Bear Hill covers nearly 49 hectares of hilltop (220m) landscape, with some of the oldest rock on Vancouver Island and gentle forest trails. Bear Hill Regional Park is known for its woodland trails, popular with hikers and horseback riders, and profusion of wildflowers in the spring.
Features
- A profusion of wildflowers in the spring
- Mixed woodland of western red cedar, Douglas fir, Garry oak and arbutus
- Views of the Saanich Peninsula and Haro Strait
- Trails for hikers and horseback riders
- Trail connections to Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Trail Rating: Moderate
Size: 48.56 hectares
Location: Bear Hill Road in Saanich
Established: 1970
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Things to Do
Trails lead from the base of the hill through stands of Douglas-fir, tall Oregon grape and glistening salal. The music of song sparrows and golden-crowned kinglets serenades you through arbutus and licorice fern until you reach the dry, exposed slopes at the summit. Garry oak trees cling to the hilltop — perfect cover for native wildflowers like fawn lilies, camas, sea blush and chocolate lilies. Tread carefully here, as these wildflowers are delicate and rare. The equestrian trails in the park are steep and may prove difficult for some riders.
Bear Hill summit offers panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker, the nearby Gulf Islands and the San Juan Islands. And in case you think you're the only one enjoying the views, think again. You may see ravens, turkey vultures or a circle of bald eagles riding the thermals overhead.
Amenities
How to Get There
Follow the Pat Bay Highway from Victoria. Turn left on Sayward Road, left again on Hamsterley Road, then right on Brookleigh Road. Turn right on Oldfield Road, then right on Bear Hill Road, which leads to the park entrance. Allow approximately 25 minutes driving time from Victoria.
Public Transportation
Take BC Transit bus #75 from Victoria to Central Saanich and Tanner Rd. The park is approximately a 2-kilometre walk from the bus stop. Contact BC Transit for schedule information.