Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

Highlights in this ecological reserve

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve was established to protect intertidal and subtidal communities that are extremely rich as a result of strong tidal currents. It is closed to the public.

Ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems, and support research and education. They are not intended for outdoor recreation.

Know before you go

Advisories

Review the detailed guides under visit responsibly for more information on staying safe and preserving our natural spaces.

Visit responsibly

Follow these guides to ensure your activities are safe, respectful, and ecologically friendly:

Maps and location

Any maps listed are for information only. They may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve map [PDF]

Getting there

In the Strait of Juan de Fuca, 17km south west of Victoria, 1.5km off the extreme southern tip of Vancouver Island.

About this ecological reserve

Biogeoclimatic zone:Coastal Douglas-fir

Terrestrial ecosection:Juan de Fuca Strait

Marine ecosection:Juan de Fuca Strait

A detailed description of this ecological reserve is available to support education and research.

Research and educational activities require a permit.

Apply for a permit

To find out about current research at Race Rocks, visit racerocks.ca.

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.

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