Ever wonder where the water you’re drinking actually comes from?
The Capital Regional District (CRD) is inviting residents to find out—and the best part? It’s completely free!
This spring, CRD is hosting complimentary Watershed Tours throughout May and June, with the first tour kicking off on May 1st.
The “Get to Know Your H2O Tours” offer a unique opportunity to learn how your drinking water makes its journey from the source all the way to your tap.
You can register online—but don’t wait too long! Spots are going fast.
These guided tours take participants through natural landscapes, water reservoirs, and the treatment process that supplies Greater Victoria with clean, top-notch tap water.
Tours begin near the watershed gate, where guests board a bus that makes several informative stops throughout the watershed, including the UV Treatment Plant. At each stop, participants can hop off to explore and take in the beauty of the watershed firsthand.
Tour guides will provide insights, fun facts, and commentary along the way—and they’re always happy to answer questions.
The five-hour “Source to Tap Tour” starts at the north end of Sooke Lake Reservoir and follows the journey of the water.
The route includes forested areas, Richet Creek (the main tributary to the reservoir), a short forest walk, various water supply facilities, and a behind-the-scenes look at the treatment process that ensures your water is safe and delicious.
Here’s what you need to know about the Watershed Tours:
- Pre-registration is required—you can register online here
- Tours are for ages 12 and up only
- Tours are limited to 42 participants
- Dress appropriately for outdoor activities, no open toed shoes – and dress in layers as the weather changes quickly inside the watershed
- Bring a lunch, water, sunscreen and bug spray
What you’ll see on the tours:
- Sooke Lake Reservoir dam and spillway
- Rithet Creek (main tributary supplying Sooke Lake Reservoir)
- Deception Reservoir and dam
- Goldstream Disinfection Facility
- Picturesque nature
- Possibly some of the watershed’s furry friends
Accessibility notes:
Accessibility depends on the tour date and is based on accessible bus
availability. Accessible tours will be marked as (Accessible Bus). If you require an accessible option, please ensure you book a tour labelled (Accessible Bus). Please note, that those who do not require an accessible bus are still welcome to book a tour
date marked Accessible Bus.
CRD Watershed Tours
- Where: 2955 Sooke Lake Road
- NOTE: Look for CRD sandwich boards along Sooke Lake Road that will guide you to
the meeting area where you can park for free - When: Tours run 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and attendees can check in starting at 9 a.m.
- May 1st – 4th
- May 8th – 11th
- May 15th & 16th
- May 22nd & 23rd
- May 29th – June 1st
- June 5th – 8th
- June 12th – 15th
- June 19th – June 22nd
- June 26th & 27th
- Register: Register online here
