COMMUNITY... Parks + Recreation
Beyond the neighboring East Sooke Park www.crd.bc.ca/parks/eastsooke/index.htm , the area provides an abundant assortment of parks and beaches to suit every taste. The west coast of Vancouver Island is renowned for the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, the West Coast trail, and the Galloping Goose Trail.
http://www.sooke.org/parks; http://www.sooke.org/recreation
Juan de Fuca Marine Trail
The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail is a 47 kilometer hiking trail stretching along the western shoreline of the South Island at China Beach, to Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew. The trail offers scenic beauty, spectacular hiking, wildlife viewing, and roaring surf. Much of the trail is designed for strenuous day or multi-day hiking in this rugged and isolated area. Some easy to moderate day hiking opportunities to the beach or along the trail are available stating from the trail heads at China Beach, Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek, and Botanical Beach.
Galloping Goose Trail
Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, roller blading, horseback riding, or just going for a stroll, the Galloping Goose Trail is the place to be. One of Canada's premier day trails, the 100km multi-use trail links the communities of View Royal, Colwood, Langford, Metchosin, and Sooke. A "rails to trails" conversion, it passes through rural and urban landscapes as it winds its way from Victoria to Sooke. Perhaps you'll spot a bald eagle, or gaze at a deer among the ferns.
West Coast Trail
This 75 km hiking trail is internationally known for being rugged and challenging, demanding stamina and proficiency in wilderness hiking and camping skills. The trail is for experienced hikers who are prepared to have a wilderness experience in the back-country. The West Coast Trail is one of three components of the Pacific Rim National Parks system to protect the outstanding natural features of this area, both terrestrial and marine. The beauty of dramatic rocky headlands; wide, sandy beaches and lush rainforests all intertwined with a vibrant cultural history, are but a few special features on the West Coast Trail. The two methods of obtaining a Trail Use Permit are to either make a reservation or participate in the waitlist system.