Running 60 kilometers through the heart of Victoria, Canada and the rural areas of South Vancouver Island, the “Galloping Goose” bicycle trail is considered one of the most scenic and beautiful bicycle trails in the world. Encompassing over 370 acres of semi-wilderness land, the trial winds its way through urban tunnels and pristine wooded vistas. The route runs over old railway trestles, past mountain streams and includes beautiful shoreline vistas of saltwater fjords and freshwater lakes.
What is the Galloping Goose Trail?
Acquired in 1987 the trail is a rail to trail conversion of a route that a gasoline-powered car used in the 1920s to bring commuters into the city. The Galloping Goose gets it unique name from the bouncy nature of the car ride, but today the ride is a smooth as any bicycle trail. More of a paved park trail than the traditional bicycle route, the trail sees over 150,000 visitors each year. Talk with any of the trail's visitors and you will usually get a glowing report.
To appreciate the trail's beauty you don’t have to ride the full 37 miles. Car parks along the trail provide a convenient place to start and end a ride. Different areas offer different views. Maps obtained at any visitor center will show you how the trail winds through the country sides and its special features, rest stops and viewpoints.
Highlights of the Galloping Goose Trail
Highlights of the trail include the Sooke potholes where the trail rides along a mountain river, Leechtown the site of an old gold mine that is now gone, and Todd’s trestle high above Todd’s creek. Other interesting vistas include the view along Sooke harbor and a stop at Matheson lake.
One of the things which makes the trail interesting is that each part of the trail is different. Some parts include heavy woods and others swept grass and urban switchbacks. For the nature lover there is a lot to see. Song birds, osprey, bald eagles, garter snakes and rabbits make their home along the trail. For those who don’t wish to get too far a afield there is usually a place to stop like the Metchosin market or West Town center for a quick meal.
Another nice thing about the trail is that there are no great elevation gains. The riding is good for both the beginner and the advanced cyclist. Certain parts of the trail do cross busy roads so take some care while riding, but for the most part the trail is fee of vehicle hazards and crowds. Over all, riding the Galloping Goose Trail is one experience you will remember for a lifetime.
The Galloping Goose Trail website has more information.
Robert McConkey - "Live as if your were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever". –Gandi A native of the Pacific Northwest, Robert ...
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