Parks, gardens and beaches in and around Victoria, BC
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
Mount Work is one of the largest regional parks, and is the dominant hill on the horizon from many vantage points in Saanich, Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula. This popular recreation spot offers a variety of landscapes and activities. CLICK HERE FOR A LINK TO A PDF MAP OF THE PARK. Features Three freshwater lakes
The Sooke Potholes The Sooke Potholes are actually comprised of 2 different parks, Sooke Potholes Provincial Park and Sooke Potholes Regional Park. As you drive along Sooke River Rd, it is he provincial park the you first enter. This park is comprised of 7.28 acres along both sides of the Sooke River and extends north
Mount Wells is a 123-hectare wilderness park of second growth forest and fragile mossy rock outcrops with spectacular views of the region and stunning spring wildflowers. It is located on the edge of an immense protected area of green space near Sooke Hills. The hike to the summit (352m) of Mount Wells is steep and
Bear Hill covers nearly 49 hectares of hilltop (220m) landscape, with some of the oldest rock on Vancouver Island and gentle forest trails. Features A profusion of wildflowers in the spring Mixed woodland of western red cedar, Douglas fir, Garry oak and arbutus Views of the Saanich Peninsula and Haro Strait Trails for hikers and
This small lagoon serves as a wildlife sanctuary and refuge for a variety of birds. Features A protected lagoon that attracts local ducks, geese and swans, as well as many varieties of migrating birds A cobble beach Views of Victoria and the distant Olympic mountains in Washington state Trail Rating: Easy Size: 7.10 hectares Location:
If you'd like to find a park or playground close to you in Victoria ... here's a map. Just click on the location marker and then click the link to the details page!
From the summit (364 m) of this small park, enjoy views of the Malahat, the Highlands, Victoria and the distant Olympic Mountains. Features Rare and beautiful plants nestled in steep, dry rock faces Bald eagles, ravens, red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures riding the winds The park's namesake was a bonsai-like Douglas-fir tree, which was designated
A little-known oasis of nature, this park exemplifies the exquisite beauty and ecological wealth of our region. Walk through cool woodland and climb to the summit (203m) for spectacular views. Features Delicate wildflowers and arbutus, Douglas-fir and Garry oak Views of Esquimalt Harbour, Victoria and the surrounding hills and mountains Trail connecting with Thetis Lake
Check out this handy map for locations of the various gardens in and around Victoria. Some are within walking distance of downtown, some require transportation. All are worth a look! Click on the garden you're interested in ... this will give you the link to the page with information and details about each place.
