Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park lies along the Sooke River on southern Vancouver Island, west of Victoria. Water has carved rounded pools and unusual rock formations into the riverbed, with small waterfalls and viewpoints along the way. Follow the Riverside trail for an easy walk, or bring swimwear for a dip in the clear pools on a warm summer day. Several parking areas give access to different parts of the park. Slippery rocks and exposed, hot sections call for suitable footwear and care near the water.

How the potholes formed

The park’s rounded rock pools were carved into the bedrock by water and glacial action during the last ice age, about 15,000 years ago. They lie along the Sooke River, where the river has also shaped gorges and waterfalls. The pools are a natural feature of the river, not constructed swimming basins.

Water colour shifts between pale blue and blue-green. The rock formations and river views provide plenty to look at even if you are visiting outside swimming season.

Walking and swimming by the river

The Riverside trail follows the river past rock formations and viewpoints. Some sections are easy to walk, though the route can be exposed to heat, and the rocks near the water can be slippery. There are several parking areas, with access to different points along the river. The surrounding park also has trails through the forest.

In summer, people come to swim in the natural pools. Bring swimwear if you intend to get in, and take care when moving across the rocks to reach the water. The river has calmer, shallower areas near the parking access points, but conditions and water depth vary along its course. In fall, the river walk is a quieter option after swimming season.