Mile Zero, Dallas Road, and Beacon Hill Park – Monument, Coastal Views, and Park Serenity

Imagine standing right at the spot where one of the longest roads in the world begins – the Mile Zero Monument marks the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway. This highway stretches an incredible 4,860 miles from here in Victoria all the way to the east coast of Canada, ending in St. John's, Newfoundland. Have you ever thought about how many landscapes, cities, and adventures you could experience along that journey?

The Trans-Canada Highway was built between 1950 and 1971 and was the longest continuous highway in the world at the time. That makes this spot a true symbol of connection and vastness – a launching point for countless travels across Canada.

Right next to the Mile Zero Monument, you'll find a statue of Terry Fox, a Canadian hero who attempted to run this exact route in his "Marathon of Hope" – from Newfoundland all the way to Victoria. He aimed to raise money for cancer research through his run. Ever wonder how much courage and determination it takes to take on such a challenge?

Terry Fox lost his leg to cancer at 18 but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his mission. Although he couldn’t complete his journey, his effort inspired millions of people and raised huge sums for cancer research. The statue here honors his relentless spirit and hope.

The monument and the statue sit in a large grassy field right beside Beacon Hill Park, one of Victoria's largest city parks. The park itself is a great place to relax, take a walk, or simply enjoy the view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Did you know it’s also home to the tallest free-standing totem pole in the world?

Take a look around now and you can feel the special atmosphere of this place – a meeting point of history, nature, and inspiration. The Mile Zero Monument is not just a starting point for a road, but a symbol of dreams, challenges, and the bond between people and landscapes. A perfect spot to pause for a moment before moving on.

Imagine standing in a park that's not just green and spacious but also tells a story dating back to 1882. Right here, in Beacon Hill Park in Victoria, you'll find about 185 acres of nature that's been bringing people together for over a century – for relaxing, exploring, and just enjoying the great outdoors.

Ever wondered why it's called Beacon Hill? The name comes from a hill that once served as a lighthouse—a genuine guidepost for ships navigating the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Even today, from up there, you get stunning views of the water and the distant Olympic Mountains in Washington State. It's a perfect spot for snapping photos or simply taking a deep breath.

But the park is more than just scenery. It also carries the traditional name "MÍȾqən," which means "warm land" in the language of the Lekwungen people, the Indigenous inhabitants of the area. This highlights the deep roots this place has in the history and culture of the First Nations.

Look around—do you see the tall totem pole? Standing 128 feet tall, it was carved in 1956 by Chief Mungo Martin and his team. A true work of art that tells stories and keeps alive the connection to Indigenous culture.

The park offers plenty of ways to stay active: whether you're hiking or biking along the trails, playing on the sports fields, or cooling off in the water park—there's something here for everyone. And if you brought your dog, there's even a designated off-leash area where your furry friend can run free.

Did you know there's also a small farm here? The Beacon Hill Children's Farm is a popular place where kids can get up close and personal with various farm animals. Even if you're not a kid anymore, it's worth a visit—the atmosphere is truly special.

Between the well-maintained flower beds, the rose garden, and the alpine garden, you can unwind or let nature spark your creativity. And if you're lucky, there might be an event happening at the Cameron Bandshell, the park's outdoor stage—summer often brings concerts and other gatherings.

Here's a little challenge to end on: how many different bird species can you spot today? The park's ponds are home to ducks, herons, and many other feathered residents. So keep your eyes peeled and ears open—you might just discover your new favorite bird.

Beacon Hill Park isn't just a place to pass through; it's a spot to experience, marvel at, and enjoy. So take your time and see what this special park has in store for you today.