Vancouver Island is a natural escape for explorers. Wild waves curl for surfers, dense forests provide the perfect setting for camping trips and towering mountains beckon to eager hikers. Situated on the coastline, British Columbia’s capital Victoria is the gateway to several awesome hikes in the area. Here are 5 hiking trails to try in Victoria’s West Shore.

The vast forested grounds surrounding Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University run all the way from Colwood’s city centre to Lagoon Road and reach from Esquimalt Lagoon up to Sooke Road. There are dozens of paths and trails that meander through incredible old growth forest, which is home to some of the Capital Region’s largest Douglas Fir trees. There are many access points through the university grounds, along Wishart Road and right from Pacific Landing.

Photo by Jon Flobrant on Unsplash

This dog friendly trail is about 1.5 hours (round trip) and is approximately 3 km’s in length. The Beach Trail to Witty’s Lagoon begins from the Nature Centre and passes the scenic Sitting Lady Falls, before descending down towards the lagoon and following a fairly easy trail the beach. The beach area is beautiful and is a popular family beach where the low tide creates visible sand dunes surrounded by water shallow enough to walk to. The area is also popular amongst bird watchers as the lagoon provides shelter and an ecosystem of food for many different shorebirds.

The 2.8 km loop trail wanders in and out of the perimeter around the outdoor facilities at West Shore Parks & Recreation Centre. Enjoy beautiful mountainous glimpses and views of the Juan De Fuca golf course. There are plenty of rest areas with picnic shelter and picnic tables which make for a great afternoon stroll with friends and family. To access the trail, take the Island Highway to the West Shore Parks & Recreation at 1767 Island Highway.

A hike around the beautiful Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic site will take you through grassy plains, Garry Oak meadows, rocky outcrops, and ocean beaches. Take in the breathtaking views of Fisgard Lighthouse, bright red against the clear blue sea and sky, as sailboats and seagulls drift past. Step back in time as you tour the Fort, batteries, canons and displays. Imagine the life of a lighthouse keeper as you explore Fisgard Lighthouse inside and out with interactive displays and signage. Fort Rodd Hill is just a short 10 minute drive from Pacific Landing off of Ocean Boulevard.

The hike to Goldstream Trestle is one of the more popular hikes around Victoria. The hike is located within Goldstream Provincial Park and can be accomplished within about 2 hours. The hike to the Goldstream Trestle has a fair amount of elevation as well, making it a good workout.

Along the way you are treated with an up-close view of the gorgeous Niagara Falls. While not as big as that other Niagara Falls in Ontario, this waterfall in Goldstream Park is an impressive 156 feet (47 meters). Then there is the historical trestle itself, which stretches across the Niagara Creek Canyon. Goldstream Park has great picnicking facilities so you can relax and eat after your hike. The rainforest is full of massive Douglas-fir and western red cedar trees.

Pacific Landing is located directly on the Esquimalt Lagoon and has direct access to over 500 acres of walking trails. This unparalleled location is perfect for folks who love to explore the outdoors and enjoy being surrounded by vibrant scenery and wild life. Register with us today and book an appointment to walk the land and learn more about our available Phase 2 suites.