Riding Areas and Arenas
Saanichton Fairgrounds
The fairgrounds are not only home to western Canada’s oldest continuous agricultural fair, but are also an excellent location for riding. Both indoor and outdoor facilities are available and were professionally built for horses. Its easy accessibility, good parking and spectator-friendly environment make this a favourite area for local riders.
Saanich Peninsula
Riding along the Haro Strait, take in spectacular ocean and mountain views as you ride through valleys and forested trails.
Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Located on the Pat Bay Highway (Hwy #17), just north of Victoria, this 411-hectare park provides an excellent bridle trail that circles the lake through forest, fields and wetlands.
Lochside Regional Trail
Share this long, flat trail with cyclists as you ride through farmers’ fields on your way to or from Sidney.
Galloping Goose Regional Trail
The Galloping Goose Trail is a linear park that stretches 55 kilometres from Victoria to Sooke and beyond. Built on an abandoned railway line, the Galloping Goose is part of the Trans Canada Trail. The Galloping Goose trail surface is two to four metres wide, mostly flat and leads through a wonderful diversity of landscapes.
Trans Canada Trail
Ride the Trans Canada Trail past charming bed and breakfasts to the Kinsol Trestle, a historical wooden train trestle. Once you reach the trestle, the only way to cross the river is on horseback, unless you wade or swim through the cool water.
Thetis Lake Regional Park
Thetis Lake is located off Six Mile Road on the outskirts of Victoria. A 778-hectare natural setting, Thetis Lake park has an abundance of horseback riding trails.
Cobble Hill
Cobble Hill is an agricultural community located 45 minutes north of Victoria. Ride through heavily-wooded rainforests and up to the summit for spectacular views of Cobble Hill and beyond.
Rock Quarry
Lighter forested trails with views of Cobble Hill’s farmers’ fields will lead you to the mountains and caves of the Rock Quarry. Explore the trout farm created in the extremely deep pool of water in the center of the quarry.
Koksilah River
Feel completely submersed in nature as you ride along the river. Enjoy lush trails and mountain views, about 50 minutes north of Victoria.
Woodgate Stables
Located at 8129 Derrinberg Road, Woodgate Stables have a 73-metre riding arena. Hog fuel (wood chips) line the floor surface and provide quality footing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced Western or English rider, the arena is an excellent ring in which to ride. The arena hosts lessons, children's day camps, dressage, jumping and riding practice.
Alpine Stables
Located at 3700 Holland Avenue in Cobble Hill, Alpine Stables boasts a brand new riding arena. The facility measures 20 metres by 60 metres and is surfaced with hog fuel (wood chips). The arena is used for lessons, dressage, jumping and riding practice.
Aspen Park Stables (Oak Meadow Stables)
Located at 4085 Prospect Lake Road in Victoria, the riding arena at Aspen Park Stables is 55 metres by 21 metres with an adjoining clubhouse. The arena is surfaced with hog fuel (wood chips) and is used for training horses, providing lessons and therapeutic riding. Aspen Park Stables also rents its arena for other uses.
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