We are very fortunate in that Sooke has easy access to the Galloping Goose Trail as well as East Sooke Park and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Time to get moving!!
The Galloping Goose Trail stretches like a green ribbon from Sooke to Sydney forming a continuous chain of green spaces perfect for short day hikes and bicycle rides. On our western end of the trail users can access Sooke Potholes Park and Matheson Lake Park. At the potholes, cool water offers a respite from the summer heat; take a picnic and enjoy some downtime swimming at your own special spot! Going toward Matheson Lake and Roche Cove the trail follows the inner basin of the Sooke Harbour and then heads inland to Matheson Lake and the community of Mechosin.
You can drive to the Galloping Goose and, depending on how far you want to explore, you can hike or bike..rent a mountain bike at our local Sooke Cycle Shop and travel as far as your legs will take you!
The West Coast Road extends from Sooke along the coast to Port Refrew, where it heads inland on the newly named ...
Before getting to the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail you, have easy access to French Beach Provincial Park which offers camping and day use.
Further driving takes you through Jordan River and just beyond, China Beach and the beginning [or end] of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.
China Beach is an easy walk and the beach is gorgeous but it if you're looking for a bit more, take the trailhead path and hike to Mystic Beach.a great hike [proper footwear advised] and the peace of the beach where you can enjoy the snacks you packed!
Another fabulous beach is Sombrio Beach. This beach is well known by surfers and offers a truly West Coast atmosphere.
In Port Renfrew the Trail ends [or begins] at BOTANICAL BEACH.
Botanical Beach is best known for its intertidal life. When the tide recedes a new world appears!! A visitor can find many species of plants and animals. Seastars, Chitons, snails barnacles and mussels all survive whether in or out of the water. This shoreline of life and fantastic geological features impress all visitors.
East Sooke Regional Park encompasses 1,422 hectares [3,512 acres] of natural and protected coastal landscape.
Over 50 kms of trails are there for your explorations.
The Aylard Farm entrance is popular with picnicers and those looking for easy excursions. A 5 minute walk leads you to a pocket beach and beyond. Trails head inland to hilltop views or along the rugged coast trail.
At the Pike Road entrance [the most westerly access to the park] the hike along the coast is more rugged along cliffs but the visual payoff can be great. Killer Whales go by on a regular basis throughout the summer months and on one reported trip our guest spent 2 hours sitting on the bluff while a pod of whales took turns napping in the water below them!