White Ridge Park | BC Parks

Highlights in this park

White Ridge Park forms the backdrop for the quaint village of Gold River, on the west coast of northern Vancouver Island. The name of the park is derived from the white limestone and karst topography for which the area is internationally known.

The park has a distinctive karst topography. The landscape is shaped by water engaging with carbonate bedrock, limestone, dolomite and marble. White Ridge also features an extensive cave system and protects important deer and Roosevelt elk habitat. Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.

Know before you go

Advisories

Safety information

White-Nose Syndrome

White-Nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that has been linked to the mass die-off of hibernating bats in Eastern North America. It poses a significant threat to bats of the west and British Columbia. There is evidence that humans have accelerated the spread through entering caves with contaminated clothing, gear or equipment. To help prevent WNS from taking hold in B.C., the Province is making investments in bat conservation projects.

To ensure the protection of bats and their habitat in this park, BC Parks strongly advises that personal caving gear that has been used anywhere east of the Rockies not be used in B.C. Also, before entering caves in B.C, cavers and visitors should consult the provincial WNS website, which includes a link to a Decontamination Protocol for Mines and Caves.

Learn more about white-nose syndrome

Special notes

Please use caution in this sensitive area as it is easily damaged. Do not damage or remove any rock formations or features from the caves.

Review the detailed guides under visit responsibly for more information on staying safe and preserving our natural spaces.

Visit responsibly

Follow these guides to ensure your activities are safe, respectful, and ecologically friendly:

Maps and location

Getting there

White Ridge Park extends from the boundary of Strathcona Park northwest to the Gold River Highway corridor. The park is located 4 km west of Gold River and is accessed off Gold River Highway 28 via Ucona Rd.

Camping

Wilderness camping

There are no designated campsites at this park, however random wilderness camping is allowed. No facilities are provided. Please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics.

When visiting the backcountry, always follow Leave No Trace outdoor ethics. To learn more about staying safe in the backcountry, read our backcountry guide.

Winter camping

White Ridge Park is open year-round, however access roads may become snowbound in the winter.

Things to do

Hiking

There are no developed trails at this park. User-created routes do exist into and through the park. They are often unmarked and steep, exposed and very rough. Use caution when hiking on these routes.

Wildlife viewing

The cave system, significant surface karst features and old-growth forest provide ample opportunities for interesting viewing at this park.

Pets on leash

Pets and domestic animals must be under control all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Dogs are not permitted in caves. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.

Caving

White Ridge Park is known for its extensive cave system. Most caves are suitable for experienced cavers only. Although there may be potential for caving opportunities in the future, this area is sensitive and use is not recommended until a management plan is complete.

White-Nose Syndrome

White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) is a fungal disease linked to the mass die-off of hibernating bats in Eastern North America. Humans have accelerated spread by bringing contaminated clothing, gear, and equipment into caves. To learn more about White-Nose Syndrome, read the White-Nose Syndrome fact sheet [PDF], or visit the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative website.

Before you enter a cave, use the gear decontamination instructions.

Help protect bats and their habitats from the spread of White-Nose Syndrome. Clothing and gear that has been used in caves east of the Rocky Mountains should not be used in B.C.

Hunting

Portions of this park are open to hunting for specific species. Hunters must have valid licences and tags. Please refer to the current Hunting and Trapping Regulations and Synopsis publication for closures and regulations.

Anyone hunting in British Columbia must comply with BC hunting regulations. To learn more, see the fishing and hunting guide.

Facilities

Campfires

While fires are allowed, we encourage visitors to conserve the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using stoves instead. If you must use a campfire, please practice “Leave No Trace” camping ethics.

Campfire bans may be in place. Before lighting a fire, check for bans or restrictions on BC Wildfire Service and on local or Indigenous government websites.

About this park

Conservation

White Ridge Park includes a prominent mid-elevation forested ridge which forms the eastern viewscape of the community of Gold River. The park also protects important deer and elk habitat and a system of caves. The name of the park is derived from the white limestone and karst topography, for which the area is internationally known.

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.

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