Read this if you love hiking for views!
With Family Day and Valentines just around the corner you may be wondering how to make the day feel extra special with your loved ones. Well, I’m here to share just the thing to make this season unique for you and yours. It’s hiking Mount Tolmie and Mt. Douglas in Victoria, BC! Well, technically you’ll be in the municipality of Saanich, but same same.
If you’re in the midst of planning a weekend trip to Victoria this activity is sure to add some joy and adventure to your agenda while there.
This activity is fantastic even if you don’t like to hike! Both of these mountains allow you to drive to the top if you prefer, which makes them accessible to all. Hiking and/or visiting mountainous parks is a great way to spend time on any occasion, so why not take advantage of the upcoming holidays and give it a whirl. If you’re visiting the ‘City of Gardens’ for the first time or perhaps for the hundredth time this will be a great way to feel like a local while experiencing the beauty of BC.
Mt. Tolmie – 120m
View from summit of Mt. Tolmie, looking toward downtown Victoria and the Salish Sea
I recommend climbing to the summit of this mountain first, as it’s shorter in height between two. The view at the top offers a spectacular vantage of Victoria itself with the Salish Sea and Olympic mountains providing a beautiful backdrop. This is a popular spot among locals, and for good reason. When you’re here you get to take in the views, experience an awesome photo opt, nature walk, and even have a chance to read a sun dial if you like.
It’s a great place to relax and explore with friends and family. The terrain is rocky so be careful to wear comfortable footwear. Lastly there is limited parking at the summit but also multiple parking pull-off areas as you make your way up.
If you don’t have access to a vehicle consider taking the number 14 bus from downtown. This bus route will get you the closest, however, you’ll still have a ~13min walk to reach your destination. Alternatively, you could try car-pooling with friends, or perhaps renting an Evo or Modo if you’re set up with an account. Both of these car-share companies operate within Victoria, so they’re definitely an option if all else fails.
There are no washroom facilities at Mt. Tolmie, but there are at Mt. Douglas. If you’d like to learn more about Mt. Tolmie click here to find out about its natural history, trail etiquette, and so much more.
Mount Douglas – 225m
Views from the summit of Mt. Douglas – Can you see Mt. Baker in the distance?
If you enjoyed the views at Mt. Tolmie then you are going to love your time at Mt. Douglas! The views here are almost better, but more accurately they’re of a different landscape. Here you will get a better view of the San Juan Islands (U.S.) across the Haro Straight and I must say it’s gorgeous scenery to witness first hand. Especially if you are lucky and go on a sunny day.
Mt Douglas is an absolute gem of a place for getting family photos and enjoying the stunning nature of BC. It’s also been known as a popular ‘proposal’ destination and serves as a reminder to how close Victoria is to the United States; it’s really not far at all!
This mountain is greater in height and not too far away from your first stop over at Mt. Tolmie. Mount. Doug (as locals refer to it) is a mere ~13min drive away and a ghastly ~1hr and 2min bus ride away. Admittedly, having a car for getting to Mt. Doug is of great advantage, however, if you’re determined and decide to take transit the view’s you’re rewarded with in the end will make your tedious journey worth the while.
To arrive at Mt. Doug via transit you’ll continue on the number 14 bus route then transfer to the number 39. Refer to your chosen maps app for a more detailed itinerary.
Simply stunning views from the top of Mt. Doug
In addition to the lookout points at the top of Mt. Douglas there are many trails, a picnic area, and even a small playground and beach equipped with a washroom building and spacious parking lot. This spot also has a grassy field for a fun game of frisbee etc.
An important note to add is that the gate access to drive to the top of Mt. Doug will be locked until 12pm on Family Day (Feb. 19, 2024), but hikers are welcome at any time of the day. If you want to learn more about Mt. Douglas click here to find out about its natural history, trail etiquette, and so much more.
A Beautiful Day
You’ll be able to see each mountain from the top of the other, which prompts a potential game of eye-spy when you’ve reached each summit. Both of these mountains/parks provide a chance to experience nature while being close to the city, as well as a refreshing change of pace from typical tourist stops. I hope you’re able to enjoy an afternoon exploring these beautiful mountains with your favourite people. Whether you choose to visit on Family Day, Valentines, or at some other time, it will become a sweet memory made to look back on in your photo album.
Thanks for reading and have fun during your time in Victoria. The one in BC, not Australia if that wasn’t painfully obvious by now 😉
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