SIGN UP TO GET A FREE COPY OF MY ULTIMATE CAMPING CHECKLIST

West Shore Recreation Centre: Worth Exploring!

If you’re looking for a treasure trove of activities, West Shore Recreation Centre is the place to be in Greater Victoria. They boast as being the “largest single-site recreation centre in North America”. The list of things to do at this one location is so long, it is mind-boggling. Imagine this: golf, swimming, hiking trails, a library and a senior’s centre. We’re just getting started.

This article may contain an affiliate link. This means that if you follow a link in this post and make a purchase, I may make a commission, at no extra cost to you. I am not sponsored by any of the products I link to, they are just the items I personally use and would recommend. Your support helps make this site possible – thank you!

Overlooking the grounds at West Shore Recreation Centre.

One of many scenic views from the Inside Loop trail around the perimeter of the facility.

In addition, West Shore Recreation Centre offers:

Curling
Pottery studio
Lacrosse box
Velodrome and artificial turf field
Q Centre arena, home to the Victoria Shamrocks lacrosse team and the Victoria Grizzlies hockey team
Beach volleyball courts
Lawn bowling centre
Adult and youth baseball diamonds
Basketball courts
Kids playgrounds
BMX track
Grass playing fields for football and rugby (home to the Westshore Rugby Football Club)
Rotary picnic shelter
Wild Play Elements Park

Golfers enjoying a round

I’m sure I missed something, but you get the point – the place is massive! And so much fun. There is something to do for every member of your family.

You won't get lost with signage like this!

There are several reasons why this recreation centre has made my list of hidden gems and places you must go but the main reason is the walking trails. The trail is not completely flat but a nice little workout. I love my walking poles for hikes like this (heck I use them everywhere!) - they provide that little extra balance and support when going up and down hills. I highly recommend poles, I don't think I would have the confidence to explore as much of the city as I do without them.

You have three options when hiking the trails around the complex. The first is the Garry Oak Walkway - a fairly easy shaded 1 km loop with an elevation of up to 45 metres.

The second option is referred to as the inside loop and is a 2.4 km trail around the perimeter of the facility. This beautiful walk will take you around the golf course, behind the baseball diamonds – be sure to stop at the Rotary picnic shelter for a wonderful vantage point from which to view the property.

Then you’ll head into a shaded area nestled beside WildPlay (watch for zipliners overhead), past the BMX track, the velodrome and the Q Centre. From here the path dips down again then back up near the children’s playground. Follow that route if you still need a leg and butt workout or stay on higher ground and make your way towards the parking lot.

Rotary Pavillion

Wildplay crew

Children's Playground

WildPlay zipline goes overhead at one point on the inside loop trail.

Options 3 is to combine the Garry Oak loop with the inside loop to complete the 3km full loop.

I love this trail for the diversity of scenery and a good balance of shady and sunny sections. It is also easy to find with good signage, has lots of parking and is well maintained.

Whether it is hiking like I enjoy or any number of the other activities located on the property, there is something for everyone. For directions, hours of operation and a full list of facilities and programs, visit West Shore Recreation.