Along the west bank of the Sooke River in the Sunriver neighbourhood is the home to one of the biggest trees you will find around Sooke. Even though the area has been previously forested, it’s still possible to find a few gigantic trees classified as old growth. And halfway down this beautiful river trail, you can find one of these mega trees.
This backyard secret is an easy walk as you head down the banks of the Sooke River. The complete walk is about 4km and should take you under an hour to complete at a gentle pace. Expect to enjoy the river views, and experience a small but beautiful patch of old-growth trees, including one of the biggest trees in the area and another with an opening large enough to crawl into.
The area is home to all types of wildlife. Watch the fly fishermen taking advantage of the Salmon run, photographers looking for birds and keep your eyes open at dawn and dusk for bears after their salmon dinner.
Two Parking Options
Philips Road – The first is a small pullout just after passing Sooke River Campground and crossing De Mamiel Creek along Philips Road. After parking, walk 200 meters up Phillips Rd to join the trail, turn right and head down the stairs.
Sunriver Estates – If you want to avoid the staircase, you can find another small parking lot at the entrance to Sunriver Estates. From Phillips Road, Turn on Shambrook Drive for another access option.
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Vancouver Island is a land of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Please be aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions for personal and wildlife safety.
Black bears, cougars and even wolves are common on Vancouver Island for more on Wildlife Safety Click Here
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Changing seasons and tides can have a drastic effect on most locations on Vancouver Island. Please be cautious as the information in this post may vary depending on the time of year and weather. Make sure to check for current weather and tide information before you make your journey!
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We would like to acknowledge the land we appreciate daily within the 50 First Nations that make up the traditional territories of the Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the first peoples of Vancouver Island .
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