Sooke Lake Rd to Kinsol Trestle (13.2km)

Wide gravel path surrounded by forest and private residences with occasional  lake views.

Footpath, Cycling, Equestrian

The Trail

This is a wide gravel trail suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is fairly flat with minor hills at about 3.5km and 10kms. At points you can see people’s homes and traffic from West Saanich Rd can be heard. There are views of Shawnigan Lake through the trees at some points.  All water crossings are bridged. There were two creeks along the trail that could be used for drinking water if it was treated.  There are a number of streets that cross the trail. The trail is wide and gravel. There are no drop offs, it was not marshy in late April, and the trail is not overgrown. It is easy to follow the markers for the entire length of the trail.

There are several road crossings along the route.

There are no supply points directly on the trail. The closest town is Shawnigan Lake. I do not know if camping is allowed. There are lots of flat spots, but it would be like setting up your tent in someone’s backyard because the homes are so close to the trail. There are multiple picnic spots along the trail. There is access to Shawnigan Lake .

Two typical trail views…. complete with patiently waiting trail dog.

Driving Directions to and GPS Coordinates of the Trail Head

Langford- take Highway #1 towards Nanaimo. Turn left on Shawnigan Lake Road. Turn left on Sooke Lake Road.

48 34.85N 123 37.89W

Parking:

Parking is located just off of Sooke Lake Road. There is room for about 8 vehicles. We were there on a Sunday and there were no other cars in the lot. There is an outhouse.

Glimpses of Shawnigan Lake along the Trail.

Shawnigan Lake Access.

Parking at Sooke Lake Road Trailhead

GPS Coordinates of the Endpoint of the Trail

48° 39.57 N 123° 41.90 W

As Recorded by Sarah Riddell

April 2017

The impressive Kinsol Trestle.