Quick Facts:

• AllTrails link: Richmond South Dyke Trail
• Difficulty: easy, flat, stroller friendly
• Traffic: usually light
• Facilities: flush toilet, picnic tables
• View: industrial boat activities on Fraser River, small water dwelling community of Finn Slough was also very interesting
• Overall score: 7/10

The South Dyke Trail in Richmond spans from Steveston in the west to Finn Slough in the east, connecting to the West Dyke Trail at Garry Point Park. With North Dyke Trail, these dykes interconnect to form a mostly uninterrupted water front biking and walking trail along the 3 sides of Richmond.

The trail is surfaced with compact dirt and gravel. Like the rest of the dyke system, the South Dyke trail is also very exposed to sun and wind. But in the waning sunlight on an October afternoon, this was perfect.

We started our walk near Gilbert Road and headed east. Junior was eager to practice on his balance bike. The dykes in Richmond is great for practicing biking.

There were a few dykes to explore and add some interest.

There’s an off leash dog park just to the east of No. 3 Road pier.

There’s an industrial compound (a rail terminal) to go around which kills the vibe a bit.

Continuing east, soon we came upon the very interesting community of Finn Slough. Built by Finnish settlers in the 19th and 20th century, Wikipedia describes this community of 30 or so residents as “sleepy and decaying” which was a bit harsh but quite apt.

For a short and flat walking/biking path, the South Dyke provides quite a few more points of interest compared with the relatively monotonous West Dyke Trail, but having to go around the industrial compound does take a bit away from this walk.