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 challenging, suitable for fit hikers.

Features

  • Hiking trail to the summit
  • Spectacular views of Juan de Fuca Strait, Victoria, the Sooke Hills and the Sea to Sea Green Blue Belt
  • A spring display of wildflowers
  • Rare and endangered species and ecosystems

Trail Rating: Challenging
Size: 121.07 hectares
Location: Langford
Established: 1994
Hours: sunrise to sunset

Things to Do

Follow the steep and challenging trail to the summit for sweeping views of Juan de Fuca Strait, Victoria and the Sooke Hills. The trail climbs through Douglas-fir forest and sensitive Garry oak ecosystems to open rocky hilltops dotted with arbutus trees, hairy manzanita and a mosaic of lush mosses.

In the spring, native wildflowers such as camas, shooting star and satinflower carpet the slopes. Please stay on the trail to protect this fragile habitat. Even if wildflowers are not visible, walking off trail can damage bulbs that lie dormant under thin soils.

On your journey to the summit, you may see turkey vultures and band-tailed pigeons, or hear the drumming of ruffed grouse. The park is also an important wildlife refuge for animals such as black-tailed deer, red squirrels and alligator lizards, who sun themselves on exposed rocky outcrops.

Mount Wells provides a buffer to the Greater Victoria Water Supply Area and helps protect the region’s supply of drinking water. The Humpback Reservoir at the base of Mount Wells was once part of the water supply system for Victoria residents. You will cross an old flow line near the beginning of the Summit Trail.

Amenities

Information Kiosk Parking Lot Public Transit Toilet

There is an information kiosk and toilet at the parking lot.

How to Get There

Follow the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria, and turn left on West Shore Parkway. Turn right on Amy Road and left on Sooke Lake Road. Turn left on Humpback Road. At the intersection with Irwin Road, stay right. Follow Humpback Road to the park entrance on the right.

Allow approximately 30 minutes driving time from Victoria.

Public Transportation

Take BC Transit #50 from Victoria to the Langford Exchange. Transfer to #58 to Sooke Lake Road at Humpback Road. The park is approximately a 1.5-kilometre walk from the bus stop. Contact BC Transit for schedule information.