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WEST COAST TRAIL


The Hike of a Lifetime!

There are some places still left in this world that are known for being experiences of a lifetime. British Columbia’s West Coast Trail is one of them. You’ll trek 75km under the canopy of ancient cedars and lose yourself in the stories of ancient First Nations trading routes, of shipwrecks and sailors, and the Graveyard of the Pacific.
This trail was born out of necessity. It was a lifeline for those who dared to sail beyond the reefs and breakers of Vancouver Island's southern coast. Soak in the majestic beauty as you hike through coastal rainforests and windswept beaches. A true bucket-list experience!

Dates and Bookings

Adventure Dates 2025:

  • July 1 - 8
    Co -ed trip
  • Aug 12- 19

    Women's only

  • 2025 Tentaive Dates
    Please note: these are tentative dates only and will be finalized by Parks Canada in Dec of 2024.

Have a group of friends who want to get out? We can put together a private trip just for you! Reach out ahead of November for your private trip to run the following summer. 

Adventure Rates:
  • Participants:

    CAD $2350 + applicable taxes

  • Information package will be given upon registration
  • We value small groups - limited to 8 adventurers

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Itinerary and Gear

Planned Itinerary

  • Day 1:
    Today is for the pre-trip meeting only. Meet the group at 6 pm at the Royal Scot Hotel. We will make sure everyone has everything they need, introduce the group, go over the trip plan, laugh lots, and distribute the group gear.
  • Day 2:
    We'll wake up early, full of energy, and catch our shuttle to the trailhead. After a 2.5 hr drive on a very winding road we will attend a short orientation at the Parks Canada Office in Port Renfrew before catching the ferry to the start of the trail. The trail is challenging right from the start as we face one of the steepest ladders on the trail. After 6km of rough, muddy, and unforgiving terrain we arrive at Thrasher Cover, our home for the night - 6km.
  • Day 3:
    Coffee delivered to your door?! What else could you want? After a delicious breakfast we will start our most challenging day. Crawling over boulders, driftwood, and negotiating surge channels are the theme for the day. We chose hiking dates that allow us to hike along the beach for this section so we can enjoy the famous Owen's Point. Although challenging, you will love the views. Campers Bay will be where we will lay our heads for the night - 8km.
  • Day 4:
    Day 3 - Scream with excitement as we experience our first cable car crossing. Or, maybe scream when you see the two longest ladders of the trail? Today will be a challenge with those who struggle with heights as we also cross the Logan Creek suspension bridge. Wahoo!! Talk about stepping outside ones comfort zone! After a full day of engagement we will spend the night at Walbran Creek - 9km.
  • Day 5:
    So cool! Today is the quintessential West Coast Trail. Often whales can be seen in the distance as we hike along the sandstone shelves. If you're nervous about food, today is your day! Grab a seat and enjoy deliciously large burgers at Chez Moniques. We will also pass Carmanah Lighthouse where the Pacific Ocean meets the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is a great location for watching sea lions! With full bellies we will waddle into Cribs Creek for the night - 11km.
  • Day 6:
    OK, time to strap on those hiking boots and pull up our big kid pants. We have 17km to hike! But we are thoroughly rewarded by finishing our day at Tsusiat Falls. Here we will find a natural swimming hole. But don't worry we have many rewards along the trail as well. Enjoy fresh seafood at Nitinat Narrows. We will also experience our second ferry of the trip. The boat crossing operated by the local First Nations people. The last portion of the day’s hike will be along coastline and if possible, through Hole in the Wall at Tsusiat Point - 17km.
  • Day 7:
    Today we start the day with ladders back to the trail, through rainforests, and often muddy ground. But don't worry, you can eat the majority of your food because we only have ONE more day of hiking, yippee! Our destination for the day is Michigan Creek - 13km.
  • Day 8:
    Don't shed tears. It has been a wonderful trip, but sadly, it is our last day. We finish off with the easiest hiking of the entire trail. Pachena Lighthouse will provide us with our last opportunity to see some sea lions and we only have one set of ladders yet to go, at the very end! Our shuttle will be waiting for us as we shout for glee in honour of our accomplishment - 12km...75km in total! Huge congrats!

Level of Difficulty

This trip is trip is not for the faint of heart. Rough terrain, mud, ladders, suspension bridges, and cable cars create this trip. Physical training is required prior to completing this trip. Follow our 6 week hiking fitness program to help set you on the right path. We recommend completing it twice, 12 weeks. However, we also recommend partaking in our Hiking Fitness Series to help prepare your body for the physical demands of this backpack. You should be able to carry ~40 lbs (~18 kg) for up to 8 hours.

If you are not physically ready for this trip, placing yourself and others at increased risk, the guide does have the right to remove you from the adventure. Investing in physical training is key in having a successful trip.

With the right physical preparation you will love this trip! There is a reason why it is ranked #5 in the world!

6 week hiking fitness program      Hiking Fitness Series  

Have questions, don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to help!

 

Gear, Food and Lodging

Included:

  • Wilderness pass for each night
  • Tents for camping - we prefer people from the same "bubble" share tents as some campgrounds have limited tent platforms. Strangers will not be paired together unless requested to help decrease pack weight
  • Amazingly delicious food from supper on day 1 to lunch on the last day
  • The expertise from an ACMG Guide
  • All group gear - stove and pots, food storage materials, sunblock, bug spray, water treatment, and first aid kits
  • All safety equipment - bear spray, first aid kit, emergency communication device, and tarp
  • Roundtrip transportation to the trailhead from Victoria
  • Boat shuttles along the Trail

Participants must provide:

  • Accommodations the night before getting on the trail - We recommend Royal Scot Hotel & Suites

  • Transportation to the Victoria
  • Lunch on the first day and supper on the last day
  • Personal Gear (Can be arranged for an additional fee)
    Personal Gear List  

Optional Reading

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