Hikes & Walks in Victoria BC 2024
Renowned for its natural beauty, Victoria is the perfect home base for anyone looking to get out and enjoy all that nature has to offer. We have you covered from mountain hikes to easier activities like beachcombing and just taking in the beautiful coasts on foot!
Hiking
You don’t have to travel far from the Oswego Hotel to embark on a scenic hike within a Pacific coastal rainforest. Three beautiful mountains within – two within the immediate vicinity – offer incredible vistas of the south portion of Vancouver Island.
Mount Douglas: A Panoramic Paradise
Mount Douglas, affectionately known by locals as Mt. Doug, offers hikers of all levels a rewarding ascent with panoramic views of Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula, and the distant Olympic Mountains. The summit can be reached through various trails ranging in difficulty, making it a perfect outing for families or those seeking a leisurely adventure. Traditionally known to the SENĆOŦEN peoples as PKOLS, this area is filled with beautiful towering cedars and white rocky outcrops, from which it gets its traditional name.
View from the top of Mt. Doug. Credit.
Aside from the multiple hiking routes, Mt. Doug also has a paved road to the top, so for those with mobility limitations or those wishing to try the climb on a bicycle, there’s a way for everyone to take in the very same spectacular view.
Mt. Tolmie: A City View Like No Other
For those looking to capture Victoria’s beauty without venturing too far, Mt. Tolmie is the ideal choice. Accessible by a short hike or drive, the summit offers unparalleled 360 views of the city, including the Oswego Hotel and the provincial parliament buildings!
One of the many views from Mt. Tolmie. Credit.
It’s the perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers alike, offering a quick escape to nature and a unique perspective on Victoria’s urban charm. Like its Cretaceously-created sibling, Mt. Doug, it also has a fully paved road leading to the top for ease of access.
Mt. Finlayson: A Challenge with a Reward
While it’s a little further out of town in Goldstream Provincial Park, adventure seekers looking for a more challenging hike will find Mt. Finlayson to be an exhilarating experience. This rugged trail takes you through dense forests and over rocky terrains, culminating in a summit that boasts spectacular views of Finlayson Arm and the surrounding wilderness.
Views from Mt. Finlayson. Credit.
The climb is demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment alongside the breathtaking natural beauty of the Pacific west coast.
Beachcombing & Leisurely Strolls
If you prefer to travel along flatter ground while taking in the grand beauty of the Pacific Ocean, there’s an abundance of easy, scenic walks just blocks from the Oswego Hotel.
Dallas Road
Dallas Road is one of the city’s most picturesque thoroughfares, with ocean views stretching across the Juan de Fuca strait into Washington. This expansive waterfront promenade is beloved by tourists and locals alike for walking, jogging, and cycling against the backdrop of Victoria’s stunning coastal scenery.
One of the many beaches scattered along Dallas Road.
Stretching along the city’s southern edge, Dallas Road also features access to several pebbled and sandy beaches, inviting visitors to explore, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. While beachcombing for unique shells and ocean-turned treasures, keep your rock-hounding eye out for the aptly named Dallasite – a unique mineral that’s local to the area.
A sample of Vancouver Island Dallasite. Credit.
End your Dallas Road adventure at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can shop for locally-made treasures or enjoy some of the freshest seafood in Victoria.
Ogden Point Breakwater
The Ogden Point Breakwater provides wave shelter for the busiest cruise ship port in all of Canada! Extending into the Juan de Fuca Strait and offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Olympic Mountains, it stretches out approximately 762 meters (0.47 miles). This scenic walkway is a favourite among both tourists and locals for casual walks, fishing, and marine life spotting. If you’re really lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a resident Orca (Killer Whale) or two!
Photo credit: @vancouverisland_buzz on Instagram
The breakwater is not only popular for its breathtaking sunsets and panoramic vistas but also serves as a gateway to some of the best diving spots in the region. Its unique location, combined with the ease of access, makes the Ogden Point Breakwater a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Victoria’s coastline.
Plus, you’ll be within a scenic walking distance of Beacon Hill Park – don’t skip the Children’s Animal Farm for a fantastic family adventure!
The Oswego Hotel: Your Adventure Basecamp
After a day of exploring the majestic mountains that frame Victoria’s landscape, or taking in the vast coastline and seemingly endless beaches, return to the comfort and elegance of the Oswego Hotel. Our convenient accommodations and top-notch amenities provide the perfect setting to relax and rejuvenate.
Welcome to the Oswego Hotel – your Victoria basecamp for adventure!
Whether you’re soaking in a hot bath, enjoying a locally inspired meal or cocktail at our Aegir Room restaurant, or simply unwinding in your comfortable room, the Oswego Hotel ensures your hiking adventures in Victoria are complemented by unparalleled comfort and service.