Story and photos by Rick Armour      |         August 2009

One of the most spectacular views of Sooke from above is from the Fire Lookout Tower on the top of Mt. Manuel Quimper.

This hike takes about 3 ½ to 4 hours round trip. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to take in the breathtaking views, re-hydrate/snack.

The trail starts at the gate at the top of Harbour View Road. The gate is closed to vehicular traffic. CRD Parks department maintains the area and there is ample parking.

Follow the gravel Road for about 45 minutes and look for a large turnaround on the left side of the road and a rock about 6 metres in diameter to the right. Walk several metres past the rock and an old spur road appears on the right, this is the trail head. The Lat/Lon is approximately 48.25’23.30”N/123.40’26.07W.

This is a pleasant walk with some steep hills and lots of flat sections to warm up your muscles. At this point the trail becomes much steeper and some slippery rock as well as loose gravel can be expected. Good footwear with ankle support is recommended. After about half an hour of a fairly steep trail experience you will start to see Victoria off in the distance as well as views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. What fabulous inspiration as you now head southwest towards the Lookout Tower at the summit of Mt. Manuel Quimper which is about 500 metres above sea level.

The Fire Lookout Tower was erected in 1951 and decommissioned some time in the 1970s. Local hikers have maintained its condition somewhat and it provides a nostalgic flair to this inspirational hike. It also provides shelter as well as a nice place to have a hot cup of tea/coffee!   MM