Matheson Lake Regional Park — Attraction in Metchosin

Matheson Lake Regional Park is a fantastic spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Tucked away near Metchosin, this park offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of beautiful trails and activities.

Parking is convenient and available near the trailhead, though it can fill up on weekends, arriving early is a good idea. The park operates from dawn to dusk, perfect for early morning hikes or afternoon strolls. Wear sturdy footwear, especially if you plan to explore the trails, as some sections can get rocky and uneven. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially near the lake.

Bring water, as there are no facilities along the trails, and keep an eye on your footing when navigating some of the steeper areas. It’s also wise to bring a map or GPS to avoid getting lost, as some paths can be confusing for first-timers.

The park offers several scenic trails, with the Matheson Lake Loop Trail being one of the best for its stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forest. There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including eagles, herons, and even the occasional deer or otter near the water. Birdwatchers will love the variety of species here.

As for activities, you can hike, bike, fish, or enjoy a quiet picnic by the lake. Swimming and paddleboarding are also allowed, so feel free to bring your gear in the summer months. However, no motorized boats are permitted, which helps preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

I was happy to find that restrooms are conveniently located near the parking lot. This is helpful, especially before heading out on a hike or enjoying time by the lake. However, remember that there aren’t any restrooms along the trails, so it’s best to use them before exploring. The park is well-maintained and offers an outstanding balance of natural beauty and necessary amenities!

Overall, Matheson Lake Regional Park is a must-visit for its peaceful environment, well-maintained trails, and various outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for a short hike, a swim, or a quiet spot to enjoy nature, this...

You can make it a shorter, or longer hike...

Depending on your walking pace; the trail we aimed for was the 4km Matheson lake perimeter one, to do with my parents. Easily marked trails, little bit of extra incline for those that do not hike often. Otherwise, it's an easy hike; there's maps at some points of the trail where you have the option to go further if you wish.

Highlights: Some shaded areas to avoid direct the heat from the sun Beautiful scenery, gentle up and down slope Most of the trail is by the water Decent amount of parking Paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing

Consider: Just keeping dogs under control/leashed Washrooms available only near the lake Didn't see picnic tables; if there are, very limited Smaller beach access

There were spots where you may be comfortable to unleash the dog; we just see how our dog is behaving this particular day (sometimes she's got an attitude and doesn't listen right away), mostly we kept her leashed, especially if we see other hikers or dogs that are in the area. Merely to ensure a good experience with everyone we come across. There were some fishing nearby (not sure if its allowed there, but it was neat to see), so also to consider keeping fido close so those who are fishing aren't bothered.

I wrote down smaller beach access- but the trail is close enough that you can reach the water in some parts (but there are foliage obstacles).

Good walk/hike- my dad doesn't hike often (once a month), so he struggled slightly. Our shorter hike turned into closer to two hours at a...

Matheson Lake

Sometimes we need to walk through the forest, slowly and deliberately. Then we can remember to listen, listen to the world beyond the pulsing of our mortal hearts and the simmerings of our primate minds, our longings, dreams and desires.

When we walk slowly and deliberately we can follow the twisted old limbs of Arbutus reaching and opening to the world. And the wrinkled skin of the lake reveals the liquid cohesion of molecules gathered from the remains of ancient stars.

Walking slowly, mindful of our breathing between Cedar and Fir rising to embrace the sky, roots crawling through the soil in deep time, the old monks of quiet stone rest in the ground.

Sitting quietly, overlooking the lake The glory of the sun brings the scene to life while blinding us to the dark expanse of space beyond. The calm expanse of water shimmers with light, the soft unthinking moss crawls across boulders and the community of trees uplift their limbs to the sky a chorus resting between songs.

Quietly, we share a meal, the bounty of farm and the labor of hands. We sit in communion and song prayers not for what we don’t yet have but for tenderness and courage.

For a long while, I remember And sink into the depths of silence a mysterious and boundless place outside the vibrant ocean of this cosmos where I am something more and...