Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park
A sprawling regional park offering lakeside recreation, extensive trails, and off-leash dog areas, just minutes from the city.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling regional park offering lakeside recreation, extensive trails, and off-leash dog areas, just minutes from the city.
"A great place for an accessible forest walk very close to town, perfect for dogs and families. "
🚶♀️ 10k Trail Challenge
Complete the full 10km loop around both lakes for a rewarding hike or run. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Owner's Delight
Plenty of off-leash areas, and owners are generally respectful. Great for social pups! :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 10k Lake Loop
Around Elk and Beaver Lakes
A scenic 10km trail perfect for walking, running, or cycling with beautiful lake views.
Dog-Friendly Off-Leash Areas
Designated zones
A paradise for pups! Enjoy spacious areas where dogs can roam and play off-leash.
Lakeside Beach & Playground
Elk Lake Beach
Relax by the water, sunbathe, or let the kids burn energy at the well-maintained playground.
Nature Centre Discovery
Nature Centre
Explore local flora and fauna at the nature centre, open limited hours during summer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Algae Advisories & Swimming
Trail Etiquette & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 10k Trail Challenge
Complete the full 10km loop around both lakes for a rewarding hike or run. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Owner's Delight
Plenty of off-leash areas, and owners are generally respectful. Great for social pups! :dog:
☀️ Beach Day Essentials
Bring your swimwear and towels for the beach, but note pets aren't allowed on the sand. :beachwithumbrella:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Try your luck fishing for Rainbow Trout; the fishing float is wheelchair accessible. :fishingpoleand_வத:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 10k Trail Challenge
Complete the full 10km loop around both lakes for a rewarding hike or run. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog Owner's Delight
Plenty of off-leash areas, and owners are generally respectful. Great for social pups! :dog:
☀️ Beach Day Essentials
Bring your swimwear and towels for the beach, but note pets aren't allowed on the sand. :beachwithumbrella:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Try your luck fishing for Rainbow Trout; the fishing float is wheelchair accessible. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚗 Ample Parking
Generous parking availability makes this park easily accessible for day trips. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park is a highly-rated natural escape, praised for its accessibility, dog-friendly atmosphere, and diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors love the scenic 10km trail and the well-maintained facilities, though some note the need to check for algae advisories before swimming.
"Despite being right next to the highway, Elk/Beaver Lake is a great place to come for an accessible forest walk very close to town. It's dog friendly, with many areas that are good for off leash. In fact, the people who bring their dogs here are great. It is super rare to run into an aggressive dog or problematic dog owner. Another great thing about this park is if you walk or jog around the entire lake, it's almost exactly 10 km."
David Brown
"It's a lovely lake with a good playground for kids. They have picnic tables. Pets are not allowed on the beach and picnic areas. They have clean washrooms."
Tere Arboleda
"That's what rocks about Victoria. You can live downtown and drive 15 minutes and be in the middle of a dense beautiful Forest. Elk Beaver lake regional Park is amazing for just going for a simple walk, to taking photos, or bringing your dogs to have a good play and run. Plenty of parking and easy accessibility make this groovy place a no-brainer."
Chris Bunner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is conveniently located off Patricia Bay Highway (Hwy 17) in Saanich, just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Victoria. Ample parking is available throughout the park.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking local transit schedules for routes serving the Saanich area near Elk Lake is recommended. Driving is generally the most straightforward option.
There are several access points, with main parking areas located near the beach and playground on Elk Lake, and other access points along the perimeter trails.
Parking availability for larger vehicles can vary. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a suitable spot.
The park is adjacent to Highway 17, but direct access is via designated park entrances and parking lots, not from the highway itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park is a public regional park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk year-round. Specific facilities like the Nature Centre have limited hours.
Generally, no permit is required for casual use like walking, swimming, or picnicking. Fishing may require a valid BC fishing license.
Pets are not allowed on the beach or in picnic areas, but are welcome in many other parts of the park, often off-leash in designated zones.
The Nature Centre typically operates from 1-4 pm on Fridays and Saturdays during July and August. Check for any seasonal changes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, running, cycling on multi-use trails, swimming (check advisories), canoeing, fishing, picnicking, and visiting the nature centre.
Yes, it's very dog-friendly with many off-leash areas and a community of responsible pet owners. Just remember pets aren't allowed on the beach. :dog:
Swimming is permitted, but always check for current blue-green algae advisories, as they can impact water quality. Pets are not recommended to swim due to sensitivity.
Yes, the park has picnic tables and shelters, making it a great spot for a family outing or gathering.
The park features multi-use trails suitable for walking, running, and cycling, including a popular 10km loop around the lakes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the park. It's best to pack your own food and drinks for picnics.
Yes, the park is ideal for picnics, with tables available. Barbecuing rules may apply, so check local regulations if planning a cookout.
Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, with many located near the beach and playground areas on Elk Lake, offering scenic views.
You'll find various dining options in the nearby Saanich area, a short drive from the park, offering a range of cuisines.
Alcohol consumption rules can vary. It's best to check with the Capital Regional District Parks for current bylaws regarding alcohol in regional parks.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake shores, forest trails, and viewpoints along the 10k loop offer stunning opportunities for nature and landscape photography.
With its diverse habitats, the park is a good location for spotting various bird species and other small wildlife, especially during quieter times.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so check with park authorities.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. If photographing people, it's courteous to ask for their permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that pets are not allowed on the beach, so plan accordingly if you're bringing a furry family member. Always check for swimming advisories before letting kids splash in the lake. The Nature Centre, though open limited hours, can also be an engaging stop for curious young minds.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Just a heads-up: dogs are not permitted on the beach or in picnic areas. Be mindful of this rule to ensure a smooth visit for you and your pet.
🏃♀️ Active Individuals & Runners
Cyclists will also find plenty of space on the designated multi-use trails. Early mornings or weekday evenings are ideal for avoiding the busiest periods and enjoying a more solitary workout.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, especially if venturing onto less maintained paths. The trails are generally well-marked, but carrying a map or using a navigation app can be helpful for longer treks. The accessibility of these trails, combined with their natural beauty, makes them a significant draw for locals and visitors alike.
Water Activities & Safety
Canoeing and kayaking are excellent ways to experience the lakes from a different perspective. Rentals may be available seasonally, or you can bring your own. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with Rainbow Trout being a common catch. The park ensures accessibility, with a fishing float that is wheelchair-friendly.
A Haven for Dogs
While dogs are welcome in most areas, they are not permitted on the main beach or in designated picnic areas. This ensures a pleasant experience for all park users. The extensive trail system also provides ample space for leashed dogs to enjoy walks alongside their owners, making it a versatile destination for pet owners.
Social
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