The primordial temperate rainforest surrounding the unique sheltered cove provides a unique opportunity for solitude and harmony with nature. Hike along a cool creek at midday or paddle still waters in early morning light at this serene West Coast park.
Features
- Serenity and seclusion on a mossy slope or by a quiet cove
- Seven kilometres of trails through cedar forest and along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail
- Hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin
Trail Rating: Moderate
Size: 162.59 hectares
Location: Gillespie Road in East Sooke
Established: 1985
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Things to Do
Roche Cove
Picnic at the protected cove after an easy walk from the parking area. The sand reveals little-neck clams and barnacles at low tide. At high tide, look for sea stars moving over broken shells in search of food. On the water, you might see migrating ducks, such as red-breasted mergansers, Barrow's golden-eye or buffleheads.
Matheson Creek Trail
This trail follows the creek through a forest lush with bracken fern and a grove of western red cedars and connects to nearby Matheson Lake Regional Park. (Note: The trail may be impassable in winter.)
Cedar Grove Trail
For a more invigorating hike, try the Cedar Grove Trail.
Galloping Goose User-Friendly Trail
Roche Cove is an excellent starting point for a day outing on the popular Galloping Goose Regional Trail. For a short outing consider traveling from Roche Cove to Rocky Point Road, 4.7km one way. The Goose is a multi-use trail with a smooth gravel surface with less than 5% gradual slope. It offers ocean and lake views from various locations.
Amenities
There is an information kiosk, bike rack, accessible picnic area and accessible toilet off the parking lot. The parking has space for 12 vehicles and room for mid-size buses.
How to Get There
Follow the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria, and take Exit 14 south to Langford. Follow Veterans Memorial Parkway, then turn right on Sooke Road. From Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road, which leads to the park entrance on the left. Allow approximately 45 minutes driving time from Victoria.
Public Transportation
Take BC Transit #64 from the 17 Mile House to Gillespie Road. There is a bus stop close to the park entrance. Please note that BC Transit #64 runs Monday to Friday only, no weekend service. Contact BC Transit for schedule information.