Horth Hill

In early 2002, TLC The Land Conservancy of BC and the Capital Regional District partnered to purchase a 12 acre piece of privately-owned land on the southern boundary of Horth Hill Regional Park, in the district of North Saanich.  For many years, the previous owners of this land have generously allowed park visitors to use their private trails, as though they were part of the park.  A change of ownership in the future would have meant that access to the trails could be restricted, or that the land could be developed.

Luckily, TLC and the Capital Regional District are purchasing this vital piece of property! It will become an official part of the park and will be protected forever.  The Capital Regional District is contributing 85% of the money needed to buy the land.  TLC organized local fundraising efforts to raise the balance of $60,000.

So many people have enjoyed hiking through Horth Hill.  The park has a diverse ecology – including Western Red cedar forest, wetlands, Douglas fir and swordfern forest, and the endangered Garry oak meadow so important to our region.  Wild turkeys live in the park.  Swallowtail butterflies float on the ocean winds.  Small wonders, such as mushrooms and lichen, hide in the underbrush.  Wildflowers grace the summer ground.  The panoramic view of the peninsula, Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands is breathtaking.

Horth Hill

The park is heavily used – hiking, bird watching, dog walking and horseback riding are all popular.  With North Saanich and Sidney growing so rapidly, we desperately need natural recreation areas like Horth Hill.  If such treasures are lost to development, they cannot be replaced.  So much has already been contributed toward this purchase – from the Capital Regional District and the community.  Your generosity will enable Horth Hill to be protected forever.