One of the most visited regional parks in the Capital Regional District, Thetis Lake is one of the largest regional parks with over 40 kilometers of recreational trails to explore. Established as Canada’s first nature sanctuary in 1958, this park promotes natural area conservation and recreation.
Features
- Swamp and lake ecosystems for nature study
- Delicate spring wildflowers, Garry oak ecosystems and Douglas-fir forest
- Freshwater lakes for swimming, canoeing and fishing (lakes stocked with catchable Rainbow Trout)
- Multi-use trails open to mountain biking
- Beaches and picnic areas
Trail Rating: Moderate to Challenging
Size: 921.73 hectares
Location: Six Mile Road in View Royal/Langford
Established: 1993
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Things to Do
Go for a hike on the scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes. For panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding hills, follow the more challenging trails up Seymour or Scafe hills. In spring, wildflowers dot the hillsides. Please help us protect this sensitive habitat by staying on designated trails and keeping pets on the trail. Blue-rated, multi-use trails throughout Thetis Lake Regional Park provide an excellent cross-country mountain biking experience and beautiful views from Stewart Mountain.
While close to urban areas, Thetis Lake Regional Park provides access to backcountry recreation. From this location, recreational trails can take you to a number of summits including Stewart Mountain and Scafe Hill.
The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a family picnic or refreshing swim. If you have a canoe, try an early morning paddle and you may even have the lake all to yourself.
Swim Safely
Never swim alone, and look before diving. Lakes contain hidden hazards.
Remember, lifeguard service is not provided in regional parks.
Boating Regulations
The only motorized boats permitted on Thetis Lake are those with electric motors. Power boats are not permitted on Prior Lake.
Pay Parking
Pay parking at Sooke Potholes and Thetis Lake regional parks is in effect for the summer season from May 1 to September 30. At Thetis Lake pay parking is at the main parking lot, overflow parking and West Beach. Revenue collected from parking fees helps to offset the costs of park services for visitors. Parking is free at all other regional parks and regional trails.
Daily and Seasonal Passes
The cost of parking is $2.25 per day, or $20 for a season's pass. A seasonal parking pass is valid at both parks. The ticket dispensers accept loonies, toonies, quarters and credit cards. You may also purchase a ticket or seasonal pass using the Honk Mobile system. You can pay online or download the app. The parking pass uses a pay-by-plate system whereby the parking pass is associated with a specific vehicle. You do not need to display a pass in your vehicle. Pay parking is operated by Robbins Parking.
The CRD reminds visitors that Thetis Lake is open sunrise to sunset. Parking is free during the off-season (October 1 to April 30).
Amenities
Detailed Park Accessibility Information
There are two large parking lots off Six Mile Road and an overflow parking area. The main beach has accessible toilets, fountain, change rooms, a beach and grassy picnic area. The second parking lot has a boat launch, toilet and beach and fishing area.
How to Get There
Follow the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria, and take the Colwood exit. Follow the Island Highway. Turn right on Six Mile Road, which leads to the park entrance. Allow approximately 20 minutes driving time from Victoria.
Public Transportation
Take BC Transit bus #50 to the Six Mile Road stop and walk approximately 1 kilometre to the park. Contact BC Transit for schedule information.
Photo Credit
© Image courtesy of Phil Petersen