A Guide ToCapital Regional

District Parks

WithNative PlantField Notes

In March, shooting star wildflowers explode across the slopes of Mill Hill. On a hot August afternoon, a harbour seal breaks the surface in Coles Bay, scans the shoreline, and vanishes. On a cool October morning, a bald eagle swoops low, looking for fish in Witty’s Lagoon. After a December downpour, water droplets glisten on sword ferns in shady Mount Work.

Here, not long ago, Aboriginal peoples trapped migrating salmon, hunted elk, and dug camas bulbs. The Coast Salish people crafted baskets, clothing, and canoes from cedar and moved quietly with the seaons.

In 1842, James Douglas claimed the land for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Over 150 years and 250,000 people later, much has changed -– including the original landscape.

Today, the Capital Regional District (CRD) protects and preserves more than 8,100 hectares of spectacular and easily accessible coastal and island landscapes – rocky coast, lake, forest, marsh, lagoon, hilltop, beach, and dune – in 25 CRD parks of various sizes.

Our mandate is to manage these heritage lands for present and future generations. To assist us in this goal, we offer parks for a variety of recreational uses, from protected wilderness to creation in a natural setting. Read on to find brief descriptions of each park.

Come and explore. This is your natural heritage.

FOUR SEASONS IN CRD PARKS

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Taraxacum officinale Dandelion

Note: These maps are a general guide only. Scales are approximate. Before planning any visits to the CRD parks, you are encouraged to download and print any of our comprehensive maps available online:

www.crd.bc.ca/parks/map.htm

KEY TO MAPS, TERRAIN, FACILITIES, AND ACTIVITIES

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Parking

Washrooms

Drinking water

Concession stand

Hiking

Cycling

Horseback riding

Scenic viewpoint

Nature study

Swimming

Canoeing

Kayaking

Rowing

Windsurfing

Boats - electric motor

Water skiing

Fishing

Picnic tables

Picnic shelter

Nature house

Boat launch

Land

Park area

Water

Roads

ACTIVITIES

FACILITIES

MAP LEGEND PARK TERRAIN

Beaches/coastal

Park preserves

Gulf islands

Hilltop

Forest

Lake/recreation

Regional trail

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INDEX OF CRD PARKS AND PRESERVES

Albert Head Lagoon ..........................................................................................6Ayum Creek ............................................................................................................18Bear Hill ............................................................................................................................6Coles Bay ......................................................................................................................7Devonian .........................................................................................................................7East Point .......................................................................................................................8East Sooke ...................................................................................................................8Elk/Beaver Lake .....................................................................................................9Francis/King .............................................................................................................10Galloping Goose Trail ....................................................................................11Gonzales Hill ............................................................................................................12Horth Hill .......................................................................................................................12Island View Beach ............................................................................................13 Lone Tree Hill .........................................................................................................13Matheson Lake ....................................................................................................14Mill Farm ......................................................................................................................18Mill Hill .............................................................................................................................14Mount Norman ....................................................................................................15Mount Parke ............................................................................................................15Mount Wells .............................................................................................................18Mount Work ............................................................................................................16Roche Cove .............................................................................................................16Sooke Hills Wilderness ................................................................................18Thetis Lake ................................................................................................................17Witty's Lagoon ......................................................................................................17

Lupinus littoralis Lupin

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ALBERT HEAD LAGOONThis small lagoon serves as a wildlife sanctuary and refuge for a variety of birds. It offersa protected lagoon that attracts local ducks, geese and swans, as well as many varieties of migrating birds.A cobble beach provides areas to enjoy a picnic, beach-comb, and bird watch. Views of Victoria and the distant Olympic Mountains are visible on clear days.

Located on Delgada Roadin MetchosinSize: 7 hectares ( 17 acres )Acquired: 1978

BEAR HILLWander along the gentle forest trails of this hilltop park and enjoy:• a profusion of wildflowers in

the spring• mixed woodland of western

red cedar, Douglas fir, Garry oak, and arbutus

• views of the Saanich Peninsula and Haro Strait

• trails for both hikers and horseback riders

• trail connections to Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

Located at Bear Hill Roadin SaanichSize: 49 hectares (121 acres )Acquired: 1970

Ranunculus occidentalis Western Buttercup

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Cirsium undulatum Wavy Leaf Thistle

COLES BAYLocated on the western side of the Saanich Peninsula, this small park offers a quiet refuge, including a winding nature trail through towering cedar and along a quiet creek you’ll find a quiet, secluded bay for picnicking, birdwatching and beach-combing with room for all.

Located on Inverness Road in North SaanichSize: 4 hectares (10 acres)Acquired: 1966

DEVONIANTucked between Metchosin farmlands, this small nature sanctuary includes a gentle walking trail through mixed woodland and along a winding creek, a cobble beach for picnicking and beach-combingor birdwatching at Sherwood Pond. Views of the Olympics, Race Rocks and Juan De Fuca Strait.

Located on William Head Road in MetchosinSize: 13 hectares (32 acres)Acquired: 1980

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EAST SOOKEREGIONAL PARKDiscover the place where the West Coast begins, where the forest meets the sea, and trees cling to windswept cliffs. This park features 50 km of trails through forest, marsh and field,10km of rugged coastline trailpocket beaches, rocky bays and islets for beach-combing, scuba diving and exploring tide pools. Views of Juan De Fuca Strait and the Olympics are visible on clear days.

Located off East Sooke Road in East SookeSize: 1,424 hectares (5.5 sq. mi.)Acquired: 1966

EAST POINTThis decommissioned former lighthouse property along the sculpted shore of Saturna Island includes shelves of sandstone rock in the intertidal zone, a small pocket beach and shell midden exposed along the cliff, spectacular views of the Strait of Georgia, the San Juan Islands, and the Cascade Mountains

Located on Tumbo Channel Road on Saturna IslandSize: 2.5 hectares (6.2 acres)Acquired: 1996

Cornus canadensis Dwarf Dogwood

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JUAN DE FUCASTRAIT

Latin Name Common Name

ELK/BEAVER LAKEThis popular recreation area offers outdoor opportunities for nearly everyone! A large freshwater lake offers opportunities for swimming, canoeing and fishing. Walking and bridle trails circle the lakes through forest, field and wetland beaches. Facilities include picnic areas and a fishing pier with access for people with walking disabilities or mobility issues.

Located off the Pat Bay Highway (Hwy. 17) in SaanichSize: 411 hectares (1,016 acres)Acquired: 1966

Viola palustrus Marsh Violet

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FRANCIS/KINGThis park is ideal for exploring nature. Here you will find11km of gentle, woodland trails, spring wildflower meadows, a nature house and a meeting room. The Elsie King Trail consists of a cedar boardwalk with access for people with walking disabilities.Trail connects to Thetis Lake Regional Park.

Located on Munn Roadin SaanichSize: 113 hectares (279 acres)Acquired: 1979

Caltha biflora Marsh Marigold

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GALLOPING GOOSE TRAILThis former railway line offers a unique experience! The 57 km trail begins in Victoria and connects with Saanich, View Royal, Langford, Colwood, Metchosin, and Sooke. Cyclists, pedestrians, in-line skaters, and horse riders share the trail through urban neighbourhoods (paved trail), rolling farmland, into deep forest, and past rocky shoreline. Deer and raccoon, heron and hawk, squirrel and field mouse can be seen by the watchful eye.

Accessible at numerous points along the trail (the 10 km section from Victoria to Colwood is paved). For a more detailed map, contact CRD Parks at (250) 478-3344 or at http://www.crd.bc.ca/parks/index.htm

Size: 57 km longAcquired: 1987

Pinguicula vulgaris Butterwor t

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GONZALES HILLThis protected natural landscape in the heart of the city features unparalleled views of Victoria, Juan De Fuca Strait, the Olympic mountains, and the Sooke Hills; habitat for California quail, delicate littlewildflowers and a stand of Garry oak trees. Gonzales Observatory, a weather station for 75 years, is now a heritage building available for tours.

Located on a large, rocky knoll on Denison Road in Victoria/Oak BaySize: 2 hectares (5 acres)Acquired: 1992

HORTH HILLFollow the summit trail of this hilltop park and enjoy panoramic views of Saanich Peninsula, Satellite Channel and Gulf Islands; a close-up view ofwildflowers in the spring and mushrooms in the fall; trails for hikers and horse riders.

Located on Tatlow Road in North SaanichSize: 31 hectares (77 acres)Acquired: 1966

Linum Lewisii Lewis Wild Flax

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ISLAND VIEW BEACH Nestled along the eastern shore of the Saanich Peninsula, this park provides a panorama of land and seascapes as well as a long, sandy beach for beachcombing, picnicking, and swimming. A fragile sand dune area, home to several rare and beautiful plants can be visited.A boat launch provides access to Cordova Channel and Haro Strait, or bring your kayak.

Located on Island View Road in Central SaanichAcquired:1966

LONE TREE HILLFrom the summit of this small park, view the Malahat, the Highlands, Victoria, and the distant Olympics. Look closer and find rare and beautiful plants nestled in the steep, dry rock face, bald eagles, ravens, red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures riding the winds.

Located on Millstream Road in the HighlandsAcquired: 1982

Geranium viscosissimum Sticky Geranium

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MILL HILLWalk through cool woodland, along Millstream Creek, or climb to the park’s summit and you’ll find:

• delicate wildflowers and arbutus, Douglas fir and Garry oak

• views of Esquimalt Harbour, Victoria, and the surrounding hills and mountains

• park brochures and other information at CRD Parks headquarters next door

• trail connecting with Thetis Lake Regional Park

Located on Atkins Avenuein LangfordSize: 50 hectares (124 acres)Acquired: 1981

MATHESON LAKEThis neighbour to Roche Cove Regional Park offers everything from nature appreciation to swimming and fishing. Some of the main features are:

• picturesque lake set behind forested hills

• several kilometres of trails including the Galloping Goose Regional Trail

Located on Matheson Lake Park Road in MetchosinSize: 162 hectares (400 acres)Acquired: 1994

Fritillaria lanceolata Chocolate Lily

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MOUNT NORMANA hilltop in the quiet channels of the gulf Islands, it provides the highest viewpoint on South Pender views of other Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, the lower mainland and Mount Baker, with connecting trails to Beaumont Provincial Marine Park. Tranquil and serene.

Located off Canal Road or off Ainslie Point Road on South Pender Island in the scenicGulf Islands.Size 101 hectares(250 acres) Acquired: 1988

MOUNT PARKELocated on Mayne Island inthe Gulf Islands, this Park offers the highest viewpoint on Mayne, views of other Gulf Islands and the lower mainland, and a variety of wildflowers and birds to observe while hiking the ridge and slopes of Mount Parke.

Located off Montrose Roadon Mayne Island in the scenicGulf Islands.Size 40 hectares(99 acres)Acquired:1992

Typha latifolia Cattai l

GEORGIA STRAIT

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MOUNT WORKThis popular recreation spot offers a variety of landscapes and activities. Three freshwater lakes: Durrance, Fork, and Peace, for swimming, canoeing, and fishing. Eleven km of trails wind through forest to the beautiful summit of Mount Work.

Located off Willia Point Road in the HighlandsSize: 536 hectares (1,325 acres)Acquired: 1970

ROCHE COVEHike along a cool creek at midday or paddle atill waters in early morning light, and enjoyserentity and seclusion on a mossy slope or by a quiet cove. Seven km of trails wind through cedar forest and along the Galloping Goose trail, with hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin.

Located on the Gillespie Road in East SookeSize: 159 hectares (393 acres)Acquired: 1985

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THETIS LAKEThis popular recreation area offers numerous outdoor activities in a natural setting, including:• swamp and lake ecosystems for nature study• freshwater lakes to enjoy swimming, canoeing and fishing• beaches (with seasonal lifeguards) and picnic areas

Located off Six Mile Road in View Royal and LangfordSize 635 hectares (1,569 acres)Acquired: 1993

WITTY’S LAGOONVisit this park and discover its charm. A large lagoon is excellent for birdwatching at any time of the year. More than five km of trail through woodland, past lagoon and marsh awaits. A sandy beach overlooks rocky headlands and offshores islets.

Located on Metchosin Roadin MetchosinSize: 56 hectares (138 acres)Acquired: 1966

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Witty Beach

Rd

Duke Rd

Clif

f Dr

Parry Bay TowerPt

Metchosin Rd

Witty’sLagoon

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ToVictoria

To Colwood& Langford

Thetis Lake

UpperThetis Lake

Prior Lake

Trans-Canada Hwy

AYUM CREEKThis five hectare park protects the regionally significant stream estuary of Ayum Creek, which empties into Sooke Basin. Syum is also a spawning stream for wild coho and chum salmon. The park is an important link in the sea-to-sea green/ blue belt between Sooke Basin and the Saanich Inlet. Acquired: 1998

MILL FARM Located on the western slopes of Mount Bruce on Salt Spring Island, Mill Farm (65 hectares) includes old-growth Douglas fir, an old mill site and views of the Saanich Peninsula and the Cowichan Valley. Acquired: 1996

MOUNT WELLSThis 88 hectare park features a hill with wildflower and Garry oak meadows, and views of the Sooke Hills, Colwood and Langford. Acquired: 1996

SOOKE HILLS WILDERNESSThis former non-catchment area of the Greater Victoria Water District in Sooke is know for is wilderness character, ecological importance, and watershed values. Located in Sooke, public access to this 4,107 hectare park is prohibited. Call (250) 478-3344 for more information. Acquired: 1997

CRD Parks builds a system of parks by occasionally acquiring land for future regional parks. These landscapes have few, if any, visitor facilities and public use is not encouraged. We will only develop visitor facilities based on public interest, following completion of a natural resource inventory, and approval of a management plan. Our primary goal for park reserves is the protection of natural and cultural resources.

PARK PRESERVES

I l l u s t rat ions byJoan Ward-Harris and Ar thur Kruckeberg.

Cover photo by Suzanne DeStaffany.

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To protect your parks the following are prohibited:

• firearms/hunting• alcohol consumption• camping and open fires• removal of any natural/cultural objects from park

Phone (800) 663-5555 to report wild fires

To preserve your parks for the enjoyment of all:

• carry out any litter• respect adjacent private property• keep dogs under control at all times• pick up your dog’s droppings and deposit in garbage cans

or pack out

What’s happening?

Dial (250) 474-PARK (474-7275) for 24-hour access to details on nature house hours, nature walks, trail updates, and special parks events.

Intrepretive programs

Join in nature programs for adults, children, and families. They’re fun and informative! Watch for special park events. Visit the wheelchair accessible Nature House at Francis/King Regional park and the Nature Information Centre at Witty’s lagoon Regional Park, open year-round.

Facilities reservation

Group picnic shelters in some CRD Parks are available for reservation. The wheelchair-accessible Foresters Cabin at Francis/King Regional Park is available for small group meetings. It will accommodate 20 people, and is ideal for presenations, slide shows, or other group activities. To book these facilities, contact CRD Parks Headquarters.

490 Atkins Avenue • Victoria, BC Canada V9B 2Z8

PLEASE REMEMBER...

Telephone (250 478-3344 Fax (250) 478-5416(250) 474-PARK (recorded information)

www.crd.bc.ca/parks/index.htm

Capital Regional District Parks

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