Tucked along the shoreline of Burrard Inlet, Old Mill Site Park is one of those places in Port Moody that people stumble upon once… then keep coming back to. It’s quiet, scenic, and honestly feels a little different from some of the busier waterfront parks nearby. There’s no huge commercial strip or packed parking lots. Just ocean views, trails, driftwood beaches, and that unmistakable West Coast calm.
For people living in the Tri-Cities, especially those in Port Coquitlam neighbourhoods like Riverwood, Mary Hill, or Central PoCo, it’s an easy spot to escape for an afternoon walk or sunset by the water. And if you’re newer to the area? This is one of those hidden corners that makes living near Port Moody feel worth it.
Located beside the historic mill lands near Ioco Road, Old Mill Site Park blends natural beauty with a bit of local history. It’s peaceful without trying too hard to be. You’ll see dog walkers, paddleboarders, photographers, cyclists, and families tossing rocks into the inlet while trains roll quietly in the background.
Where Is Old Mill Site Park?
Old Mill Site Park sits along the eastern edge of Port Moody near the Ioco neighbourhood and Burrard Inlet shoreline. It’s just past Rocky Point Park and close to areas like Pleasantside and Belcarra.
You can learn more about Port Moody through the official city website here:
City of Port Moody
Google Maps location:
Old Mill Site Park on Google Maps
From Port Coquitlam, the drive is usually around 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. A lot of people from Lincoln Park, Citadel Heights, and Glenwood head this way for evening walks or weekend bike rides along the inlet.
What Makes Old Mill Site Park Different?
Port Moody has no shortage of parks. Rocky Point gets most of the attention, and fair enough, it’s great. But Old Mill Site Park has a completely different energy.
It’s quieter. More open. Less polished in a good way.
There’s still a natural ruggedness to the shoreline here. Driftwood lines parts of the beach, trees hang over the trail, and the mountain views across the inlet almost feel too cinematic sometimes, especially on cloudy mornings when the fog sits low over the water.
You’re not really coming here for restaurants or crowds. You come here to slow down for a bit.
Things To Do at Old Mill Site Park
Walk the Waterfront Trail
The shoreline pathway is probably the main reason people visit. It connects beautifully with the surrounding waterfront network and gives you uninterrupted inlet views for most of the walk.
It’s especially nice in the early evening. The light reflects off the water, the mountains start glowing a little, and the whole area quiets down.
Cyclists often ride through here as part of longer routes connecting Port Moody, Belcarra, and Coquitlam.
Relax Along the Beach
This isn’t a big sandy swimming beach, so if that’s what you’re expecting, you might be surprised. Still, the shoreline is one of the best parts of the park.
People bring folding chairs, coffee, books, or just sit on driftwood watching boats move across the inlet. It feels simple. Kind of refreshing actually.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
You’ll occasionally spot kayakers and paddleboarders launching nearby when conditions are calm. Burrard Inlet can be incredibly smooth in the mornings, especially during summer.
If you’re into outdoor recreation around the Tri-Cities, this entire stretch of coastline is underrated.
Photography and Sunsets
Honestly? Sunset might be the best time to visit.
Between the mountains, reflections on the water, and the industrial history mixed into the landscape, photographers love this area. Even casual phone photos tend to look pretty good here without much effort.
A Bit of History Behind the Name
The park’s name comes from Port Moody’s historic milling industry. This area was once connected to early lumber operations that helped shape the community along Burrard Inlet.
Port Moody itself has deep ties to railways, shipping, and forestry. You can explore more local history through the
Port Moody Station Museum.
That industrial history is still visible in parts of the shoreline and surrounding lands. It gives the park character. It doesn’t feel manufactured or over-designed.
Nearby Spots Worth Checking Out
One of the best things about visiting Old Mill Site Park is how close it is to other great local spots.
- Rocky Point Park for food trucks, breweries, and waterfront trails
- Tourism Coquitlam for local events and outdoor ideas around the Tri-Cities
- Belcarra Regional Park for hiking and ocean views
- Brewer’s Row in Port Moody if you want to grab a drink afterward
A lot of people make a full afternoon out of it. Walk the shoreline first, then head toward Rocky Point for dinner or ice cream.
Why People in Port Coquitlam Love Coming Here
There’s something about having easy access to places like this that really changes how a community feels. One minute you’re in Central Port Coquitlam running errands, the next you’re sitting beside the ocean watching the mountains disappear into fog.
That’s part of why the Tri-Cities area has become so appealing for buyers lately. You get urban convenience, but nature is always close. Really close.
Families from Citadel Heights appreciate the trails and outdoor space. Young professionals from Riverwood like the brewery scene nearby. Even retirees looking around Mary Hill or Glenwood often mention waterfront access and outdoor lifestyle as major reasons they stay in the area.
Best Time To Visit Old Mill Site Park
Every season feels a little different here.
- Spring: Fresh greenery, quieter trails, cool air
- Summer: Best sunsets, paddleboarding, evening walks
- Fall: Moody skies and incredible photography conditions
- Winter: Peaceful waterfront walks without crowds
Summer evenings are probably the sweet spot, though weekday mornings can feel surprisingly calm too.
Is Old Mill Site Park Worth Visiting?
Definitely. Especially if you enjoy quieter outdoor spaces that don’t feel overly commercialized.
It’s not trying to be a huge tourist attraction. That’s kind of the point. Old Mill Site Park feels local in the best way possible. Relaxed, scenic, and easy to enjoy without planning an entire day around it.
And honestly, places like this are a big reason people love living around Port Moody and Port Coquitlam in the first place.
Thinking of Buying or Selling in Port Moody?
At ABODE Real Estate Group, we help you make smart real estate decisions with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time buyer eyeing the condo market or an investor looking for a well-located unit in a high-demand area, we know Port Moody well and we’re here to help you figure out your next move.
About ABODE Real Estate Group
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