Some Wednesday hikes are different than others. For example, there was the one where an owl almost took our heads off — feathery bastard. Tonight’s excursion to John Dean Park didn’t involve any wildlife encounters, but did take some effort to do since it’s a bit of a drive out and back. I guess that doesn’t really set it apart from other hikes in any truly notable way. I guess what does set it apart though, is the fact that John Dean Park is pretty damn nice, with a great view point at Pickels’ Bluff.
Our journey started at the main parking lot, which is conveniently located near the top of Mt. Newton. I think the trail sequence went something like Lily Pond Trail, View Point Trail, Woodward Trail, Montfort Trail, Slektain Trail, and then Thunderbird Trail and the road up to Pickels’ Bluff. Overall, kind of a counter-clockwise navigation of the park with an extra excursion up to the viewpoint at Pickels’ Bluff, which is well worth checking out at some point in one’s life.
GPS Data: 6.5km – 1h59m – GPS route
A 6.5km hike at John Dean Park near Victoria, BC. Click on the map to see detailed GPS information on the Garmin website.
Kind of shady in the forest today, literally. Consequently, not many trail photos except for this one taken near the end of the hike while heading down to Pickels' Bluff.
Meh, nice view, but not a great photo. I think that's the West Saanich Road observatory hill in the distance. Definitely looking south.
A view to the east from Pickels' Bluff towards Mt. Baker.
Looking east towards James Island and Sidney Island from Pickels' Bluff at John Dean Park.
Not sure if Trevor owns any running shoes or hiking boots, but he seemed content hiking in the Crocs, although he did mention that he should have perhaps brought the ones with the strap on the back.
