- Visitors to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park should watch for rising and falling water after periods of heavy rainfall, especially from September through July.
- There are steep cliffs in some areas of this park; visitors should use caution in these areas
General Visitor Safety Information (park safety, hazards, wildlife safety information, health risks)
Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
About This Park
Sooke Potholes Provincial Park provides access to the series of deep, polished rock pools and potholes carved naturally into the bedrock of the Sooke River. This area is a favourite day-use destination for many local and regional residents.
Glacial action during the last ice age 15,000 years ago is responsible for the formations, as the moving, melting ice packs stripped the surface area and carved a path deep into the natural bedrock. Huge boulders carried along by the rushing river became lodged, were swirled against the canyon walls and consequently carved out the potholes that can be seen today.
The water in this very popular park is beautifully clean and clear, providing a wonderful swimming and picnicking destination in the summer. The Sooke River is also an important coho and Chinook salmon spawning river, and opportunities exist for catch and release fishing. Sooke Potholes Provincial Park provides an ideal location to view the annual salmon spawning run.
Park Size: 7.28 Hectares.
Location and Maps
Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is located near Sooke on southern Vancouver Island. The park is accessed via Sooke River Road, 5 km north of West Coast Highway 14.
Nature and Culture
- Conservation - This park provides wildlife viewing opportunities along an important coho and Chinook salmon spawning river. Located within the Leeward Island Mountains Ecosection, the park protects remnant old-growth Douglas fir and associated sensitive plant communities that line Sooke River. The Sierra wood fern, a red-listed plant, is found in the park. The river itself is an important wildlife corridor for all species, including black bear and Roosevelt elk, as it connects the Sooke Hills and Capital Region greenbelt.
- General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information
Management Planning
Management Planning Information
- The approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan is available in pdf format.
Activities Available at this Park
Canoeing
Fishing
Pets on Leash
Swimming
Facilities Available at this Park
Picnic Areas
Parking fees are no longer being charged. Find out more.
