Victoria BC Tourism

Lesson 6: Recreation

Hiking

Adventure Hiking

In the previous lesson, I have outlined the beaches and parks that have hiking trails. What I didn't include are some longer trails, which take you through some of the areas I mentioned. I must caution you. Some of these trails are for experienced hikers or for those who are in good physical condition. Many of these trails go through parks and beaches so for those who just want to hike for the day or for a few hours, it is advisable to use one of the beaches as a base. This is wilderness so be prepared by wearing proper footwear, bring an emergency kit, and be aware of wild animals.

The Galloping Goose Trail

Once a railway line, the unusual name is in tribute to a gas rail car, which took passengers between Victoria and Sooke in the 1920s. This multi-use trail stretches from Sidney in the northern part of the Saanich Peninsula, through Victoria, and all the way to Sooke in the southwestern coast. Of course there are entry points all along the way. Almost every beach is an entry point, plus city parks through the Victoria leg of the journey. People can enjoy this trail in many forms: hiking, biking, inline skating and horseback writer in certain areas. For those who want to take the trail over several days, there are Bed & Breakfasts along the way. The beauty of this trail is the diversity. Visitors can stroll for a short stretch in the urban areas and many parts of wheelchair accessible. Serious hikers can go into the wilderness. There is everything from urban backyards to the rugged coastline.

Juan de Fuca Marine Trail

Starting at China Beach Provincial Park (west of Sooke) and extending westward to Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew on the southern coast, this trail takes visitors through a series of beaches and rainforests. There are several points of entry at the beaches so hikers can choose a day trip exploring one small area at a time rather than hiking the entire trail.

This rugged wilderness trail rewards hikers with lush forests of giant spruce, fir and cedar trees. Because of following the coastline, there is a diversity of beaches along the way. There are wonderful wide sandy beaches to rocky cliffs with thundering waves breaking against them. When the tide is out, there is an abundance of marine life in the tidal pools. In the distance, seals bask on the rocks and pods of whales swim by during the migration season.

Seasoned hikers will find this trail a challenge, yet rewarding. For people who are not seasoned, short day trips on easier parts of the trail are recommended.

West Coast Trail

This trail is part of the Pacific Rim National Park and runs from Port Renfrew in the south to Bamfield in the north. It is a grueling hike and only should be done by experienced hikers. In fact, it is known to be the one of the most difficult trails in North America. The hike is 5 to 7 days long with no entry points along the way. The West Coast Trail is open for hiking from May 1 to September 30 and reservations with the Canadian Parks Service are required. Each day, only 52 hikers are allowed onto the trail (26 from the north, 26 from the south) and this is to reduce the impact on the environment.

For hikers who decide to take the challenge, they will be rewarded with an unforgettable wilderness experience. There are steep cliffs, dense rainforests, sandy beaches, rocky beaches and wildlife both in the sea and on the land.

Most hikers prefer to start at Port Renfrew where the trail is the most challenging, while they have most energy.

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