About Green Timbers Urban Forest

Welcome to Green Timbers Urban Forest, one of Surrey's largest parks and home to over 10 kilometres of nature trails, a regularly stocked fishing lake, picnic areas, and the Surrey Nature Centre all nestled in a scenic second-growth forest.

While you explore this urban oasis, keep your eyes and ears open for the many animals who seek refuge here. Common sightings include bald eagles, ducks, salamanders, woodpeckers and native Douglas squirrels. If you're really lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a barred owl perched silently in a tree!

Green Timbers Lake

Enjoy year-round fishing from the shore.The lake is only for wildlife and fishing: no watercraft, wading, or swimming permitted. Keep dogs on leash and out of the water.

History

Green Timbers Urban Forest has transformed greatly since the early 1900s. Once a tourism hotspot for its towering trees, the land was completely logged by 1929. Thankfully, the trees were soon replanted and the site dubbed British Columbia’s “Birthplace of Reforestation". After a long run as a forestry school and nursery, the land officially became a park in 1974.

Much of the park’s success is thanks to the Green Timbers Heritage Society, a group of dedicated community members who have advocated for its protection and stewardship for many years. In 1988 and 1996, their efforts were especially rewarded when Surrey residents voted to designate part of the park as an Urban Forest: a protected natural legacy to be enjoyed by people and wildlife for generations to come.