Soames Hill is located just above Gibsons and only 3 kilometres (1.6 miles) away from the Langdale ferry terminal. You can conquer “The Knob” in approximately 40 to 60 minutes. There are two staircase options and three different viewpoints, so that can make a difference to the amount of time you spend on this rewarding hike.

The payoff for hiking Soames is the stunning views of Gibsons Harbour, the coastal mountain range, and local islands (Keats, Gambier, and Bowen Island). Soames Hill Park covers 150 acres and boasts over 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) of trails through impressive second-growth forest that vary in difficulty from moderate to strenuous.

Soames Hill
View from Soames Hill in Gibsons. Photo: Sunshine Coast Tourism/Chris Thorn Photography

Location & Trail Notes

There are four different trail access points at the following locations:

  •   D639 Bridgeman Road (NE Entrance)
  •   481 Esperanza Road (SW Entrance)
  •   Ruffum Road (S Entrance)
  •   999 Soames Road (SE Entrance)

Directions to Bridgeman Road Access: From the traffic light at the junction of Highway 101 and North Road in Gibsons, proceed 1.9 km (1.1 mi) along North Road toward the Langdale ferry terminal. Turn right onto Chamberlin Road and after 200 metres turn left onto Bridgeman Road; the park entrance is about 300 metres away. Along Chamberlin Road is another park entrance on Esperanza.

The Bridgeman Road access provides a moderate trail (yellow route on the trail map) as you hike in towards the green trail. Turn left onto the green trail (at the first set of stairs) and tackle the impressive 434-step staircase to the viewpoints at the top of Soames Hill. The stairs are somewhat steep and strenuous, but the views at the top are your reward!

Soames Hill
The hike up the stairs at Soames Hill in Gibsons. Photo: Sunshine Coast Tourism/Chris Thorn Photography

Safety Notice

Please follow all Sunshine Coast Regional District rules and posted signage. Keep in mind that:

  • Dogs are welcome, but you should always keep them on a leash and use waste bags.
  • Trail conditions vary and can be affected by wind and other weather conditions.
  • Bears and other wildlife are known to frequent the park, so please be bear aware. 
  • Fires are not permitted.

Trail Map, Amenities & More Information

Visit the Sunshine Coast Regional District website for a trail map of Soames Hill.

Tip: if you’re into geocaching, there are a few geocaches hidden within the park.

The viewpoint at Soames Hill, overlooking Gibsons.
Enjoy beautiful views of Gibsons from Soames Hill. Photo: Sunshine Coast Tourism/Chris Thorn Photography