Victoria’s Galloping Goose Trail

By Katherine Gibson

Activist Ken Bradford’s dream came true when Victoria’s 80 kilometre Galloping Goose Trail was finally completed. Named for a 1920’s noisy old rail car, the "Goose" runs along the rail bed that is converted to a recreation trail. The Goose is a prime example of the many rails to trails conversions criss-crossing North America. It is an important commuting and recreation trail with up to 2,000 walkers, cyclists and horseback riders using it daily. It’s also the western trailhead of the 15,000 kilometer Trans Canada Trail. A good portion of the trail is paved and the
grade does not usually exceed 2 per cent.

Bradford, who is a member of the Garth Homer Society, a training centre for adults with development and physical disabilities, collaborated on its design and the Centre led the way as stewards of the trail. "We clean and maintain the part of the trail that runs near us, and use it to get our ’nature fix’," said Bradford.

The Goose links city to country and people to nature as it winds through the backyard of the suburbs, near the city centre and into the countryside. Along the way, the trail crosses historic trestles, passes near the Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary (yes, there are swans) and through country lanes shaded by birch, pine and cedar trees. The snow-capped Olympic mountains and ocean views enhance the experience.

Steve Balyi, 49, who lost his right leg in a motorcycle accident, is now a dedicated cyclist who uses the Goose as a route for BikeCartage, his bicycle delivery service. "I’m committed to cycling for its health and environmental benefits," said Balyi. "Riding the Goose for business or with my family is like taking a mini-vacation."

The Goose has numerous access points. A detailed map is available at the Victoria Information Centre across from the Empress Hotel.