Here's my favourite thing about Victoria: the best stuff costs nothing. When I first landed here I was counting every coin, and I quickly figured out that a pair of decent shoes (or a borrowed bike) gets you most of what makes this city special. Ten years on, I still spend most of my weekends on the same trails.
This guide covers the big four: the Galloping Goose, the Lochside Trail, Mount Doug, and the coastal walk along Dallas Road. You can reach all of them from downtown without a car.
Before You Head Out: Hostel-Guest Logistics
Getting a bike
- There are bike rental shops downtown and a few e-bike share options around the core. Ask at the Ocean Island front desk what's current and whether there are any guest deals.
- Check the rental's website for current rates, and ask whether a lock, helmet and lights are included.
- Helmets are required by law in BC. Don't skip it.
Using the bus
- BC Transit buses have bike racks on the front, which is handy if your legs give out halfway (no judgement, it's happened to me).
- Pay with exact change on board, or grab a day pass if you're hopping around. Check bctransit.com for current fares and the trip planner.
What to pack
- A rain layer. We get a lot of rain, won't lie, especially October to April. Even summer mornings can be cool and grey by the water.
- Water and snacks. Once you're out on the regional trails, shops get scarce.
- A charged phone with an offline map. The trails are well signed, but junctions can be confusing the first time.
The Galloping Goose Regional Trail
The Goose is an old railway line turned multi-use trail. It runs about 55 km from downtown Victoria out through View Royal, Colwood and Langford, all the way into the Sooke hills. Because it was a railbed, it's mostly flat and gentle, so it's great if you're not a hardcore cyclist.
Where to start
Kilometre zero is right by the Johnson Street Bridge, an easy walk from Ocean Island. Cross to the Vic West side and you're on it.
Easy half-day ride
- Head out through Vic West and over the Selkirk Trestle across the Gorge waterway. It's one of my favourite little moments in the city.
- Keep going as far as you feel like, then turn around. Even a short out-and-back feels like proper countryside surprisingly fast.
Full-day adventure
- Fit riders can push out toward the Sooke end. The trail passes near Sooke Potholes Regional Park, where the river has carved out swimming holes. It's a gorgeous spot on a hot day.
- It's a long ride back. Plan your turnaround time, or check the bus options before you commit.
The Lochside Regional Trail
The Lochside is the Goose's sibling. It runs roughly 29 km north from Saanich up the Saanich Peninsula to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. The two trails meet near the Switch Bridge in Saanich, so you can link them easily.
Why I love it
- Farm stands, quiet country roads, and stretches along the water near Cordova Bay. It's peaceful in a very Vancouver Island way.
- Mostly gentle, with a few rolling bits and some sections on quiet roads. Watch for the signs.
Riding to the ferry
If you're heading to the mainland or the Gulf Islands with BC Ferries, you can actually cycle to Swartz Bay on the Lochside. Bikes are welcome on BC Ferries. It's a lovely way to leave town, as long as your luggage is light. Check BC Ferries' site for schedules and current fares.
Mount Douglas (PKOLS)
Mount Doug, also known by its Lekwungen name PKOLS, is the hill you climb when you want the *whole* view. On a clear day you get a 360-degree panorama: the city, the Saanich Peninsula, the Gulf Islands, the Olympic Mountains across the water, and sometimes Mount Baker floating in the distance.
How to do it
- Several trails wind up through forest to the summit. Some are steep and rooty, so wear proper shoes, not flip-flops.
- Prefer an easier climb? You can follow the summit road up on foot.
- The park also stretches down to a beach on the Cordova Bay side, which is a nice way to cool off afterwards.
Getting there
Mount Doug is north of downtown in Saanich. You can bike it (the last part is a proper climb) or take the bus. Use the trip planner on bctransit.com to find the best route from downtown.
Dallas Road Coastal Walk
If you only do one thing on this list, make it this. Dallas Road's waterfront path follows the cliffs along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, with the Olympic Mountains across the water. It's my go-to for clearing my head, and it's free, flat-ish and walkable from downtown.
Suggested route
- Start near Ogden Point and walk out along the breakwater. It's a classic Victoria stroll, and you might spot seals.
- Head east along the cliffs past Beacon Hill Park and the Mile Zero marker of the Trans-Canada Highway. Yes, it's a photo op. Yes, everyone takes it.
- Keep going to Clover Point for big open views, then on toward Ross Bay if you've still got energy.
- Loop back through Beacon Hill Park to downtown. You'll get gardens, ponds and very confident ducks.
Good to know
- Parts of the waterfront are off-leash dog areas, so expect lots of happy dogs.
- It's windy out there, even on sunny days. Bring that layer.
- Sunset here is unbeatable.
A Few Local Tips
- Trail etiquette: on shared paths, ring your bell or call out when passing, and keep right.
- Lights: if you're riding near dusk, you need front and rear lights.
- Refuel: after a long ride, I head to Chinatown or the cafés in Cook Street Village for dumplings or a warm drink. Cheap, cosy and well earned.
- For official trail maps and closures, check the Capital Regional District parks pages. For more ideas, browse Tourism Victoria.
Ready to Get Outside?
Our trails are one of the biggest reasons Victoria became home for me, and I hope you love them too. Swing by the Ocean Island front desk for directions, bus tips and current bike rental options. We're always happy to help you plan your ride or hike!
