This park is perfect for visitors of all abilities to explore nature. Spanning 107 hectares, this Regional Conservation Area is rich in cultural history. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the universally accessible Elsie King Trail, admire the heritage grove of ancient Douglas-fir trees, or hike the connecting trails to Thetis Lake Regional Park. You can also visit the Nature Centre to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.
The Elsie King Trail is an 800-meter self-guiding loop that provides access to nature for individuals with limited mobility and agility. It’s also great for family outings with young children. Named after a notable leader in the Victoria Girl Guides and the wife of naturalist Freeman King, this forest loop features interpretive signs, rest areas with benches, a shelter, and an accessible toilet. The trail has both boardwalk and smooth gravel surfaces. Please be cautious, as the boardwalk can be slippery when wet; stick to the wire-meshed surface for your safety.
Stroll under the towering trees to connect with several more challenging trails in the park. These trails are narrow dirt paths that can be uneven and steep in places. As you walk, take in the lush ferns and mosses at your feet and look up to see sunlight filtering through the canopy above.
In the Heritage Grove, you'll encounter magnificent old-growth Douglas-fir trees that are around 500 years old, making them some of the tallest in the region.
Trail Rating: Accessible (Elsie King Trail) to Moderate (Centennial Trail)
Size: 107.33 hectares
Location: Munn Road in Saanich
Established: 1979
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Nature Centre
The Nature Centre, located near the main parking lot, is staffed by regional parks personnel and volunteer naturalists who can answer your questions and guide you on the trails. You can pick up a brochure and explore interpretive displays about the park's natural and cultural history. It is open from12 PM to 4 PM Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays.
To help preserve the park:
Amenities
Detailed Park Accessibility Information
- Francis/King Accessibility Info (PDF - Screen reader friendly)
- Accessible toilets
- Accessible trail
- Information kiosk
- Interpretive panels
- Nature Centre
- Parking for 17 vehicles with 4 accessible parking stalls and room for full-size buses
- Accessible picnic area
How to Get There
Follow the Trans-Canada Highway from Victoria, and take the Helmcken Road exit. Turn left on Burnside Road West, then right on Prospect Lake Road. From Prospect Lake Road travel 300m and turn left on Munn Road, which leads to the park entrance on the right. Allow approximately 20 minutes driving time from Victoria.