Apples, Bears and Trails

Sunny fall days make for perfect hikes in Victoria. All the CRD Parks have well-marked and made trails that offer our kids the easy access to nature that makes this city so special. One of our favorite autumn hikes is at Bear Hill Regional Park. It’s not too long, making it suitable for even a preschooler.

For an added bonus, we like to visit all the farms and bakeries on Oldfield Road before or after the hike. Here’s our plan:

Not far off the beaten path (or the Pat Bay Highway in this case) is Bear Hill Regional Park, an ideal location for a family hike and picnic. It takes an eight year-old about 15 minutes from the parking lot to the Summit of Bear Hill if they are in a hurry—and there are lots of paths, horse trails and view points along the way that could make it an easy 30 minute trail for younger kids (or parents with little ones in a backpack). The trail is well marked and offers beautiful views of the Gulf and San Juan Islands, Mount Baker and the Saanich Peninsula. The summit has lots of grassy areas and flat rocks to lay out a picnic, or perhaps to take that family holiday card photo. 

Before or after the hike, make sure you stop at Dan’s Farm and Country Market—a working farm with friendly animals to visit (ducks, goats, pigs), as well as all the best fruits and vegetables in season and baked goods (delicious pies, brownies and huge cereal squares). They also have ice cream, and organic, free-range sausages and chickens in the freezer. This is also the perfect time to pick up a pumpkin or two—and to grab a bag of organic apples for the ride home.

Now that’s a satisfying (and delicious) way to spend an autumn day with your family.

Comments