There are old mill ruins hiding on a beach in Port Moody and almost nobody knows
Old Mill Site Park — one of the most underrated free parks in Metro Vancouver. No entry fee. No crowds. Just history, nature, and some of the most unique scenery in the Tri-Cities.
Here’s the story 👇
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, this stretch of Burrard Inlet’s north shore was home to several busy sawmills — including the Empress Mill, which shipped lumber across Canada and internationally. The McNair Cedar Mill operated here until it was destroyed by fire in 1949. What’s left today? Concrete foundations, old structures, and a beehive burner — all sitting right on the beach. History you can actually walk through and touch.
🥾 What to expect:
Two trail options — a lower beach trail along the water and an upper paved trail with elevated views. The whole walk is about 45 minutes and connects to Rocky Point Park on one end and Old Orchard Park on the other — perfect for a longer outing
📸 Photo highlights:
✅ Mill ruins on the beach — stunning at golden hour
✅ Views across Burrard Inlet to Rocky Point and Burnaby Mountain
✅ Tidal waters, mudflats and coastal scenery
✅ Great Blue Heron rookery (best viewed late March to early April from the upper trail)
🦅 Wildlife you might spot:
Great blue herons, bald eagles, seals, otters, ducks — and yes, there have been bear sightings too 🐻
⚠️ Pro tips before you go:
👟 Wear waterproof shoes — the lower trail gets muddy
🚫 Do NOT walk on the mud flats — people can get stuck. If someone does, call 911 immediately
🚗 Free street parking on Murray Street for up to 4 hours
🌅 Go at sunset — the water views are absolutely gorgeous
🔍 Check the tide table if you want to explore the tide pools at low tide
📍 Old Mill Site Park | 538 San Remo Dr, Port Moody BC
Near Murray St & Old Mill Rd — along the Shoreline Trail
Tag someone you’d explore this with 👇🌿
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Visiting Old Mill Site Park offers a unique experience that combines outdoor adventure with a deep sense of history. Walking along the trails, you can actually see and touch the concrete foundations and old structures left behind from the Empress Mill and the McNair Cedar Mill, giving you a tangible connection to Port Moody’s industrial past. Many visitors find exploring the beehive burner fascinating—an iconic structure that was used to dispose of sawmill waste. What makes the park especially enjoyable is the combination of natural beauty and wildlife you encounter. During spring, the Great Blue Heron rookery is a must-see; witnessing these majestic birds nesting is a memorable experience for bird watchers and nature lovers alike. Along the upper paved trail, you can take in panoramic views of Burrard Inlet, Rocky Point, and Burnaby Mountain, which are breathtaking especially during golden hour at sunset. For those interested in a longer hike, the trail’s connections to Rocky Point Park and Old Orchard Park provide options to extend your exploration and enjoy more of the Tri-Cities’ scenic outdoor spaces. The tidal waters and mudflats offer a peaceful environment, but it’s important to follow safety tips like avoiding walking on mudflats to prevent getting stuck. My personal tip: bring waterproof shoes since the lower beach trail can get quite muddy, and check the local tide tables if you want to explore the tide pools at low tide—this is when the area’s marine life is most visible. Also, parking is free on Murray Street, making this an easily accessible yet tranquil spot for locals and visitors alike. Overall, Old Mill Site Park is a fantastic spot to combine history, wildlife viewing, and a refreshing coastal walk, all for free. It’s definitely a hidden gem that deserves more recognition among Metro Vancouver parks.
