Mount Work Regional Park: Mountain Biking on the Saanich Peninsula

If you're looking for mountain biking close to Victoria, Mount Work Regional Park is the answer. Located in the highlands above Central Saanich, Mount Work offers a network of trails ranging from mellow forest paths to technical rocky climbs — all within 30 minutes of downtown Victoria and right in Brentwood Cycle's backyard.

Park Overview

• Location: Highland District, above Central Saanich — accessible from Willis Point Road and Hartland Avenue
• Trail network: ~30+ km of multi-use trails, ranging from easy to difficult
• Terrain: Rocky outcrops, rooted singletrack, forested doubletrack, and open summit areas
• Managed by: Capital Regional District (CRD)
• Shared use: Trails are shared with hikers and equestrians — yield accordingly

Trail Highlights

Mount Work Summit Trail

The main route to the summit of Mount Work (449m) is a sustained climb with rocky, rooted sections that reward riders with panoramic views of the Saanich Peninsula, Haro Strait, and the Gulf Islands on a clear day. The descent is technical and fast — one of the best on the Peninsula. Rated moderate to difficult.

Timberman Trail

A popular loop that winds through second-growth forest with a mix of smooth singletrack and rocky technical sections. Good for intermediate riders looking to build skills. Connects to several other trails for longer combinations.

Hartland Connector

Links Mount Work to the Hartland area and provides access from the south. Useful for riders approaching from the Saanich side or combining Mount Work with a road or gravel ride.

Lower Forest Trails

The lower sections of the park near the Willis Point Road trailhead are more mellow — wider paths, less technical terrain, and good for riders building confidence or on hardtail bikes. Families with older kids on bikes can enjoy these sections.

Difficulty Ratings at a Glance

• Easy: Lower forest trails near Willis Point trailhead
• Moderate: Timberman Trail, lower summit approach
• Difficult: Summit trail, technical rocky sections on upper trails

Best Entry Points and Parking

• Willis Point Road trailhead: Main access point with parking — best for most riders
• Hartland Avenue: South access, useful for combining with road riding
• Ross-Durrance Road: Alternative access to the upper trail network

Note: Parking areas can fill on busy weekend mornings. Arrive early or ride in from the Saanich Peninsula road network if possible.

Bike Setup Recommendations

Hardtail Mountain Bike

A hardtail mountain bike with 100–120mm of front suspension is the sweet spot for Mount Work. The trails reward efficient pedalling on the climbs and have enough technical character to make suspension worthwhile on the descents. 29" wheels roll over roots and rocks smoothly.

Full-Suspension Mountain Bike

Full suspension is at home on the upper technical trails and makes the rocky summit descent significantly more fun. If you have one, bring it — but it's not required for most of the trail network.

Gravel Bike

Not recommended for the technical upper trails, but the lower forest paths and Hartland connector are rideable on a capable gravel bike with wider tires.

Post-Ride Maintenance Tips

Mount Work's rocky, rooted terrain is hard on bikes. After a ride, check your tires for cuts or embedded debris, inspect your brake pads for wear, and clean your drivetrain if it's been muddy. If your suspension feels off or your brakes are spongy, bring it in to Brentwood Cycle for a service — we're just down the hill on the Peninsula.

Know Before You Go

• Download a trail map before you go — cell service is limited in the upper park
• Carry water; there are no facilities in the park
• Wear a well-fitted helmet — the technical terrain warrants it
• Yield to hikers and horses on all trails
• Conditions can be wet and slippery in fall and winter — adjust your speed accordingly