Capital Regional District: Lakes, Trails and Nature Parks

The Capital Regional District’s urban, rural and wild landscapes are particularly impressive along its trails and in its regional parks. The Regional Parks protect and manage more than 13,350 hectares of natural areas across 34 regional parks and four regional trails. They extend across the south of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. As you search for a vacation rental, consider whether you would rather spend your vacation days covering longer distances on trails, enjoying lakes and water activities, or exploring forests and regional history.

Trails through diverse landscapes

The Galloping Goose Regional Trail stretches 55 kilometres from Victoria to Sooke. Along the way, it passes through urban, rural and wild areas. The Lochside Regional Trail runs from Swartz Bay to Victoria, alongside beaches, farmland and wetlands. Cycling, walking, running and horseback riding are all possible on its rural sections. The two trails offer different landscapes and route profiles, which you can take into account when planning active vacation days.

Directions at the Lands End Road Overpass are also provided: Cyclists first turn right at the bike lane, then right at the crossing to reach the Lochside Regional Trail. Pedestrians turn left first, then right to reach the trail. For hikes on Mount Erskine, it is recommended that you use the access via the Mount Erskine Upper Access Park Reserve, which is owned by the Capital Regional District.

Lakes, rivers and outdoor activities

Rock formations shaped by the Sooke River define the landscape of Sooke Potholes Regional Park. They were formed by glaciers about 15,000 years ago. A salmon run takes place on the river every fall; visitors can also picnic or swim there. An outing in this park can therefore combine an interest in geological formations, nature watching or time by the water.

Elk Lake and Beaver Lake have four family-friendly beaches and 15 kilometres of walking trails, including a 10-kilometre loop. At Beaver Beach, you can swim and picnic, as well as canoe around nearby islands. The Nature Centre at Elk/Beaver Lake features interpretive displays about the park’s natural and cultural history. So if you want to take a break from water activities, you can also explore the park’s history and nature here.

The freshwater lakes in Mount Work Regional Park are suitable for walking and swimming. The multi-use trails at Mount Work–Hartland are open to mountain bikers. The summit trail on Mount Work is a different route: It is considered a challenging hike and passes through natural rock formations shaped by glaciers. Thetis Lake Regional Park has more than 40 kilometres of recreation trails. Swimming, canoeing and fishing are possible in its freshwater lakes.

Forest landscapes and history

Francis/King Regional Park combines a short interpretive trail with a distinctive stand of trees. The self-guided Elsie King Trail is 800 metres long and has information panels, rest areas and a shelter; there is also an accessible toilet. Heritage Grove is home to Douglas firs that are about 500 years old. The trail and the grove offer different points of interest if you are interested in natural history or want to learn more about the surroundings on a walk.

A challenging hike through dense forest in George Hill Regional Park leads to a viewpoint with a 180-degree view. At East Point, the landscape is linked to a historic structure: The lighthouse station was built between 1881 and 1887 to warn ships about the dangerous waters of the offshore Boiling Reef. East Point Regional Park is connected to Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. The parks’ varied features range from forest and views to coastal history.

If you are looking for a vacation rental in the Capital Regional District, your preferred focus for the trip can help determine where you stay: long trails, a day at freshwater lakes, forests and viewpoints, or historical discoveries each suit different interests. Find more destination pages for Mayne, Galiano, Victoria, Sidney, Sooke, Salt Spring Island, North Saanich, Port Renfrew, Langford, Pender Island, Saanich, Shirley, Saturna, Saanichton and Colwood.

For the broader travel overview: British Columbia.