Forest Retreat Guidebook
Sightseeing
A lovely place for a walk and picnic and especially fun to watch the Salmon spawning
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Provincijski park Goldstream
A lovely place for a walk and picnic and especially fun to watch the Salmon spawning
A beautiful white sand beach with gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains.
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Weir Beach
William Head RdA beautiful white sand beach with gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains.
A quieter option to Witty's lagoon. Great beach for a stroll or picnic though no public washroom here.
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Albert Head Lagoon Regional Park
Delgada RoadA quieter option to Witty's lagoon. Great beach for a stroll or picnic though no public washroom here.
Great sandy beach and pristine water for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. The lake is stocked with trout and bass every spring. Scenic lakeside trails great for a rugged walk, run, or mountain bike ride
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Thetis Lake Regional Park
Great sandy beach and pristine water for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. The lake is stocked with trout and bass every spring. Scenic lakeside trails great for a rugged walk, run, or mountain bike ride
Lovely beach for a walk or picnic. Bathroom facilities available.
The lagoon is also an important stopover for migratory birds, so keep an eye out for Blue Herons, soaring eagles and all sorts of aerial artists.
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Esquimalt Lagoon
Lovely beach for a walk or picnic. Bathroom facilities available.
The lagoon is also an important stopover for migratory birds, so keep an eye out for Blue Herons, soaring eagles and all sorts of aerial artists.
Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is a popular destination along the Sooke River with a unique rock formation that was formed from the last ice-age millions of years ago. The park area has several trails along the river, close to the shoreline and others that are high above the rock pools.
There isn't a single route to take like other hiking trails but there are several short trails that lead to viewpoints and to the river areas. Parking in either lot #1 or #2 are both equally good as you will need to walk between both lots and there will be some uphill and downhill sections but you will also need to return to your vehicle up the same route you walked down, for example. Some of the trails can be steep, including some rock stairs down to a viewpoint that are very steep. Also, caution should be used when walking out onto any rocks near the river as the rocks are often slippery from being a wet and the risk of falling and injury yourself is always possible.
For this description, we start from parking lot #2, the higher of the two parking lots. Walk to the area of the parking lot where you drove in and follow the gravel path next to the road as it heads downhill. Keep following the path until it meets a junction and go right down the steep hill. Near the bottom, the trail turns into rock stairs that are very steep as you make your way to the bottom to see he view of the water cascading into the canyon below.
After seeing the view, walk back up the stairs and the steep trail to the junction and this time go right, following the trail to a clearing by a Visitor Centre where there are additional views into the canyon.
From this point, you can decide whether to walk down towards parking lot #1, where some trails access the river area, or return to parking lot #2. If you decide to walk down to parking lot #1, there are only partial trails to get there and you will have to walk on the side of a section of road. To do so, follow the trail on the far end of the visitor centre as it heads downhill but ends at the road. Walk down the side road, being careful to stay close to the side and avoid the vehicles driving through. Watch for a trail to the right and walk down the rock steps, continuing as it heads down into the forest.
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Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
Sooke River RoadSooke Potholes Provincial Park is a popular destination along the Sooke River with a unique rock formation that was formed from the last ice-age millions of years ago. The park area has several trails along the river, close to the shoreline and others that are high above the rock pools.
There isn't a single route to take like other hiking trails but there are several short trails that lead to viewpoints and to the river areas. Parking in either lot #1 or #2 are both equally good as you will need to walk between both lots and there will be some uphill and downhill sections but you will also need to return to your vehicle up the same route you walked down, for example. Some of the trails can be steep, including some rock stairs down to a viewpoint that are very steep. Also, caution should be used when walking out onto any rocks near the river as the rocks are often slippery from being a wet and the risk of falling and injury yourself is always possible.
For this description, we start from parking lot #2, the higher of the two parking lots. Walk to the area of the parking lot where you drove in and follow the gravel path next to the road as it heads downhill. Keep following the path until it meets a junction and go right down the steep hill. Near the bottom, the trail turns into rock stairs that are very steep as you make your way to the bottom to see he view of the water cascading into the canyon below.
After seeing the view, walk back up the stairs and the steep trail to the junction and this time go right, following the trail to a clearing by a Visitor Centre where there are additional views into the canyon.
From this point, you can decide whether to walk down towards parking lot #1, where some trails access the river area, or return to parking lot #2. If you decide to walk down to parking lot #1, there are only partial trails to get there and you will have to walk on the side of a section of road. To do so, follow the trail on the far end of the visitor centre as it heads downhill but ends at the road. Walk down the side road, being careful to stay close to the side and avoid the vehicles driving through. Watch for a trail to the right and walk down the rock steps, continuing as it heads down into the forest.
A beautiful spot about 25 minutes away. Lovely for hiking around and swimming. There is a nice sandy beach with facilities as well as some private little swim launch spots around the lake.
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Matheson Lake Regional Park
Matheson Lake Park RoadA beautiful spot about 25 minutes away. Lovely for hiking around and swimming. There is a nice sandy beach with facilities as well as some private little swim launch spots around the lake.
A former west coast artillery fortress that was on active duty from 1895 to 1956, Fort Rodd Hill still houses many original early 19th century buildings. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the history of the site and pay a visit to Fisgard Lighthouse - the oldest lighthouse on Western Canada's coastline.
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Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS
603 Fort Rodd Hill RdA former west coast artillery fortress that was on active duty from 1895 to 1956, Fort Rodd Hill still houses many original early 19th century buildings. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the history of the site and pay a visit to Fisgard Lighthouse - the oldest lighthouse on Western Canada's coastline.
Possibly one of the most scenic attractions in all of Victoria is Hatley Park National Historic Site, located at Royal Roads University. It's one of the few Edwardian estates in Canada that still has its key structural elements intact. Here, you'll explore the beautiful Hatley Castle and surrounding gardens.
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Hatley Park National Historic Site
2005 Sooke RdPossibly one of the most scenic attractions in all of Victoria is Hatley Park National Historic Site, located at Royal Roads University. It's one of the few Edwardian estates in Canada that still has its key structural elements intact. Here, you'll explore the beautiful Hatley Castle and surrounding gardens.
Beacon Hill Park is a 75 ha park located along the shore of Juan de Fuca Strait in Victoria, British Columbia. The park is popular both with tourists and locals, and contains a number of amenities including woodland and shoreline trails, two playgrounds, a waterpark, playing fields, a petting zoo, tennis courts, many ponds, and landscaped gardens. t provides scenic vistas of the Strait and the Olympic Mountains of Washington. Although much of the park has been landscaped into gardens and playing fields, and populated with various structures, a great deal of the native flora has been preserved.
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Beacon Hill Park
100 Cook StBeacon Hill Park is a 75 ha park located along the shore of Juan de Fuca Strait in Victoria, British Columbia. The park is popular both with tourists and locals, and contains a number of amenities including woodland and shoreline trails, two playgrounds, a waterpark, playing fields, a petting zoo, tennis courts, many ponds, and landscaped gardens. t provides scenic vistas of the Strait and the Olympic Mountains of Washington. Although much of the park has been landscaped into gardens and playing fields, and populated with various structures, a great deal of the native flora has been preserved.
Just around the corner from Victoria's Inner Harbour, Fisherman's Wharf is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This unique marine destination offers food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Wander down the docks with your lunch, buy seafood fresh off the boat, see moored pleasure vessels and float homes, and watch as fishing vessels unload their ware
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Fisherman's Wharf Park
12 Erie StJust around the corner from Victoria's Inner Harbour, Fisherman's Wharf is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. This unique marine destination offers food kiosks, unique shops and eco-tour adventures in the heart of the working harbour. Wander down the docks with your lunch, buy seafood fresh off the boat, see moored pleasure vessels and float homes, and watch as fishing vessels unload their ware
Take a nice walk, or go for a jog on this iconic pier, watch the cruise ships from the pier, on saturdays during the summer time, vintage cars drive in to meet and exchange stories, you can enjoy this all for free,..beautiful sunsets to boot! a great place all year round!
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Ogden Point Sunčani sat
211 Dallas RdTake a nice walk, or go for a jog on this iconic pier, watch the cruise ships from the pier, on saturdays during the summer time, vintage cars drive in to meet and exchange stories, you can enjoy this all for free,..beautiful sunsets to boot! a great place all year round!
Home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, the Parliament Buildings are open to the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm Mondays to Fridays year-round. They are open to the public on weekends from the 3rd weekend in May to the first weekend in September. We offer scheduled guided tours and self-guided tour booklets.
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Zakonodavna skupština Britanske Kolumbije
501 Belleville StHome to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, the Parliament Buildings are open to the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm Mondays to Fridays year-round. They are open to the public on weekends from the 3rd weekend in May to the first weekend in September. We offer scheduled guided tours and self-guided tour booklets.
This scenic patch of waterfront is the location of Victoria's many tourist attractions, recreational activities, restaurants and shopping. For a special treat, have afternoon tea at the grand Empress Hotel or board a ferry for a harbor tour.
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Inner Harbour Centre
950 Wharf StThis scenic patch of waterfront is the location of Victoria's many tourist attractions, recreational activities, restaurants and shopping. For a special treat, have afternoon tea at the grand Empress Hotel or board a ferry for a harbor tour.
Completed in 1890, Craigdarroch is a stately home built by the pioneering couple Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, who at the time of its construction were the wealthiest people in British Columbia. Called a 'castle' due to its imposing exterior, the luxurious interior has been restored to look as though the visitor is a guest of Mrs. Dunsmuir during the 1890s. It features beautiful woodwork, unique Victorian artifacts, and an impressive collection of original stained glass, all within a pleasant walk from downtown Victoria.
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Craigdarroch dvorac
1050 Joan CrescentCompleted in 1890, Craigdarroch is a stately home built by the pioneering couple Robert and Joan Dunsmuir, who at the time of its construction were the wealthiest people in British Columbia. Called a 'castle' due to its imposing exterior, the luxurious interior has been restored to look as though the visitor is a guest of Mrs. Dunsmuir during the 1890s. It features beautiful woodwork, unique Victorian artifacts, and an impressive collection of original stained glass, all within a pleasant walk from downtown Victoria.
Chinatown Walks run year-round and are an ideal way to explore Canada’s oldest Chinatown. During our 90 minutes together we will discuss history, culture, food and so much more. Chinatown is one of Victoria’s must-see attractions.
Be sure not to miss Fan Tan and Dragon Alley's!
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Kineska četvrt u Victoriji
500 Fisgard StChinatown Walks run year-round and are an ideal way to explore Canada’s oldest Chinatown. During our 90 minutes together we will discuss history, culture, food and so much more. Chinatown is one of Victoria’s must-see attractions.
Be sure not to miss Fan Tan and Dragon Alley's!
Malahat SkyWalk
901 Trans-Canada HwyBest visited at low tide where the abundance of tide pools and beautiful marine life can be enjoyed.
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Botanical Beach
Best visited at low tide where the abundance of tide pools and beautiful marine life can be enjoyed.
The is a lovely place to stroll or jog depending on what you need. For an out and back to the end from Johnson St. Bridge is about an hour. Nature abounds and the views are unsurpassed. Stop at Spinnakers Brewpub for a meal with a view and microcraft brew.
Westsong Way
The is a lovely place to stroll or jog depending on what you need. For an out and back to the end from Johnson St. Bridge is about an hour. Nature abounds and the views are unsurpassed. Stop at Spinnakers Brewpub for a meal with a view and microcraft brew.
Activities
With a combination of adrenaline-inducing ziplines and climbing elements that weave through the trees, WildPlay Element Parks offer thrilling fun in a safe environment. Take your family on a progressively challenging adventure (there are several ‘outs' along the way if you ever feel like you've had enough) as you climb through the treetops on a series of rope courses. Don't worry - you'll be securely harnessed in!
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WildPlay Element Parks Victoria
1767 Island HwyWith a combination of adrenaline-inducing ziplines and climbing elements that weave through the trees, WildPlay Element Parks offer thrilling fun in a safe environment. Take your family on a progressively challenging adventure (there are several ‘outs' along the way if you ever feel like you've had enough) as you climb through the treetops on a series of rope courses. Don't worry - you'll be securely harnessed in!
New facility with a great pool and wave pool and fitness center
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YMCA-YWCA Westhills
1319 Westhills DrNew facility with a great pool and wave pool and fitness center
Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre
1767 Island HwySwimming, ice skating, playgrounds, library
World class golfing, a wonderful spa, mountain bike rentals, a fitness center with a lovely outdoor pool and poolside food and beverage service, and restaurants
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The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, Victoria
1999 Country Club WayWorld class golfing, a wonderful spa, mountain bike rentals, a fitness center with a lovely outdoor pool and poolside food and beverage service, and restaurants
Highland Pacific Golf
450 Creed RdLocal smaller golf course
Royal Colwood Golf Club
629 Goldstream AveMillstream Disc Golf Course
1858-1922 Millstream RdOlympic View Golf Club
643 Latoria RdCatch a rugby game at Rugby Canada's home stadium, a junior football game at the Westhills Stadium or a hockey game at the indoor arena. Fun for the whole family including mini golf, floor hockey, bowling, ice arena, playzone and waterpark for toddlers and a sports grill
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City Centre Park
1089 Langford PkwyCatch a rugby game at Rugby Canada's home stadium, a junior football game at the Westhills Stadium or a hockey game at the indoor arena. Fun for the whole family including mini golf, floor hockey, bowling, ice arena, playzone and waterpark for toddlers and a sports grill
Stop by the West Shore's public gallery: the Coast Collective Arts Centre, where you'll find handmade works that celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship of southern Vancouver Island. The gallery promotes arts and culture and showcases the work of both emerging and established Canadian artists and artisans. Tip: all of the artwork on display is for sale!
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Coast Collective
132-328 Heatherbell RdStop by the West Shore's public gallery: the Coast Collective Arts Centre, where you'll find handmade works that celebrate the artistry and craftsmanship of southern Vancouver Island. The gallery promotes arts and culture and showcases the work of both emerging and established Canadian artists and artisans. Tip: all of the artwork on display is for sale!
he Galloping Goose Regional Trail is a 55-kilometre (34 mi) rail trail between Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and the ghost town of Leechtown, north of Sooke, where it meets the old Sooke Flowline. The trail forms part of the Trans-Canada Trail, and intersects the Lochside Regional Trail. It is maintained by the Capital Regional District (CRD).
The trail is a popular route both for commuting and recreation, including within urban areas of Victoria (Vic West and Burnside-Gorge). It is frequented by people walking, running, cycling, skateboarding and (in places) riding horses. It connects up with many other trails and parks in the area.
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Galloping Goose Trail
Galloping Goose Trailhe Galloping Goose Regional Trail is a 55-kilometre (34 mi) rail trail between Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and the ghost town of Leechtown, north of Sooke, where it meets the old Sooke Flowline. The trail forms part of the Trans-Canada Trail, and intersects the Lochside Regional Trail. It is maintained by the Capital Regional District (CRD).
The trail is a popular route both for commuting and recreation, including within urban areas of Victoria (Vic West and Burnside-Gorge). It is frequented by people walking, running, cycling, skateboarding and (in places) riding horses. It connects up with many other trails and parks in the area.
The Butchart Gardens is a group of floral display gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada, located near Victoria on Vancouver Island. The gardens receive over a million visitors each year. The gardens have been designated a National Historic Site of Canada.
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Vrtovi Butchart
800 Benvenuto AveThe Butchart Gardens is a group of floral display gardens in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, Canada, located near Victoria on Vancouver Island. The gardens receive over a million visitors each year. The gardens have been designated a National Historic Site of Canada.
Originally established here on Vancouver Island in 2004, Church & State Wines has expanded to include 80+ acres of property in the Oliver-Osoyoos corridor in the Okanagan Valley. The latest addition to our property was the Coyote Bowl Vineyard in 2011.
Church & State produces 100% BC VQA wines. Every wine we produce has been grown in our own estate vineyards and nurtured under the strict eyes of our Vineyard staff and Winemaker, Arnaud Thierry.
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Church & State Wines - Victoria
1445 Benvenuto AveOriginally established here on Vancouver Island in 2004, Church & State Wines has expanded to include 80+ acres of property in the Oliver-Osoyoos corridor in the Okanagan Valley. The latest addition to our property was the Coyote Bowl Vineyard in 2011.
Church & State produces 100% BC VQA wines. Every wine we produce has been grown in our own estate vineyards and nurtured under the strict eyes of our Vineyard staff and Winemaker, Arnaud Thierry.
Sea Cider is a farm-based cidery located on the Saanich Peninsula just minutes from Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Our ten-acre farm is home to over 1,300 apple trees, made up of over 50 varieties of heritage apples.
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Sea Cider
2487 Mt St Michael RdSea Cider is a farm-based cidery located on the Saanich Peninsula just minutes from Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Our ten-acre farm is home to over 1,300 apple trees, made up of over 50 varieties of heritage apples.
Just a 5 minute drive from us, this is about a one hour course depending on waits and skill level. It is unmarked on Millstream road but it's the only place along the road where you will see several cars parked side by side.
Millstream Disc Golf Course
1858-1922 Millstream RdJust a 5 minute drive from us, this is about a one hour course depending on waits and skill level. It is unmarked on Millstream road but it's the only place along the road where you will see several cars parked side by side.
Scenic Disc golf course. Visit FB page for available tee times.
Mary's Farm and Sanctuary, Home of Blossoming at the Farm and Mary's Farm Disc
1128 Finlayson Arm RoadScenic Disc golf course. Visit FB page for available tee times.
Food scene
Our favourite local pizza place, they deliver for $5
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900 Degrees Wood-Fired Pizzeria
Our favourite local pizza place, they deliver for $5
Great food and cocktails. Awesome patio with a view in the summer and live music on weekends.
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Masters Lounge
1999 Country Club WayGreat food and cocktails. Awesome patio with a view in the summer and live music on weekends.
Nice sports pub with a patio. Make a reservation on the weekend and high season
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Jack's Place
2020 Country Club WayNice sports pub with a patio. Make a reservation on the weekend and high season
Good pub fare, live music on weekends and nice patio in the summer. They have limited hours for minors and don't allow minors on their patio sadly. Not the most family friendly place but within walking distance of our place so we like it.
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The Loghouse Pub
2323 Millstream RdGood pub fare, live music on weekends and nice patio in the summer. They have limited hours for minors and don't allow minors on their patio sadly. Not the most family friendly place but within walking distance of our place so we like it.
Island Poké
829 Goldstream AveMy favourite place for a casual, healthy, quick lunch
Delicious fresh locally owned Mexican fare. Casual, bistro style and licensed.
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La Taquisa Langford
768 Goldstream AveDelicious fresh locally owned Mexican fare. Casual, bistro style and licensed.
A cozy local restaurant in a rural setting. Petting zoo with goats to boot and great pizza to-go
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My-Chosen Pizza
4492 Happy Valley RdA cozy local restaurant in a rural setting. Petting zoo with goats to boot and great pizza to-go
A 30 minute drive away awaits the charming community of Brentwood bay. The Blue's Bayou is one of our favourite spots to eat out there. Jambalaya, gumbo & Cajun-Creole fare served in a New Orleans-themed room or on the waterfront patio.
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Blue's Bayou Cafe
899 Marchant RdA 30 minute drive away awaits the charming community of Brentwood bay. The Blue's Bayou is one of our favourite spots to eat out there. Jambalaya, gumbo & Cajun-Creole fare served in a New Orleans-themed room or on the waterfront patio.
This upscale waterfront hotel is 3 km from The Butchart Gardens and 14 km from the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea.
We love the dining options here including an upscale restaurant and our favourite spot is the casual pub with a waterfront patio.
They also have a spa featuring an outdoor pool and hot tub, and fitness center.
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Brentwood Bay Resort
849 Verdier AveThis upscale waterfront hotel is 3 km from The Butchart Gardens and 14 km from the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea.
We love the dining options here including an upscale restaurant and our favourite spot is the casual pub with a waterfront patio.
They also have a spa featuring an outdoor pool and hot tub, and fitness center.
II Terrazzo
555 Johnson StOne of our go-to special occasion restaurants.
Fresh Seafood to go, one of Victoria's best. Be prepared to wait in a long line in the sunshine on a sunny summer day. Will be worth the wait.
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Red Fish Blue Fish
1006 Wharf StFresh Seafood to go, one of Victoria's best. Be prepared to wait in a long line in the sunshine on a sunny summer day. Will be worth the wait.
A locally owned neighbourhood restaurant with a small patio.
Cheap cocktails and delicious perogies & chorizo
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The Rack Bistro
2345 Millstream RoadA locally owned neighbourhood restaurant with a small patio.
Cheap cocktails and delicious perogies & chorizo
Our favourite option when we really hungry and are in the mood for a burger
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Bin 4 Burger Lounge
Our favourite option when we really hungry and are in the mood for a burger
Akemi Sushi
737 Goldstream AveBest Japanese in Langford
Seoul Chicken in Langford
Our go-to for Korean Fried Chicken. Love the popcorn chicken!
Casual venue with a streamlined vibe offering brunch, dinner & set menus, plus a happy hour. Amazing food!
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House Of Boateng Restaurant
2854 Peatt RdCasual venue with a streamlined vibe offering brunch, dinner & set menus, plus a happy hour. Amazing food!
Awesome Patio on the harbour downtown, great for happy hour, live music and a fun vibe. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
CRAFT Beer Market Victoria Harbour
Awesome Patio on the harbour downtown, great for happy hour, live music and a fun vibe. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Perfect place for lunch if you are visiting the Westcoast and French Beach area. Amazing food, amazing view. They will give you an access code so you can explore the beach trails after. Be sure to visit their website for info on hours. Reservations a must.
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Point No Point Resort
10829 W Coast RdPerfect place for lunch if you are visiting the Westcoast and French Beach area. Amazing food, amazing view. They will give you an access code so you can explore the beach trails after. Be sure to visit their website for info on hours. Reservations a must.
Our all time favourite brewpub in Victoria. Patios up and down with views of the inner harbour.
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Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & GuestHouses
308 Catherine StOur all time favourite brewpub in Victoria. Patios up and down with views of the inner harbour.
Great Hikes in the Westshore
Located in Goldstream Provincial Park, the hike to Mount Finlayson is one of the steepest hikes as it climbs up and offers scenic views looking south towards the Langford area. The route is a popular exercise trail and can be busy on weekends, however the views from the top on a clear day are spectacular and worth the hard work of getting there.
The trailhead begins along the paved road across the bridge from where you drove into the day-use area, Walk over the bridge and about 200-meters along the road and on your right, watch for a trail with a large wooden map board of the area. Follow this trail past the large map and, just before the stairs, go left.The trail climbs immediately but follows a smooth, dirt path as you pass through the beautiful forest.
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Mount Finlayson Trailhead
Located in Goldstream Provincial Park, the hike to Mount Finlayson is one of the steepest hikes as it climbs up and offers scenic views looking south towards the Langford area. The route is a popular exercise trail and can be busy on weekends, however the views from the top on a clear day are spectacular and worth the hard work of getting there.
The trailhead begins along the paved road across the bridge from where you drove into the day-use area, Walk over the bridge and about 200-meters along the road and on your right, watch for a trail with a large wooden map board of the area. Follow this trail past the large map and, just before the stairs, go left.The trail climbs immediately but follows a smooth, dirt path as you pass through the beautiful forest.
My favourite trail in the GVA! Well-maintained, easy to navigate, and equipped with enough hardware to get you through trickier areas safely. The climb is enough to get the heart rate up, but is still gentle enough to have a relaxing time. Some of the best views I've seen, overlooking Highlands, Sooke, Langford, Victoria, as well as the the ocean / Olympic mountains on a clear day. It can be done in a short amount of time, but I always spend at least an hour just taking in the scenery
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Mount Wells Regional Park
Humpback RoadMy favourite trail in the GVA! Well-maintained, easy to navigate, and equipped with enough hardware to get you through trickier areas safely. The climb is enough to get the heart rate up, but is still gentle enough to have a relaxing time. Some of the best views I've seen, overlooking Highlands, Sooke, Langford, Victoria, as well as the the ocean / Olympic mountains on a clear day. It can be done in a short amount of time, but I always spend at least an hour just taking in the scenery
A popular hike in Goldstream Provincial Park is to hike from the day-use area to a train trestle bridge that crossed high above the Niagara Creek. The route passes the scenic Niagara Falls before climbing a steep trail above the waterfall and continuing up to the railway tracks where the bridge crosses the canyon.
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Niagara Trestle
A popular hike in Goldstream Provincial Park is to hike from the day-use area to a train trestle bridge that crossed high above the Niagara Creek. The route passes the scenic Niagara Falls before climbing a steep trail above the waterfall and continuing up to the railway tracks where the bridge crosses the canyon.
Matheson Lake is a beautiful lake, set amongst the hills of the Metchosin region, that has a scenic hiking trail that loops around the lake. The lake and beach area are popular in the summer months for swimming and fishing and long hikes can be combined with the trails in the neighbouring Roche Cove Regional Park. The Galloping Goose trail passes right next to Matheson Lake, offering a nice place for cyclists to stop and enjoy.
The 3.8km loop around the lake does have some challenging sections along the western section of the route that climbs up and down over rocky sections. These areas can be slippery depending on the time of seasons, so use care when passing through this area.
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Matheson Lake Regional Park
Matheson Lake Park RoadMatheson Lake is a beautiful lake, set amongst the hills of the Metchosin region, that has a scenic hiking trail that loops around the lake. The lake and beach area are popular in the summer months for swimming and fishing and long hikes can be combined with the trails in the neighbouring Roche Cove Regional Park. The Galloping Goose trail passes right next to Matheson Lake, offering a nice place for cyclists to stop and enjoy.
The 3.8km loop around the lake does have some challenging sections along the western section of the route that climbs up and down over rocky sections. These areas can be slippery depending on the time of seasons, so use care when passing through this area.
McKenzie Bight is a scenic beach area located along the eastern shore of Saanich Arm in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. The hike to the beach area can be completed via a loop by walking down the steep Cascade Trail past Cascade Falls and returning via the wider McKenzie Bight Trail.
From the McKenzie Bight parking lot area, go left and walk along the paved road heading south west for about 300-meters until you reach a metal gate with a sign pointing to the Timberman Trail. Follow this beautiful, forested trail as it makes its way gradually downhill until reaching a wooden bridge.
After crossing the wooden bridge, go right at the junction and following the Cascade Trail. After rounding a corner, the trail descends very steeply. In the springtime, you can hear the rushing water of Pease Creek as it passes over the waterfall called Cascade Falls. Follow the trail next to the wooden railings and look to your right for a view of Cascade Falls.
Continue following the trail downhill as it weaves through a few narrow switchbacks before levelling and exiting to the right at the beach. Walk to the wooden bridge and cross Pease Creek where the McKenzie Bight Trail begins immediately on your right. Before returning, explore the area by walking out to the beach and enjoying the view. You can continue following the trail northward up a short hill where there are outhouses and a scenic view to the left along rocky outcrops that dot the shoreline.
Once you have enjoyed the McKenzie Bight area, return to the wooden bridge and begin hiking up the wide gravel McKenzie Bight trail towards the parking lot. This uphill trail is a bit more gradual than the Cascade Trail you walked down on but it still has moments where you will need to stop to catch your breath. As you pass the brown wooden signs, a few more steps being you back to the parking lot where you began.
Driving Directions
The McKenzie Bight area of Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is easiest accessed via the West Saanich Road from the Victoria area. From downtown Victoria, folllow Blanshard Street northbound as it leaves the city and turns into Highway #17 heading towards the ferries. Take Exit #11: Royal Oak Drive. After exiting, turn left and cross over the highway, following Royal Oak Drive to the 4-way intersection with West Saanich Road. Turn right onto West Saanich Road and follow this road for the next 5-6km. Turn left onto Wallace Drive and Drive 0.5km. Turn left onto Willis Point Road and drive about 4km until you see signs for Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Turn left at the signs, onto Ross Durrance Road and the gravel parking lot will be within 200 meters on your left.
Note: If the parking lot is full, you are allowed to park alongside the road, however you must park off the road so that your tires are not on the pavement. Parking can be an issue in this area on a busy weekend.
Additional Information
Dog-Friendly
Dogs are permitted in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. There is wildlife in the park, including several cougar sightings annually, so it is important to be extra cautious for your and your dog’s safety.
Toilets
Pit toilets are located in two places. There are toilets along the McKenzie Bight trail just down from the parking lot area and also near the beach area, just north and up the small hill from the where the trails access the beach area.
McKenzie Bight Trail
McKenzie Bight TrailMcKenzie Bight is a scenic beach area located along the eastern shore of Saanich Arm in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. The hike to the beach area can be completed via a loop by walking down the steep Cascade Trail past Cascade Falls and returning via the wider McKenzie Bight Trail.
From the McKenzie Bight parking lot area, go left and walk along the paved road heading south west for about 300-meters until you reach a metal gate with a sign pointing to the Timberman Trail. Follow this beautiful, forested trail as it makes its way gradually downhill until reaching a wooden bridge.
After crossing the wooden bridge, go right at the junction and following the Cascade Trail. After rounding a corner, the trail descends very steeply. In the springtime, you can hear the rushing water of Pease Creek as it passes over the waterfall called Cascade Falls. Follow the trail next to the wooden railings and look to your right for a view of Cascade Falls.
Continue following the trail downhill as it weaves through a few narrow switchbacks before levelling and exiting to the right at the beach. Walk to the wooden bridge and cross Pease Creek where the McKenzie Bight Trail begins immediately on your right. Before returning, explore the area by walking out to the beach and enjoying the view. You can continue following the trail northward up a short hill where there are outhouses and a scenic view to the left along rocky outcrops that dot the shoreline.
Once you have enjoyed the McKenzie Bight area, return to the wooden bridge and begin hiking up the wide gravel McKenzie Bight trail towards the parking lot. This uphill trail is a bit more gradual than the Cascade Trail you walked down on but it still has moments where you will need to stop to catch your breath. As you pass the brown wooden signs, a few more steps being you back to the parking lot where you began.
Driving Directions
The McKenzie Bight area of Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is easiest accessed via the West Saanich Road from the Victoria area. From downtown Victoria, folllow Blanshard Street northbound as it leaves the city and turns into Highway #17 heading towards the ferries. Take Exit #11: Royal Oak Drive. After exiting, turn left and cross over the highway, following Royal Oak Drive to the 4-way intersection with West Saanich Road. Turn right onto West Saanich Road and follow this road for the next 5-6km. Turn left onto Wallace Drive and Drive 0.5km. Turn left onto Willis Point Road and drive about 4km until you see signs for Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Turn left at the signs, onto Ross Durrance Road and the gravel parking lot will be within 200 meters on your left.
Note: If the parking lot is full, you are allowed to park alongside the road, however you must park off the road so that your tires are not on the pavement. Parking can be an issue in this area on a busy weekend.
Additional Information
Dog-Friendly
Dogs are permitted in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. There is wildlife in the park, including several cougar sightings annually, so it is important to be extra cautious for your and your dog’s safety.
Toilets
Pit toilets are located in two places. There are toilets along the McKenzie Bight trail just down from the parking lot area and also near the beach area, just north and up the small hill from the where the trails access the beach area.
The hike to Upper Goldstream Falls starts near the campsite gatehouse and follows a lush, forested trail along the Goldstream River to the waterfall. The hike is popular amongst campers due to it being right next to the campsite, but it can also be done as a day-hike by parking near the gatehouse or just outside the campsite area.
While the trail is fairly easy with minimal election change, there is a long set of stairs to walk down into the canyon where the waterfall is. While the stairs don't seem difficult, keep in mind that you do have to walk back up them to return to the trail after visiting the waterfall.
From the gatehouse, walk to the start of the trail just to the left and into the forest. The trail veers right and follows a nice, dirt path as you get occasional glimpses of the river to the left. While the campsite is only meters away to the right, it doesn’t seem that way as the forest vegetation is thick and very green from the river’s moisture that keeps it lush.
When you reach a junction, go left and continue along the forest trail. The trail eventually reaches the stairs to the left that go down towards the waterfall. Begin walking down the stairs and into the canyon as the waterfall comes into view. Walk right down to the small, rocky beach area and up onto the jagged rock on the other side for a close view. During the warm months, the pool below the falls is a popular area to swim bu the water is cold during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
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Provincijski park Goldstream
The hike to Upper Goldstream Falls starts near the campsite gatehouse and follows a lush, forested trail along the Goldstream River to the waterfall. The hike is popular amongst campers due to it being right next to the campsite, but it can also be done as a day-hike by parking near the gatehouse or just outside the campsite area.
While the trail is fairly easy with minimal election change, there is a long set of stairs to walk down into the canyon where the waterfall is. While the stairs don't seem difficult, keep in mind that you do have to walk back up them to return to the trail after visiting the waterfall.
From the gatehouse, walk to the start of the trail just to the left and into the forest. The trail veers right and follows a nice, dirt path as you get occasional glimpses of the river to the left. While the campsite is only meters away to the right, it doesn’t seem that way as the forest vegetation is thick and very green from the river’s moisture that keeps it lush.
When you reach a junction, go left and continue along the forest trail. The trail eventually reaches the stairs to the left that go down towards the waterfall. Begin walking down the stairs and into the canyon as the waterfall comes into view. Walk right down to the small, rocky beach area and up onto the jagged rock on the other side for a close view. During the warm months, the pool below the falls is a popular area to swim bu the water is cold during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
The 360-degree view from the top of Lone Tree Hill is incredible on a clear day, providing scenery of the Highlands region, west towards Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and as far south and east as the Strait of Juan De Fuca. The trail is well defined but steep in sections.
From the gravel parking lot, walk towards the map board of the regional park and begin your hike along the gravel trail. The trail begins climbing gradually at the start but quickly becomes fairly steep. After a steep section, the trail becomes more gradual again as it moves away from the road below and loops to the right.
Again, the trail climbs through a steep section before reaching several Arbutus trees and a clearing on the right. Go right and walk a short distance out to the first viewpoint. After enjoying the view, return to the trail and continue hiking up as you climb up a steep rocky section. Once at the top, continue to the far end, making your way over several large rocks to a viewpoint at the top that provides views in all directions.
On a clear day, you can see very far into the distance. To the west is Holmes Peak and Jocelyn Hill in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and south of those mountains is Mount Finlayson. The area below is known as Highlands and on a very clear day you can see as far west as Haro Strait and south as the Strait of Juan De Fuca.
After enjoying your time at the top, make your way back over the rocks in the direction you arrived and carefully back down the steep rock. Pass the first viewpoint on your left and following the trail back down to the gravel parking lot where you began.
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Lone Tree Hill
1450 Millstream RdThe 360-degree view from the top of Lone Tree Hill is incredible on a clear day, providing scenery of the Highlands region, west towards Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and as far south and east as the Strait of Juan De Fuca. The trail is well defined but steep in sections.
From the gravel parking lot, walk towards the map board of the regional park and begin your hike along the gravel trail. The trail begins climbing gradually at the start but quickly becomes fairly steep. After a steep section, the trail becomes more gradual again as it moves away from the road below and loops to the right.
Again, the trail climbs through a steep section before reaching several Arbutus trees and a clearing on the right. Go right and walk a short distance out to the first viewpoint. After enjoying the view, return to the trail and continue hiking up as you climb up a steep rocky section. Once at the top, continue to the far end, making your way over several large rocks to a viewpoint at the top that provides views in all directions.
On a clear day, you can see very far into the distance. To the west is Holmes Peak and Jocelyn Hill in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and south of those mountains is Mount Finlayson. The area below is known as Highlands and on a very clear day you can see as far west as Haro Strait and south as the Strait of Juan De Fuca.
After enjoying your time at the top, make your way back over the rocks in the direction you arrived and carefully back down the steep rock. Pass the first viewpoint on your left and following the trail back down to the gravel parking lot where you began.
The area around Thetis Lake has a network of hiking trails situated next to several scenic lakes and a lush west coast rainforest. Popular with hikers, trail runners, and dog walkers of all ages, the trails around both Lower and Upper Thetis Lake are moderately challenging with many beautiful views of the lake.
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Thetis Lake Regional Park
The area around Thetis Lake has a network of hiking trails situated next to several scenic lakes and a lush west coast rainforest. Popular with hikers, trail runners, and dog walkers of all ages, the trails around both Lower and Upper Thetis Lake are moderately challenging with many beautiful views of the lake.
This is a fantastic day trip and if you are up for an easy level hike check out the French Beach hiking trail
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French Beach Provincial Park
This is a fantastic day trip and if you are up for an easy level hike check out the French Beach hiking trail