story and photos by Scottee Giles –
The sound of a paddle pulling through the water broke the morning silence on Durrance Lake. Sunlight streamed through the trees of the surrounding shoreline, dancing across our wake. Finding balance and staying centered took on a very literal meaning as we set out on our stand up paddleboards (SUPs).
Paddleboarding traces its roots back thousands of years, but found its modern form in Hawaii in the 1940s and started to take off in international popularity 50 years later. Today it’s common to see people enjoying SUPs on the lakes and ocean surrounding the Saanich Peninsula. Several local businesses offer rentals, lessons and tours. Paddleboards generally range from 10 to 12 feet and the wider they are, the more stable they’ll be. They can be made from a variety of materials. Inflatable options, which are surprisingly durable, travel easily as they can roll up to fit in a backpack. Many SUPs have a small removable fin that helps provide stability. You propel yourself through the water with a long paddle, and a leash like a bungee cord attached to your ankle with a velcro strap keeps you connected to your gear if you fall in for a swim. You’ll need to bring a personal floatation device (lifejacket) and a whistle. Familiarize yourself with watersport safety before heading out.
Durrance is 19 acres in size and one of three freshwater lakes in Mount Work Regional Park. You’ll find free parking, a fishing float, a paddleboard and kayak launch, pit toilets, garbage and recycling receptacles, picnic tables, two kilometres of waterfront hiking trails leading to a larger network of forest trails, a little hidden waterfall, and several sandy beach spots.
The lush forest surrounding the lake is the perfect place to find some shade and enjoy the beauty of nature. Time seems to slow down for the families sprawled on picnic blankets watching the kids play and SUPs drift past while sparrows, lizards, and dragonflies dart in and out of the wild grasses nearby.
Things to Note:
- To get here, take West Saanich Road to Wallace Drive, then head up Willis Point watching for Durrance Lake signs
- Gates are open sunrise to sunset
- During the busiest times be prepared to walk 10 minutes from Willis Point Road if the little lakeside parking lot is full
- Park amenities are accessible
- Remember to pack sun protection and drinking water
