Shady Island — Attraction in Richmond

I want to preface this review by saying please be aware of any restrictions/dangers when crossing water, and the ramifications of getting stranded. This link shows an amazing history with great pictures of the development of Steveston/Shady island-https://richmondarchives.ca/2017/03/30/shady-island/

I have visited this island via the rock dam and by just walking across the sand from the beach along Dyke Rd across from London Heritage Farm. Both times I watched the water rise and made it back before both routes became impassable. If you go, you need to be able to see the water level or have someone stay by Dyke Rd and watch it for you, or you have to be confident about tide levels. I am guessing that if you do get stranded the coast guard may be alerted and get you.

Going across the rocks is easy as they are large but it does take time. Walking across the sand is easier but you will have to walk through a channel of water. Best to check depth with a stick as even at low tide it could come up to your waist.

This island is too cool. There are the remnants of wooden piles at the east and south ends. The foliage grows unencumbered and there are some berries. The main beach area is on the south side, with views of Kirkland Island and the Alaksen National Wildlife Area. Someone built a platform a bit off the sand, and behind the platform is a clearing with a bench. I have walked as far west as the second group of wooden piles. There is a tree fort in that area. Boaters will often come to the main beach, so do expect to meet people.The North side of the island is not walkable from the rock dam but it might be accessible to a certain point if you come around from the west end. The north side also has a small dock in line with bottom of Number 1 Rd. There are sometimes rowboats there.

Enjoy with...

I don't know what Shady Island is like now, but I used to go there as a kid to explore and have adventures off by myself. It was a magical...

You can walk out to shady island at low tide, don’t go to far as you may not be able to get back. Also, it’s not a park so there are...