As the snow gradually starts to melt, several hikes and trails throughout Greater Victoria make for the perfect balance of outdoor fun and breathing photos.
From stunning ocean views to dense forests and frozen waterfalls, these 7 instagrammable adventures are sure to make your holiday break complete.
Goldstream Provincial Park
There are plenty of reasons to visit Goldstream Provincial Park, including massive trees, majestic waterfalls, and a meandering river that meets the sea.
Less than 20km from downtown Victoria, this provincial park is home to old-growth forests that will leave you speechless.
- Where: Goldstream Provincial Park, Langford
Niagara Falls hiking trail
This fairly easy trail is a 1.3km round trip which includes a beautiful 150-foot waterfall of colossal proportions.
After the recent snowfall, this week would make for a great opportunity to see the falls turn from a surrounding wall of green vegetation to a mystical rock face glistening in ice and snow.
- Where: Niagra Falls, Goldstream Park
Kinsol Trestle Bridge
The Kinsol Trestle is one of the tallest free-standing rail trestles in the world! Now how can you go wrong with that?
Standing 44 metres above the salmon bearing Koksilah River. The Kinsol Trestle will be sure to offer breathtaking views of snow covered trees as far as the eye can see.
- Where: Kinsol Trestle Bridge, 2869 Glen Eagles Road
Tin Pan Alley – Chinatown
If you’re looking to stay within Victoria, Chinatown offers several picturesque alleys that illuminate at night.
While cold on the outside the environment will make you feel warm on the inside. A warm coffee or hot coco could also do the trick.
- Where: Tin Pan Alley, 500 Fisgard Street
Clover Point Park
Discover this 1km out-and-back trail near Victoria. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 12 minutes to complete.
This popular trail is known for stunning sunsets, bird watching, running and walking.
You can also bring your dog but just remember your four legged friend will have to stay on a leash.
- Where: Clover Point Park, 1250 Dallas Road
Cattle Point Park
If you are craving panoramic mountain views look no further than cattle point!
- Where: Cattle Point Park, Oak Bay
Mystic Beach and Sandcut Beach Hikes
If you have a full day of exploring on your hands. Mystic and Sandcut beaches offer breathtaking views along the Juan de Fuca Strait.
This picturesque four-kilometer round-trip hike is located near Jordan River, just over an hour from downtown Victoria. Both of these hikes can be completed in one day.
- Where: Mystic Beach, Juan de Fuca Trail
Before you head out for your next adventure keep in mind, with a fresh layer of snow some trails might be hazardous at this time. Be sure to bundle up and wear proper footwear. If a trail looks dangerous it’s best to avoid it until a later date.
If you happen to go on one of these hikes, don’t forget to tag Victoria Buzz in your photos on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Happy exploring!
