Mystic Vale is a 1.3-mile loop trail on the outskirts of the University of Victoria. Mystic Vale is a forested ravine located on the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Esquimalt) people’s territory and land.
This walk is another classic one that I find myself choosing often if I want to get out and stretch my legs, or extend my walk home from school a bit longer. Even though it is right beside UVic, it took me a couple of months last year to go explore it. The first time that I explored the grounds, I took my camera for my photography class to take some more nature astestic photos. I included some of the shots I took last year below!
After looking into more research, I found out that Mystic Vale is home to more than 75 native plants and wildlife species, including Douglas Firs, Indian Plum, Snowberries, and the sword ferns that cover the slopes in the gully. Bald eagles and great horned owls have also been spotted resting in the branches of a big-leafed maple tree indigenous to the ecosystem.
Another super interesting and amazing fact about this particular trail is that in one direction, there is a wheelchair-accessible path that keeps to the high ground on the land making it accessible for those who are unable to walk through more traitorous grounds.
I love this walk for the dark and oaky feel throughout the loop, with different levels, stairs, and bridges throughout the walk. If you are a student on campus, or someone in the area, I would highly suggest exploring these grounds and trail!
