Ecological reserve overview
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.
Advisories
In the Strait of Juan de Fuca, 17km south west of Victoria, 1.5km off the extreme southern tip of Vancouver Island.
Ecological reserve and activity maps
Any maps listed are for information only. They may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
Learn more about this ecological reserve
Ecological reserve details
- Date established: March 27, 1980
- Size: 221.48 hectares (21.48 ha upland and 200 ha foreshore)
- Biogeoclimatic zone:
- Coastal Douglas-fir
- Terrestrial ecosection:
- Juan de Fuca Strait
- Marine ecosection:
- Juan de Fuca Strait
Nature and culture
A detailed description of this ecological reserve is available to support education and research.
Research and educational activities require 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.