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Hike and Swim at Sooke Potholes

Sooke, British Columbia

4.2/5
based on 5 reviews

Description

Added by The Mountain Bed .com

This beautiful spot 1 hour from Victoria boasts captivating rock formations, forested trails, rushing rapids, and pebble beaches. The Sooke Potholes Regional Park is a great place to camp, hike, swim, or picnic.

The Sooke Potholes seem to have something for everyone. Those seeking quick and easy beach access can enjoy short, well-groomed trails that lead straight to the pebble beaches from each of this spot’s multiple parking lots. There are also a number of paths leading to viewpoints overlooking the river. Complete with stairs and fences, these paths are both easily accessible and safe for young explorers.

Those looking to spend an afternoon at the potholes can happily meander the day away with the many trails surrounding the area (approximately a 3km radius). Enjoy the variety of trails winding through the woods or just above the rushing waters. There’s truly no shortage of options here!

Spots to note:
The ruins of an abandoned convention centre lie far above the rushing waters. Though unfinished, the area boasts a number of magnificent walls, log beams, and a huge fireplace.

There is also a designated campground to allow yourself ample time to explore this spot in the summer.

Don’t forget: On your way in, take a moment to admire the waterfall to the right of the bridge (just before the Sooke Potholes Regional Park sign).

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Features

Cycling
Chillin
Camping
Photography
Swimming
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Waterfall
Cliff Jumping
Swimming Hole

Hike and Swim at Sooke Potholes Reviews

I moved to Victoria, BC from Ontario about 8 years ago and one of the best places to go to in the summer is the Sooke Potholes. There are sooo many spots you can check out. The water is crystal clear and refreshing. There are many Little falls and rapids. It is dog friendly and there is camping near by. I live in Surrey on the mainland now and if I have to say I miss something from the island the most, it would definitely be this place.

The hike is pretty easy but not very well marked.... You will love it if you don’t want to walk for a long time. It’s a nice place for family day.

Beautiful little spot for a sunny afternoon ☺️

This was the first place I went when I moved to the island. It's so beautiful and hard to believe it's so close. I felt like I was on a vacation, but I wasn't. This beautiful place is right by my new home. The sooke potholes are beautiful and it's definitely where I'm taking my family when they visit

This place is a year round location for adventuring and exploring. The winter is truly the best time to experience this gem because the rapids are so strong and violent and the waterfalls are a spectacle to see. Summer and spring are good times to go too, but the winter months are where's it's at. Just be careful, it's slippery!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Mount Manuel Quimper

Hike Whiffin Spit

Hike East Sooke Park

Hiking the Goldmine Trail

Hiking Mt. Finlayson

Hike around Thetis Lake