Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail
Explore lush forests, cross a thrilling suspension bridge, and discover waterfalls on the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore lush forests, cross a thrilling suspension bridge, and discover waterfalls on the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail.
"Awesome place to go out for a hike and hang out. Shenanigans all around, would recommend."
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail marking can be inconsistent. Use apps like Strava for navigation. :iphone:
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even easier trails can be uneven. Good hiking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Suspension Bridge
Goldstream River
A thrilling suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding wilderness. A must-see for adventurers!
Waugh Creek Falls
Near Humpback Trailhead
Witness the powerful flow of Waugh Creek Falls, especially vibrant in winter and spring. A beautiful natural spectacle.
Mount Braden Summit
Sooke Hills Wilderness Park
A challenging hike with rewarding, ever-changing views. Be prepared for ups and downs on this rewarding climb.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Navigation & Safety
Parking & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail marking can be inconsistent. Use apps like Strava for navigation. :iphone:
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even easier trails can be uneven. Good hiking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🐻 Be Wildlife Aware
Bear and cougar sightings are possible. Make noise and carry bear spray. :bear:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially for longer hikes, stay hydrated and fueled. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Trail marking can be inconsistent. Use apps like Strava for navigation. :iphone:
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even easier trails can be uneven. Good hiking shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🐻 Be Wildlife Aware
Bear and cougar sightings are possible. Make noise and carry bear spray. :bear:
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Especially for longer hikes, stay hydrated and fueled. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Views
The wilderness offers stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail for its beautiful forests, well-maintained paths, and the thrill of its suspension bridge and waterfalls. It's a versatile destination suitable for hiking, biking, and family outings. Some reviewers note that trail markings can be inconsistent in places, and parking can be limited during busy periods.
"Climbed Mount Braden, it was a good hike for sure. Everytime i thought I was at the top i was mistaken. Many ups and downs and it's a hard hike for sure. I got off the trail by accident it's not marked very well in some spots bur luckily I had strava to help navigate me back to the main trail. I ended up doing 13.5km in 3 hours.
There are a ton of trails at this park though and I can wait to do more."
Sheri Ferguson
"Awesome place to go out for a hike and hang out. Shenanigans all around, would recommend."
Timo Spingat
"A really easy trail, beautiful nature.
Leads into a water Fall, and a suspension bridge, but the bridge was out of bounds due to risk.
So I went as far as I could.
Well maintained trail. Wasn't busy at all. Didn't have to travel far to get here."
Un VaxD
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Victoria, follow Highway 14 West towards Sooke. The main trailheads are accessible from Highway 14 and near Langford. Some sections are also accessible from Shawnigan Lake. 
Yes, there are parking areas, but they can be small and fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday.
Absolutely! The trail is popular for cycling, offering great climbing and rolling hills. It's part of the Trans Canada Trail.
Some sections, particularly near the Humpback trailhead, are noted as stroller and bike-friendly, making them accessible for families.
Public transport options directly to the trailheads are limited. Driving is the most common way to access the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail is a public park and is free to access. There are no admission fees. :ticket:
As a wilderness park, it is generally open from dawn until dusk. Always check local park advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee to explore the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail. It's a publicly accessible regional park. :moneywithwings:
While official guided tours might be limited, local outdoor adventure groups sometimes organize excursions. It's best to check with local tourism operators. :walking:
No permits are generally required for recreational activities like hiking and biking on the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail. :scroll:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the suspension bridge over the Goldstream River, Waugh Creek Falls, and for a challenge, the summit of Mount Braden.
Hike duration varies greatly depending on the chosen route. A 13.5km hike took approximately 3 hours, but shorter loops are available.
Yes, some sections are easy and well-maintained, suitable for beginners and families. However, other parts like Mount Braden are more challenging.
Restroom facilities are typically limited in wilderness parks. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for backcountry conditions. :toilet:
You might encounter deer, eagles, and potentially bears or cougars. Always maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The suspension bridge, Waugh Creek Falls, and viewpoints from higher elevations like Mount Braden offer spectacular photo opportunities. The lush forest itself is also very photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere with golden hour hues.
Drone usage in regional parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check with the CRD Parks department for current regulations. :drone:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and bridge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the suspension bridge is a popular subject for photos. Be mindful of other visitors and safety when taking pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relatively short distance to Waugh Creek Falls and the suspension bridge provides engaging destinations without overly taxing little legs. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and keep a close eye on children, especially near water features and on any elevated sections. Being aware of wildlife and making noise can also help keep kids engaged and safe. 🚴 Cyclists
Be prepared for varied terrain, and consider using a navigation app to stay on course, as trail marking can be inconsistent. 🚶 Hikers Seeking a Challenge
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
others can be less defined. It's highly recommended to download offline maps or use a GPS tracking app like Strava, as trail marking can be inconsistent in certain areas, leading to accidental detours. For those looking for a less strenuous experience, the trails closer to the Humpback trailhead provide a more accessible introduction to the park's beauty. These paths often lead to natural features like Waugh Creek Falls and the iconic suspension bridge.
+1 Regardless of your chosen route, always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time, a common safety tip shared by experienced hikers. Wildlife Encounters
To ensure a safe and respectful encounter, it's crucial to be wildlife aware. Making noise as you hike, such as talking or singing, can help alert animals to your presence and prevent surprise encounters. Remember that these animals are in their natural habitat, and maintaining a safe distance is paramount. Never feed wildlife, as this can lead to dependency and dangerous behaviors. By being informed and cautious, you can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the Sooke Hills while minimizing risks to both yourself and the animals.
The Iconic Suspension Bridge
+1 It's a popular spot for photos, so be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak times. The bridge provides a unique perspective of the river's power and the surrounding lush forest. While the bridge is a major draw, it's important to note that access can sometimes be restricted due to safety concerns, as mentioned in some reviews.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit