Tourism Guide - 2016 Sooke to Port Renfrew Visitors Guide

Sooke to Port Renfrew

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2016 Visitors Guide

Vancouver Island - British Columbia

Michael Matti photo Ryan Landa, Michael Matti, T. J. Watt photos

Published by

Your community at your doorstep

SOOKE Easy to get to. Hard to leave!

sooke.ca sooke-portrenfrew.ca

Sooke, British Columbia is a picturesque, seaside town situated on the dynamic southwestern shores of Vancouver Island. Sooke boasts fabulous accommodations, restaurants, galleries and shops, as well as provincial parks, unspoiled rainforests, tranquil beaches – a destination well worth the short trip from Victoria: British Columbia’s capital city.

From its top-rated restaurants and world-renowned accommodations to its acres of rainforest and windswept coastlines, the artisan Sooke community offers endless possibilities: • stroll along the sandy shorelines, ideal for beachcombing and uncovering marine treasures; • rent a kayak and tour the Sooke basin, which expands into the open waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca; • take to open water to observe Orcas, Humpback and Grey whales, Elephant Seals and other marine life in their natural habitat; • embark on a fishing charter and ‘catch’ your dinner; • watch the Harbour Seals hover around the fish cleaning stations at a local marina; • enjoy the ambience while you sip honey wine at a local meadery; • pamper yourself at one of Sooke’s tranquil spas; and, • visit a local artist’s studio.

Hike and explore East Sooke Regional Park’s more than 3,500 acres of ancient coastal rainforest.

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Photos: Jason van der Valk. Copy Seana van der Valk

Contents Region’s Annual Events ...................................... 4-5 Emergency / Churches .......................................... 6 East Sooke .......................................................8-10 Sooke ........................................................... 12-39 Galloping Goose Trail ..................................... 16-17 Sooke Region Museum (the region’s past) . 11, 15, 23, 27 Sooke Potholes .............................................. 20, 21 Arts in the Community ................................... 18-19 Ed Macgregor Park ..............................................24 Sooke Marine Boardwalk .....................................25 Outdoor Adventures ............................................26 Sooke to Port Renfrew Map ............................ 28-29 Sooke Core Map .................................................31 Camping ............................................................32 Whiffin Spit .................................................. 34-35 Secret Spots in Sooke ...........................................36 Regional Trails ....................................................37 Beaches & Parks ..................................................38 Sooke Bed & Breakfast Directory .........................39 Otter Point ....................................................40-41 Shirley .......................................................... 42-45 Jordan River .................................................. 46-47 Port Renfrew.................................................. 48-50 Port Renfrew Map ..............................................50 Pacific Marine Circle Route & Map ................. 51-53 West Coast Trail ..................................................52 Wildlife in the region ..........................................54

Ryan Landa photo

Let us help you explore the region Sooke - Port Renfrew offers something for everyone, beautiful beaches, big trees, regional parks, wildlife watching, sports fishing, cycling, adventure. The area offers romantic bed and breakfasts and fine dining, browsing the local galleries and shops, or enjoying a leisurely beach walk. Visitors are attracted to our many beautifully situated campsites. Info at Sooke Visitor Centre 250-642-6351.

World Class Hiking

Octavian Lacatusu photo

For serious hikers, the region offers world class hikes, the 47 km Juan de Fuca Trail and the 74 km West Coast Trail. Information is available at the Sooke Visitor Centre and at www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pacificrim

Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Sooke Region 2016/17 Ann Year Round April 2 April 3 April 9-17 April 10–29 April 16 April 30 April 30

Lighthouse Walk Program-Volksport 10km Walk Business Excellence Awards Gala, Sooke River 10km & Series awards, V.I. Runners Assoc.

Consider the Lilies Fibre Arts Show Art i Facts Family Arts Fair, 10th Annual Sooke Rotary Auction Mark Stuart, Sooke Folk Music Society Concert Series

Pick up info at Western Foods Sooke Region Chamber Best Western Premier Prestige Hotel Edward Milne Community School (Old) St. Mary’s Church, Metchosin Sooke Region Museum SEAPARC Leisure Complex SEAPARC Leisure Complex Holy Trinity Anglican Church

250-642-4515 250-642-6112 info@vira.bc.ca 250-642-2058 250-642-6745 250-642-8000 250-642-5784 250-642-4568

May 7 Duck Day at the Flats, 10th Ann. Rubber Duck Race May 7 Candlelight Vigil May8 Battle of the Atlantic & VE Day Ceremony May 13-15 Sooke Community Choir Concert “All You Need is Love” May 21 Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House May 28-29 Sooke Saltwater Series Halibut Derby May 28 or 29 Honeybee Awareness Day, 12:00 – 5:00

Sooke Harbourside Lions Club at Sooke River Campground Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 Sooke Community Hall Holy Trinity Anglican Church www.sookesaltwaterseries.ca Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery

250-888-3701 250-642-2052 250-642-2052

June 2 June 5 June 17-19 June 17 June 18 June 18 June 19 June 26 Jn 30-Jly 3

Sooke Region Museum www.sookesecretgardens.com www.sookebluegrass.com Sooke Community Hall www.victoriagranfondo.com Holy Trinity Anglican Church Whiffin Spit Park Sooke Region Museum www.talltreemusicfestival.com

250-642-6351

Thursday Night Markets begin. Every Thurs ‘till Sept 1st Sooke Philharmonic’s Secret Garden Tour Sooke River Bluegrass Festival Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra - Midsummer Magic Victoria Gran Fondo Cycling Event-Pacific Marine Circle Route Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House Dog Walk, Harbourside Lions fundraiser for Guide Dogs Sooke Region Museum Open House & Salmon BBQ Tall Trees Music Festival (19 yrs or over), Port Renfrew

July 1 Sooke Canada Day Celebrations July 1 Port Renfrew Canada Day Celebrations Early July Stick Fest 2016 July 10 “Philharmonic Fling”, Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra July 16 Car Show and Swap & Shop, Fundraiser for Sooke Fall Fair Jul 22-Aug 1 Sooke Fine Arts Show 2016, Sooke Fine Arts Society Aug 1 Aug 13 Aug 21

4

BC Day Art in the Park, Sooke Community Arts Council Shirley Day – A Celebration of Life

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

250-642-4568 250-642-1956

250-419-3569 250-642-4568 250-642-3337 250-642-6351

Sooke River Campground The Stick in the Mud Coffee House Ed Macgregor Park Sooke River Campground SEAPARC Leisure Complex Ed Macgregor Park Shirley Community Hall

250-642-5635 250-419-3569 www.sookefallfair.ca 250-642-7256 250-664-7169 250-646-2730

nual Events Sept 3 9th Annual Beach Art Festival, Sooke Comm. Arts Coun.

Sept 10-11 Sooke Fall Fair Sept 17 Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House

Whiffin Spit Park Sooke Community Hall Holy Trinity Anglican Church

250-642-7169 250-812-2830 250-642-4568

Oct 1 Oct 8 Oct 15 Oct 31

Oktoberfest, Sooke District Lioness Club Sooke Saltwater Series Coho Derby Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House Safe Halloween

Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 www.sookesaltwaterseries.ca Holy Trinity Anglican Church

250-642-7158

Nov 10 Nov 11 Nov 13 Nov 19 Nov 18-20

Candlelight Vigil at Sooke Cenotaph Remembrance Day Parade & Ceremonies Shirley Christmas Craft Fair Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House All Sooke Arts & Crafts Christmas Show

Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 Shirley Community Hall Holy Trinity Anglican Church Sooke Community Hall

250-642-2052 250-642-2052 250-646-2730 250-642-4568

Dec 4 Dec 17 Dec 26

Moss Cottage Christmas & Snowman Building Event Sooke Folk Music Society, Coffee House Sooke Saltwater Series Boxing Day Derby

Sooke Region Museum Holy Trinity Anglican Church www.sookesaltwaterseries.ca

250-642-6351 250-642-4568

Jan 1 Jan 1 Jan Jan

New Year’s Levee Polar Bear Swim “Hard Times Dance” Robert Burns Night

Royal Canadian Legion Br #54 Whiffin Spit Park Sooke Community Hall Royal Canadian Legion Br #54

250-642-2052 250-642-6211 250-642-3378 250-642-2052

Feb Feb Feb

Song and Surf IX, Music Festival, Port Renfrew Seedy Saturday, Sooke Food CHI “A Taste of BC”, Sooke Harbourside Lions Club

www.songandsurf.com www.sookefoodchi.ca stephjenkins@shaw.ca

Mar or Apr March March Mar or Apr

Shirley Community Spring Craft Fair Giant Yard Sale, Sooke District Lioness Club Sooke Folk Music Society, Concert Series Easter Eggstravaganza

Shirley Community Hall Sooke Community Hall Holy Trinity Anglican Church SEAPARC Leisure Complex

250-642-4568

2017

250-646-2730 250-642-7158 250-642-4568 250-642-8000

Dates are subject to change. Please check with the Sooke Visitor Centre 250-642-6351 or 1-866-888-4748 or the Sooke Region Tourism Association website www.sooke-portrenfrew.com for “Events”.

Sooke to Port Renfrew

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EMERGENCY. . . . . . . . .911 NON EMERGENCY Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-5241 Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 595-9911 FIRE DEPARTMENTS Sooke Fire Hall #1 (main/Chief ’s office). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-5422 Fire Hall #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-5611 East Sooke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-4411 Otter Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-6211 Shirley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 646-2107 Forest Fire Reports . . . . . . . . 1-800-663-5555 Animal Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 250 478-0624

Church Services Church Services

2016

KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 2110 Church Road. Phone: 250-642 4124 Praise Singing: 10:15 am Sunday, Sunday Service: 10:30 am SOOKE BAPTIST CHURCH 7110 West Coast Road. Phone: 250-642-3424 Sunday Family Worship: 10:00 am Including KidZone & Nursery, Life Groups Available www.sookebaptistchurch.com ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC PARISH 2191 Townsend Road. V9Z 0H4 Phone: 250-642-3945 Fax:778-425-3945 Saturday Mass: 4:00 pm, Sunday Mass: 9:00 am, Thursday 10:30 am Office Hours: Tues 12-3, Wed 10-12 & Thurs 1-3 Website: www.strosesooke.org email: info@strosesooke.org

District of Sooke Municipal Office General Enquiries . . . . . . . . . . . 250 642-1634

HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH 1962 Murray Road. Phone: 250-642-3172 Holy Communion and Church School: Sunday 10:00 am www.holytrinitysookebc.org

Capital Regional District Regional Director . . . . . . . . . . .

Building Inspection . . . . . . . . .

Community Planning . . . . . . .

Parks & Recreation. . . . . . . . . .

THE BAHA’I FAITH 250-642-7992 Devotions, Children’s Classes, Study Circles, Discussion Evening, Home Visits, Junior Youth classes (10-14 year olds) Email: sooke.lsa@gmail.com

250 642-1633 250 642-1616 250 642-1620 250 642-8000

BC Public Health Nursing Line . . . . . . . . . . .

1-866-215-4700 Social Development & Economic Security . . . . . 250 642-8640 Library (Sooke Branch) . . . . . .

Museum (Sooke Region) . . . . .

Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sooke Visitor Centre . . . . . . . .

Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

250 642-3022 250 642-6351 250 642-3013 250 642-6351 250 642-6112

ST. MARY’S CHURCH Port Renfrew CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY 6851 West Coast Road. V9Z 0V2 Phone: 250-642-4822 or 604-530-7344 Sunday Service: 10:30 am, Children’s Church & Nursery Provided Other Programs Available JUAN DE FUCA SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 6251 Sooke Road. Phone: 778-425-2403 Saturday Service: Sabbath School 9:15 am, Divine Worship 11:00 am, Fellowship Lunch Follows Sabbath Service SOOKE KINGDOM HALL of JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES 2207 Church Road. Phone: 250-642-7272 or 250-883-5522 Public Talk Service Sunday 10:00 am Mid-week meeting, Thursday 7:30 pm

The Sooke to Port Renfrew Visitors Guide by Sooke News Mirror in co-operation with

Sooke Region Tourism Association

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Sooke News Mirror 250-642-5752

PUBLISHER, Rod Sluggett publisher@sookenewsmirror.com SALES, Kel Phair sales@sookenewsmirror.com EDITORIAL & PHOTOS Sooke Museum & Sooke Mirror Staff PRODUCTION, Ryan Landa

Welcome The region from East Sooke to Port Renfrew and beyond offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

It’s what we call Wild By Nature.

The incredible beauty of the natural wild spaces, the animals and the ocean make this a place one does not soon forget. Mix in the cultural diversity and wealth of creative spirit and you get an experience which you will cherish for years to come.

Every part of the region has something to tempt the adventurous person in all of us. Whether it is hiking along the many trails and shorelines or discovering the talented artists, the Sooke region is an untrampled and an unspoiled community of interesting and talented characters.

Each year Highway 14 and the Pacific Marine Circle Route take visitors through some of the most stunning scenic areas, many yet undiscovered by the throngs. From camping in our incredible provincial and national parks to dining in our world-famous restaurants, the area is a breath of fresh air for those who value small town charm and sense of community.

Whale watching, fishing, hiking, swimming, cycling, kayaking and beachcombing are all here, as are artisans, country markets, interesting retail shops and friendly people.

Stay a while and get a feel for the West Coast as it was and will be.

We are Wild By Nature in any season and we welcome you.

Home of the Island’s Best Guinness Pint Award

Receive 15% OFF your food purchase with this coupon.

Limited items, dine-in only.

Expires April, 2017

Ryan Landa photo

Sooke to Port Renfrew

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East Sooke As much as it is a part of the Sooke Region, the East Sooke peninsula is without doubt a fascinating and unique world all on its own.

Most popular is East Sooke Regional Park, a prime attraction for hikers who wish to take in the gorgeous sight of Sooke’s harbour, but also want an easy view of the colossal Olympic Mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The park is also home to sheltered coves, windswept outcroppings and hilltops providing great views of the surrounding area.

Popular trails include the challenging Coast Trail, the Creyke Point and Beecher Bay trail that often provides neat sightings of river otters and intertidal life. Anderson Cove is also a popular access point, offering trails into East Sooke Park, as well as Babbington Hill and Mount Maguire.

Every September, East Sooke Regional Park’s Beechey Head becomes a site of eye candy for birdwatchers as Raptors congregate on their migration route across the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Woodcock Road of East Sooke Road is home to one of the best haunted Halloween events on Vancouver Island. At the end of October, “Eerie Acres”, a “haunted” house and cemetery attraction will both entertain and scare you with terrifying effectiveness.

East Sooke Regional Park If you are seeking solitude somewhere untouched by urban progress, you will find it in East Sooke Regional Park. This park encompasses 1,422 hectares (3,512 acres) of natural and protected coastal landscape. Within the park you will find 50 km of trails, many of which offer views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. They also provide access to sheltered coves, windswept outcroppings, dry hilltops and dark rain forests.

Hiking is a favourite activity in the park as is bird watching. Turkey vultures, red-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, osprey, bald eagles and numerous other birds are often spotted as they migrate during the peak month of September.

The Aylard Farm entrance provides access to a sandy “pocket” beach. The strenuous 10 km Coastal Trail begins here. A gentler trail leads to Creyke Point and Becher Bay. Watch for river otters and intertidal life. There are accessible toilets at the trailhead and a picnic area with a shelter.

Anderson Cove Parking lot off East Sooke Road provides trails to the interior of the park as well as to Babbington Hill and Mount Maguire.

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The Trail from Pike Road parking lot is an old logging road that winds through forests and meadows to the beach at Iron Mine Bay. This is a relatively easy 20 minute walk.

Please observe the following park etiquette provided by CRD Parks: • Stay on designated trails • Do not remove or disturb animals or plants • Dogs must be controlled and on the trail • Pick up after your dog • Leave no trace and carry out litter • Bicycles, motorized vehicles, smoking, camping, open fires and alcohol are prohibited within the park While in East Sooke visit historic Ragley Farm at 5717 East Sooke Road. Ragley Farm was built in 1912 by Rev. and Lady Emily Walker. It is reported that Lady Emily had once been a very close friend to King George V. Here you can purchase fresh produce, dried fruits and fresh eggs. On Saturdays from April to December, customers can purchase freshly baked bread, pies and muffins straight from an outdoor masonry oven.

NOW OPEN

Lunch

11am-4pm Wed-Mon (Closed Tues)

Dinner

5-9pm Thurs-Mon

Mountain Springs Retreat Secluded serene home on private lake.

Hot tub, Fireplace, Internet, Phone.

2 Queen bedrooms. Swim, fly-fish, BBQ. Adjacent to East Sooke Park sandy beach and West Coast hiking trails.

Also B&B suite in host’s home.

Wood Art Studio.

288 Becher Bay Rd. Sooke BC www.mountainspringsretreat.com info@mountainspringsretreat.com

Michael Matti photo

250.642.6541 I 1.888.642.6541 Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

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Sooke P hilharmonic NORMAN NELSON - Conductor & Musical Director

Secret Garden Tour Sunday June 5, 10 am-4pm Self-guided tour with ticket/map 9 Unique Gardens and more!

Tickets and info 250.642.6747 sookesecretgardens.com

Midsummer Magic

Our past Sooke, which in 1849 had the distinction of welcoming the first independent immigrant settler in the new colony that would become BC, also was able to boast the second school in the province, following a few months after Metchosin School in 1872. It stood in the centre of Sooke overlooking the harbour.

Friday June 17 Sooke Community Hall Saturday June 18 Royal Bay Secondary School Soloist: Alana Despins

Philharmonic Fling Sunday July 10 Gates open at 1 pm Concert starts at 2:30 pm Ed Macgregor Park 6751 West Coast Road SPO info, ticket outlets, season brochure: Sooke 250-419-3569 • sookephil.ca • info@sookephil.ca

Making Harmony...Naturally

“ME & YOU” BY ELLEN STATZ

| 2015 DESIGNER’S CHOICE

VA N C O U V E R I S L A N D ’ S P R E M I E R S U M M E R A R T S E V E N T

Jul 22 – Aug 1, 2016 SEAPARC LE LEISURE COM COMPLE PLEX X • Sooke, BC 375 works of art | live music | daily artist demos | special events sookefinearts.com Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Sooke

Sooke Region The District of Sooke is the West Coast at its best, offering natural beauty at every turn.

Sooke’s popularity as a scenic tourist destination has existed for generations. Well-known destinations in Sooke, such as Whiffin Spit Park, the Sooke Potholes Regional Park, and adjacent Sooke Potholes Provincial Park attract visitors both locally and from around the world.

The area’s popularity has increased as a base for visiting the wilderness parks of Vancouver Island’s southwest coast — the West Coast Trail and Juan de Fuca Provincial Park which includes the now highly popular Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.

Sooke is also famous for it’s beaches just on the outskirts of it’s neighbouring communities of Shirley and Jordan River. These beaches include Sandcut, French Beach, Ryan Landa photo

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Fishboat Bay, China Beach, Mystic Beach, and more.

The Galloping Goose Regional Trail, part of the TransCanada Trail, runs through Sooke and is a popular cycling route to Victoria.

Looking for some culture? Sooke has that covered, too, with a thriving mix of restaurants, shops, and galleries.

The vibrant arts community of Sooke enjoys the annual Sooke Fine Arts Show (in its 30th year in 2016) which brings hundreds of tourists to Sooke each summer by featuring the adjudicated art of local and regional artists. Sooke is known for its wealth of painters, writers, sculptors, potters, fabric artists and jewelery crafters What’s special about Sooke is that it has it all, in a surprisingly affordable package. From hotel room rates to restaurant menus, experiences are generally less expensive and more accessible here than in Vancouver and Victoria.

Jock’s Dock Quick, Safe & Most of all Friendly!

In the Sooke River Hotel beside the bridge

250-642-7900

6 passenger Taxi Vans Special Event Shuttle Service

Trail Head Pick Up & Drop Off We also Deliver!

East Sooke

To

@castleliquor

Huge selection of craft beer, wine and spirits Open daily from 9am-11pm

Port Renfrew

www.sooketaxi.ca

250-642-5055 • castleliquorstore.com

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

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Seaparc Leisure Complex

SEAPARC LEISURE COMPLEX 2168 Phillips Road, Sooke, BC 250.642.8000

(Next to the Sooke Region Museum & Visitor Information Centre)

This beautiful complex offers a 25 m pool, hot tub, sauna, tots pool, an ice arena, showers and daily drop-in aquafit and aerobics classes.

Check us out online at: www.seaparc.ca Visit us on facebook!

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

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Welsh Farming While the fishing and forest industries provided the paycheques, farming was a way of life in the region.

Subsistence farms were pretty traditional for most early families. As well, there were dairy farms, poultry farms, mink farms, sheep farms and produce crops that produced revenue. Pioneer William Welsh is mowing hay in the centre of Sooke.

PHILLIPS BROTHERS TRUCK When the Phillips farm alongside the Sooke River was settled in the 1860s, the family engaged in logging as a livelihood, felling the massive trees of the rainforest.

This 1920s photo shows one of the most-valued logs, a Douglas-fir. Today’s major subdivision of Sun River has risen exactly where the truck sits.

BRITISH COLUMBIA ARTS COUNCIL

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Galloping Goose and Lochside Regional Trails LEGEND Galloping Goose Regional Trail

Parking Toilets (may be seasonal)

Lochside Regional Trail

Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Ferries to Tsawwassen and Gulf Islands)

Satellite Channel Ecological Reserve

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Wild By Nature

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Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites

Albert Head Lagoon Regional Park

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40 Ayum Creek Regional Park Reserve

Roche Cove Regional Park

16

Switch Bridge

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Cedar Hill Park

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Blenkinsop Trestle

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Heritage Acres

Bear Hill Regional Park

Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional Park Reserve

Mavis Lake

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Victoria International Airport

S a a n i c h

Regional Parks Other Parks and Protected Areas

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

Horth Hill Regional Park

Information

SALMON & HALIBUT Fishing charters in Sooke call

250-885-7107

vancouverislandfishingtrips.com

R US H

Galloping Goose Trail Walk, ride, run or cycle on one of the region’s bestknown trails.

Dedicated in 1989, the Galloping Goose Trail lies on the route of a railway grade that was established after the First World War, hauling logs and lumber from the forests. Named after the gas car that ran on the line during the 1920s, carrying passengers between Victoria and Sooke Lake.

Part of the Trans-Canada “Rails to Trails” system, this trail allows users to travel 55 kms from Victoria to the area where the former gold rush community of Leechtown was located. Offering spectacular views of the ocean, basin, lakes, rivers, forests and canyons, the trail provides access to several parks, such as the Sooke Potholes and Matheson Lake Regional Park, and bird watching opportunities.

CE RT IFI ED GU IDE S

ON S TO UR S HO UR LY RE NTAL S LE SS 25 0 64 2 21 59

RU SH -A DV EN TU RE S.c om

SOOKE PORT RENFREW RENFREW SOOKE • JORDAN JORDON RIVER • SOMBRIO SOMBRIO •• PORT

WE DARE YOU TO FIND A BETTER PATIO!

WESTC WESTCOAST ADVENTURE

COLLEGE CHOOSE YOUR OWN PATH T Octavian Lacatusu photo

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

17

Arts in the community Sooke’s pioneer-era days dictate a community of

Call ahead and will but have it ready for you! logging, fishing andwe mining, today the district 250-642-0733 / 6250 SOOKE RD contains a pool of talented musicians, painters, sculptors

Speaking of world-class, Sooke is also home to the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra, easily one of the most elegant, talented and captivating orchestras on the South Vancouver Island. Performances are held all throughout the year, in Sooke, Colwood, Langford, Metchosin, and View Royal.

and artists of every kind.

11am-9pm all week As such, one can enjoy a music concert, an art show, SUMMER HOURS—MAY 25-Labour Day or a live theatre performance, all right here in town and UNTIL 11-7PM within MAY a stone24: throw away. MON-SAT/11-6PM SUN In need of some theatre?

From classic numbers such GRILL HOURS as Alice in Wonderland, Pirates of Penzance, to the hilarious British of Fawlty Towers, the Sooke SOFT ICE humor CREAM AND SUNDAES Harbour Players have been putting on hilarious, entertaining and memorable performances in town since GLUTEN-FREE ITEMS AVAILABLE 1982. Performances are often held at the Edward Milne Community School theatre.

BRITISH-STYLE FISH N’CHIPS (HALIBUT) For some fine art, you can enjoy, the Sooke Fine Arts Show held every July at the SEAPARC Leisure Complex arena. Here visitors are introduced to a world-class art GOURMET BURGERS MADE TO ORDER display that rivals the most prestigious art galleries. A live music concertTAKE and gourmet food MENU alongside a unique art OUT experience makes for a day to remember.

Sooke Fine Arts Octavian Lacatusu photos

Convenience Store TAKE OUT MENU

TAKE OUT MENU

GOURMET BURGERS MADE TO ORDER

GOURMET BURGERS MADE TO ORDER

We specialize inN’CHIPS (HALIBUT) BRITISH-STYLE FISH

Sooke Cabaret

UK groceries and candy BRITISH-STYLE FISH N’CHIPS (HALIBUT) GLUTEN-FREE ITEMS AVAILABLE

Juan de Fuca Salmon Restoration Society Charters River Salmon Interpretive Centre SOFT ICE CREAM AND SUNDAES GLUTEN-FREE ITEMS AVAILABLE “L W STOT A LEW” GRILL HOURS

SOFT ICE CREAM AND SUNDAES UNTIL MAY 24: 11-7PM MON-SAT/11-6PM SUN

GRILL HOURS 6250 Sooke Road

SUMMER HOURS—MAY 25-Labour Day 11am-9pm all week

UNTIL MAY 24: 11-7PM MON-SAT/11-6PM SUN 250.642.6587

250-642-0733 / 6250 SOOKE RD sales@ukfoodscanada.com Call ahead and we will have it ready for you!

SUMMER HOURS—MAY 25-Labour Day

18

11am-9pm all week

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild

By Nature 250-642-0733 / 6250 SOOKE RD

Tours Available

Open July-November

250.642.4200

admin@jdfcharterssalmon.com www.salmonforsooke.ca

EAT. DRINK. LISTEN... RELAX.

• Fine food, wine & cocktails • Local beers on tap

Sooke Philharmonic

Kevin Laird photo

SOOKE REGION MUSEUM Fine Art and Crafts - Jewelry - Books First Nations Jewelry and Sculpture Open Daily 9-5 pm

• Casual atmosphere, great service, great music • 3 TVs to watch all the sports action

Seasonal menu by Executive Chef James Dahnke Kids menu Gluten free options Lunch and dinner

Open Daily from 11:30am 2070 Phillips Road, Sooke Turn at the Traffic Light by the Historic Lighthouse Phone 250 642 6351 Toll Free 1-866-888-4748

778.352.1414

6686 Sooke Road route14sooke.com Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

19

Sooke Potholes Whether it’s hiking, biking, swimming and breathtaking scenery you’re after, the Sooke Potholes are easily one of Sooke’s biggest natural attractions all year long.

What are the Potholes anyway? Carved by the Sooke River over the course of thousands of years, the picturesque rock trench formed almost perfectly-cylindrical indentations in the rock surface resembling - you got it - potholes.

During winter, visitors can enjoy the roar and fury of the Sooke River, while in the summer, calmer waters reveal pools for swimming, which, of course, go hand in hand with beaches you can enjoy in the sun, and trails that stretch out in every direction.

That, of course, includes one of the greatest trails in the Sooke Region, the Galloping Goose Trail, a former railway bed that connects Sooke, Victoria and Leechtown, a gold-rush era ghost town.

But for all its natural beauty, the Potholes also hold a not-sonatural attraction. Standing near the edge of the cliff are the skeletal concrete remains of a bold resort complex known as the Deertrail Resort, a proposed paradise deep in the woods that never reached completion. Beaten by nature, time and graffiti, its half-finished monolithic chimney still stands today. One can see why this was to be such an attractive place for a quick weekend getaway; just on the other side lies a picturesque rock

NOW OPEN

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A fresh new style, spacious aisles & more services. your everyday needs including health and beauty advice.

Fresh for you.

Food & beverage

pharmacy Tina Kang and her Pharmacy Team invite you to discover a whole new approach to health and wellness at your new Shoppers Drug Mart® Pharmacy.

Enjoy a fresh experience every day in our convenient food and beverage section.

You’ll find all your basic essentials including milk, eggs and juice plus delicious frozen entrees which offer great meals in minutes.

Beautiful You

Post Office

From your favourite tried-andtrue mascara to the latest moisturizers, fragrances and more, our cosmetics department is brimming with beauty. And if you’re not sure which lip colour suits your skin tone, our Beauty Experts are there to help unveil a more beautiful you.

Need to send a package, buy a stamp or rent a mail box?

Drop by our in-store full-service Canada Post Office. We can take care of all your shipping needs plus we carry a vast selection of wrap, labels and envelopes to ensure your mail arrives safe and sound.

EVERGREEN SHOPPING CENTRE

OPEN

EEN SHOPPING CENTRE

6600 SOOKE ROAD www.shoppersdrugmart.ca

Full service postal outlet in store 250-642-5229 Open 8am to 10pm, 7 days a week

250-642-5229

RD.

20

renew

Sooke Port your to health + yourRenfrew beauty + your life

Wild By Nature

Sooke Fine Arts “Best In Jewellry 2009”

106, 6661 Sooke Road, Sooke, BC • 778-352-4438 bandksilversmith@shaw.ca CanadianGoldandSilver.com

Store Hours Open 8 am to 10 pm 7 days a week Pharmacist always on duty!

and forest chasm that extends as far as the eye can see.

Every now and then, the Capital Regional District (CRD) hosts a free guided hiking tour, which takes visitors on several popular trails that run alongside the Sooke Potholes and pass through unique and secluded beaches such as Pebble Beach, a beautiful crescent of sand just off the riverside. Here you will often find folks looking for gold thanks to its ease of access to the Sooke River.

In truth, the Sooke Potholes are more than just a mystic attraction; they’re a natural wonder filled with history, adventure, and of course, the occasional gold seeker.

Ryan Landa photos

www. .com

Your full service supermarket…

Groceries • Meat • Fish Dairy • Produce Bakery • Deli Counter • Bulk Food Floral Dept. • Lottery Open 7:30 am - 10 pm 7 days a week including holidays #103-6661 Sooke Road

250-642-2734 PROUD

MEMBER OF

SOOKE HARBOUR CHAMBER

OF

COMMERCE

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

21

22

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

Our past

Driving Highway 14 through the centre of Sooke today, you wouldn’t recognize the garage structure shown here, but the building in this photo, taken c1930, still stands and is once again a service garage where you’ll see vehicles on the hoists.

While models change, the need for automobile repairs generally remains in the forefront.

Lifeblood for the settlers of Vancouver Island’s west coast between 1913 and the 1950s was the CPR’s single screw vessel Princess Maquinna. Carrying passengers, mail and

supplies between Victoria and Port Alice, its weekly stop at Port Renfrew was eagerly welcomed. It wasn’t until 1958 that a road connected Port Renfrew to Sooke.

A Large selection of Natural and Organic products Visit our meat department for Ready Cook Gourmet Dishes Baked fresh daily buns, bread and sweet treats

OPEN 7 DAYS

7:30 am to 10:00 pm 6660 Sooke Road, Evergreen Shopping Centre 772 Goldstream Ave. Langford Centre

2

Sooke 2 for 1 Pizza andythepizzaman.ca 250.642.5451 250.642.3312 or 250.588.0915 Sooke, B.C.

Since 1997 Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

23

Ed Macgregor Park This park was an early purchase by the District of Sooke. After the passing of Sooke’s first mayor in 2003, it was renamed in tribute, the Ed Macgregor Park.

The park’s entrance is marked by a trio of historic pillars that were moved from the site of the old Belvedere Hotel, which once stood on the headland above the current Sooke River Hotel. The entrance also includes a mosaic created by artists working with students of Journey Middle School.

The park is a testament to volunteers who have assisted with the ongoing work undertaken by contractors for the municipality. Located at 6765 West Coast Road, with a parking lot nearby, the 2 acre park has now been provincially designated as Sooke’s Spirit Square, and stretches via a zig zag switchback ramp to the harbourfront, making it somewhat wheelchair accessible. The park trail then circles up toward the town center again via Murray Road, where it is highlighted by a feature monument.

24

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

Marine Boardwalk Stretching along the water from Ed Macgregor Park to the foot of Murray Road is the marine boardwalk. It is quickly becoming a place for ramblers and strollers, walkers and watchers.

Opened early in 2008, the boardwalk allows locals and travellers to enjoy the waterfront views along Sooke Harbour stretching towards Billings Spit and Whiffin Spit. With the Olympic Mountains as a stunning backdrop, the spot is picture perfect.

Built alongside the Rotary Pier, the boardwalk complements the pier, offering another vantage point.

The Rotary Pier and Marine Boardwalk are popular places to drop a fishing line or just rest and enjoy the seascape.

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Great Food - Friendly Service

Great Food - Friendly Service

The Royal Canadian Legion Br. #54 Phone: 250- 642-5913

   

“The Friendliest Legion on the Island” Bona Fide guests always welcome.

KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAYGrill Grill Legion Riders info at office

Great Food - Friendly Service

Food - Friend MEAT Great DRAW

Join us in our cozy, open-kitchen dining room for Join us in our cozy, open-kitchen dining room for excellent selection of lunch and dinner items an excellent selection of lunch and dinner items Every Saturday at 3:00PM us in our cozy, open-kitchen dining roomanfor in our andJoin great us Burgers too! cozy, open-kitc and great Burgers too!

in n excellent selection of lunch and dinner items Sunday anBrunch excellent selection Enjoy our Nightly fresh sheet Enjoy our Nightly fresh sheet 9am - 12pmof lunch tantalizing specials too! of tantalizing specialsand great Burger andofgreat Burgers Lunch from 11am to 4:30pm daily

EnjoyDinner our Served Nightly fresh 430 to 830pm sheet of tantalizing specials

Casual Dining - Kids Welcome 2038 from Otter Point Roadto (at4:30pm Sooke Road) Lunch 11am daily Sooke BC Dinner 430 830pm For Served Reservations and to Info 642-0566 Visit our Website at: www.stonepipegrill.com

Casual Dining - Kids Welcome 2038 Otter Point Road (at Sooke Road) Sooke BC For Reservations and Info

FRIDAY NIGHT 7:30PM Lunch from 11am to 6PM 4:30pm-daily

Enjoy Dinner Served 430 to 830pm our

Nightly fre of tantalizing spe

STEAK NIGHT

Casual Dining - Kids Welcome WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS 2038 Otter Point Road (at Sookefrom Road) 11am to 4:3 Lunch Sooke BC Dinner Served 430 t DROP-IN For Reservations EVENTS and Info Free Pool &642-0566 Shuffleboard Every Day Visit our Website www.stonepipegrill.com ~ at: Darts ~ Texas Holdem Poker Crib ~ Euchre

Casual Dining - Kids W 2038 Otter Point Road (a Sooke to Port Renfrew 25 BC Sooke Wild By Nature For Reservations a

Outdoor Adventures

Exploring the region The region from East Sooke to Port Renfrew and beyond offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. From world class beaches to hiking trails they are all here along the wild west coast of Vancouver Island.

Hiking trails, which challenge outdoor enthusiasts, come in all areas and offer afternoon or multi-day adventures. The Juan de Fuca Trail skirts the strait for 47 kilometres and the 74 km West Coast Trail is legendary.

Cycling, wildlife viewing, zip lining, whale watching, fine dining or simply relaxing are here for the doing. Visitors are offered everything from rustic to charming romantic B&Bs, from a modern hotel to beach or riverside camping. Whether you are there for water-related excursions or scenic vistas, shopping or art, Sooke to Port Renfrew offers it all in a friendly, relaxed West Coast way.

2016

Sooke Fall Fair has it’s finger on the Pulses but we are full of Beans

Fall Fair Fundraiser Show & Shine Car Show & Swap Meet Sooke Flats, July 16 , 2016 Sooke River Campground, 10 am –2 pm Entertainment & concession

Saturday Sept. 10 1– 6 pm Sunday Sept. 11 10 –5 pm Sooke Community Hall & Upper Legion Hall www.sookefallfair.ca

Unspoiled and untamed, Sooke to Port Renfrew is Wild by Nature.

6858 West Coast Rd, Sooke, BC, V9Z0V2 Pub 250-642-3333 Daily at 11am Liquor Store 250-642-0290 Daily 9am-11pm buffys@shaw.ca / www.buffys.ca

T. J. Watt photo

26

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

A collection of original fine art by Vancouver Island artists Paintings, prints, ceramics, glass, metal work, jewelry, wearable art, fibre art plus unique gifts and art supplies.

Open Monday Thru Saturday 10 am – 5 pm

South Shore

Gallery 250.642.2058

2046 Otter Point Rd. Sooke southshoregallery.ca

sookesouthshoregallery

Home Style Cooking Our industrious past

for the whole family

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Take Out

After World War II, the local forest industry was beginning to become highly mechanized. One of the major forest employers was Butler Brothers, an innovative company. This massive off-road truck they designed and built, called Mark V, could carry 100 tons on the deck and another 100 tons on the pup trailer.

2036 Shields Rd., Sooke

250-642-3314

All your Pharmacy Needs Plus: • Giftware • Books & Magazines • Souvenirs • Local Area Maps • Snacks • Hiking Guides • Lottery • Toys • Photo Supplies

Cedar Grove Shopping Centre 8-6716 Sooke Road

250-642-2226 Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

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28

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

29

T.J. Watt photo

Luxury and spacious 2, 3, & 4 bedroom waterfront accommodations in Sooke, BC. • 2 outdoor Hot Tubs • 114 Slip Marina • Moorage up to 50ft.

• Short & Long Term Rentals • Onsite Fishing Charters • Boat Launch

www.SookeHarbourMarina.ca

Stay 3 Nights for the price of 2 in 2016 when you mention this ad!*

250-642-3236

*Some Restrictions Apply. Ask for Details.

30

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Wild By Nature

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VISITOR CENTRE 2070 Phillips Road, V9Z 0Y3 250-642-6351 1-866-888-4748 info@sookeregionmuseum.com

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MAIN ROADS & PACIFIC MARINE CIRCLE TOUR SECONDARY ROADS

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

31

Camping The warm and sun-filled days of spring and summer are here, so why not start off the camping season with some of the most picturesque and unique camping grounds on Vancouver Island?

For an all-natural experience of the deep woods and breathtaking scenery, check out the Sooke Pot Holes Campground. The site provides super-easy access to a plethora of hiking and biking trails, as well as the Galloping Goose Trail. Here, visitors can enjoy the natural splendor of the Sooke Potholes, with numerous opportunities for swimming and tanning on nearby beaches by the riverside.

Further west, take in the ancient beauty of the West Coast rainforest while enjoying the cool and soul-fresh breeze of the Pacific Ocean at French Beach, China Beach and Jordan River campgrounds. Some say China Beach is home to countless rare fossils that have been revealed over hundreds of years by the ocean’s relentless waves There are a variety of campgrounds from Sooke to Port Renfrew, both private and provincially operated.

Most are seasonal, so check opening times. Reservations can be made in the Provincial campgrounds by contacting the Discover Camping reservation service at www.discovercamping.ca or 1-800-689-9025.

Sunny Shores and the Sooke River Campground both offer RV hookups.

Sooke River Campground is operated by the Sooke Community Association.

It hosts a number of community events including Canada Day celebrations and music festivals. This campground has a sani-station. The campground within the Sooke Potholes Regional Park will accommodate tents and RV’s up to 26 feet in length but has no hookups.

Please confirm 2016 opening.

French Beach Provincial Park is 20

kilometre west of Sooke. It offers 69 vehicle campsites nestled in the forest.

This campground has pit toilets.

Drinking water and fire wood are available only during the summer although the campground is open year round. There’s a group campsite also available. Sani-station on Highway 14 just west of the park entrance.

Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is comprised of 1,528 hectares offering 78 vehicle accessible campsites at China Beach and six walk/hike-in wilderness campsites along the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Wilderness campsites are located at Mystic, Bear, China and Sombrio beaches. Forest campsites along the trail are located at Little Kuitche and Payzant Creeks.

China Beach campground is adjacent to Highway 14, 1 km east of the China Beach day-use area, and 35 km west

of Sooke. Try the one km forested trail from the campground to “Second Beach”. This trail has over 200 stairs and is well worth the effort. You’ll be rewarded with sights of huge trees, views of the Olympic Mountains and perhaps some wildlife.

The Pacheedaht Campground in Port Renfrew has tent sites and RV sites with hookups. Situated on Port San Juan, the beautiful sand beach stretches the length of the campground.

Two small forestry campsites are located along the route from Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan, part of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake campsites can accommodate both RVs and tents.

There are no hook-ups. Pit toilets and boat launches are found at both. Great swimming!

T. J. Watt photo

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Prestige Oceanfront Resort Sooke, BC | 250.642.0805 | www.PrestigeHotelsAndResorts.com West Coast Grill www.westcoastgrill.ca

Offering panoramic views of Sooke Harbour, Sooke Basin, Juan de Fuca Strait and the Olympic Mountains, Prestige Oceanfront Resort is an idyllic destination.

Le Sooke Spa www.lesookespa.com

Yesaki Wine & Raw Bar Featuring luxurious guestrooms, exceptional on-site food & beverage facilities, athletic club, indoor pool, hot tub, and meeting & banquet facilities.

Stick in the Mud Coffee House www.stickinthemud.ca

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Whiffin Spit A natural breakwater, sheltering Sooke Harbour from the rolling breakers of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Whiffin Spit is a finger-like projection of sediment formed from longshore drift. The pathway is moderately accessible for wheelchairs.

The Spit is reached via Whiffin Spit Road, off West Coast Road. At its base is Quimper Park, a memorial to the harbour’s early history.

A popular walk, about 20 minutes each way, the Spit affords views of the Sooke Harbour, Sooke Hills, East Sooke and the Olympic Mountains. A bird watcher’s paradise, the Spit attracts a variety of migratory birds in addition to many resident species. No matter the season, the remarkable views constantly attract walkers, providing glimpses of harbour seals, river otters, and occasional sea lions.

Winter walkers will discover a magical Christmas tree in December, adorned with whimsical ornaments and heritage treasures whose origins are always a mystery.

On New Year’s Day the Spit is home to a Polar Bear Swim.

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Pirjo Raits photo

Octavian Lacatusu photo

... featuring 28 artfully crafted ocean view rooms, a fine dining restaurant, art gallery, spa and bistro. Featuring regional cuisine from locally sourced ingredients, it has been celebrated by everyone from Conde Nast Traveller to Wine Spectator.

Visit our fine dining restaurant for a gourmet breakfast, lunch or dinner with amazing ocean views on your journey throughout the ancient old growth forests and discover a celebration of food like you've never had before.

Sooke Harbour House is located in the heart of the Juan de Fuca wilderness on the Pacific Marine Circle Route where hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts visit our spectacular beaches and beautiful rainforests.

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T.J. Watt photo

Secret spots in region Take a dip in the Sooke Basin without ever getting wet.

The slender strip of sand known as Whiffin Spit is a great place to get a little exercise in the morning. Away from the roar of traffic, visitors can enjoy the sunrise or get a chance to meet the locals on their own turf — and Fido can come along for the walk. Take a left off Sooke Road on Whiffin Spit Road and follow it to the end.

Past the sundial, amphitheatre and sculptures in the heart of Ed Macgregor Park, adventurous visitors will find a forest trail leading to a beautiful seaside retreat.

Built by the Sooke Rotary Club, with the help of youth workers from Sooke Works Employment Centre, the Rotary Pier offers a peaceful spot to stop for a midmorning snack.

And don’t forget to check out the peeling red bark of the arbutus trees, a rare West Coast feature abundant on Vancouver Island.

With vast expanses of rocky beachfront and fields of space to play, most heading to East Sooke Park for the day can easily enjoy the green fields without ever venturing onto its 50-kilometre trail system. But for those ready and willing to head off the beaten path, this rocky trail system offers hidden treasure. Follow the signs through the 10-kilometre Coast Trail to cliffs of ancient petroglyphs. Remnants of the Coast Salish peoples who inhabited Alldridge Point, the ancient markings speak of the first people to walk these woods

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and the messages they saw fit to leave behind.

Don’t forget to stop in the fields of Aylard Farm at the end for a break among the wild roses and the chance to spot a deer.

For an even older geological treat, head up the road to Muir Creek. At the easterly end of Shirley (Sooke side), park at Muir Creek and walk down to the mouth of the estuary (west side of the creek). At low tide, walk along the beach and you will find fossils preserved in the sandstone cliff face. Ocean tides will loosen pieces depositing them on the rocks below.

The ultimate Port Renfrew adventure hike, Botanical Beach impresses young and old with an overflowing intertidal belt of rounded pools carved into its sandstone beachfront. Brimming with sea life, the area boasts hundreds of species including royal purple sea stars and urchins, brown sea palm, mussels, gooseneck barnacles, and sea snails.

Surrounded by old-growth forest, this rare ecosystem rests among basaltic cliffs, specked with ridges of shale and quartz whose jagged surfaces pose an interesting challenge for those following the Juan de Fuca trail through to Port Renfrew. With plenty of hikes and remarkable views, there’s lots for visitors to see and do, but don’t forget to check the local tidal charts (found in The Sooke News Mirror) for low tide, and be sure to keep an eye on the water as the currents and waves can be dangerous— particularly for small children.

Regional Trails The Galloping Goose Regional Trail is one the region’s best known trails. The trail is 55 km long and runs from Victoria to the site of the 1864 gold rush known as Leechtown. The Galloping Goose, originally the route of a railway, was established after the First World War and used to haul logs and lumber from the timber rich areas on Southern Vancouver Island. It is now part of the “Trans-Canada Rails to Trails” system and was dedicated in 1989. With its gentle grade this park is perfect for walking, jogging, cycling and horseback riding. (Bring your own horse!)

Some favourite sections of the trail: • From Sooke Potholes Regional Park to the Todd Creek Trestle (2.2 km return). Enter from Sooke Potholes parking lot 2 and head south. (right) • Sooke River Road to Charters River Trestle (2 km return). The building you see from the trestle is the Charters River Interpretive Centre which is located

WE MAKE IT, BAKE IT OR GROW IT. EVERY SATURDAY MAY THROUGH OCTOBER 10 AM - 2PM Turn right at the Petro Canada (on Sooke Rd) onto Otter Point Rd, we are 50 metres from the intersection (opposite Eustace Rd). www.sookecountrymarket.com

at 2895 Sooke River Road.

• Roche Cove to Rocky Point Road (4.7 km one way).

Roche Cove parking lot is 2.7 km down Gillespie Road from Hwy 14.

In East Sooke Park: • Pike Road parking lot to Iron Mine Bay (1.5 km one way).

• Pike Road to Iron Mine Bay (1.5 km one way).

• Aylard Farm to Becher Bay (300m one way).

Octavian Lacatusu photo

stickinthemud.ca thesticksooke Stick in the Mud Coffee House thestickinthemud

Coffee. Beans. Food. Stuff.

COFFEE HOUSE • SPECIALTY ROASTER One and two half locations in Sooke Main Branch Up Otter Pt Rd off 14 Left on Eustace, we’re on the left 6am - 5pm weekdays 7:30am - 5pm weekends

New Branch in the lobby of the Prestige Hotel 7am - 1pm daily May - October

Speedstick is right next to Main Branch, for small orders when it’s busy 8:45-1 Daily, 7-2 Holidays

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Be prepared when hiking The weather on the West Coast is mild and temperate but it can change quickly and become wet and cool.

To enjoy what the region has to offer, follow a few common sense rules to enhance your experience.

• Dress in layers • Wear clothing that stays warm even if damp and dries quickly. Polar fleece is preferable to cotton.

• Think about your footwear. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are better than sandals.

Be safe when hiking: • Plan where you are going to go and stick to the plan.

• Keep an eye on the weather and dress accordingly.

• Get trail guides or park brochures for the area you will

Beaches and Parks Galloping Goose Regional Trail: 55 km in length.

Gentle grade makes this excellent for walking, cycling, jogging and horseback riding. Stretches from downtown Victoria to the upper reaches of the Sooke River.

East Sooke Regional Park: Day-use, no camping.

Offers some serious hiking trails and casual beach picnicking. Well-marked trails, precautions advised.

Take a cell phone*and a map.

Roche Cove Regional Park: 7 km of forested trails and picnic area at secluded beach. Try the Cedar Grove Trail for an invigorating hike.

Matheson Lake Regional Park: Excellent fishing and swimming, 3.8 km trail encircles the entire lake.

Galloping Goose skirts along the north side of the park.

Sooke Potholes: Waterfalls, clear pools perfect for swimming. Picnic areas. Adjacent to the Galloping Goose Trail. Campground.

Whiffin Spit Park: A walking trail popular with dog owners. Pit toilet, benches.

French Beach Provincial Park: with year ‘round campground, barbecue pits, playground for kids. 69 vehicle accessible campsites located in the forest about 5-10 minutes from the beach. Sani- station, pit toilets and fresh water.

Sandcut Beach/Jordan River Regional Park Reserve:

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be hiking in.

• Hike with a friend or a group.

• Stay on designated trails.

• Stay where you are if you get lost.

• Pack a cell phone.

If you drive to your hiking destination, be sure to lock your vehicle and place any valuables in your trunk before you get there.

If you plan on hiking for a good portion of the day, consider what you might need. Bring water and snacks, maps, tuck a large orange plastic bag in your pocket which could be useful if you need emergency shelter.

Remember sunscreen and any medications you may need. *Cell phones do not always work in remote areas and some roaming fees may be applied.

A short walk through the hemlock and cedar forest.

Cobble beach, waterfall.

Jordan River: 40 km northwest of Sooke. Good surf.

Juan de Fuca Marine Trail: 47 km wilderness hiking trail. Four trailheads: China Beach, Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek and Botanical Beach. www.env.gov. bc.ca/parks/ China Beach: 40 minute drive from Sooke, pit toilets, day-use Park. 20 minute hike through the rainforest.

Large trees, cobble and sand beach, hidden waterfall.

Mystic Beach: accessed from the China Beach Trailhead. 2km hike through rainforest. Suspension bridge. Wilderness camping.

Sombrio Beach: Located at approximately km 29 of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Access via a 250-metre forested trail from the Sombrio Beach Trailhead parking lot, off Hwy 14. Two wilderness camping areas at Sombrio Beach.

Parkinson Creek Trailhead: located at km 37.6 of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Parking off Hwy 14.

Botanical Beach Provincial Park: in Port Renfrew: Day-use park. Tide pools. Rugged coastline.

West Coast Trail: 74 km wilderness hiking from Port Renfrew to Bamfield. www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pacificrim

Sooke Bed & breakfast Directory Gordons Beach Farm Stay B&B

Diane & Mike Ius 778-425-1312 4537 Otter Point Rd. Sooke, B.C. info@gordonsbeach.com www.gordonsbeach.com

Breathtaking views of Juan de Fuca Strait. Fire pit patio to watch sunsets, walk to beach, private cabin or 2 suites one with kitchenette. Delicious homemade breakfasts with our farm fresh eggs.

Straitview Ridge B&B

4532 Otter Point Road, Sooke, B.C. Phone: 250-642-5672 1-877-338-5602 www.straitviewridgebnb.com info@straitviewridgebnb.com Close to best beaches, trails. Over looking spectacular Juan de Fuca Strait & Olympic Mts.

MOUNTAIN SPRINGS RETREAT

288 Becher Bay Road, Sooke, B.C. 250-642-6541 1-888-642-6541 www.mountainspringsretreat.com info@mountainspringsretreat.com 2 bedroom cottage on private lake.

Hot tub. Fireplace. Swim. Fish. BBQ. Internet.

B&B suite in host home. Wood Art Studio.

ADJACENT TO EAST SOOKE PARK HIKING

4 Beaches B&B

7760 West Coast Rd., Sooke, B.C. 778-352-2818 www.4beachesbandb.ca Alison and Pat Hogan 4 first class suites with private baths. Juan de Fuca Strait & Olympic Mountain views. Close to rainforest trails & beaches.

Orveas Bay Oceanfront Resort

Spectacular oceanfront retreat.

Private beach house and cottages, full amenities Phone: 250-646-2304 Fax: 250-646-2777 email: info@orveasbay.com www.orveasbay.com

Foggy Mountain B&B 10430 West Coast Road, Shirley www.foggymoutainbnb.com 1-250-646-2334 Detached self-contained cottage or 1 bedroom self-contained suite, short walk to French Beach, views of Juan de Fuca Strait & Olympic Mountains; working blacksmith on site.

Arbutus Cove Guest House and Cottage

3018 Manzer Road, Sooke B.C. 250-642-6310 / Toll Free 1-800-580-0026 www.arbutuscoveguesthouse.com info@arbutuscoveguesthouse.com One of Vancouver Island’s Premier Waterfront Resort Bed & Breakfasts

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Otter Point Otter Point is a rural neighbourhood of

Sooke, British Columbia. It references the immediate area around Otter Point Road, a 10 km crescentshaped thoroughfare beginning and terminating on West Coast Road. The neighbourhood itself is generally considered to begin past the extensive residential subdivisions of Broom Hill, past Helgesen Road.

The character of the neighbourhood is predominantly rural, with many small hobby farms and pockets of forest. The housing ranges from small, modest cottage type structures and mobile homes to more extensive, upscale residences. Most of the lots are large, consisting of 1-acre (4,000Â m2) or more.

No commercial facilities exist in the

Octavian Lacatusu photo

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neighbourhood; however, there is some light industry, typically operated from area residences. There are no public facilities, with the exception of a volunteer fire department building on the corner of Otter Point and Kemp Lake Roads.

The landscape is rocky with basalt, gabbro, and sand stone. Much of it is forested by arbutus (at its western limit), bigleaf maple, alder, and conifers such as shore pine, western red cedar, western hemlock and Douglas fir. There are many ponds, as well as two substantial lakes — Kemp Lake and Young Lake (the latter being the site of a Boy Scout camp). There are numerous unofficial trails that locals use for walking or riding horses. The areas around the logging roads there are popular with outdoor recreationalists.

David Yakimovich Specializing in halibut & salmon charters Find us on FACEBOOK @ Ocean Dream Charters

250 882.7678 info@oceandreams.ca

www.oceandreams.ca

Kemp Lake Music Café Enjoy great tunes & fresh food in the funky, retro vibe of the Most Musical Café on the West Coast • LPs, guitars & musical accessories • Surf wax and accessories • Weekly Music Jam Sunday afternoons • Dedicated gluten-free fryer, many GF options • Take-out or Eat in • Now Licensed

250-642-7875

7875 West Coast Road, in the Heart of Otter Point

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Shirley

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Octavian Lacatusu photo

Shirley is a unique tiny community about 15 minutes from Sooke along Highway 14.

Named after a town near Southampton, England, Shirley became known when it opened a post office in May, 1894.

The bright red community hall is the hub for most activities in Shirley. Accompanying it is the Shirley Volunteer Fire Department and a small well-used park with a gazebo and picnic area.

Each year the community hall is the venue for a spring and preChristmas crafts fair where locals sell jams, breads and a variety of arts and crafts.

Of interest to fans of lighthouses is the Sheringham Lighthouse,located at the end of Sheringham Point Road. The owner of private lands around the lighthouse has allowed the public the use of a three-kilometre loop trail with views of the lighthouse, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the surrounding forests.

Sandcut Beach Pirjo Raits photo

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Pirjo Raits photo

The Shirley Delicious Crew are passionate about great coffee, freshly baked food, living positively and laughing loudly!!

2794 Sheringham Point Road, Shirley B.C.

Open daily 8:am to 5:pm

778-528-2888

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Pirjo Raits photo

Did you know? “Shirley� was so named because the original name for the district, Sheringham Point, was deemed too long to fit the postage cancellation stamp. Edwin Clark had opened the first post office on what is now Sheringham Point Road and his mother came from Shirley, near Southampton, England.

Lunch 11:30 - 3:00 everyday Dinner 5:30 Wed - Sun 25 cabins on 1 km private oceanfront Octavian Lacatusu photo

10829 West Coast Rd. Shirley BC V9Z 1G9

Reservations 250-646-2020

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Jordan River Surf’s Up

One of the most popular spots to watch the waves, the small community that was once a logging town is best-known today for great surfing, including wind-surfing, board-surfing, and surf kayaking. Jordan River took its name from Father Jordan, a priest aboard a Spanish vessel of exploration in 1790.

Years later, it was the great watershed of the Jordan River valley that attracted industry, in two ways. The stands of massive timber brought the forest industry, which has provided economic benefit for more than a century. The torrents of water that flowed down the river were harnessed in a venture initiated in the early 1900s that saw the creation of a hydro-electric system to supply power to the city of Victoria and southern Vancouver Island.

While the workers at Jordan River numbered one thousand then, it is a quiet village today, perfect for a picnic, gazing at the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains in the distance, or enjoying the excitement of watching surfers catching waves. 30 km beyond Sooke on the Pacific Marine Circle Route.

T.J. Watt photo

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Nancy Vieira

Call Nancy direct 250-514-4750 Toll Free (800) 665-9303 info@nancyvieira.com

for Victoria & Southern Vancouver Island

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Port Renfrew

they managed to get a steadying anchor cable in place to secure it from falling across Phillips Road. A pneumatic jack was used as well but could not withstand the weight.

The story of the Port Renfrew Hotel bar The demise of a large fir tree gave life to hotel’s bar Finally two 40-ton screw jacks were required for the tree to be laid down safely in an area so near to a public road and houses. It was near nightfall by the time the gigantic tree If you’ve been in the Port Renfrew Hotel since it was came down with a resounding crash. rebuilt after the 2003 fire, entering through the lounge, None of us bystanders knew the next step in the route you’d have noticed a spectacular slab of Douglas-fir, ahead for the centuries-old Douglas-fir. Bucked into welcoming the hotel’s bar patrons. Measuring 22’ 4” long, lengths, the tree was trucked to Mike Warburton’s mill 30” wide and 4”deep, it is a showpiece. on Otter Point Road. While some of the tree was conk, as Almost a decade ago, I was one of a group standing feared, much of the lumber was likely used in construction watching the falling of the seven-foot diameter Douglas-fir and we’re not certain where those lengths are today. We do that stood as a sentinel at the entrance into the beginnings know that Mike used a six-inch double cut saw 24-feet in of the Sun River development on the old Phillips farm. length to shape the slab specially ordered by the hotel to be Years ago, a team of fallers would have used a two-man cut from this massive old-growth specimen. crosscut saw to fell a tree of such a size, but with the use While no longer towering aloft, this section of the of power saws in recent times, this stately Douglas-fir Douglas-fir lives on today, still a prize of the rainforest as it presented a different sort of challenge. attracts the attention of hotel guests, its patina showing off Troy Lovbakke was one of the fallers given the task, and the fabric of its grain - a bit of our West Coast culture still. he worked in tandem with Lance Lajeunesse and Bud Elida Peers, Beam. The men started with 33” bars on their Husqvarna Historian saws, moving on finally to saws with 52” bars. The belts of Sooke Region Museum the high riggers could not encircle the bulk of the tree but

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Port Renfrew

Beachview Bed and Breakfast

Choice Charters

Transportation and Parking can be arranged for west coast trail * Pet Friendly!

2 Bedroom Beachfront Cabin

31’ Ocean Master

BIG ADVENTURE & BIG FISH book now.

Brick & Rosie Betsworth

250-647-0175

wildcoastrosie@gmail.com 11 Queesto Drive Port Renfrew

Phone: 250 647-5499

Transport Canada certified

www.choicecharters.ca www.thehomestead.ca

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GORDON RIVER

Start of the West Coast Trail

LEGEND REGIONAL & PROVINCIAL PARKS

WHALE WATCHING

HIKING

ROADS

CANOEING/KAYAKING

WEST COAST TRAIL

FISHING

BEACHES

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Pacheedaht Reserve

VISITOR CENTRE

CAMPING & PICNIC

Port Renfrew

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Photo; Kiwi Magic Fishing Charters

Port Renfrew Directory

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Your one-stop shop for fishing info on Vancouver Island’s wild west coast • find a fishing charter • read an up-to-date fishing report • find out more about the area • discover yummy recipes

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Pacific Marine Circle Route The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a storm watcher’s dream.

From the heavy waves and spray along Ogden Point in Victoria to the tidal pools and extreme weather in Port Renfrew, the weather is something West Coasters live with and experience.

Go storm watching in your own neighbourhood.

The circle route is a 255-kilometre loop from Victoria to Port Renfrew, through some of the most untravelled roads to the Cowichan Valley and back to Victoria.

Views of the Straits of Juan de Fuca and Georgia give the traveller an honest look at the southern coast of Vancouver Island.

From Victoria the storm watcher can travel to East Sooke Park with it’s 3,500 acres and 50 kms of trails. Sheltered coves and stands of forest are there for the exploring.

Travel further along Highway 14 to Sooke and one can walk along Whiffin Spit and view the majestic Olympic Mountains while watching for passing boats. The Sooke Potholes is a favorite

swimming spot as well as hiking area.

Further up the highway there is a host of provincial and regional parks which provide an easy walk to the pounding surf and driftwood strewn beaches.

Campgrounds are available as are picnic areas. French Beach, China Beach, Juan de Fuca, Sandcut and Sombrio Beaches are all within your reach.

Jordan River is known as the spot to surf along this stretch of rocky shoreline.

When the waves are high you will see surfers, stand-up paddle boarders,and kayakers all enjoying the big water. At China Beach one can try surfing in the winter waves or just stroll along the sandy beach. This is the start of the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail and, a moderate multi-day hike which takes you to Port Renfrew and Botanical Beach. Sombrio was known as a surfers’ paradise when squatters lived and surfed on the rugged shores before it became a park. Sombrio was home to Leah Oke, one of Canada’s best female surfers.

Botancial Beach in Port Renfrew is a

favorite place to study intertidal pools and marine life. In Port Renfrew at Port San Juan you can marvel at the long stretches of driftwood strewn beaches and you may even spot surfers enjoying the winter wave action.

From there you can travel along to Fairy Lake, a fresh water lake just out of Port Renfrew. Ancient old growth trees are found in Avatar Grove and Red Creek. Red Creek has the world’s largest Douglas fir tree with a circumference of 12.5 metres. Ask in Port Renfrew and they will direct you to these ancient forests.

Travel east through to the Cowichan Valley and meander along the harbour at Cowichan Bay. Duncan leads you back to Highway 1 to complete the circle.

There are places to stop for food, but gas is not readily available once you leave Sooke. Fill up and hit the road, go storm watching, enjoy the unspoiled wilderness and the colourful characters. It’s a trip worth taking even in the winter months. www.pacificmarinecircleroute.com

BOOK ONLINE

HandsomeDans.ca

Cozy Cottage Rentals

778-425-1884

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LEGEND

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West Coast Trail The West Coast Trail is a week-long trek on a 75 km wilderness trail along beaches and cliffs and through rainforest. Mud and dozens of ladders may make it seem like military training but that does not deter the hundreds of hikers from tackling it each year. A quota of 26 people per day is set at each end for hiking the trail, so reservations are recommended for the peak period from mid-June to mid-September. The park allocates several stand-by spots each day thus even in peak season you should be able to find a spot within one or two days. All hikers must attend an orientation session before attempting the trail. Bears and cougars are sometimes spotted in the park, so take the appropriate precautions. Caution: Some sections of the trail are along cliff-rimmed beaches so careful attention must be paid to the tide tables to avoid being trapped by rising tides. For fees and more information see Pacific Rim National Park website.

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T.J. Watt photo

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Pacific Marine Circle Route You will visit West Coast beaches and parks, world famous ancient forests and mammoth trees. This self guided tour will take you from the East Coast of Vancouver Island, through the mountains of Lake Cowichan, along the West Coast and back to your origin. Along the way you can enjoy restaurants, spectacular scenery and quaint shops in the unique coastal communities. There are numerous places where you can camp with your RV. The road is in the best condition it has ever been in but there are few amenities once you are out of Port Renfrew or Lake Cowichan.

The entire circle route is 255 kilometres, or 158 miles.

There are numerous beaches along the route between Sooke and Port Renfrew. Whiffin Spit in Sooke offers an easy walking trail and as you head further west you come to Muir Creek, French Beach, Sandcut Beach, the famous surfing beach at Jordan River, China Beach with its spectacular pounding surf and sandy beach, Mystic and Sombrio Beaches then Botanical Beach out of Port

Renfrew and the Paceedahdt White Sand Beach. Each of these beaches offer something unique. From the waterfall at Sandcut to the tidal pools at Botanical beach, they are not to be missed by anyone who loves the sand, surf, waves and wind. Information can be obtained on all the sights and adventures on the Pacific Marine Circle Route at the Sooke Visitor Centre.

For those who like to hike they can access East Sooke Park, perched along the shore overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Juan de Fuca Trail further along Highway 14. Not into a hard hike? Try a leisurely stroll along the Galloping Goose Trail accessible in several spots along Sooke Road.

Ancient forest like Avatar Grove out of Port Renfrew and the Muir Creek watershed beckon. Stately old growth trees and forests abound along the Pacific Marine Circle Route.

Swimming on your mind? Try Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake just out of Port Renfrew.

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Wildlife watching in the Sooke Region With hundreds of kilometres of wilderness, the Sooke Region is a haven for wildlife.

While the likelihood of an encounter with an animal is unpredictable, when it does happen – and the animal is viewed from a safe distance – it can be a magical experience. Watching a herd of deer in a field, a sea otter scampering around for its next meal or a black bear fishing in Sooke River is something unique in our natural world.

Here’s a list of some of the wildlife you can come across in the region: Blacktail deer – The only species of deer in the Capital Region. This deer is tan or reddishbrown in the summer and grayish brown in the winter. The blacktail deer can be active at anytime, but is typically nocturnal. It’s diet consists mostly of green plants, nuts and in the winter wood vegetation.

Black bear – The black bear can be found across Vancouver Island. This bear can be black, cinnamon, brown and blond in colour. They are relatively numerous and tolerant of human activities and as a result are the most commonly encountered large carnivore on the Island.

Cougar – There are several cougar sightings every year

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Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

in the Sooke Region, but tend to roam in areas where they won’t be seen, such as rocky mountains and dark forests. It has a muscular body that varies in colour from tawny red to dark brown. Primary food sources for cougar are deer, insects and rodents.

Killer whale – The killer whale is the largest member of the dolphin family. It has a distinctive black and white pattern. Killer whales often travel in pods and can be found along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The southern B.C. resident population of the killer whale is endangered.

Sea Otter – There are around 2,500 sea otters living on Vancouver Island. Sea otters are hungry animals. In a normal day they’ll eat one quarter of their body weight by feasting on sea urchins, crabs, clams, mussels and octopuses.

Raccoon – The raccoon is recognized by its mischievious black mask. It’s body is normally grey in colour, but can vary from albino to black or brown. Raccoons eat a variety of things including berries, nuts, grains, vegetables, insects, eggs, polutry, rats, squirrels, small livgestock, birds, fish, snakes, worms and frogs.

Birds – Several types of birds can be found in the Sooke Region from majestic bald eagles to robins. Birds of note in the region include Canadian geese, great blue heron, Pacific loon and owls.

13 Acres of Timberland 1-250-642-6076

Sooke Campground Only 45 minutes S.W. of Victoria and you are at the southern Vancouver Island greatest sport fishing ground!

FACILITIES:

RATES:

Full time resident caretaker Security gate and lighting Wheelchair accessible flush toilets and showers Group Site available Playing field, horseshoe pitch, playground Small boat launch Canoe rentals

(Taxes included)

CLOSE TO: Sooke Region Museum, SEAPARC Leisure Complex, Fred Milne Park, Art Morris Park, Sooke Potholes, De Mamiel Creek Golf Course and the Galloping Goose Trail.

50 amp service $40.00 a night (limited) 30 amp service $35.00 a night 15 amp service $30.00 a night No Service $25.00 a night 1 Small Cabin $40.00 a night $250 a week 2 Large Cabins $60.00 a night $360 a week 10% Senior Discount

Open Field and/or Building Rental Available

2259 Phillips Rd. Sooke BC V9Z 0Y3 Phone/Fax: 1-250-642-6076 E-mail: camping@sookecommunity.com Website: www.sookecommunity.com/camping/ Owned and Operated by Sooke Community Association - A Non - Profit Society

Sooke to Port Renfrew

Wild By Nature

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we know the market‌..

& the community! www.sookeshometeam.com

OLIVER KATZ

Personal Real Estate Corporation

to Port Renfrew Camosun 56 Sooke Westside

Wild By Nature

BUYING or SELLING?

call 250.642.6480

CRISTINA STAICU