About this Course

Take a ride on the Recreation Bus and try gold panning on the Sooke River! We’ll cover the history of gold mining on Vancouver Island, including the Leech River Gold Rush of 1864, as well as regulations around recreational prospecting. Program includes transportation, a forest hike, and a morning of panning for gold in the river. Equipment is provided. Participants get to keep any gold they find. For guaranteed success, select the optional “PayDirt” fee when registering to purchase a bag of material seeded with a small amount of gold to place in your gold pan. Please note: this program includes a 15 min. one-way hike over uneven terrain and lots of bending and standing on a rocky riverside, and is not suitable for people with mobility challenges. Registration closes on May 23 to allow time to get equipment and plan a route. Accessibility and Program Notes: • The Recreation Bus does not have a lift available. There is a large step up required to get on the bus. For accommodation options please contact Lbouchard@victoria.ca. • Location accessibility may vary and accessibility details will be emailed to participants ahead of the tour. If you would like further accessibility information about this event, please email Lbouchard@victoria.ca with your concerns. • Please refrain from wearing or using strong-scented products while attending this program. • Program runs rain or shine. 72 hours’ notice is required for a full refund.