Saanich Commonwealth Place Park lies in the District of Saanich one of thirteen areas that form the Capital Regional District of British Columbia. Public outdoor areas surround Saanich Commonwealth Recreation Center forming about six hectares of community parkland. Concrete pathways, landscaped garden beds and grass-covered areas are found near the parking areas of the recreation center. A large grass covered area at the back of the building is a good place for outdoor time before or after a visit to the facility. There are washroom facilities inside the rec center. Commonwealth Place has a café and areas for fitness, wellness and swimming. The center offers programs, drop-in and camps. There are swimming pools for lengths, diving and wave. Several parks are close by including Normandy Park that is across the pedestrian bridge over Normandy Creek, a tributary of Colquitz River. Another park that is nearby is Elk and Beaver Lake Park with the lake, creek, forest trails and play areas. This park is access by walking along Elk Lake Drive or via Carlton Road. This is a good place to walk in your backyard.
Geographical Location 48° 30’ 7”N 123° 23’ 25”W
Saanich Commonwealth Place Park can be access from Highway #1, TransCanada Highway. Turn off at the McKenzie exit and follow the road to reach Pat Bay Highway. Continue along Pat Bay Highway to exit onto Royal Oak Drive. Turn left onto Royal Oak Drive from the highway exit and continue to Elk Lake Drive. Turn right onto Elk Lake Drive and look for the recreation center on the left. There are two large asphalt-parking areas for the recreation center on the front and right sides of the building.
Walks in Your Backyard 