Mile Zero Monument (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Mile Zero Monument?
What makes it 72% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can explore the free starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway, enjoy coastal walks and history plaques, but the site is small and lacks on-site exhibits, so time on location is short.
Positives:
- Central location: Located steps from downtown Victoria and Dallas Road oceanfront.
- Wildlife sightings: Spot seals, sea birds and park peacocks without leaving the monument area.
Challenges:
- No onsite shelter: The monument has no roof or seating—carry an umbrella or portable stool.
- Limited facilities: No food stalls or restrooms at the marker itself; use park restrooms a short walk away.
What is Mile Zero Monument?
- A concrete-and-metal marker that denotes the western terminus of the Trans-Canada Highway in Victoria, British Columbia
- A monument comprising a cylindrical post and bronze plaque set on a simple concrete base
- A historical landmark erected in 1961 near Beacon Hill Park to mark mile zero of Canada’s primary cross-country highway
What is so special about Mile Zero Monument for solo trip?
- Start your solo Trans-Canada journey at the official Mile Zero marker
- Follow a free maritime history trail along Dallas Road
- Sketch or photograph passing ships, seals and birds
- Meet park wildlife at the free petting zoo
- Join a small-group nature tour for deeper local insights
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to tour the monument, follow a self-guided walk and pause for photos without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Mile Zero Monument
Self-guided maritime history tour:
Follow the free PDF route along Dallas Road from the monument to learn about shipwrecks and lighthouses.
Tip: Download the PDF beforehand and start at the Mile Zero marker for clear directions.
Photo journal at Mile Zero:
Sit by the marker to sketch, write notes and capture ships, seals and birds passing on the water.
Tip: Bring a small notebook and a portable chair cushion for comfort on the grass.
Explore Beacon Hill Park and petting zoo:
Wander nearby gardens, meet goats and peacocks at the free children’s farm.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to see wildlife at its most active and avoid crowds.
Guided nature walk:
Join Island Trails Ecotours for a 1.5-hour tour of totem poles, moss statues and native plants.
Tip: Book in advance online; tours depart near the monument at set morning times.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mile Zero Monument
- Early arrival: Visit at opening to enjoy quieter paths and soft morning light for photos.
- Download guides ahead: Save self-guided tour maps and route directions on your phone before you go.
- Combine routes: Link the maritime walk with a loop through the park for a varied 2-hour circuit.
Reviews of Mile Zero Monument
Michael Fleenor
Situated in a beautiful park in Victoria BC, is the Mile Zero marker of the western terminus of the Trans-Canada Highway. We spent almost two weeks traveling to here from our home in East Tennessee. Our goal is a similar marker we hope to find at the highway's eastern terminus, in St. John's, Newfoundland. We're grateful for the privilege of traveling through Canada on the upper half of North A...
Randi Biederman
It’s a sign near the corner of Douglas and Dallas, marking the beginning of the Trans-Canada Highway. The location is within the beautiful Beacon Hill Park so well worth a visit.
Mohamed Elraggal
It is in the wonderful trail, amazing coast view, and interesting journey on Dallas RD at Victoria BC
Florian M.
This rather mundane monument marks the beginning of the Trans-Canada Highway, which is one of the longest highways in the world at over 7,800 kilometers long and which crosses all ten Canadian provinces. The highway officially opened in 1962, with the completion of the Rogers Pass section of highway between Golden and Revelstoke. If you are visiting Victoria and the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail, y...
Graham Tranter
Mile Zero represents one end of the Trans Canada Highway stretching over 4725 miles (over 7600km) to St Johns Newfoundland. There is a monument in the park where the road ends, but I prefer a short stairway to the beach where the highway actually 'stops' at the ocean.
When is the best time to visit Mile Zero Monument (Victoria, Canada)?
Spring brings bright blooms and bird activity. Summer days are long—carry water. Fall has fewer visitors. Bring rain gear for winter showers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided maritime tour | CAD 0 |
| Guided nature walk | CAD 40 |
| Notebook and coffee | CAD 8 |
| Optional bike rental | CAD 27 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 75 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Mile Zero Monument
Address: 18 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8V 2N6, Canada
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About Mile Zero Monument
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+1 250-953-203310 BEST nearby Activities
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