RegattaCentral

Elk Lake is a large lake located in Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park in Saanich, British Columbia.

Elk Lake and Beaver Lake are actually one lake as a shallow channel connects them. Elk/Beaver lake was known as the "Freshwater Playground of Victoria" in its heyday, the 1930s and 1940s.

However, with the completion of the Pat Bay highway in the 1950s, focus turned to environmentalism, and measures were taken to start restoring the park to its natural state and protecting it. In 1966 Elk/Beaver lake became a regional park.

The trail that loops around Elk / Beaver Lake is a popular route for those specators looking for a longer 10km walk or jog between events. The terrain is relatively flat and following the trails that are next to the lakes make it easy to follow and provide several scenic views of the regional park area.

On Land Hull Flow Pattern (click here)

Emergency Access Flow Pattern (click here)

Racing Flow Pattern            (click here)

Training Flow Pattern          (click here) 

Elk / Beaver Lake is located in Saanich right next to Highway #17 to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. From downtown Victoria, drive to Blanshard Street and head northbound out of the city. Blanshard Street will turn into Highway #17 as you leave the city area. At the traffic lights at Elk Lake Drive, turn left and follow the road as it immediate veers left so you are heading back south again. Within 500-meters, turn right into the park entrance and follow the narrow road into the forest. Continue following the road until it reaches the first large parking lot area and park your car, starting your hike along the trail next to the water.