, day use picnic areas, sightseeing benches, floral gardens, playgrounds and a few water fountains. The walking trails in the park are, mostly paved. Many trails meander through forests of trees including groves of Maple Trees, Garry Oaks, Arbutus, , Douglas Firs and flamboyant Western Red Cedars. Trails are easy going and level and suited for all fitness levels. Most are level and therefore baby stroller and wheelchair friendly. The trail system provides many opportunities for sightseeing as they connect to ponds and waterways. Many, of which, are popular birding sites for viewing ducks, peacocks, blue herons and predator birds like Bald Eagles. Goodacre and Fountain Lakes located in Beacon Hill Park are the main gathering places among the trees where water fowl gather to snack on bread crumbs fed to them by visitors. The park is also a very popular destination for events and festivals. There is a bandshell and many open grass fields which are ideal for hosting large groups. While enjoying a picnic or attending an event it is very common to view horse drawn carriages providing sightseeing tours. There are cultural attractions in the park as well like the 1956 First Nations Totem Pole standing at 38.9 metres (128 feet) high and artists painting landscapes and musicians playing tunes creating crowds. Beacon Hill Park is one of the best attractions in the City of Victoria which requires no paid admission to enjoy the natural beauty and culture the city has to offer.