 Baker Ridge Trail to Quarry Drive Hike Park on Quarry drive, and follow trail down to Baker Road near House #431 Trail Length: 450 metres Approx time: 45 minutes Wander in Beauty. The CRD has no official slogan for this trail, but that would be my vote if there was such a thing. It begins at the end of Quarry Drive, which is a mostly quiet country road. On some days, you may be serenaded by a symphony of sheep and goats performing the from neighboring farms. Park on the side of the road, and you’ll find the entrance. The trailhead and sign look like this:  It’s an immediate dive into the tall green pines, alder, and arbutus. The trails starts off easily, with a gentle meandering path towards Baker. But once you get close towards the end and Baker Drive, it gets a little steep with a stair-like climb up to the top. The view is a lovely one, though.  There’s an equally steep descent to the stairs that leave you on Baker. Cross the road (carefully, friends!) and take a right, heading towards the dirt “parking lot” and the stairs down to the shore. Beaches on Salt Spring each have their own unique character, and this is no exception. On good days, Baker is a safari of sorts. Careful hunters will spot purple starfish when the tide is out, seals bobbing up and down, and crabs scuttling in a sort of crustacean rush hour. As Baker turns into Quarry Drive Beach, you might spot the resident Bald Eagle family that lives in the trees that border it. But mostly it’s a solitary walk, punctuated by some happy off-leash pups with their owners.  Once you’ve reached the stairs on Quarry Drive beach, it’s time to go up and complete the loop. If you get weary, there are a few benches off of the trails to rest, or take in the magnificent views.  Notes: There are no trash cans, so please pack out your garbage responsibly. Dogs are allowed off leash if they are under control and do not disturb the wildlife, other hikers, or neighboring livestock. For more information, head over to the CRD’s website.    The Lowdown: An idyllic and easy hike along the sea in Vesuvius.
Photos & Words by Stephania Jean
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