The mouth of the mighty Fraser River empties into the Salish Sea and all around lie some of the most diverse waterways and marshlands in the province. Just a short 15 km drive from downtown Vancouver, the Richmond Delta Trail takes you through the west coast of Lulu Island.
Deemed “the heart of BC’s Pacific Flyway”, this region is a major north-south stop for migratory birds on their way between Alaska and Patagonia. Every year the Richmond Delta Trail is inundated with incredible bird species ranging from blue herons and dunlins to western sandpipers, and snow geese.
For many, Richmond is where the Far East meets the Canadian West Coast – and a population that is over 70% Asian means many local chefs use the region’s unique geography to incorporate seasonal produce and fresh-caught seafood in their menus throughout the year.
Neighbouring Delta is home to three distinct communities, each with its own charm. Tsawwassen holds breathtaking beaches, Ladner boasts a waterfront community with plentiful farmland, and North Delta features amazing parks – including Burns Bog, North America’s largest domed peat bog.
No matter your goal – whether it’s spotting the birds of Sea Island, or enjoying the diverse local communities, there’s something for everyone along this beautiful coastal trail. Opportunities abound for birders of all skill levels to learn, share, and experience the best BC has to offer.
