Golden Ears Park reopens following extensive storm damage

Outdoor enthusiasts will soon be able to reserve campsites at Golden Ears Park in Maple Ridge after climate impacts left the majority of the park closed for the winter.

A press release from the Ministry of Environment says storm repairs are well underway and at 7 a.m. on March 19, reservations will be open for the three front-country campground in Golden Ears Park – Gold Creek, Alouette and North Beach.

The Ministry says the October 2024 floods caused significant damage to many areas of the park, including trails and several sections of the parkway that provides access to all three campgrounds. In some sections, the shoulder and partial lanes were washed away. A landslide substantially rerouted Viking Creek, which further impacted the parkway and caused significant washouts on trails.

Vehicle access is currently expected to be restored to the entire park by March 17.

“Golden Ears Park is a natural treasure and the most popular park for camping in B.C.,” Minister of Environment and Parks, Tamara Davidson, said in a press release. “We know it was difficult having most of the park closed this winter from the impacts of climate change, but visitor safety is our top priority. As a minister responsible for B.C.’s beautiful parks, it was vital we prioritized repair work so families can return together to enjoy this beautiful park in the spring.”

Mayor Dan Ruimy extended his thanks to the BC Parks team in their restoration efforts.

“Our local businesses thrive thanks to the million-plus visitors we are fortunate to welcome each year. While you’re here, we encourage you to explore all that Maple Ridge has to offer,” he said in a press release.

B.C. Parks says people will need to be prepared for traffic delays to access the previously closed portions of the park as a small section of the road will be restricted to one lane. The road is expected to be fully reopened by early May.

Golden Ears is one of B.C.’s largest parks. It features three campgrounds along with an extensive system of hiking and horseback-riding trails. Despite the reopening, several trails will remain closed due to storm damage.