moderate
4–6 hours
Participants should have moderate stamina for varied terrains and inclines.
Join Tales on Trails for an immersive journey through Vancouver Island’s diverse landscapes, from rainforest trails and mountain views to marine life at the Salish Sea. Discover what makes this trip a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Victoria.
Hiking, Inlet, Aquarium and Old Growth
Embark on an unforgettable adventure tour of Victoria's Peninsula! Hike through Vancouver Island's lush rainforest, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views from Mount Doug, and explore the vibrant marine life at the Center for the Salish Sea. Conclude your journey in the majestic Old Growth forest of John Dean Park.
For this tour, we will pick you up anywhere around Victoria, and bring you home afterwards. If you are a single traveller, please get in touch to see if we can pair you up with a group. If the tour you are looking for is unavailable, we might have room on a different itinerary. Enjoy the best of the Peninsula by hopping on this adventure tour. Start the day with a hike wandering through the Rainforest of Vancouver Island while your guide shows you all that hides in the woods. Many edible plants and berries will lay alongside the path and your guide can also teach you the inner work of our ecosystem. Next, we will wander up PKOLS/Mount Doug for the most amazing 360 degree view of Victoria, the Coast Mountain and the Salish Sea. A great photo op! This is also where we will eat our complimentary lunch. After this vista, we will take the short coastal drive up to Sydney to visit the Center for the Salish Sea, a beautiful aquarium full of colourful jellyfish, anemones, fishes and creatures of the sea surrounding Victoria. Your guide will give you tons of information on the underwater world. For our last stop, we will visit the beautiful Old Growth forest of ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ / John Dean Park. The immense Douglas-Firs of this park, towering above the path will lead you to a beautiful pond and an amazing viewpoint.
Vancouver Island’s weather can shift quickly, so layering helps you stay comfortable during varied activities.
Rain or shine, waterproof clothing or a quick-drying jacket will keep you comfortable during rainforest hikes.
Keep a pair of binoculars handy for spotting birds and marine life at the Salish Sea and forest canopies.
Arriving at key viewpoints like Mount Doug early will give you the clearest views during the golden hours.
Vancouver Island has been home to Coast Salish peoples for thousands of years, with many sites rich in indigenous history and culture.
Tales on Trails emphasizes low-impact travel, ensuring the preservation of the island's delicate ecosystems for future generations.
Good traction and ankle support are key for uneven rainforest trails and mountain paths.
Adjustable layers help manage changing temperatures during different activities and weather conditions.
Keeps you dry during rain showers common on Vancouver Island.
spring|fall|winter specific
Enhances wildlife viewing at marine and forest sites.