Notch Hill Park is one of those places that feels like a bit of a secret—tucked away but absolutely worth the effort to visit. The short, steep hike to the top rewards you with incredible panoramic views of the ocean, nearby mountains, and rolling countryside. But what makes this spot special is the mix of Garry oaks and arbutus trees, which add so much character to the landscape.

Some of the best trees are near the start of the main trail, including some gnarly old arbutus that are real standouts. In the fall, the arbutus trees are covered in bright red berries, adding colour to the stunning scenery. If you're into forest photography, isolating the trees from the busy backgrounds can be challenging. Still, when the fog rolls in, everything transforms—the mist softens the scene, making for some truly magical shots.

Notch Hill is also a great place to be when it snows. Its extra elevation means it often holds more snow than lower-lying areas, turning the landscape into a quiet, frosty wonderland. It may not be a huge park, but it's worth exploring if you love photography, hiking, or finding peaceful spots with great views.