Mt. Tolmie Park is a great place for hiking, birding, and picnicking, with more than 4,900 feet (1,500 meters) of trails. It's easy to explore on your own, particularly if you just want to hike, though you may find it more convenient to visit as part of one of the many private city tours that include a stop at this panoramic park.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to do any hiking, as the park’s grounds can be rocky in places.
You can drive up to the park if you don’t feel like hiking.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection with you.
Mt. Tolmie Park is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Victoria, and there are plenty of spots to pull over or park. If you don’t have a car, your best bet is a rideshare or joining a tour. You can also take bus 14 to Richmond at Mayfair (a 10-minute walk from the park). Bus numbers 4, 15, and 28 will drop you a 15-minute walk from the park.
The park is accessible throughout the year, but summer is the best time to visit overall. You’ll have the best views if you come on a clear day, when you’ll be able to see quite far. Consider visiting just after sunrise or just before sunset for the best photographs.
If you're a fan of scenery and have a bit more time to explore Vancouver Island, consider a drive along the Pacific Marine Circle Route, a 179-mile (289-kilometer) route that starts in Victoria, makes its way through cute coastal towns and beautiful forests, and then loops back. Stops along the way include Lake Cochiwan, the town of Duncan, and the coastal town of Sooke.
