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Best Hikes in the Westshore: Explore Nature in Victoria, BC

Best Hikes in the Westshore: Explore Nature in Victoria, BC

The Westshore region of Victoria, BC, is a great place for outdoor lovers. It has some of the best hiking trails on Vancouver Island. Whether you want a short family walk, a tough climb, or a peaceful lake loop, there is something for everyone. With ocean views, forests, and quiet lakes, these trails make it easy to enjoy nature. Here are some of the best hikes in the Westshore.

1. Mount Finlayson Trail If you enjoy a challenge, check out Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park.

This steep trail offers stunning views of Victoria, the Juan de Fuca Strait, and the Olympic Mountains. It is a tough climb, gaining over 400 meters in a few kilometers. Wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water!

2. Thetis Lake Regional Park Thetis Lake is one of the most popular places to hike in the Westshore. The main loop around the lake is about 5 km and has beautiful views. You’ll walk through forests, see the lake, and find great swimming spots. This trail (which welcomes pets) is ideal for families and novice hikers.

3. Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park Looking for a relaxing coastal walk? Witty’s Lagoon is a great choice. The trail winds through the forest, past Sitting Lady Falls, and ends at a beautiful ocean beach. It’s a great place for birdwatching, photography, and enjoying a peaceful walk by the water.

4. Mill Hill Regional Park This park features a short 1.7 km hike. You’ll enjoy stunning views of downtown Victoria, Esquimalt Harbour, and the Sooke Hills. The trail is well-maintained and perfect for a quick afternoon hike. It’s a great option for families or beginners looking for a rewarding view without a long climb.

5. East Sooke Park – Coast Trail For a stunning hike, the Coast Trail in East Sooke Park is one of the most scenic in the area. This 10 km trail hugs the coastline. It offers stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and hidden coves. The trail can be tough, but it’s worth it for the views and the chance to see wildlife like seals and eagles.

6. Matheson Lake Trail Matheson Lake is a hidden gem in the Westshore. The peaceful 3.8 km loop goes through the forest with beautiful lake views. This trail is perfect for a relaxing walk, and the lake is great for swimming or a picnic by the water. It’s a great spot for a quiet day in nature.

7. Elk Lake Loop One of my favorite hikes is the Elk Lake Loop. This 10 km trail circles Elk and Beaver Lake, offering a mix of forested paths and open lakeside views. The mostly flat trail is great for all fitness levels and accommodates walkers, runners, and cyclists. With plenty of picnic spots and places to watch for wildlife, it’s a perfect place for a peaceful outdoor adventure.

8. Langford Lake Trail Langford Lake Trail is a beautiful 4 km loop that offers a peaceful walk along the water. The well-kept path has boardwalks and shady forest areas. This makes it a perfect choice for families, runners, and dog walkers. There are several access points to the lake, perfect for a refreshing swim or a quiet moment by the water.

9. Goldstream River Hikes Goldstream Provincial Park is home to some of the most stunning river hikes in the region. The trails take you through lush rainforest, past towering waterfalls, and along the scenic Goldstream River. In the fall, you can witness the incredible salmon run as thousands of fish return to spawn. The easy Riverside Trail is great for families. For adventure seekers, there’s a hike to the stunning Niagara Falls of Goldstream. This hidden 47 km waterfall lies deep in the forest.

Plan Your Next Westshore Adventure!

Whether you like climbing hills or walking by the lake, there’s a perfect hike for you. So grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and start exploring the Westshore today!

#HomeIsHereVictoria

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Why Victoria? Here’s why.

When I was looking for the perfect place to call home, Victoria stood out far beyond other places. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers a balanced lifestyle that mixes nature, community, and plenty of outdoor fun. Whether you’re raising a family, retiring, or just starting fresh, here’s why I chose Victoria - and why you might want to as well.

1. The Best of City and Nature

Victoria is where city life meets beautiful nature. What caught my attention was how easy it is to go outside and find hiking trails, ocean views, and green parks. From the rugged Dallas Road coastline to the peaceful lakes in Westshore, Victoria has a special connection to nature. If you love exploring, hiking, or taking your pets on walks, this city is perfect.

2. A Friendly Community

One of the best things about Victoria is the warm, welcoming people. It feels like a small town where neighbors know each other and local businesses are strong. Whether I’m at a lively farmers’ market, enjoying a community festival, or chatting with people at a coffee shop, I always feel at home.

3. Mild Weather All Year

Coming from Manitoba, I’m happy to say goodbye to cold winters. Victoria has the mildest weather in Canada! As someone who loves being outdoors, I appreciate being able to enjoy the great weather all year. While other places are buried in snow, I can go hiking, biking, or even golfing in the winter here.

4. Nonstop Outdoor Fun

If you love nature, Victoria is your dream. Whether I want to kayak, camp in beautiful parks, or hike in Gowlland Tod, there’s always something to do. With lakes, the ocean, and stunning mountain views nearby, every weekend feels like a vacation.

5. A Family-Friendly Place

As a parent, finding a safe and fun place to raise a family was very important to me. Victoria checked every box. With great schools, safe neighborhoods, and lots of parks and activities, my child has plenty of chances to grow and explore. From beach days to trips to Beacon Hill Park, family life in Victoria is full of adventures and quality time.

6. A Strong Economy

Victoria has a healthy job market with opportunities in tech, tourism, healthcare, and education. Many people, including myself, are also working from home, which means we can enjoy a great lifestyle while having a flexible career.

7. A Gateway to Adventure

Living in Victoria means I’m always close to new experiences. With ferries to Vancouver, road trips to Tofino, and easy flights from Victoria International Airport, I can travel anywhere while enjoying life on this beautiful island.

Victoria isn’t just a place to live - it’s a lifestyle. Whether you love the outdoors, the friendly community, or the city vibe, this place offers the best of everything. After ten years here, I’m still so happy I made the move, and I wouldn’t change it for anything.

Thinking about moving here? Let’s chat! I’d love to help you find the perfect home in Victoria.

#HomeIsHereVictoria

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MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.