Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
Canada
British Columbia

North Saanich

Easy hikes and walks around North Saanich

4.9

(24)

334

hikers

29

hikes

Easy hiking trails around North Saanich traverse a landscape characterized by old-growth forests, diverse parklands, and coastal shorelines. The region, located on the northern tip of the Saanich Peninsula, features hills under 200m, offering panoramic viewpoints of the Gulf Islands and surrounding waters. Hikers can explore a variety of ecosystems, from Garry oak woodlands to pebble beaches.

Best easy hiking trails around North Saanich

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Slektain Trail and Cy's Viewpoint loop, a 3.8 miles (6.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 43 minutes to complete. This route offers varied scenery through natural areas.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Scoter Trail, an easy 1.4 miles (2.2 km) path. This trail provides coastal views along a pebble beach, featuring arbutus trees and salt-tolerant grasses.
  • Local hikers also love the Port Sidney Marina loop from Sidney, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail leading through the marina area, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
  • Hiking around North Saanich is defined by old-growth forests, coastal paths, and diverse parklands. The network of easy hiking trails offers options for various ability levels, including family-friendly excursions.
  • The routes in North Saanich are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore North Saanich's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 27, 2026

5.0

(2)

36

hikers

#1.

Slektain Trail and Cy's Viewpoint loop

6.05km

01:43

140m

140m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

5

hikers

2.23km

00:34

10m

10m

Hike the easy 1.4 miles (2.2 km) Scoter Trail along Patricia Bay's pebble beach in North Saanich, offering coastal views and seating.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

4

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
Sign up for free to see 25 more hikes around North Saanich.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Alex
April 21, 2026, Lagoon Trail

The Lagoon Trail explores deeper into the Sidney Spit Marine Park in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This area has an inner lagoon and a WWII-era bomb shelter. There are walk-in campsites as well that must be reserved with Parks Canada.

0

0

The northmost end of Sidney Island has a white sandy beach, littered with driftwood and awesome views of the small islands to the north. Since visitors can't drive to Sidney Island, this is the area where the Sidney Spit Ferry will drop off hikers and a great place to start an adventure. The ferry is small and leaves from Sidney, with an opportunity to see orcas and other sea life along the way to Sidney Island.

0

0

Just a short spur off Sktamen Trail, the walk to the end of this dock gives way to views of water all around, with mainland mountains off in the distance. There is a large grassy area around the dock, open with great views as well, and a gazebo.

0

0

Fritzchen
March 27, 2026, Sky Pier

Like in heaven...

Translated by Google

1

0

AaronLavanchy
February 24, 2026, John Dean Park

John Dean Park sits atop Mount Newton, overlooking the Saanich Peninsula, the Gulf Islands, and the Cascade Mountains. It protects one of the last remaining stands of old-growth Douglas fir and Garry oak on the Saanich Peninsula. The park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through the forest and lead all the way to the summit of Mount Newton.

0

0

Sue
November 7, 2025, View of Patricia Bay

This is a great vantage point with panoramic views of the water, nearby islands, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. There is a lovely bench here, making it a perfect place for a quiet stop to watch for herons, floatplanes, or enjoy a beautiful sunset.

0

0

Sue
November 7, 2025, Scoter Trail

The Scoter Trail runs along the beautiful shoreline of Patricia Bay, from Patricia Bay Park to the Tseycum First Nation lands. The flat path winds by pockets of driftwood beach, beautiful arbutus trees, and salt-tolerant grasses, making it a great place for a casual walk. There are several benches along the way, perfect for some quiet time by the water to enjoy the beautiful views.

0

0

Sue
November 6, 2025, Patricia Bay Park

Patricia Bay Park is a quiet waterfront spot in North Saanich with open views of the Saanich Inlet and easy access to the paved Scoter Trail. There are picnic tables, restrooms, and a small beach area, making it a lovely place to stop for lunch or take a break. It’s low-key and family-friendly, perfect for birdwatching, a short walk, or just sitting by the water.

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in North Saanich?

North Saanich offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 25 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, including old-growth forests, coastal shorelines, and various parklands.

Are there any easy circular walks in North Saanich?

Yes, North Saanich features several easy circular walks. A popular option is the Slektain Trail and Cy's Viewpoint loop, which is 6.1 km long and offers varied scenery through natural areas. Another great choice is the John Dean Park loop from John Dean Park, a 5 km trail that winds through old-growth forests.

Which easy trails offer the best panoramic viewpoints?

For stunning panoramic views, consider trails within John Dean Park, which is perched atop Mount Newton and provides vistas of the Saanich Peninsula, Gulf Islands, and even the distant Cascade Mountains. Horth Hill Regional Park also offers spectacular views of Satellite Channel and the Gulf Islands, with its Summit Trail being particularly popular for year-round panoramas.

Are there family-friendly easy hikes in North Saanich?

Absolutely. Many of North Saanich's easy trails are suitable for families. The Scoter Trail along Patricia Bay's pebble beach is an excellent, accessible option for a casual stroll with coastal views. Blue Heron Park also provides lush greenery and picturesque trails ideal for walking with children.

Can I bring my dog on easy hikes in North Saanich?

Many parks and trails in North Saanich are dog-friendly, though leash regulations typically apply. It's always best to check specific park rules before heading out. Trails like those in Horth Hill Regional Park and Blue Heron Park are generally welcoming to dogs on leash.

What are some hidden gem easy hikes in the area?

For a more secluded experience, explore Reay Estuary Green Space near Bazan Bay, which is perfect for quiet beach walks and birdwatching, especially for great blue herons. Nymph Point Park also offers a trail leading to a breakwater with good views of marine traffic, featuring arbutus, juniper, and Garry oak trees.

Are there any easy coastal walks or trails near the water?

North Saanich boasts beautiful shorelines with easy coastal walks. The Scoter Trail at Patricia Bay is a prime example, offering easy paths with coastal views and arbutus trees. The rocky shore at Reay Estuary Green Space is also excellent for beach walks and combing.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes?

Easy hikes in North Saanich showcase a rich variety of natural features. You'll encounter old-growth Douglas fir and Garry oak ecosystems in John Dean Park, glacial grooves and ancient rock formations at Horth Hill Regional Park, and coastal arbutus trees and salt-tolerant grasses along the Scoter Trail.

What do other hikers enjoy most about easy trails in North Saanich?

The easy trails in North Saanich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse scenery, from tranquil old-growth forests to breathtaking coastal views, and the well-maintained paths that make exploration enjoyable for all ability levels.

Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the easy hiking trails?

Yes, several notable attractions are close to the easy hiking trails. You can visit the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, explore the open views at Patricia Bay Park, or discover the scenic Jocelyn Hill. The Port Sidney Marina loop from Sidney also offers a pleasant walk through the marina area.

What is the best time of year for easy hikes in North Saanich?

North Saanich offers enjoyable easy hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, especially on trails like Horth Hill's Summit Trail. The mild coastal climate makes autumn and winter walks pleasant, while summer provides warm, sunny conditions perfect for coastal strolls and forest exploration.

Are there any easy trails that connect to other areas or parks?

Yes, many trails in North Saanich are interconnected, allowing for varied walks. For example, Green Park offers an east/west trail that connects directly to Horth Hill Regional Park, providing opportunities to extend your hike and explore different landscapes within the region.

Most popular routes around North Saanich

Hiking around North Saanich

Most popular attractions around North Saanich

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

Selkirk MountainsCoast MountainsRocky MountainsMonashee MountainsAlberni-ClayoquotVancouver IslandElectoral Area ABurnabyMetro Vancouver Regional ParksFraser Islands Regional Park ReserveVancouverNanaimoArea D (Elaho/Garibaldi)SurreyTynehead Regional ParkPitt LakeArea C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)Purcell MountainsCoquitlam WatershedColony Farm Regional ParkPitt MeadowsCypress Provincial ParkSurrey Bend Regional ParkMaple RidgeArea B (Shelter Bay/Mica Creek)Buntzen Lake Recreation AreaPinecone Burke Provincial ParkArea G (Forster Creek/Mount Assiniboine)East Central Okanagan Electoral AreaTəmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional ParkOkanagan Mountain Provincial ParkAbbotsfordLangleyCariboo MountainsArea H (Lighthouse Country)Area J (Copper Desert Country)Area A (Baynes Sound)Kanaka Creek Regional ParkBeaver Lodge Forest LandsCentral Okanagan JArea A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)Brackendale Eagles Provincial ParkPacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach UnitArea A (Wells Gray Country)Sumas Mountain Regional ParkArea G (Deroche/Dewdney/Sumas Mountain)Area P (Rivers and the Peaks)Macmillan Provincial ParkLittle Qualicum Falls Provincial ParkArea D (Oyster Bay/Buttle Lake)Area F (McConnell Creek/Hatzic Prairie)Sea To Sea Regional ParkEagle Mountain Recreation SiteCowichan Valley GWoodley Range Ecological ReserveKootenay National ParkArea F (Columbia Lake/Windermere Lake)Tantalus Provincial ParkNorth Okanagan BFraser River Delta -- RamsarOkanagan LakeMinnekhada Regional ParkBlackcomb Glacier Provincial ParkKennedy Lake Provincial ParkGoldstream Provincial ParkSunshine Coast Regional DistrictArea A (Kyuquot/Nootka/Sayward)Burnaby Mountain Conservation AreaStephens Coyote Ridge Regional ParkSaanichGolden Ears Provincial ParkMount Revelstoke National ParkCrown Land ReserveArea B (Shawnigan Lake)Area B (South Fraser Canyon/Sunshine Valley)Victoria Harbour Migratory Bird SanctuaryUpper Little Qualicum River WoodlandsWells Gray Provincial ParkArea L (Grasslands)Area F (Alberni Highway)Capital GCowichan Valley FElk Falls Provincial ParkBrandywine Falls Provincial ParkArea B (Discovery Islands/Mainland Inlets)Robert'S Lake Regional ParkBeaufort East WoodlandsCampbell Valley Regional ParkYoho National ParkMount Seymour Provincial ParkHelliwell Provincial ParkOkanagan-Similkameen DStawamus Chief Provincial ParkȽáu,Welṉew̱/John Dean Provincial ParkJuan De Fuca Provincial ParkArea E (Chilliwack River Valley)Area H (Robson Valley/Canoe)Burnaby Lake Regional ParkKalamalka Lake Provincial ParkArea D (Trinity/West Creighton)Area F (Grindrod/Ashton Creek/Mabel Lake)Dawley Passage Provincial ParkUpper Trent River WoodlandsGlen Valley Regional ParkArea C (Blind Bay/Sorrento)Area C (Chilako River/Nechako)Iona Beach Regional ParkUpper Qualicum River WoodlandsArea C (Moyie/Bull River)Shuswap LakeK'Ómoks Royston LandsEpper Passage Provincial ParkBlue Mountain Recreation SiteStave West Forest & Recreation AreaAyum Creek Regional Park ReserveAlberni Beaufort Range WoodlandsArea E (Naramata/Greyback)Thwaytes Landing Regional ParkStanley Park National Historic SiteNorth CowichanArea H (Manning Park/Tulameen/Siwash)Central SaanichDeltaLynn Headwaters Regional ParkSooke Mountain Provincial ParkPacific Rim National Park Reserve - West Coast Trail UnitArea C (Puntledge/Black Creek)Telemark Cross-Country Ski Trails Recreation SiteNorth Cowichan Municipal Forest ReserveVedder Mountain Interpretative ForestArea B (Lake Koocanusa)Capilano River Regional ParkUpper Puntledge River WoodlandsVictoriaBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaBoyle Point Provincial ParkMount Geoffrey Escarpment Provincial ParkAlouette LakeMt. Macpherson Cross-Country Trails Recreation SiteArea E (Saint Mary/Skookumchuck)Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional ParkStave LakeArea F (Trout Creek Valley)Bear Creek Provincial ParkWhistler Interpretive ForestCultus Lake Provincial ParkArea D (Falkland/Silver Creek)Mount Terry Fox Provincial ParkNanaimo GLiumchen Ecological ReserveGrouse Mountain Regional ParkAlice Lake Provincial ParkLower Seymour Conservation ReserveGowlland Tod Provincial ParkShowh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation SiteMount Robson Provincial ParkBlaney Bog Regional Park ReserveUbc Malcolm Knapp Research ForestGaribaldi Provincial ParkThacker Regional ParkArea A (Salmon River/Lakes)Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson)Area C (Sasquatch Country)Bowen Island Ecological ReserveCrippen Regional ParkMt Begbie Area Recreation SitePacific Spirit Regional ParkVargas Island Provincial ParkCougar Canyon Ecological ReserveCampbell LakeArea H (Canim Lake/Forest Grove)Myra-Bellevue Provincial ParkArea B (Lower Columbia/Old Glory)Hazelton MountainsComox Valley B (Lazo North)Columbia National Wildlife AreaCodd Wetland Ecological Conservancy AreaRichmondStamp River Provincial ParkArea J (Lower Arrow/Columbia)Mount Arrowsmith Regional Park (Acrd)Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest TrailsBrohm Lake Day Use Recreation SiteArea E (Balfour/Cottonwood Lake)Deas Island Regional ParkMain Lake Provincial ParkCapilano WatershedSeymour WatershedMount Tuam Ecological ReserveMount Gardner Recreation SiteMount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park (Rdn)Boundary Bay Regional ParkStrathcona Provincial ParkArea A (North Skeena)Read Island Provincial ParkCallaghan ConservancySalt Spring Island Electoral AreaArea D (Tabor Lake/Stone Creek)Area E (Eagle River Valley)E.C. Manning Provincial ParkAlberni - Great Central Lake WoodlandsAlberni - Ash River WoodlandsMount Begbie Recreation SiteWidgeon Marsh Regional Park ReserveHarrison LakeArea F (Willow River/Upper Fraser)Seal Bay Regional Nature ParkArea A (Upper Flathead/Elk Valley)Fintry Provincial ParkArea C (Hyde Creek/Benson Valley)Mount Assiniboine Provincial ParkHillkeep Regional ParkRathtrevor Beach Provincial ParkMount Maxwell Ecological ReserveEnglish Lake Provincial ParkSatellite Channel Ecological ReserveNanaimo ERuckle Provincial ParkOak Bay Islands Ecological ReserveMill Farm Regional Park ReserveStebbings Road Community ForestRace Rocks Ecological ReserveFraser Valley DHeight Of The Rockies Provincial ParkMount Fernie Provincial ParkArea A (Malaspina/Toba)Alaksen National Wildlife AreaGeorge C. Reifel Migratory Bird SanctuaryWilliams Beach ForestBurgoyne Bay Provincial ParkMount Maxwell Provincial ParkArea G (Salmo Valley)Fraser River Ecological ReserveSasquatch Provincial ParkSkeena MountainsWest Arm Provincial ParkSkaha Bluffs Provincial ParkWeaver Lake Recreation SiteMount Richardson Provincial ParkArea O (Lower North Thompson)

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Ƚáu,Welṉew̱/John Dean Provincial Park

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy