Tynehead Regional Park is one of the largest natural points of interest in Surrey’s Guildford neighbourhood. It spreads over 260 hectares just off north of 96 Avenue, featuring lush forests, meadows, and trails.
The name of the park, which means “’head of the Serpentine”, is quite apt, as its woodland expanse helps in the conservation of the watershed on the headwaters of the Serpentine River flowing through most areas of Surrey.
Hikers will enjoy visiting the park, with its two choices of nature trails. The park’s eastern side opens the challenge of the Tynehead Perimeter Trail featuring long uphill stretches from the intersection of 96 avenue and 168th Street. An out-and-back hike goes for five kilometres, with interpretive signage on the park’s ecosystems showing how humans impact upon the natural landscape. The west side of the trail is gravel and about a kilometre long.
Bikers are also allowed on the Tynehead Perimeter Trail, and they should give the right of way to hikers. Bike rides on the trail can proceed onward to bike paths outside the park.
The other hiking option, the Serpentine Loop Trail, is tamer, with easy, flat sections interspersed within its rolling terrain. Along the way, you will see massive, notched tree stumps, remnants of the turn-of-the-century logging activity in the area.
Park visitors are allowed to bring in pet dogs, which must be under their control at all times, whether in the on-leash or leash-optional areas of the park. The Serpentine River and its tributaries are off-limits to dogs, however, for the protection of the waters’ aquatic life.
A hatchery run by the nonprofit Serpentine Enhancement Society to raise Coho, chum and chinook salmons is located in the park, taking advantage of the fish returning to breed in the Serpentine River. Viewing areas on salmon spawning and rearing are available at the hatchery.
The park provides opportunities for camping at the Raven’s Nest Outdoor Group Campsite. It has a capacity for 40 campers and provides various amenities including tent pads, a picnic shelter, an outdoor fire ring, wheel chair access, and parking for up to eight vehicles. The campsite is ideal for retreats and activities for families, schools, scouts, and guides.
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Next in this series of points of interest in Surrey bc, you can learn about Guildford Recreation Centre.