Broom Hill Park is on Crown Lands is in the seaside community of Sooke, one of thirteen communities that form the Capital Regional District of British Columbia. This parkland has several nature trails that are used for hiking, running, biking and equestrians. The main trails are maintained by volunteers and lead to the summit of Broom Hill, at three hundred and ten meters, with over ten kilometers of walking trails. Most of the dirt and rock covered trails are over a steep and varied terrain of second growth Douglas fir, Hemlock and cedar tree forest although there is also plenty of the bright yellow scotch broom shrubs to be found. The view point at the summit looks mostly southward over the Sooke Harbour, Strait of Juan de Fuca and Pacific Ocean. There are three main areas to access the trails in Broom Hill Park. One is at the end of Blanchard Road another is from Williams Simmons Park or from the parking area near the Capital Regional District Building; both are off of Otter Point Road. The trails are rough with some gravel, plenty of roots and moss and mostly single track. The pathways cross over streams and creeks with a variety of log bridges and stepping stones. Wear shoes that are appropriate for the season as well as bring drinking water. These nature trails require enough time as the steep slopes, varied terrain and sinuous routes, some have trail markers, can make for a slow going five or ten kilometer hike. This is a good nature walk with dense sword ferns and varied understory plants. The trails are frequented by hikers, runners, cyclists and equestrians. This is a good place to explore and walk in your back yard.
Geographical location N48º 23’ 17” W123º 44’ 32”
Broom Hill Park can be reached from the Trans Canada Highway. Take the Langford Parkway exit and follow along to reach Sooke Road (Hwy 14). Follow highway 14 to Otter Point Road. Turn right onto Otter Point Road and continue along the roadway to reach Burr Drive. Follow Burr Drive along to Petemar Road then turn right to reach Blanchard Road and continue to the end of Blanchard Road. This trail head is used by cyclists as well. There are many alternative routes to the trails such as access from Otter Point Road at William Simmons Park or near the CRD Building. There is a limited parking along Blanchard Road. City buses travel along Pyrite Drive. The trailhead is about a fifty minute drive from Victoria.
https://simbs.com/where-to-ride/broom-hill/
Walks in Your Backyard 