1. What are the Potholes?

Answer: The potholes are deep rounded holes carved in the bedrock of the river by the scouring action of gravel being spun in the rivers current.

Historically, the portion of the Sooke River which has these formations was called “The Devil’s Potholes”.

2. Where is the Rainforest?

Answer: This whole area is the Temperate Rainforest. If you would like to see big trees there are a number of them on the trails to China Beach and to 2nd Beach (off the China Beach campground). The Harris Creek Spruce is one of the largest you’ll ever see. It’s 25 – 27 km out of Port Renfrew (towards Lake Cowichan) along the Pacific Marine Circle Route.

3. What are the yellow flowers along the side of the road?

Answer: In the spring the Scotch Broom blooms profusely along the roadsides.

It was introduced to the Sooke region by Captain Walter C. Grant, Sooke’s first independent white settler.

4. Where can we go crabbing?

The Rotary Pier is a great place to catch crab and enjoy Sooke Harbour. If you need a crab trap, check at Eagle Eye next to Home Hardware.

5. Where can we buy seafood or fresh crab?

The Crab Shack at Jock’s Dock is the best local source for fresh crab and seafood. They are located on West Coast Road, just west of the Sooke centre.

6. How do you pronounce the name of your town?

Answer: Sooke rhymes with duke or toque. (I know, we’re Canadian, eh.)

7. What if I meet a bear?

Answer: You are in Bear country. While it can be exciting to see a bear when you’re out hiking, the best practice is to try and make your presence known before you encounter the bear in the first place. Talk, sing, clap your hands or wear a bear bell. Be alert, look for signs of bear activity such as droppings or tracks. Keep children close and within sight. Dogs can cause a bear to attack and an unleashed dog could lead a bear back to you. Respect all bears. Do not try to feed it. If you see a bear along the side of the road keep your windows closed and DO NOT get out of your vehicle!