After moving to Central Saanich recently I’ve enjoyed searching out new parks to walk and hike in the area. Today we explored a small-ish park (about 36 hectares/90 acres) in North Saanich called Horth Hill. It seems to be a very popular hike for walking your dog … there were dozens we met on the trails today!

Hiking through the rain forest on Horth Hill

The trails are fairly well-marked, but I suggest that if you have the capability to take a photo with your phone that you take one of the trail map at the start of the hike in the parking lot.  Even with trail markers we found it was easy to get confused!  The trails are fairly rocky, filled with roots and gullies and has a lot of up-hill and down hill  … not extremely difficult but it’s not a flat ‘walk in the park’ either.

Near the summit

You’re mostly walking in the forest and while the trails themselves aren’t very picturesque, there is lots of nice foliage and today (April 2) there were some wildflowers just starting to poke their way out!  At the top of the hill you’re rewarded with some great views over the Saanich Peninsula and out to the ocean and gulf islands beyond.

Great views!

Views of North Saanich, Pat Bay & Saanich Inlet

Shooting Stars

Calypso Orchid

While the park itself is small, there are enough trails to keep you busy (if you want) for a couple of hours of hiking.

Ease of hike:  Moderate

Amenities:  There is a small parking lot – room for about 15 – 20 cars and a restroom just off to the side of the lot.

NOT wheelchair accessible.

Map

CLICK HERE FOR THE CRD’S PDF PARK MAP

How to Get There

Follow the Pat Bay Highway from Victoria, and take the Wain Road exit. Follow Wain Road west to cross over the highway, then turn right on Tatlow Road, which leads to the park entrance on the right. Allow approximately 35 minutes driving time from Victoria.