Roesland

Roesland is located on North Pender Island and is part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. The park has a short trail on an Islet that passes several Arbutus trees and provides scenic views of the Salish Sea and the passing boats. It's a great place to take kids to play near the water or have a picnic.

Roesland was originally a farm before being converted to a resort that operated from the 1920's until 1990. Several of the buildings are still standing and can be explored. The Pender Islands Museum is located in an old house and is generally open on weekends.

It's a short walk form the parking lot down the gravel path to the museum and buildings. Just beyond the buildings is a small beach area. Walk to the right side, down the steps and cross over to the stairs that go up to the trail on the Islet. Follow the trail through the trees, catching glimpses of the water and some of the birds that frequent the area.

The trail eventually reaches a bench. Climb over the rocks to where the end of the Islet is, offering scenic shoreline views. The BC Ferries can be seen passing by, including the large ferry connecting Vancouver to Victoria and the ferries that arrive at Otter Bay on Pender Island.

Walk back along the trail to the area of Roesland where the buildings are. There are some other areas along the water you can explore before heading back up the gravel trail to the parking lot.