The Galloping Goose Regional Trail is a 55 kilometre multi-use path that connects downtown Victoria with Sooke and Leechtown, passing through Langford, Colwood, Metchosin and a mix of forest, farmland and shoreline. Built along a former Canadian National Railway line, it is one of the most popular routes on South Vancouver Island for cycling, walking, running and commuting.
Whether you want a short family stroll from a neighbourhood trailhead, a relaxed ride between parks, or a full-day bike adventure from Victoria to the Sooke River, the Goose makes it easy to explore at your own pace. With gentle grades, frequent access points, and plenty of places to stop for a swim, a picnic, or a coffee break, it is a flexible option for both visitors and locals.
What to expect
- Best for: Scenic bike rides, family walks, run or training rides, and low-stress commuting between Victoria and Sooke.
- Trail length: About 55 km with jump-on, jump-off sections from downtown Victoria to Leechtown near Sooke.
- Surface: Paved path for the first 13 km from Victoria to Colwood, then well-maintained gravel for most of the remaining distance.
- Difficulty: Mostly flat with gentle grades, suitable for beginners, kids and casual riders who are comfortable with the distance they choose.
- Access points: Multiple trailheads in Victoria, Langford, Colwood, Metchosin and near Sooke with parking, washrooms and water in key spots.
- Scenery: Urban harbour views, historic trestle bridges, lakes and beaches, forests, farmland and sections along the Sooke River.
- Activities: Cycling, walking, jogging, e-biking and, in some sections, horseback riding and access to swimming areas and picnic spots.
In This Post:
Free, unsubscribe anytime. See what you get
The first time I rode a section of the Galloping Goose Trail, it was with my daughter on a biking adventure along the Sooke River, from the Sooke Potholes up to Leechtown.
The ride was wonderful, weaving through joggers, long-haul cyclists, and families out for a leisurely nature walk. The trail has minimal grade and is wide and flat, making it an enjoyable ride past inviting swimming holes and towering trees, where you can experience the natural beauty of this part of Vancouver Island.
About the Galloping Goose Trail
The Galloping Goose Trail stretches 55 kilometres from Victoria to Sooke, connecting many neighbourhoods, parks and communities throughout Greater Victoria. It links into several regional connector routes, allowing you to extend your trip through Esquimalt and even north toward Sidney.
Locals simply call it “the Goose,” and it’s one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the scenery and character of South Vancouver Island. The trail follows a former rail line from downtown Victoria all the way to Leechtown, passing the Sooke Potholes, offering a steady, easy grade that suits cyclists, walkers, joggers and horseback riders.
Beginning at the Johnson Street Bridge, the route transitions from waterfront pathways and urban streets to quiet forests, farms, lakes and seaside viewpoints. Riding or walking the Goose gives you a little taste of everything that makes the region special, all along a safe and well-maintained multi-use corridor.
Landmarks and Highlights Along the Way – Greater Victoria to Sooke
One of the best parts of the Galloping Goose is how it connects you to some truly incredible spots. Want to spend a day lounging by the water at Thetis Lake? No problem.
Curious about historic sites like Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse? The trail has you covered. Matheson Lake is good for a quiet picnic or a quick dip, and the Sooke Potholes are a favourite for anyone craving a swim in natural rock pools.
If you’re into birdwatching or photography, the garden at Hatley Castle is a gorgeous detour.
There’s also something strangely satisfying about watching the landscape evolve as you move along. One moment, you’re pedalling through a suburban neighbourhood. The next, you’re deep in a forest with towering pines and a soundtrack of rustling leaves and chirping birds.
In this post, I’m listing the top places to check off, including a few quick detours, starting from Victoria (kilometre 0) and heading past the Sooke Potholes (kilometre 49).
Although not all are directly next to the trail, there are some stops along the way that might be worth taking a detour for.
Johnson Street Bridge Access to Victoria – 0 km
Victoria has one of Canada’s best bike path networks, with year-round access that makes it a cyclist’s dream.
The Johnson Street Bridge is the perfect starting point, Kilometre Zero, of the 55 km Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This landmark is also a key connector, linking Victoria’s bike network to the Galloping Goose.
Selkirk Trestle – 2 km
Its transformation into a pedestrian and cycling bridge makes it a standout on this stretch. The Selkirk Trestle’s scenic views and rail history are one more reason to start your journey from the Victoria side.
Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary – 4 km (4-minute detour by bike)
The Lochside Regional Trail connects to the Galloping Goose Trail and will take you through Saanich and all the way up to the end of the trail at the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. But the first stop along the Lochside Trail is the Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary, only a 5-minute ride from the Goose.
Thetis Lake Regional Park – 11km (5-minute detour by bike)
Just a slight detour down Six Mile Road offers one of the best freshwater lakes in the area with beaches with over 40km of hiking and great amenities.
Thetis Lake Regional Park was officially declared Canada’s first nature sanctuary and is a popular year-round stop for locals and visitors.
Fort Rodd Hill & Esquimalt Lagoon – 13km (10-minute detour by bike)
Just 10 minutes off the trail are Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse, a historic fortress built in 1895 and operational until after WW2.
Just down the road from Fort Rodd Hill is Esquimalt Lagoon, a kilometre-long beach and bird sanctuary.
To access Fort Rodd Hill and Esquimalt Lagoon, you can take Ocean Blvd, but unfortunately, there is no bike lane or trail. If you feel more comfortable taking Belmont Rd, go through a quieter neighbourhood.
More about Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse >
Hatley Castle and Gardens – 14km
Not just a pretty castle. Hatley Castle has real Hollywood vibes. You may recognize it as the backdrop for several superhero films, and its gardens are just as cinematic. Located near Colwood, it’s an easy stop for history lovers or anyone who’s a sucker for beautiful architecture. The grounds are part of Royal Roads University, so you may even see students strolling around here.
The Galloping Goose Trail passes through the Royal Roads University property. To visit Hatley Castle, head down University Drive, where you’ll find bike racks conveniently located near the castle. While the castle itself is not open for entry, the surrounding grounds are well worth exploring. The gardens, among the finest on Vancouver Island, are free to enjoy.
- Located near the Colwood section of the trail
- Famous filming location and historic landmark
- Surrounded by lush gardens
Langford – 17km
The Galloping Goose Trail winds through the heart of Langford, offering convenient access to restaurants, shopping, and amenities. It’s the perfect spot to plan a lunch break, explore local shops, or stop for a refreshing beer.
Matheson Lake – 32km
Matheson Lake is another good side stop if you need a bit of quiet or want to get your feet wet. Set in the forest, this calm lake is good for a quick swim, paddleboarding or hiking the perimeter trail. Even if you’re pressed for time, a quick pause by the water can be restful.
- Perfect for hiking, swimming, and canoeing
- Surrounded by forested trails
- A great place for an afternoon break
Roche Cove Regional Park – 35km
Budding up to Matheson Lake is Roche Cove Regional Park, this is where the trail shows off its quieter, more reflective side. The park is easy to miss if you’re zipping through, but it’s worth slowing down for.
With a peaceful shoreline and short walking trails, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel a world away from any hustle and bustle.
- Features walking trails and a quiet shoreline
- A pleasant detour into old-growth trees for nature buffs
- Great for birdwatching and scenic photography
Sooke and the Galloping Goose – 43km (15-minute detour by bike)
Although the Galloping Goose Trail doesn’t lead directly into Sooke, the best route is via Kirby Road to Sooke River Road, followed by a ride along Sooke Road into town, passing the Sooke Museum. Take the road directly to where you’ll find fantastic spots for shopping, grabbing a beer or coffee, and dining at excellent restaurants.
Other highlights include strolling along the scenic boardwalk or heading down to the popular Whiffin Spit for more exploration.
Todd Creek Trestle – 47km
Old train trestles have this way of stirring the imagination, and Todd Creek Trestle is no exception. This wooden bridge is an engineering marvel from the past and one of the stand-out sights on the trail just before you reach Sooke Potholes.
Not only does the view across the trestle make for some amazing photos, but it’s also a great spot to pause and soak it all in.
- Perfect spot for photos
- Located close to Sooke Potholes
- Neat piece of history
More about Todd Creek Trestle >
Sooke Potholes – 49km
About 49 km into the ride from Victoria, you’ll reach the Sooke River, dotted with smooth rock pools, steep cliffs and pebble beaches perfect for cooling off. Many trails branch off, where you can linger, have a picnic, snap some photos, or take a quick swim. The potholes are an unforgettable stop.
Access the Potholes from the Galloping Goose at Parking Lot 2 and 3.
- Great for swimming and picnics
- Explore waterfalls in winter
Leechtown – 55km
While little remains of Leechtown, you can still spot remnants of old equipment that hint at its history. An information kiosk and washroom are available, and reaching this point gives you the bragging rights of completing the Galloping Goose Regional Trail.
Access the Galloping Goose Trail: The Basics
Whether you’re starting from Victoria or planning to jump on at one of the many other trailheads, the Galloping Goose Trail is easy to access.
If you’re in Victoria, the Johnson Street Bridge is your go-to starting point, and there’s plenty of parking in town. Public transit options also serve trail entry points near places like Langford and Sooke.
Just keep in mind that different sections of the trail alternate between paved and gravel, so plan your footwear or bike accordingly.
Along the trail, you will find parking lots, washrooms, water fountains and bike racks.
- Victoria’s Johnson Street Bridge: Main trailhead
- Street parking and public transit options are available
- A mix of paved and gravel sections. Choose your gear wisely
Plan your visit
- Compare places to stay at either end of the trail: hotels in Victoria near the Johnson Street Bridge trailhead, or places to stay in Sooke for the quieter west end.
- Book a one-way e-bike rental and shuttle covers about 40 km of the best stretches with no second car and no doubling back, from $119.
- Pacific Marine Circle Route itinerary works the Goose into a four-day Victoria to Port Renfrew loop if you want a full trip around it.
Tips for Making the Most of the Trail
While the charming towns en route have plenty of spots to grab lunch, there’s something satisfying about laying out your own mini picnic.
Keep an eye on trail signs.
Some areas have road crossings, and a quick pause will keep things safe.
Wear layers
Vancouver Island weather can be unpredictable, and you might find it cool in the forests but warm in the open sections.
Plan to stop.
The magic of this trail is in the variety of experiences, so give yourself time to wander off-trail or pause at those viewpoints.
There’s plenty to see, but amenities like cafes and shops become rarer the farther you go from Victoria.
Parking is available at various trailheads, and you can join the trail from multiple access points depending on where you’re staying or how much of the trail you want to tackle.
If you want to see more and don’t have a bike, rentals are available in Victoria, and a few businesses offer e-bike drop-off along the Goose, so you can show up at the parking lot and your e-bike will be waiting.
There are bed and breakfasts along the trail, and they often offer extra conveniences like secure bike storage. In terms of trail etiquette, keep an eye out for other users, whether that’s kids on scooters or dogs accompanying their owners.
- Pack water and snacks for longer stretches
- There are many bike rental options
- Accessible entry points exist throughout the trail
Whether you’re after a short stroll or an epic all-day excursion, the Galloping Goose Regional Trail offers endless opportunities to explore and enjoy Vancouver Island. Trust me, once you’ve experienced it, you’ll be planning your next trip before you’ve even left.
History of the Galloping Goose
The trail was established in 1987 and sits on the old railway route of the Canadian National Railway. Its name comes from the quirky “Galloping Goose,” a gas-powered passenger car that operated on the line in the 1920s. The trail is also a segment of the Trans Canada Trail system, which connects to even more CRD regional trails like the Lochside Regional Trail and the E&N Rail Trail.
- Length: 55 km (34 miles)
- Connects downtown Victoria to Leechtown, near Sooke
- Accessible for cycling, jogging, walking, and more
The beauty of the Galloping Goose is that it offers something for everyone. Start in vibrant downtown Victoria, where the trail kicks off near the busy Johnson Street Bridge. As you head west, the vibe changes dramatically. You’ll trade city streets for quiet suburban paths, then transition into dense forests and wide-open coastal views.
The first 13 kilometres are paved, making them especially popular with commuters, families, and anyone on wheels. Beyond that, the surface turns to gravel. It’s still easy to navigate, but it gives the experience a bit more of a “getting back to nature” feel.
Be prepared for a mix of flat stretches, gentle inclines, and the occasional hill where old railway bridges once stood. Speaking of bridges, the wooden trestle bridges are a highlight. They are old-school cool, but do not be surprised if your bike rattles a bit when crossing.
- Paved sections: First 13 kilometres, from Victoria to Wale Road in Colwood
- Gravel path begins after Colwood
- Mix of urban, suburban, and rural landscapes
- Suitable for all ages and abilities
- Parking along the trail with washrooms and water fountains
Helpful links
Free, unsubscribe anytime. See what you get
