Monument is a great little hike on its own but we enjoy adding Grass lake to make it a loop, to enjoy the view at the lake and, if it's nice, to go for a dip.

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Darwin also loves this route as Charter's creek come near the path in a strategic location so he can swim and drink. The lake is a great spot for him to swim...and we don't have to carry water for him, even in the summertime!

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The path to Monument is an old road for the first few km. A road that keeps going up. As you turn left to Monument, the trail is a bit rutted from mountain bikes. It's a bit steep here and there but the view of Sooke Inlet and the surrounding area make it worthwhile. We usually have a snack before the actual peak (there's no view from the peak).

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Heading to Grass lake is pretty straight forward. There's quite a lot of blow downs in the area, and the occasional hill to remind you that you're not done climbing yet.  Grass Lake is great for a dip and a relaxing snack on the rocks...until Darwin shakes on you!

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Heading home is pretty much all downhill.  Several hundred metres of rocky terrain is  hard on the ankles but soon gives way to an old logging road again.  Watch for the old car and cabin (just a chimney now).

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Darwin loves a quick dip in the stream and then we head back down under the Galloping Goose, past the fish hatchery to the good sized parking lot.

 

Great workout.  Takes up around 3 hours.