The run up Broom Hill offers amazing views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
By Jackie
One of my many favourite runs, number one is Broom Hill! Always different, always beautiful and always an accomplishment reaching the top. There are many trails so the run is never exactly the same; it can be shorter or longer whatever mood strikes or whatever trail you accidentally end up on!! This ‘mountain’ gem in the middle of Sooke has undergone so many changes in the last 10 years. Houses are creeping - no they galloping up the south and east faces. Taking the optimistic view though, if you enjoy a good uphill run without the twists and turns and rocks and roots, the new roads created will surely satisfy that craving!
But back to the trails. Keep your eyes open, and feet high. Slow down when something catches your breath, the views, the trees, the flowers, mushrooms edible and - not! Old fallen logs double as bridges on some trails and some of these are nearing the end of even that life and returning to the land. For all the effort you extend in running to the ‘top’ - rewards await.
My favourite stops are what I call Sacred Rock 1 and Sacred Rock 2. This is where I replenish the energy spent getting here. Take a few minutes to embrace the ever-changing views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Sooke waterways. A feast for body and soul. Absorb the beauty and energy of mother earth from her gift of Broom Hill and you will be set for the rest of the day.
If you haven’t been before or it’s been a while - go while the magic is still there.
Liz and Jackie at the top of Broom Hill.