Explore:NW explorenw_spr2019 | Page 22

I T I N E R A R Y | S H O R T H O P S Victoria’s Best Car-Free Day Hike Fondly nicknamed the “Garden City”, Victoria’s lush landscape is home to a wide variety of breathtaking outdoor spaces. The city’s crowning jewel is Beacon HIll Park. It spans more than 200 acres from the capital’s downtown to its shores along the Salish Sea. And with its close proximity to the Inner Harbour, it offers the ideal day hike for the car-free traveler. BUT DON’T LET THE WORD ‘hike’ scare you off. Exploring Beacon Hill Park is more a meandering stroll than back-country trek. Here, elevation gains are limited and even dirt foot- paths are well manicured. Paved roads and walkways also abound, which horse-drawn carriages are known to frequent. The park’s topography varies widely, ranging from rugged coastline and nature preserves to finely manicured flower beds and story-book esc picnic areas. A flock of peacocks call the park home. So too do a variety of farm animals that take up residence at the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm from early spring through late fall. The furry friends range from goats, sheep and pigs to alpacas, miniature horses, and Guin- ea pigs. During open hours (spring 20 explore: NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air | Spring 2019 10 am – 4 pm, summer 10 am – 4 pm, fall 10 am – 4 pm), children of all ages are welcome to visit the goat petting area. There are also art attractions in the park, like the park’s infamous Story Pole. Erected in 1956 it stands at just shy of 128 feet. The beautiful design was carved by a team lead by Mun- go Martin, Kwakiutl tribal chief and renowned carver. You’ll find it near the park’s southeastern edge. Start ‘Off the Road’ Maximize your adventure by starting at the Bridge Way entrance located at Douglas St. and Michigan St. Leave the paved road by meandering up the gentle slope to the Garry Oak Mead- ow. Here you’ll find the grey trunks of Garry Oaks tucked among craggy rocks and thick tufts of grass. Follow the trail through the park’s center, the Beacon Hill Park Lakes. The man-maintained lakes are shaded by weeping willows and decorated with lily pads. Ducks and turtles alike sun themselves in the water, as everyone from stroller-wielding moms to adven- turing locals make their way through the paved walkways. Visit the Peacocks Continue on to Sundial Garden. The lovely round floral display is frequent- ed by strutting peacocks. Passing several more lakes, cross over Circle Drive and into the large field, which is filled with wildflowers during the late spring and early summer. Follow the field’s footpath over the small bluff to a row of towering trees. Here you’ll be treated to your first stunning view of the Salish Sea.