Victoria, BC, is known for its mild weather, ocean views, and endless running trails — but it’s also home to some of the best spots to get in quality workouts.
1. Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary – Victoria, BC
Best for: Tempo runs, fartleks, and controlled efforts
Swan Lake, located in the heart of Victoria, BC, offers a flat, scenic 2 km loop that winds around a peaceful wetland just north of downtown. The trail surface is a mix of hard-packed gravel and dirt — forgiving on the legs but still fast underfoot.
You can string together multiple loops for a sustained effort or connect to the Galloping Goose Trail/Lochside Trail for longer runs. Early mornings are quiet and ideal for tempo work, while the gentle turns make it a great spot for relaxed progression runs.
2. Cedar Hill Golf Course – Victoria, BC
Best for: Hill repeats, threshold work, and structured group sessions
Encircling the Cedar Hill Golf Course in Victoria, BC, is a 3.5 km chip trail with rolling terrain — a mix of short climbs and steady downhills that build strength and endurance. It’s a favorite among local runners looking for a challenge without heading too far from the city center.
Even better, you can join Island Endurance here for their weekly group workout. Having other runners around adds accountability — and a bit of friendly competition — when the pace gets tough.
3. Lochside Regional Trail – Victoria, BC
Best for: Long intervals, marathon workouts, and sustained efforts
The Lochside Regional Trail runs from downtown Victoria, BC, all the way to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal — more than 29 km of mostly flat, compact gravel and paved sections. It’s ideal for marathon-specific sessions or long tempo runs where pace consistency is key.
Many serious runners in Victoria use Lochside for structured long runs, as it allows for continuous rhythm without stoplights or traffic. The scenery transitions from urban paths to quiet farmland, keeping things mentally engaging even during hard efforts.
Pro tip: Start near the Blenkinsop Lake area for quieter sections with fewer cyclists and pedestrians.
4. Rithet’s Bog Conservation Area – Victoria, BC
Best for: Recovery intervals and moderate progression runs
Rithet’s Bog in Victoria, BC, features a 3 km flat loop of well-maintained gravel trail surrounded by lush vegetation and birdlife. It’s an excellent location for tempo intervals, progression runs, or recovery workouts on softer terrain.
The flat profile makes it easy to control pacing — a perfect spot for when you want a steady effort without the impact of pavement or the distraction of hills.
5. University of Victoria’s Alumni Chip Trail – Victoria, BC
Best for: Speedwork, VO₂ max intervals, and race-pace efforts
The Alumni Chip Trail at the University of Victoria (UVic) is one of the city’s premier training spots. This 2.1 km loop of fine wood chips and packed dirt provides a soft yet fast surface, ideal for hard interval workouts or tune-ups before races.
You’ll often find UVic Vikes athletes and local running clubs training here, using the loop for 1 km or mile repeats. The trail’s consistent footing and gentle curves allow for sustained focus and controlled speed.
