Get Outside — Victoria Rewards the Effort
One thing I didn't expect when I first landed here: you can spend a whole week outdoors in Victoria and barely touch your wallet. The city is threaded with trails, flanked by ocean, and backed by hills you can summit on a Tuesday morning before lunch. Whether you're on foot or two wheels, here's where to go.
The Galloping Goose Regional Trail
If you only do one thing with your legs while you're here, make it the Galloping Goose. This paved and packed-gravel trail runs roughly 60 km from downtown Victoria all the way out to Leechtown in the Highlands — you don't have to ride the whole thing (please, don't feel obligated), but even a short stretch is genuinely lovely.
What to expect
- Paved near the city, transitioning to gravel as you head west — totally manageable on a hybrid or city bike.
- Flat to gently rolling for the first section, which makes it beginner-friendly and great for a casual morning pedal.
- Passes through parks, over trestles, and alongside the Selkirk Waterway — honestly one of the prettier urban trail sections in BC.
- Connects seamlessly with the Lochside Regional Trail (more on that below), so you can combine both into a longer loop.
Logistics
- The trail is free to access — just show up.
- You can jump on the Galloping Goose close to downtown, making it very walkable from Ocean Island.
- Trail maps are available at CRD's website or ask at the front desk.
The Lochside Regional Trail
Where the Galloping Goose runs west, the Lochside heads north — all the way up to Swartz Bay ferry terminal, which is genuinely useful if you're planning to hop over to the Gulf Islands or the mainland.
What to expect
- About 29 km of mostly paved, flat trail through farmland, wetlands and small communities.
- Wildlife is real here: great blue herons, bald eagles, the odd deer doing absolutely nothing helpful near the path.
- A calmer, more pastoral vibe than the Goose — it feels like proper countryside even though you're not far from the city.
Logistics
- Connects to BC Ferries at Swartz Bay — if you time it right, you can bike the whole trail and roll straight onto a ferry. A very satisfying way to travel.
- For current transit options between downtown and the trail's northern sections, check bctransit.com or ask at the front desk.
Mount Douglas (Mount Doug)
For hikers, Mount Doug is the local go-to. It's a proper hill with a proper view — the kind where you can see the Gulf Islands, the San Juans on a clear day, and the full sweep of Greater Victoria below you.
What to expect
- Multiple trails of varying difficulty; the summit trail is around 2 km and takes roughly 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
- At the top: panoramic views, bench, and a moment of genuine "okay, I live for this" clarity.
- Lower trails wind through old-growth Douglas fir forest — worth doing even if you don't summit.
Logistics
- Free to enter — it's a regional park.
- Getting there without a car: take a BC Transit bus toward Saanich and walk from there, or rent a bike and ride the Lochside trail partway. Check bctransit.com for current routes and fares, or ask at the front desk — they'll sort you out.
- Bring water. There's nothing at the top except the view.
Dallas Road Coastal Walk
This one's free, flat, and works for every fitness level. Dallas Road runs along Victoria's southern waterfront, and the path beside it might be the best easy walk in the city.
What to expect
- A multi-kilometre waterfront path connecting Beacon Hill Park to Clover Point and beyond — you can walk as far as you like and turn back whenever.
- Views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Olympic Mountains in Washington State. On a clear day it's almost unfairly pretty.
- Beacon Hill Park anchors the eastern end — wander in for free, say hello to the peacocks (yes, really), and check out the 38-metre totem pole near the park's southern edge.
- Wind, always some wind. Bring a layer.
Logistics
- Walking distance from Ocean Island — a solid 20-minute stroll south gets you to Dallas Road.
- Works as a morning walk, a sunset walk, or an "I just need fresh air" walk at any time of day.
- Leash your dog if you brought one. Don't feed the peacocks.
Renting a Bike in Victoria
You don't need to bring your own wheels. There are bike rental shops near the Inner Harbour and downtown that offer hybrids, e-bikes and trail-ready options by the hour or day — check current rates directly with them. Ask at the Ocean Island front desk for recommendations closest to us and any current deals for guests.
A few practical notes:
- Victoria drivers are generally pretty decent around cyclists, but always use the designated bike lanes downtown where they exist.
- Helmets are legally required in BC — reputable rental shops will include one.
- Bring a lock. A good one.
Quick Reference
| Trail / Walk | Best For | Length | Cost | |---|---|---|---| | Galloping Goose | Cycling, easy walking | Up to 60 km | Free | | Lochside Trail | Cycling, birdwatching | ~29 km | Free | | Mount Douglas | Hiking, summit views | ~2–4 km return | Free | | Dallas Road | Coastal walk, sunsets | As far as you like | Free |
Before You Head Out
Victoria's trails are well-maintained but conditions can change — especially on Mount Doug after rain (it gets slippery up top). Check the CRD Regional Parks site for any advisories, and Tourism Victoria for seasonal tips and what's currently on around the trails.
Have questions about the best route for your fitness level, where to rent a bike, or how to get to the trailhead by transit? Swing by the Ocean Island front desk — we're happy to map it out for you and point you in the right direction.
