Are you looking for a family-friendly adventure combining breathtaking views, an easy-going walk, and a unique Vancouver Island experience? The Malahat Skywalk, located just 30 minutes from Victoria, offers all that and more.
Since opening in July 2021, this stunning attraction has quickly become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
But is it worth the trip and expense? Here’s what you need to know about exploring this incredible structure.
Key Takeaways
- Features: Amazing views, elevated forest walk, 20-metre spiral slide, adventure net
- Trail length: 600 metres to the spiral ramp and then another 250 metres to the top, all at a gentle incline
- Suitability: Everyone! The tree walk, ramp, washrooms and visitor centre are fully wheelchair and stroller-accessible
- Pets: Must stay at home or in the car
- Location: Malahat Skywalk is on the Malahat Highway, approximately 32km (19 miles) from downtown Victoria
- Experience: Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and adventure while exploring the elevated walkways high among the trees.
- Duration: The time required for the entire Malahat Skywalk experience varies, but it typically takes an hour to 90 minutes to complete the attraction.
When your loved one says, “Can we do something fun today?” put the Malahat Skywalk at the top of your list. We checked out Vancouver Island's newest outdoor attraction, and it got a thumbs-up from all of us.
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- Key Takeaways
- Best Times to Visit the Malahat SkyWalk
- What to Expect from the Malahat Skywalk: A Nature Walk with a Twist
- Skip the line: Book your Malahat Skywalk tickets in advance here!
- Is the Malahat Skywalk Worth It?
- Getting There
- Nearby Attractions: Make a Day of It!
- A Hotel with Similar Views
- Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Vancouver Island Attraction
Best Times to Visit the Malahat SkyWalk
The Malahat SkyWalk is a year-round attraction, offering stunning views and unique experiences in every season. However, depending on your preference for crowd levels, weather, and overall experience, some times may be better than others.
| Season | Pros | Cons | Best for… |
|---|
| Spring (March – May) | Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, fewer crowds. | Unpredictable weather, possible rain. | Nature lovers, photographers, those seeking a quieter visit. |
| Summer (June – August) | Warm, sunny weather with the best visibility. | Can be extremely busy, especially in July & August. Long wait times at the slide. Higher ticket demand. | Families, tourists, those wanting the clearest views. |
| Fall (September – November) | Beautiful autumn foliage, crisp air, fewer crowds. | Cooler temperatures, potential rain. | Fall foliage enthusiasts, photographers, those preferring a peaceful visit. |
| Winter (December – February) | Possible snow-dusted landscapes, quiet atmosphere. | Colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, potential for rain or fog. | Those who enjoy solitude, winter scenery lovers. |
Best Time of Day to Visit
- Early morning: Offers the most peaceful experience with minimal crowds.
- Midday: Ideal for sunshine and clear skies, but can be the busiest.
- Late afternoon: A great time for sunset views (especially in fall and winter), but be mindful of closing times.
Tip: If visiting in summer, arrive early or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially if you want to try the slide!
What to Expect from the Malahat Skywalk: A Nature Walk with a Twist
A Stroll through Coastal Forests
As you begin your journey, you’ll walk through a beautiful stretch of coastal forest full of Douglas firs and arbutus trees. The path is wide, level, and accessible, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. This gentle forest walk is just the prelude to the main attraction: the Skywalk itself.
Watch for beautiful driftwood creations made by the talented artisan Tanya Bub along the way. Hidden among the trees, you can find cougars, herons, an owl, and a bald eagle. Also, stop at the information boards to learn more about the surrounding natural environment.
The Spiral Tower and Panoramic Views
The centrepiece of the Malahat Skywalk is the 32-metre spiral tower. As you ascend the ramp, the surrounding forest gradually disappears, revealing stunning 360-degree views of Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and Mount Baker on clear days.
If heights make you uneasy, don't worry—the sturdy structure and gradual incline offer a secure and comfortable experience. But if you’re a thrill-seeker, the adventurous slide down from the top is a must!
As this attraction capitalizes on the views, check the weather before you go. Although crowds would be minimal on a drizzly, overcast day, your experience might not be worth the cost of admission. Heavy fog, especially, would ruin the fun.
With a $17-million price tag, the Malahat Skywalk is a joint venture between the Malahat Nation and A. Spire by Nature, a company led by two entrepreneurs who founded the Sea-to-Sky Gondola in Squamish. This architecturally stunning infrastructure provides an accessible way for everyone to experience the great outdoors in a unique way.
Fully Accessible
The boardwalk and spiral tower are wide enough for two strollers or wheelchairs to move past one another easily and rise at a very gentle incline. The Welcome Centre, which includes a gift shop, cafe, outdoor gathering place and washrooms, is also wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
Skip the line: Book your Malahat Skywalk tickets in advance here!
The Fun Stuff – Malahat Skywalk Slide & Adventure Net
You have a few fun options once you've taken in the view. If you are brave enough and not afraid of heights, walk out onto the adventure net suspended partially across the tower's centre. From the middle of the net, you get views of the arbutus forest and the spiralling structure beneath your feet.
A fun way to get to ground level is the spiral slide. This enclosed 20-metre (65 ft) slide is available to everyone over 42″ (107 cm) tall and/or five years of age. I was going to opt out of trying the slide, but at the last minute, I decided to give it a go. And I'm so glad I did!
They give you a fabric mat to sit on and snuggle your feet into for the ride down. This helps prevent fabric snares and gives you extra speed. The ride down is even more exhilarating when the weather is warm.
The slide is extremely popular. During the busy summer months, lineups can be over an hour long. Considering you get to the bottom in less than a minute, it is not a great return on your time investment.
However, when crowds are minimal, as in the off-season (late fall, winter, and early spring), you can go up and down the slide as often as you like with very little waiting.
Ground Level Experiences
At the bottom of the tower, several brightly coloured Adirondack chairs invite you to sit and enjoy the view. A cantilevered viewpoint extends out in front of the tower, allowing you to watch people walk to the top of the structure.
The picnic area provides a uniquely shaped firepit with enough room for many people and tables to sit and enjoy your lunch. Porta potties are also near this area.
Take the gravel path back to the Welcome Centre for a different perspective. This ground-level path walks you past a pond where birds like to spend their time. You may also spot Western Toads and Rough-skinned Newts sunbathing along the edges.
The Welcome Centre cafe offers assorted coffee and other hot beverages, cold drinks, snacks, local baked goods, and hearty sandwiches. The Gathering Place provides a spot to sit and enjoy your food and drink purchases underneath the canopy of trees.
The gift shop offers typical touristy items (“Malahat Skywalk” embossed clothing) along with various artwork, jewelry, textiles, and carvings made by members of the Malahat Nation.
Is the Malahat Skywalk Worth It?
In short, yes!
Although pricey, I feel a visit here is worth it.
In a recent survey of over 483,000 travelers, the view from the top of the Malahat Skywalk was rated among the best in Canada.
Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor wanting to experience the beauty of Vancouver Island, the Malahat Skywalk offers a memorable, family-friendly outing. It’s an easy yet rewarding experience with stunning views, accessible paths, and plenty of fun for kids.
To fully experience this attraction, you should expect to spend 60 – 90 minutes—and even more if it's busy.
Some will say the free views at the Mahalat viewpoint are equally lovely. While I agree, parking is minimal at the viewpoint, and you often can't find a spot. You also don't get the other unique benefits the Skywalk offers.
Please visit the Malahat Skywalk website for current pricing and hours of operation.
If you need further convincing, we teamed up with Dan King, who was kind enough to make this awesome video for us showcasing the Skywalk.
Getting There
The most accessible access is heading north from Victoria, as you can't access the attraction directly off the highway heading south. If you are heading south, you have to drive past the entrance to the designated U-Turn at the Malahat Chalet (another 4 km south).
Access heading north is directly from the Trans Canada (Malahat) Highway. There are lots of signs, so you can't miss it.
Nearby Attractions: Make a Day of It!
If you’re coming to the Malahat Skywalk, consider pairing your visit with a stop at some nearby attractions:
- Stop at nearby Bamberton Provincial Park for a stroll along a sandy beach.
- Check out the waterfalls at Goldstream Provincial Park.
- For another impressive structure, head to the Historic Kinsol Trestle
A Hotel with Similar Views
If you want a luxurious place to stay nearby, check out Villa Eyrie Resort. This beautiful destination offers similar views to the Malahat Skywalk but with a spa, pool, onsite restaurant and top-notch accommodations.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Vancouver Island Attraction
The Malahat Skywalk combines natural beauty with an exciting, accessible experience for all ages.
If you’re searching for a scenic adventure that’s both relaxing and exhilarating, the Skywalk should definitely be on your list.
Book your visit now and prepare for an unforgettable day surrounded by nature.
Have you been to the Malahat Skywalk? What do you think about this newest outdoor attraction? Let us know in the comment section below.
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It was too cool/overcast back in Oct when I was in the area…will def check it out in mid May, as I will be visiting the island again. Thanks so much for your wonderful and informative newsletters.
You’re welcome! And yes, make sure to check it out when you are here again in May.
We were very impressed by the Skywalk. The whole thing is a class act and a wonderful addition to the attractions on southern Vancouver Island. After our initial visit, we immediately bought annual passes. Your first admission fee is applied towards your annual pass, a very good value indeed, in my opinion.
Oh, that’s great to know! It sounds like the annual pass is the way to go then.