The most spectacular trips are often ones that are in popular or fragile places, so they often have reservation systems in place. And nothing sucks more than finding out a trip you want to do is booked up! Put these dates in your calendar! (Or if you’re like me, agonize over which trip to pick since they all sound amazing!)

I’ve got reservation dates for trips in British Columbia including Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Area, the BC Interior, and the Canadian Rockies (including some places that are technically in Alberta). Plus I’ve also got details on how to reserve and my top tips for getting those hard-to-get reservations.

Not sure how to make a reservation? I got you! Read my guide to Making Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC.

Didn’t get a reservation? No worries! Read my guide to Backpacking in BC Without Reservations. Or use an app like Campnab or Schnerp. Read my guide to camping cancellation apps to find out how they work and which one I recommend.

This post includes details on reservations for:

Vancouver Island backcountry reservations:

• West Coast Trail (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Keeha Beach (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve)

Sea to Sky backcountry reservations:

• Watersprite Lake (near Squamish)
• Garibaldi Provincial Park (Garibaldi Lake, Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake, Wedgemount Lake, and Russet Lake
• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (near Pemberton)
• Tenquille Lake (near Pemberton)

BC Interior backcountry reservations:

• E.C. Manning Provincial Park (Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds)
• Eva and Jade Lakes (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
• Hermit Meadows (Glacier National Park)
• Bowron Lake Circuit (Bowron Lakes Provincial Park)

Rocky Mountains backcountry reservations:

• Lake O’Hara (Yoho National Park)
• Yoho National Park (Iceline, Whaleback, Little Yoho, etc.)
• Rockwall Trail (Kootenay National Park)
• Banff National Park (Egypt Lake, Skoki Loop, etc.)
• Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
• Jasper National Park
• Berg Lake (Mount Robson Provincial Park)

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

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West Coast Trail Reservations for 2026

What: This 75km (46.5 mi) trail is full of beaches, coastal rainforest, ladders, and boardwalks. It is probably the most popular multi-day hike in Canada, which is why it is at the top of my list for 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates.

Want more info? I wrote a whole series of posts about the West Coast Trail. Start with my West Coast Trail Guide, then check out my section-by-section overview, itineraries, campground guide, packing list, transportation, and coastal hiking tips posts. The WCT is also featured in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 19, 2026 at 8 am PT Postponed to February 5 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $25.75. There is a $166.75 fee to hike the trail, plus two mandatory $28 ferry crossings and a National Parks entry fee ($11/person /day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia

Keeha Beach Reservations for 2026

What: This beautiful remote sandy beach is near the northern trailhead for the West Coast Trail in Pacific Rim National Park, but isn’t nearly as busy. The trail to get there is only 3.5 km long, but it’s really muddy so expect it to take longer than you think. You can also day hike to the Cape Beale Lighthouse. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park entry fees ($10.50/person/day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. The trail is open from May to September and you must reserve.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. This is probably one of the easiest trips to get a reservation for.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island) Reservations for 2026

What: It’s a short 2 km hike to the waterfront backcountry campground at Narvaez Bay on Saturna Island in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. There are several short day hikes from the campground. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Gulf Islands National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from May to September. The rest of the year all camping is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Watersprite Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A gorgeous ice-blue lake nestled against rocky spires in the remote mountains east of Squamish. The lake became very popular thanks to social media, so starting in 2022 the campground requires reservations. For more info, check out the BCMC website or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip. The campground requires reservations between July 1 and Thanksgiving weekend each year.

Where to Reserve: Online on the BCMC’s Watersprite Lake campground page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Sites are $20/night and must be paid in full at the time of booking to reserve a site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

Garibaldi Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: South West BC’s premiere alpine backpacking destination with several trailheads and campgrounds to choose from. Reservations are required for all the campgrounds as well as the Elfin Lakes Shelter. For more info on trails and destinations, check out my guide to the Elfin Lakes trail, my guide to Russet Lake, or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites and $15 for the Elfin Lakes Shelter. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. Consider booking the slightly less popular Taylor Meadows or Helm Creek campgrounds, and then hiking over to Garibaldi Lake for the day. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: This super-popular lake near Whistler has a backcountry campground next to a glacier lake. It’s a short 5.5km hike from the trailhead, so it’s one of the best easy backpacking destinations close to Vancouver. For more info on the trail, check out my Joffre Lakes hiking guide or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Get my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia – it has all the info you need to backpack to Joffre Lakes

Tenquille Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A beautiful sub-alpine lake near Pemberton BC, surrounded by mountains. It’s a popular location for fishing as well as scrambling the nearby peaks, which are mostly non-technical. The lake has both a cabin and campsites that can be reserved.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online on the Pemberton Wildlife Association’s Tenquille Lake booking page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Camping reservations are $25/tent/night. You can fit up to two tents on each site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes from July 1 to October 31. Tenting outside of those dates is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

E.C. Manning Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

What: There are three campgrounds in Manning Park that require reservations: Buckhorn and Kicking Horse on the Heather Trail and Frosty Creek on the Frosty Mountain Trail. All other backcountry campgrounds in the park are first-come, first-serve.

The Heather Trail is a gorgeous alpine hike along a ridge through wildflower meadows high in the mountains of E.C. Manning Provincial Park. The hike to Buckhorn Camp is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. The hike to Frosty Mountain (the highest peak in the park) heads through a stand of gorgeous larch trees.

For more info on these two trails, check out my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and my Frosty Mountain hiking guide.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available for Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds. (But all other backcountry campground in the park are first-come, first-served.)

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

Eva and Jade Lakes Reservations for 2026

What: This hike starts high on the slopes of Mount Revelstoke in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through wildflower meadows and forest to the shores of Eva Lake, one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. Jade Lake is a few extra kilometres away over a pass. Both lakes have backcountry campgrounds.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Mount Revelstoke National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from June 30 to July 27 and September 18 to October 9 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC

Hermit Meadows Reservations for 2026

What: This steep hike in Glacier National Park is fairly short but has incredible views and alpine meadows. The backcountry campground has an incredible setting.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Glacier National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from July 1 to July 27 and September 18 to October 1 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Lake O’Hara Reservations for 2026

What: Lake O’Hara is a truly spectacular spot set among alpine lakes and hanging valleys in the Rocky Mountains inside Yoho National Park. You can base yourself at the campground or hut and hike the spectacular Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit. You can take a shuttle bus on a private road right to your campsite! If you can’t get a camping reservation, you can also just take the shuttle bus up for the day. For more info and some drool-worthy photos, check out my Lake O’Hara Camping and Hiking Guide.

When to Reserve Camping: January 22, 2026 at 7 am PT Postponed to Feb 10, 2026 at 8 am MT

When to Reserve Day-Use Shuttle Bus: Reservations by lottery. In 2026 the lottery is open for applications between March 2 and 23.

When to Reserve the Hut: Summer hut reservations are by lottery. The summer 2026 lottery is open for applications between December 15, 2025 and January 30, 2026.

Where to Reserve: Reserve camping or enter the day-use shuttle bus lottery on the Parks Canada Reservation site. Submit a lottery application on the Alpine Club of Canada website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost:  Camping Reservations cost $11.50. You’ll also need to pay $12.50/person/night for camping and $17.14/person for the shuttle bus. Bus reservations cost $11.50/reservation for up to 6 people plus $17.14/person. Hut lottery entries cost $15.50 each. Nightly hut fees are $60 per person.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred dates and a few alternates. For better odds, avoid August which is the busiest. If you want to stay in the hut, avoid popular weekends and consider submitting multiple lottery applications.

If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you. (It works for ACC huts too!)

READ NEXT: Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park Backcountry Reservations for 2026

What: Yoho National Park has a network of trails in the Yoho Valley that lead to four backcountry campgrounds. The most popular option is the Yoho Valley Loop that includes the Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The loop includes great views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Yoho National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no first-come, first-served sites.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

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Rockwall Trail Reservations for 2026

What: The premier backpacking destination in Kootenay National Park is the Rockwall Trail.  It’s a 55km multi-day high alpine backpacking route through the Rocky Mountains. It passes by alpine lakes, incredible wildflower meadwos and the famous rockwall with cliffs up to 900m tall. For more information, read my Rockwall Trail Guide.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: Rockwall Trail Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Banff National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Banff National Park backcountry. I recommend Egypt Lake and the Skoki Loop.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Mount Assiniboine Reservations for 2026

What: Nestled at the base of Mount Assiniboine in the Canadian Rockies is a cluster of small lakes, plus tons of hiking trails to gorgeous views. The core area of the park at Lake Magog has a popular BC Parks backcountry campground and rustic backcountry huts. To get there, choose from several different hiking trails or charter a helicopter. I’ve got tons of info in my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide. Note: The info below applies only to the BC Parks campground.

When to Reserve Camping: Up to three months before your trip starting at 7 am PT. (Reservations are required for trips between June 26 and September 30.)

When to Reserve Huts: January 13th, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. MST.

Where to Reserve: For camping, online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850. For huts, via Mount Assiniboine Lodge by phone: 403-678-2883.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: For camping, reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites. For the huts, rates range from $150-$240 per night depending on the size of the cabin (they sleep 5-8 people)

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Jasper National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Jasper National Park backcountry. One of the most popular options is the Skyline Trail.

When to Reserve: January 27, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Berg Lake Reservations for 2026

NOTE: The Berg Lake Trail suffered severe flooding damage in July, 2021. The full trail reopened in 2025 and will be open for summer 2026.

What: The Berg Lake Trail is a 23km backcountry trail into a gorgeous glacier lake in Mount Robson Provincial Park on the BC side of the Rocky Mountains. It’s called Berg Lake since the glacier calves icebergs right into the lake. For more info check out my super detailed guide to hiking the Berg Lake Trail and the BC Parks website.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10/person/night. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers. There are 7 campgrounds on the trail and you need to book your whole itinerary in advance, so be sure to have a few options for first choice, second choice, etc.

Since this trail books up so far in advance, there are often cancellations as people change their minds. Keep checking back to see if spots open up or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Berg Lake Trail

Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit Reservations for 2026

What: The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit connects numerous lakes and rivers through portages to make a roughly square-shaped 116km (72 mi) route. It takes about 6 to 10 days to complete. (Yes I know this is a canoe trip, but it’s a similar wilderness experience and the only canoe trip in BC that requires reservations, so it made the list of BC backpacking reservation dates.) To plan your trip, see my complete Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit paddling guide.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: The reservation fee is $18.00 per vessel (plus tax) and there is also a $60 per person canoe circuit user fee. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: Book online as it is faster and you won’t have to wait on hold. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers.

Know how many canoes and people will be in your party before you make your reservation as only a set number of canoes and people may depart per day.

July and August are the busiest and if you opt for June or September you’ll have much better chances. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations.

READ NEXT: Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit: Paddling in British Columbia

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates for lots of different trips. How many of these hikes have you done already? Tell me in the comments. I’ve done almost all of them.

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Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

BC BACKPACKING TRIP GUIDES:

• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

BACKPACKING TIPS AND ADVICE:

• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• The Best Camping Cancellation Apps: Campnab vs. Schnerp
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• Backpacking for Beginners: Tips for Getting Started
• My book: Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

The post 2026 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve done all of these trips, some of them multiple times. I’ve also done lots of other backpacking trips across BC that didn’t make the list, so you can rest assured that these are the best of the best.

For each trip, I’ve got all the details you need to make it happen: difficulty, duration, distance, best time to go, fees, reservations, and links to trail guides.

The trips on this list are:

• Vacation-worthy – you won’t mind travelling a bit to get there
• Located all over BC including near Vancouver, on Vancouver Island, and in Eastern BC including the Rocky Mountains.
• For hikers of all abilities – there are trips for both beginners and experts, and lots in between. (I’ve also got a whole list of Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners.)
• Great for any vacation length from quick overnighters to long-weekend-length trips to week long epics.
• Great for planners or last-minute trips: A few of these trips require reservations, but most do not.

Here’s a handy map I made for you that shows the locations for each of my picks for the best backpacking trips in BC.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Backpacking Trips Near Vancouver

Howe Sound Crest Trail

Duration: 2-4 days

Distance: 31.7 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Howe Sound Crest Trail is very rough and difficult. Honestly, it is more like a route in some places and requires occasional hands-on scrambling moves as you traverse a chain of rocky summits high above Howe Sound near Vancouver. If you’re up for the challenge, the views are worth it.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Watersprite Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 17 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Both the hut and campground require reservations and fees.

The Trail: Watersprite Lake is an Instagram sensation thanks to its ice blue water and dramatic rock tower. We can credit the BC Mountaineering Club for building the trail to the lake along with a cabin and campground. I think it’s one of the best hikes in Squamish.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Make cabin reservations through the BCMC.

Elfin Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 22 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: Even though the hike to Elfin Lakes is on an old road, it’s worth doing since the views are so incredible. You can see Mount Garibaldi/Nch’kay and lots of glaciers. Its worth spending more than one night at the Elfin Lakes campground or Elfin Lakes Shelter to do some of the great day hikes.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Elfin Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and the hut through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: Located just north of Squamish, Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular backpacking trips in BC. But it’s also one of the most picturesque with tumbling glaciers, alpine meadows, and unique volcanic geology. From the lake, you can tackle incredible day hikes like Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Russet Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 25 to 29 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping and the hut.

The Trail: Nestled into the mountains above Whistler, Russet Lake is home to a backcountry campground and a luxurious hut. There are two ways to get there: a steep trail from the village or an undulating traverse across mountain summits from the top of the Whistler Gondola via the High Note Trail.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my guide to hiking and backpacking at Russet Lake and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• For hut reservations, see the Spearhead Huts Society.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Joffre Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 10 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: The chain of three Joffre Lakes near Pemberton make up one of the Vancouver area’s most popular day hikes. But leave the day-time crowds behind by scoring a coveted reservation to camp at the Upper Lake. Listen for chunks of glacier crashing down the rocks on warm days. This is also one of my picks for the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Joffre Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

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Sunshine Coast Trail

Duration: 8-14 days

Distance: 180 km traverse

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Sunshine Coast Trail winds through the forests along the length of the upper Sunshine Coast near the town of Powell River. Hike by the ocean, through old-growth forest, and across mountain tops, staying in rustic backcountry huts along the way.

More Info:

• Find details on shorter backpacking trips you can do on sections of the SCT in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• For full details on the trail, pick up a copy of The Sunshine Coast Trail Guide Book by R. E. Walz or visit the Sunshine Coast Trail website.
• Some sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail are hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Heather Trail

Duration: 2 to 5 days

Distance: 45 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for Buckhorn and Kicking Horse campgrounds. Nicomen Lake Campground is first-come, first-served and fees are required.

The Trail: The Heather Trail is Manning Park’s signature trail. With a start high in the alpine, you stay above treeline in meadows of wildflowers for nearly the entire length. Take a side trip to summit Three Brothers Mountain and dip in chilly Nicomen Lake.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and pay fees and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Frosty Mountain

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 14 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required year-round. Reservations are required between late July and late October.

The Trail: Frosty Mountain is the highest mountain in Manning Park and it has panoramic views. Break up your hike by camping at Frosty Creek camp. Plan your visit for fall when the larch tree needles turn golden.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, and my Frosty Mountain trail guide.
• Booking camping and pay fees through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Best Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island

Juan de Fuca Trail

Heads up: The Juan de Fuca Trail will be closed in 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach.

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

The Trail: The Juan de Fuca Trail is a gorgeous coastal trail is easier to access than the West Coast Trail thanks to first-come, first-served camping and trailheads close to Victoria. But the hike is just as challenging and spectacular, making it easy to include on a list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Juan de Fuca Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The JDF is hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

West Coast Trail

Duration: 5-8 days

Distance: 75 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The West Coast Trail is Canada’s premier multi-day backpacking trip. It follows the wild coastline for 75 kilometres, up and down ladders, across cable cars, through mud holes, and along beautiful beaches as it travels between the isolated towns of Port Renfrew and Bamfield.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• The West Coast Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Della Falls Trail

Duration: 2-5 days

Distance: 32 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations or fees are needed for camping. But if you want to take a water taxi to the trailhead, you’ll need to book in advance.

The Trail: Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in BC at 440 m tall. (Some sources claim it’s the tallest waterfall in Canada, but that’s not true.)

The hike starts with a boat trip across Great Central Lake. From there you hike up a river valley to the base of the falls. Allow time for the 6 km side trip to Love Lake where there is an incredible view of the entire waterfall from above.

More Info:

• Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Wild Side Trail

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Easy

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required but you must pay trail fees and water taxi fees.

The Trail: The Wild Side Trail takes you along the shoreline of Flores Island in Ahousaht First Nation territory. Most of the hike is along incredible sandy beaches. The trail is a short water taxi ride from Tofino. This off-the-beaten-path hike doesn’t get many visitors, making it one of the quietest hikes on this list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• The Wild Side Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• It’s also on my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Circlet Lake and Mount Albert Edward

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 31 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Summit Mount Albert Edward, one of the highest peaks on Vancouver Island. On the way, you’ll stay at tiny Circlet Lake. This Strathcona Provincial Park trip starts at Mount Washington and is a rite of passage for many Vancouver Island hikers.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Bedwell Lakes

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Climb steeply up through the forest to emerge on the granite shores of Bedwell and Baby Bedwell Lakes, each with their own campground. Intrepid hikers can continue to isolated Cream Lake, which makes a great day trip destination. The trailhead is in a remote area near Buttle Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Elk River Trail and Landslide Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Follow the trail through a beautiful forest alongside the shady Elk River to its terminus at picturesque Landslide Lake and great views of Mount Colonel Foster. There are two campgrounds along the river to choose from. Find the trailhead along the highway to Gold River.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Nootka Trail

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 35 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required. You must pay camping fees. You also need to book in advance for the water taxi or float plane.

The Trail: Arrange a water taxi or floatplane to shuttle you to the Nootka Trail on Nootka Island near Gold River. It’s a remote coastal hike that sees few visitors but has incredible scenery. Highlights include sandy beaches, wolf sightings, Calvin Falls, and the tiny Mowachaht First Nation village of Yuquot.

More Info:

• See my trip report from my Nootka Trail hike. Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay camping fees to the Mowachaht/Muchalaht Nation
• The Nootka Trail made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

North Coast Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 43 to 59 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. You also need to book the water taxi in advance.

The Trail: The rough and rugged North Coast Trail follows the coastline around the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Start with a water taxi from Port Hardy, then get ready for lots of mud, steep hills with rope assists, and rocky beaches.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The North Coast Trail is a great destination between May and September, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Cape Scott Trail

Duration: 3 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: The Cape Scott Trail follows an old settler’s route through the muddy forest to the wild beaches at the north end of Vancouver Island. Choose from several campsites on sandy beaches, then day hike out to the Cape Scott Lighthouse.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions. For camping fee info, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The Cape Scott Trail is hikeable all year, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Best Backpacking Trips in Eastern BC and the Rocky Mountains

Kaslo Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required for camping (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. Reservations and fees required for the hut.

The Trail: Hike into the backcountry of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park near Nelson to camp next to Kaslo Lake. Follow beautiful trails through the alpine to viewpoints and peaks. You can also book the palatial Kokanee Glacier Cabin nearby.

More Info:

• See Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park for trail info.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• See the Alpine Club of Canada for cabin reservations.

Eva and Jade Lakes

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 12 to 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: This alpine hike is easily accessible thanks to the paved Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through the alpine to a beautiful campsite on the shores of Eva Lake, an easy distance for beginners and made my list of beginner-friendly backpacking trips in BC. If you want more solitude, head over a pass to Jade Lake.

More Info:

• Get the details in my Mount Revelstoke National Park guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Mount Assiniboine

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Distance: 52 to 55 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees if you camp in Banff National Park on the way to the trail.

The Trail: The scenery at Mount Assiniboine is postcard-worthy, but getting there can be a challenge. The hike itself is long, but not too difficult and the camping at Lake Magog is gorgeous. But it requires reservations in both a BC Park and Banff National Park, which can be tough to arrange.

More Info:

• See my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide for trail info and reservation strategies.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park through BC Parks.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Banff National Park on the way to Assiniboine with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Mount Assiniboine Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Rockwall Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 55 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The spectacular Rockwall Trail traverses the mountains of Kootenay National Park near Banff, climbing up and over several high passes. There are glacier views, alpine lakes, and the best wildflower meadows I’ve ever seen. I think it has the best effort to reward ratio of all the backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Rockwall Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Rockwall Trail Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.

Yoho Valley Loop/Iceline and Whaleback Trails

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 29.4 km loop

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: Combine several trails in Yoho National Park near Field to make an epic loop that takes in the spectacular Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The views of nearby peaks and waterfalls are breathtaking. Choose from two backcountry campgrounds along the way.

More Info:

• Get trail details in my Yoho Valley Loop backpacking guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• This hike is on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Berg Lake

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 42 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: The incredible Berg Lake Trail near Valemount follows the Robson River uphill to Berg Lake, named for the glaciers crashing into it from Mount Robson, the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Plan to spend a few days in the area to tackle spectacular day hikes.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Berg Lake Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping through BC Parks. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

BC Backpacking in Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

• conditions reports,
  
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Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 25 recommendations for the best backpacking trips in BC. How many of these trips have you done? Is there an amazing backpacking destination that I left off the list? Tell me in the comments.

Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

MORE BC BACKPACKING DESTINATIONS:

• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 35+ Places to Go Backpacking in BC Without A Car
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

BC BACKPACKING RESERVATION INFO:

• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know

The post 25 Best Backpacking Trips in BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I first hiked the WCT 20 years ago. In fact, it was my first backpacking trip ever! I was SO unprepared! (But I still loved it!)

I hiked the West Coast Trail again recently to research my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. This time I had years of backpacking experience to draw upon.

But I knew that wasn’t enough – the West Coast Trail has some unique logistical challenges and terrain that require lots of advance planning and preparation. I did tons of research beforehand, made sure I had the right gear and was in shape. And my second West Coast Trail hike was soooo much more enjoyable.

I’ve gathered all the WCT prep info you’ll need in this guide for you. It’s completely updated with info and fees for 2026.

This West Coast Trail hiking guide includes:

• WCT Quick Facts
• Distance, duration, and difficulty
• When to hike the WCT
• Fees and reservations
• How to get to the West Coast Trail
• WCT Maps, Tide Tables, and App
• Weather, packing and food
• Safety and wildlife
• History and Indigenous context
• Rules and more resources
• West Coast Trail FAQ

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

WCT Quick Facts

Location: Pacific Rim National Park near Bamfield and Port Renfrew on the West Coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

Distance: Officially, 75km. But unofficially it’s at least 10km longer.

Difficulty: Challenging due to the technical terrain.

Time: Around 7 days. Check out my West Coast Trail Itineraries for more info.

Cost: $325.25 per person, plus transportation costs

Reservations: Open each year in January and sell-out in less than an hour.

Best Time to Go: July and August

Trail Description: The trail follows the wilderness coastline. There is lots of mud, boardwalk, and sand. You must also cross cable cars and use ladders.

There is too much info about the West Coast Trail to fit it all in one post. The post you are reading has a general overview about the trail. But for more specifics, check out the companion posts:

• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• West Coast Trail Itinerary Options
• West Coast Trail Packing List
• West Coast Trail Campground Guide
• How to Get to the West Coast Trail
• Coastal Hiking Tips for the West Coast Trail

West Coast Trail Distance, Duration, and Difficulty

How Long is the West Coast Trail?

According to Parks Canada, the WCT is 75 km long (46.5 miles).

However… the trail has been rerouted countless times over the years, but Parks Canada has never adjusted the trail distance. When I hiked it, our GPS measured about 86 km (53.5 miles) of hiking. My friend’s GPS measured 96km!

How Many Days Does it Take to Hike the West Coast Trail?

It takes most people about 7 days to hike the WCT.

Some people hike it in five or 6 days and others take their time and allow 8 or 9 days. Trail runners have even blasted through it in less than 10 hours! The first time I hiked the West Coast Trail we did it in 6 days. On my most recent trip, my group completed the trail in 7 days.

Most of the people we met on the trail were also on a 7-day itinerary. I’ve got full details on the standard 7-day itinerary for you, as well as tons of other itinerary options for 3-10 days in my West Coast Trail itineraries post.

How Difficult is the West Coast Trail?

I’d say the WCT is moderately difficult for fit people and experienced hikers. If you’ve never done a multi-day hike before, you will find the West Coast Trail really difficult!

In general, to hike the WCT you will need to be able to walk about 12km a day or more on uneven and difficult terrain while carrying 30-40lbs in your backpack.

I don’t recommend doing the West Coast Trail as your first backpacking trip ever. It actually was my first backpacking trip way back in 2004. While I did have a great time overall, it was incredibly difficult. I cried. I was NOT prepared to carry that much weight. At the end of each day I was EXHAUSTED and ended up taking painkillers with breakfast every morning to get through it.

When I did the WCT again, I had 15 years of backpacking experience under my belt. It made for a much more enjoyable trip, but I have to admit that it was still really challenging. Trust me: Get some experience backpacking before you try the West Coast Trail.

Even though you don’t have to hike long distances each day, the terrain is really technical. There are lots of sections with roots, rocks, deep sand, and mud holes to navigate through, over and around. The wooden boardwalks are easier to hike on, but they are often very slippery or damaged.

The ladders and cable cars are also very physically challenging, especially while wearing a heavy pack. Hikers with a fear of heights can struggle in these sections.

In the hardest sections, your hiking speed will be about 1 km an hour. Overall, we found our average hiking speed was usually around 2-2.5 km an hour. That’s pretty slow!

For a full run down of each part of the West Coast Trail, including difficult ratings, check out my West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview.

When to Hike the West Coast Trail

Most years, the West Coast Trail is open between May 1 and September 30 each year. (The trail is closed from October 1 to April 30 due to bad weather, lots of rain and high tides.)

The most popular time to hike the trail is in July and August when the weather is best and many hikers have summer holidays. I’ve hiked the trail in late June and mid-August. Both times I was soooo lucky with mostly dry weather.

The weather can be wetter in May and September so it is easier to get a reservation during those months. However, you can get torrential downpours at any time of year.

Another consideration is the tides. If you have flexibility in your schedule, consult the Tofino tide tables. Try to find dates where the low tide is in the middle of the day so you can maximize the time you spend walking on the beach, rather than in the forest. 

Fees and Reservations

How Much Does the West Coast Trail Cost?

The short answer: $325.25 per person plus transportation costs. The typical hiker will pay about $410.25.

The long answer: The total cost of hiking the West Coast Trail will vary depending on which transportation options you choose, how many days you spend on the trail and which trailhead you decide to start at. Here’s a simple breakdown of costs for a typical WCT hike for one person starting from either Gordon River or Pachena Bay. Prices are accurate for the 2025 season.

• Trail permit: $166.75
• Reservation fee: $25.75
• Ferry fees: $56
• National Park entry fee: $11/person/day for 7 days: $77 (Note: If you are travelling with a group of 3 or more, it can make sense to purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for $145.25. It’s an annual pass that covers up to 7 people in the same vehicle.)
• West Coast Trail Express Shuttle Gordon River to Pachena Bay (or vice versa): $95 (Note: This assumes you drive yourself to one of the trailheads. See my transportation post for more info on getting to the trailheads by bus.)

Typical Cost to Hike the West Coast Trail: $410.25.

How to Make West Coast Trail Reservations

You MUST make advance reservations to hike the West Coast Trail. In the past, there were some first-come, first-served spots each day. However, since 2018, all permits for the entire season are reservable; there are no stand-by spots.

To make a reservation, visit the Parks Canada website. West Coast Trail reservations for 2026 open on January 19, 2026 at 8 am PT.

There are spots for 70 people to start the WCT each day: 25 from Gordon River, 25 from Pachena Bay and 20 from Nitinaht Narrows.

Be ready to make your reservation right at 8:00 am as popular dates book up in under 5 minutes! Pro tip: If you don’t already have one, make a Parks Canada online booking account ahead of time so you don’t waste time doing that on the day West Coast Trail bookings open.

Have the following information ready to go when you make your West Coast Trail reservation:

• preferred start date and a few alternates
• preferred start location and alternates (See my West Coast Trail itinerary post for the pros and cons of each start location)
• number of hikers in your group, plus their full names and emergency contact info
• credit card

All you are reserving is a start date and trail permits for the number of people in your group. When you book, you can’t reserve individual campsites or set an itinerary. You have to give an estimate of how many nights you plan to be on the trail (up to 14), but you can change the number of nights when you check-in to start the hike.

What To Do If You Didn’t Get a Reservation?

Don’t lose hope. There are a few things you can do:

1. Check for cancellations. People do cancel and spots do open up. Checking the Parks Canada website manually is time consuming. I recommend using a service like Campnab or Schnerp to send you alerts when a cancellation comes up. (My guide to cancellation apps has more details.)
2. Look for people selling spots on the West Coast Trail Facebook group.
3. Sign up for a guided trip. Professional guides get a set number of spots each year, outside of the reservation system. Mike Blake of MB Guiding is my recommendation for a guide. He knows his stuff!
4. A final option is to just go to the trailhead and cross your fingers. If someone doesn’t show up for their reservation, you may be able to get a permit. (This option isn’t officially advertised, but I have heard of people getting a permit this way. However, it’s pretty unlikely.)

READ NEXT: How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC

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How to Get to the West Coast Trail

One of the most complicated parts of planning a trip on the West Coast Trail is transportation. The trail starts and ends in several different places, and it’s not easy to get between them.

The trailheads are all in remote parts of Vancouver Island. The roads between them are rough gravel roads with lots of big scary logging trucks.

You can drive yourself to all the trailheads, but it’s definitely easier to book a shuttle bus. On both my WCT hikes, we drove ourselves to Gordon River in Port Renfrew, parked the car, then used the shuttle bus to travel between the north and south ends of the trail.

My advice is to figure out your transportation as far in advance as possible. It gets booked up and actually takes a bit of time to figure out. I’ve got a whole guide to West Coast Trail Transportation so go check that out. It includes info on shuttle bus times and companies, how to do a car shuttle between Gordon River and Pachena Bay, how to charter a van and even where to stay before and after your hike.

West Coast Trail Maps, Tide Tables, and App

The best map is the West Coast Trail Map by Parks Canada. You’ll get a waterproof copy when you check-in at the ranger station to start the trail. However, it’s helpful to refer to it when planning your hike.

Almost as important as your trail map is a tide table. The ranger will give you a tiny tide table with your map. However, it only has the day’s high and low tides on it. And it doesn’t account for daylight savings time!

I recommend printing out your own tide table from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. It has the predicted tide height for each hour of the day. AND they are adjusted for daylight savings time. Soooo much easier to use. The most accruate tide table for the WCT is the Tofino tide table.

On the trail, I recommend using the West Coast Trail app. It’s a GPS-enabled app that shows where you are on the trail and what is coming up. It also includes the tide tables.

WCT Weather, Packing, and Food

What is the Weather Like on the West Coast Trail?

The West Coast Trail is on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island. That means it is fully exposed to all the storms that roll in off the Pacific Ocean. It’s a rainforest climate, so expect LOTS of rain. Even on days without rain, it can be quite overcast, or really foggy.

It’s also not that warm, even in the middle of summer. But thankfully, it’s never that cold either.

The WCT is only open in the spring and summer months (May to September). And thankfully those are the warmest and driest months. For the warmest and driest weather, plan your trip for July or August. Here’s a summary of the average temperatures and rainfall for the West Coast Trail area.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

What to Pack for the West Coast Trail

You will need to be totally self-sufficient on the trail and carry in everything you will need for your trip – right down to the toilet paper!

The last places to buy supplies are in the towns of Bamfield and Port Renfrew. However, both towns are REALLY small and don’t have much on offer.

There are no stores at the visitor centres or anywhere on the trail. There is a small restaurant called The Crab Shack at Nitinaht Narrows that also sells toilet paper and a few other essentials if you have an emergency. But plan to bring everything you need with you!

To avoid carrying a stupidly heavy pack, choose lightweight hiking gear rather than heavy conventional camping gear. The lighter you can get your pack, the happier you will be. In general, aim for a pack weight that is 1/3 to 1/4 of your body weight or less. The weather on the coast is also often very wet so be sure to pack accordingly.  

For lots more information, check out my West Coast Trail packing list. It’s a complete guide to everything you need to bring including specific gear recommendations from my hike.

Food on the West Coast Trail

You need to bring all your own food on the West Coast Trail. Plan to bring lightweight calorie-dense food. If you need tips, check out my posts about how to choose the best backpacking meals, budget-friendly grocery store backpacking food, and ideas for backpacking breakfasts.

There is also a small restaurant at Nitinaht Narrows called The Crab Shack. The Edgar family of the Ditidaht First Nation runs it. Carl Edgar Jr. has been running the ferry service there for 44 years. For the last 20 years or so his family has also sold crab and fish dinners to hikers.

Recently they have expanded their menu to include things like baked potatoes, grilled cheese, and breakfast wraps. (They stop serving breakfast at 11 am SHARP!) Prices for food range from $5 to $35. They also have pop, beer, and chocolate starting at $2.

For years there was also a second restaurant on the WCT called Chez Monique’s. It was run by Monique and Peter Knighton on a small First Nations reserve just south of the Carmanah Lighthouse. They served burgers, chips and pop right at tables right on the beach. Sadly both Monique and Peter have passed away and Chez Monique’s is no longer open. While their children have tried to get the restaurant up and running again, as of 2024 it is not open.

West Coast Trail Safety and Wildlife

How to Stay Safe on the West Coast Trail

The West Coast Trail tackles some pretty rugged terrain. Each year Parks Canada evacuates up to 100 people from the trail due to illness or injury. There have even been a few deaths on the West Coast Trail.

The trail is in a remote area where getting help is difficult. There is no cell service on most of the trail. Make sure you are physically and mentally prepared. Take a first aid kit and consider bringing a satellite messenger. I brought my Garmin inReach Mini on my last West Coast Trail hike. Thankfully we didn’t need it, but we did turn it on every day so our family at home could see where we were on the trail. We also used it to get weather reports.

Leave a trip plan at home with a friend or family member. That way someone knows where you are going and when you expect to be back. As well, you’ll need to check-in and check-out from the trail so the rangers know you have finished the trail safely. 

Most injuries on the trail happen when the weather is bad or hikers are tired. (Or both!) Be prepared to turn back or stop and make camp if the weather gets too bad or you are having difficulty with the hike. If you keep pushing forward, you may just make your situation worse by injuring yourself.

Take extra time on ladders, bridges and cable cars. Watch your step on the boardwalks or any wooden structure – they can be REALLY slippery.

Be careful crossing streams. Make sure they aren’t flooding and if possible, cross at low tide. Speaking of tides, always keep your tide table handy and consult it along with your map whenever you choose a beach route. Only take the official marked beach routes – other routes have dangerous cliffs and surge channels.

While rare, tsunamis are a real concern on the west coast. If you feel an earthquake or see the ocean recede suddenly, get to high ground as quickly as possible. All of the campgrounds have marked tsunami escape routes.

Wildlife on the West Coast Trail

The West Coast Trail is a remote wilderness area so it’s home to lots of wildlife. You might encounter a black bear, wolf or cougar. I’ve hiked the trail twice and seen lots of tracks and bear scat but I’ve never a predator.

To minimize the risk of a negative encounter, hike in groups, make lots of noise and carry bear spray just in case. At campgrounds, store your food and toiletries in the bear bins and camp well away from your cooking area. If you want more info, I’ve got lots more bear safety tips for hikers and backpackers.

There is also lots of marine life just offshore along the West Coast Trail. Both times I’ve hiked the trail we’ve spotted whales feeding. Look for them anywhere north of Walbran Creek.

There are also lots of curious seals surfacing along the beaches or otters playing in the mouths of rivers. You can also spy on sea lion colonies on rocky islets in a few places.

Bring a pair of binoculars to get a better look. My husband brought a compact GoSky Titan monocular that he found on Amazon. It’s pretty light and not too expensive, but it still has 12×50 magnification. He spent hours watching the sea lions through it.

History and Indigenous Context of the West Coast Trail

Historically the area of the WCT was a travel corridor for First Nations peoples. They had village sites along the coast.

In the late 1800s, European ships frequently wrecked thanks to the fog and rough conditions. This part of the coast became known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific”. In 1906 a ship called the Valencia shipwrecked and over 100 people drowned.

In response, the Canadian government built lighthouses, lifesaving stations and a telegraph route along the coast. The telegraph route was upgraded and renamed the Dominion Life Saving Trail. Over the years, technology made these measures obsolete and the trail fell into disrepair.

But in the 1970s, hikers were beginning to discover the trail and hike it again. It was included in Pacific Rim National Park in 1973. In the 1970s and 80s Parks Canada restored and upgraded the trail. They added many of the bridges, cablecars, ladders, and boardwalks that hikers travel over today. 

The entire West Coast Trail is on the traditional territory of the Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht First Nations. The trail also passes through several First Nations reserves. These areas are private property, so be respectful.

Members of these Nations continue to have a presence on the trail by acting as West Coast Trail Guardians. They perform trail maintenance and help educate hikers about trail safety and wilderness ethics.

West Coast Trail Rules and Further Resources

Parks Canada Rules

Dogs: Parks Canada doesn’t allow dogs on the West Coast Trail unless they are a service animal.

Beachcombing: You aren’t allowed to take home anything natural from the trail. That includes shells, rocks, sand, wood, etc. However, you are encouraged to take home anything man-made, such as fishing floats.

Fires: Fires are allowed on the West Coast Trail as long as they are below the high tide line AND there is no fire ban for that part of Vancouver Island. You are never allowed to have a fire in the forest. You aren’t allowed to bring an axe, but you shouldn’t need one since you can usually find lots of small driftwood to burn.

Age: Hikers must be at least 6 years old to hike the WCT. Parks Canada recommends hikers be over the age of 12. I hiked the West Coast Trail with my friends’ kids who were 9.5 and 12 at the time. Having kids along added some extra challenges, but in general, if your kids are experienced backpackers, they can probably handle it.

Firearms: Not allowed on the West Coast Trail.

Group Size: Maximum group size is 10 people. School groups of up to 18 people are the only exception to this rule. School groups can be on the trail between May 1 and June 14, and September 20 and 26. 

Length of stay: Maximum length of stay is 14 days.

More Resources for the West Coast Trail

• Parks Canada’s 2024 West Coast Trail Hiker Preparation Guide. It contains lots of info on preparedness and safety.
• Blisters and Bliss: A Trekker’s Guide to the West Coast Trail is a classic book about the trail. It has been through 10 editions since the early 90s. I found it helpful for planning, and also brought photos of a few key pages on the trail.
• My new book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island, has a chapter about the West Coast Trail. Plus it has details on 34 other gorgeous Vancouver Island Trips
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking – my guide to beach hiking has tons of advice.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

West Coast Trail FAQ

Do you have questions about the West Coast Trail? Ask them in the comments and I’ll help you out.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide
• West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

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MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND ADVENTURES:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

The post 2026 West Coast Trail Hiking Guide appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

While this post is aimed at locations where you can go on an overnight hiking trip in spring, most of these trips make great fall backpacking trips in British Columbia too.

In BC, most mountain trails are snow-covered between late October and mid-June. However, there are lots of lower elevation trails that are snow-free between March and November. There are even a few on this list that you can backpack year-round.

This list of 25 spring backpacking trips in British Columbia includes:

• Destinations near Vancouver, on Vancouver Island, and in BC’s interior
• Trips ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert
• Hikes between 2 and 8 days long
• Trails that are usually snow-free by March, April, or May and stay snow-free until October or November
• Tips for spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• Bonus: Spring backpacking suggestions for Washington State

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia

Tips for Spring Backpacking in British Columbia

Backpacking in the spring has its own challenges. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Weather: In spring, the weather is colder and wetter than in summer. It’s also less predictable. Pack accordingly and be prepared to cancel your trip or switch to a different destination if the forecast looks bad. (Use these picks for the best weather apps for hiking.)

Trail Conditions: Many trails suffer blow-downs, wash-outs, and flooding over the winter. Often, parks staff and volunteers do trail maintenance in late May or June, which means trails can be in rough shape before then. (Here are my tips for how to check trail conditions.)

Mud: Wet and muddy trails are inevitable in spring. Come prepared with waterproof hiking boots and gaiters.

Creek crossings: Streams run high in the spring with a combo of snow-melt and rain. Bridges may be washed out and fords may be dangerous. Be prepared to turn back.

Bears: As they wake up from hibernation and tend to new cubs, bears are more active in spring, especially in valley-bottom and coastal locations where there are lots of things for them to eat at this time of year. Read more about bear safety for backpackers.

Seasonal closures: Some parks and trails are closed in the off-season, or may have temporary closures to due damaged infrastructure. Check park and trail websites before you go.

Trailhead access issues: In spring, logging roads that access trailheads may be muddy or washed out. If you’re heading to a trail that requires a water taxi or floatplane, fog and rough weather may delay or cancel your trip. Shuttle services between trailheads may not start operating until May.

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Spring Backpacking Trips in Southwestern British Columbia

Viewpoint Beach and Halfmoon Beach, Golden Ears Provincial Park

Heads up: Day passes are required at Golden Ears Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry permit registration, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

This easy hike in Golden Ears Provincial Park follows the banks of Gold Creek. There are trails on both the west and east sides of the creek, connected by a bridge, so loop trips are possible. You can camp at Viewpoint Beach or venture further upstream to Halfmoon Beach.

This is the closest place to Vancouver that you can take a spring backpacking trip in British Columbia and also made my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees, see Golden Ears Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC

Lindeman and Greendrop Lakes, Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

It’s a short hike to picturesque Lindeman Lake where you can camp next to the tranquil turquoise waters. If you have more energy, carry on along the rougher trail to Greendrop Lake. Lindeman Lake is often snow-free in April, but Greendrop Lake holds snow into May.

Lindeman Lake is also one of my picks for beginner-friendly backpacking rips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees, see S⨱ótsaqel / Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Skagit River Trail, Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Note: Access to this trail was disrupted by the November 2021 storms. The river has changed course at the Sumallo Grove trailhead and the bridge is not accessible at times of high water. In late summer, it’s an easy ford. However, western trailhead on Silver-Skagit Road in Skagit Valley Provincial Park is open between mid-April and November, so you can access it from that direction.

This laid-back hike follows a historic fur-trade route along the banks of the Skagit River as it flows downstream. You can do an 8 km round trip hike from the Sumallo Grove Trailhead in Manning Provincial Park, camping at Delacy Camp. If you have two cars, you make a 14 km traverse from Sumallo Grove to Silver-Skagit Road.

The Skagit River Trail is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the E.C. Manning & Skagit Valley Provincial Parks map from Clark Geomatics.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Tikwalus Heritage Trail, Fraser Canyon

This historical Indigenous and fur trade route leads steeply up from Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon to several spectacular lookouts. Camp high on a bluff near several small lakes. The trail takes its name from a former Nlaka’pamux village near the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

READ NEXT: How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations

Lower Stein Valley, Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Provincial Park

Note: A large wildfire burned the lower Stein Valley trail in July and August 2023. As of early 2026, the trail is currently only open up to Earl’s Cabin camp 10.5 km from the trailhead.

The warm, dry climate in Lytton makes the Lower Stein Valley my favourite choice for spring backpacking trips in British Columbia – Over the years, I’ve been there six times in March, April, and May. The valley is a spiritual place for the local Nlaka’pamux First Nation.

The trail travels next to the Stein River passing Indigenous pictographs and culturally modified trees. Choose from five different campgrounds spaced out along the lower section of the trail. This is one fo the best places for beginner backpacking in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the Stein to Joffre Trail Map by Trail Ventures BC.

READ NEXT: How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC

Cheakamus Lake, Garibaldi Provincial Park

Heads up: Day passes are required at Cheakamus Lake in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

As the lowest elevation trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park, Cheakamus Lake is a good spring backpacking destination. The flat and easy trail leads through old-growth forest to the beautiful glacially-fed lake. Camp at the lake outlet or follow the trail along the shoreline to camp at Singing Creek.

This trail is my number one pick for easy backpacking near Vancouver.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the Garibaldi Provincial Park Map by Clark Geomatics. For info on camping fees and reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Fairview Bay/Saltery Bay Loop, Sunshine Coast Trail

Portions of the Sunshine Coast Trail are snow-covered most of the year, but you can tackle this low elevation section starting at the southern terminus in Saltery Bay. Hike along the coast to Fairview Bay hut as an out-and-back trip, or take on the full loop, camping at either Fairview Bay Hut or Rainy Day Lake Hut.

The trip to Fairview Bay is on my list of the best easy bacpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Confederation Lake and Fiddlehead Landing, Sunshine Coast Trail

Here’s another low elevation section of the Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT) that is perfect for a spring backpacking trip. The trail starts at Inland Lake, then climbs steeply through thick old-growth forest to a hut on the shores of Confederation Lake. Follow the SCT downhill to Fiddlehead Landing on the shores of Powell Lake and another hut.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Sarah Point to Powell River, Sunshine Coast Trail

This northern section of the Sunshine Coast Trail is an ideal spring backpacking destination. Arrange a water taxi or 4WD shuttle to the trailhead at Sarah Point or skip the first few kilometres by taking the shortcut trail to Wednesday Lake from Sarah Point Road. Finish your trip at the Shinglemill Pub in Powell River. Along the way, walk along bluffs speckled with arbutus trees, through old-growth forest, and past small lakes.

More Info: Read my trip report from my March backpacking trip on the northern section of the Sunshine Coast Trail. Part of this section is also featured in my book Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

BC Backpacking in Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

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• and lots more!

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Spring Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island

Narvaez Bay, Saturna Island

This oceanfront campground is located on the southeastern side of Saturna Island in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It’s an easy hike in from the trailhead and the trail is also open to bikes. FYI: There is no potable water here so you’ll have to pack in your own. It’s also on my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. See Gulf Islands National Park Reserve for camping reservations.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know

Juan de Fuca Trail, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Note: The Juan de Fuca Trail is closed in summer 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach. The full trail is expected to re-open in late May, 2026.

The rugged Juan de Fuca Trail runs along the coast from near Jordan River to Port Renfrew. It’s a little shorter than the West Coast Trail, its famous neighbour to the north, but it’s just as rugged and has more hills. This trail crosses lots of steep gullies, so it is prone to washouts in the spring, fall, and winter months.

More Info: Read my Juan de Fuca Trail guide for full details. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

West Coast Trail, Pacific Rim National Park

Note: The West Coast Trail is open from May 1 to September 30 each year. The National Park officially closes the trail from October to the end of April.

The West Coast Trail is Canada’s most famous multi-day hike. Since it opens in May, it also makes a great spring backpacking trip. The 75-kilometre-long trail follows the wild shoreline with the help of bridges, ladders, and cable cars. Each night you will camp on a wilderness beach.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on reservations, trail fees, and National Park fees, see Pacific Rim National Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Keeha Beach, Pacific Rim National Park

Note: Keeha Beach is open from May 1 to early October each year. The National Park officially closes the trail from early October to the end of April.

This sandy beach is located just north of the West Coast Trail. It’s a short hike to get there, but allow plenty of time as the trail is very rough with lots of slippery roots and tons of mud. (The mud is pretty epic – comparable to the North Coast Trail.) You can also day hike to the nearby Cape Beale Lighthouse.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For trail fees, and reservations, see Pacific Rim National Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Della Falls Trail

At 440-metres-tall, Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. To get there, you first have to canoe, motor boat, or water taxi across Great Central Lake. Then hike up through a river valley to the base of the falls. Don’t miss a side trip on the Love Lake trail for incredible views of the falls.

The water taxi starts running on May 15 each year when the falls are in full flow. However, snow can linger in May and early June in the upper valley and on the Love Lake Trail, so go prepared.

More Info: Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and join the Della Falls Facebook group. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Della Falls Trail Hiking Guide

Wild Side Trail, Flores Island

Note: The Wild Side Trail is open from May to October each year. The Ahousaht Nation officially closes the trail from November to April.

The Wild Side Trail has one of the best effort to reward ratios of any of Vancouver Island’s coastal trails. It’s one of my favourite spring backpacking trips in British Columbia – I’ve done it twice in May! This trail is also one of my picks for the best beginner backpacking trips in BC.

It’s an easy walk along beaches and through the forest to a gorgeous campsite at Cow Bay. There are also two other campsites along the way. The hike is located in Ahousaht First Nation territory on Flores Island near Tofino, so you’ll need to arrange a water taxi.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on trail fees and camping fees, see the Wild Side Trail website.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide

Hesquiat Peninsula Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a water taxi or floatplane to the remote Hesquiat Peninsula on the west coast of Vancouver Island. This informal trail follows the rugged coastline as it bucks and dips across rocky headlands, through surge channels, and along beaches. There are no facilities or formal campsites.

More info: See Hiking the West Coast of Vancouver Island by Tim Leadem, and Hesquiat Peninsula Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

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Nootka Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

The Nootka Trail is my favourite coastal hike in BC. It’s located on Nootka Island off the west coast of Vancouver Island, so you need to take a water taxi or floatplane to get there. What makes this trail special is that it is almost entirely on the beach. There are no formal facilities or campsites.

More info: See my Nootka Trail trip report. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on fees, see Yuqot.ca, the Mowachaht-Muchalaht First Nation website.

READ NEXT: Sunshine on the Edge of the World: Nootka Trail Trip Report

Tatchu Peninsula Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

The Tatchu Peninsula is a wilderness hike on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The hike traces a route down the west side of the peninsula, linking numerous beaches with short overland trails. There are no formal facilities or campsites. You can do the easier (and more scenic) northern section as an out-and-back or complete a very challenging traverse.

More info: See my Tatchu Trail guide, Rugged Point Provincial Park. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Raft Cove, Raft Cove Provincial Park

Raft Cove is a remote beach on the north end of Vancouver Island, reached by a maze of logging roads from the tiny town of Holberg. It’s a short walk into the beach, but the rough and muddy trail makes it seem longer. Camp on the sandy beach and watch surfers work the waves just offshore.

This is one of my picks for the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. See Raft Cove Provincial Park for info and camping fees.

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San Josef Bay, Cape Scott Provincial Park

This is the easiest trail in Cape Scott Provincial Park, but it still has spectacular scenery. The trail winds through the coastal forest and ends at a beautiful beach. At low tide, you can explore incredible sea stacks. There are two beaches to camp on separated by a headland that is impassable at high tide.

The flat trail makes it one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More info: For more info, see my Cape Scott guide, the North Coast Trail Map by John Baldwin, and the North Coast Trail Waterproof Map by Wild Coast. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

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Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Cape Scott Trail, Cape Scott Provincial Park

While the north end of Vancouver Island gets a lot of rain, the Cape Scott Trail can be a great spring backpacking destination if you get a window of good weather. It’s a long hike through bog and coastal forest on old settler trails to the campsite at Nel’s Bight. From there, you can day hike to Cape Scott, the northernmost point on Vancouver Island.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide, the North Coast Trail Map by John Baldwin, and the North Coast Trail Waterproof Map by Wild Coast. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

North Coast Trail, Cape Scott Provincial Park

The tough North Coast Trail traverses the northern end of Vancouver Island. It starts with a water taxi drop-off in Shushartie Bay and ends when it intersects the Cape Scott Trail at Nissen Bight. In between, there is lots of muddy and rough trail through coastal bog and old-growth forest, and a few gorgeous beaches.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

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Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia’s Interior

Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park

This large park between Kelowna and Naramata has several different spring backpacking options. You can hike to Divide Lake and Baker Lake near the summit of Okanagan Mountain. You can also follow the Wild Horse Canyon Trail to campsites on the shores of Okanagan Lake. A connecter trail links the two, so you can make a big loop. Spring and fall are the best time to visit this park, as it is too hot in the summer.

More info: See Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations

Okanagan High Rim Trail

This trail follows an elevated route above the Okanagan Valley between Vernon and Kelowna. In most years, it is snow-free by early to mid May. This trail is only a few years old and crisscrosses lots of forestry roads in between great viewpoints and small lakes.

More Info: Get the details from the Okanagan High Rim Trail Association.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Deer Point Trail, Gladstone Provincial Park

The low elevation Deer Point Trail along Christina Lake in Gladstone Provincial Park near Grand Forks make a good spring backpacking destination. You can camp at Trapper Creek partway along the trail or at Troy Creek at the north end of the lake. Both campsites are open to boaters as well.

More Info: Get info on the trail and camping fees from Gladstone Provincial Park.

Flatiron Trails, Wells Gray Provincial Park

Note: In 2023, a few key bridges washed out and with high water, it is currently not possible to cross the creeks and reach any of the campsites.

Even though it is near the entrance to the park, Flatiron area of Wells Gray Provincial Park is a bit under-the-radar. A network of trails follows creeks to the banks of the Clearwater River and there are three backcountry campgrounds. You can access the area from three different trailheads, making loop trips or a traverse possible.

More Info: Get info on the trails from Exploring Wells Gray Park by Roland Neave. For camping fees see Wells Gray Provincial Park.

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Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

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Spring Backpacking Trips in Washington

Since it is a short trip across the border, it’s worth mentioning a few spring backpacking locations in Washington State.

Olympic Coast: The wilderness coast in Olympic National Park is accessible year-round. With several access points, lots of different trips are possible. As a bonus, it’s easier to get permits in the spring. For trip ideas, see my guides to Shi Shi Beach, Ozette Loop, and Toleak Point.

Enchanted Valley: Follow the East Fork Quinault River Trail into the Enchanted Valley in the rainforest of Olympic National Park.

East Bank Trail, Ross Lake: This trail in North Cascades National Park follows the shoreline of Ross Lake. See my East Bank Trail trip report.

Chelan Lakeshore Trail: This 17-mile-long trail in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest begins and ends with a ferry on Lake Chelan. The trail finishes at the boat-access-only village of Stehekin in North Cascades National Park.

So that gives you 25 different spring backpacking trips in British Columbia to choose from!  Which one would you choose?  I’ve hiked most of these trails (some of them several times) so feel free to ask me more about them in the comments.

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READ NEXT:

• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know
• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking

The post 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

My Coastal Hiking Experience

My first ever backpacking trip was a 5-night blitz of the West Coast Trail. I’d say it was a baptism by fire, but it was more like a baptism by sand, mud, and rain. And it was sooo gorgeous. I was hooked!

Since then I’ve done over 18 more overnight and multi-day trips on the coast. In British Columbia, I’ve done the West Coast Trail (twice), Juan de Fuca Trail (twice), North Coast Trail (twice), Wild Side Trail (twice), Nootka Trail, Tatchu Peninsula, San Josef Bay (twice), and Cape Scott Trail (three times). In Washington, I’ve hiked the North Olympic Coast Route, the Ozette Loop (twice), Shi Shi Beach, and Toleak Point.

I’ve learned a lot of lessons about coastal trails on these trips and now I’m passing that wisdom and my best coastal hiking tips along to you.

Wear Gaiters

In case you didn’t know, gaiters are fabric covers that bridge the gap between your boots and your pants. I have friends who never wear gaiters on coastal hikes, but I swear by them. They keep the sand out of your boots, which can cause painful blisters. (Read my guide to preventing blisters for more info.)

Gaiters also help on muddy trails, which are common on the coast. If the mud is deeper than your boots (which happens a lot!) you will have an added layer of protection. Waterproof gaiters can also be great for short stream crossings – that way you don’t have to take your boots off.

On my last West Coast Trail hike, I wore short water-resistant gaiters (like these) just to keep the mud and sand out. But wearing them on the North Coast Trail was a big mistake – they weren’t tall enough for the epic mud on that trail! I ended up with mud and water over the top of my gaiters within the first two hours. I should have brought these tall Gore-Tex gaiters that I had already worn on lots of other trips. (This pair are similar).

Use Hiking Poles

Coastal trails are very uneven with lots of mud, roots, slippery rocks, and creek crossings. Poles help you keep your balance on tricky terrain. You can also use them to probe mud bogs to find the driest spots. If you’ve hiked with poles before and hated them, don’t bring them on a coastal trip. But otherwise, I think poles are a must. (The only time they are a disadvantage is when you encounter ladders or fixed ropes and you have to stow them.)

I use Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles. They are definitely the Cadillac of trekking poles. If you want something a bit more budget-oriented, the Black Diamond Trail Explorer poles are really great quality for the price.

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Don’t Stress About Sand

On coastal trips, sand gets into everything. Even months after a beach trip, I still find sand in my boots, tent, and backpack. It’s easy to let the sand drive you crazy… but just chill out. For the most part, it’s not a big deal. To protect sensitive gear like camera lenses or food, lay down your rain jacket, a pack cover, a small tarp, or your tent footprint as a sand-free area.

There is only one time when I stress about sand: when it’s getting in my boots. That’s because it can cause blisters. Prevention is key here. Wear gaiters. Avoid shoes with mesh panels. And carry a small travel towel to wipe down your feet before you put your socks on.

Prep for Tea-Coloured Water

Most water sources on coastal backpacking trips have dark tea-coloured water. This is due to tannins from the vegetation in the swamps and bogs. As well, these water sources are often a trickle so you won’t have much choice on where you can fill up.

Bring a water filter or purifier to treat your water. The silt and tannins in the water can clog filters and add to processing times for chemical purification like Pristine and Aquamira. Some people prefer to strain the water through a bandana, clean t-shirt, or coffee filter first, then treat it or filter it.

If you bring a filter, make sure you know how to clean it in the field, as that’s the only way to get it unclogged. We use a Platypus GravityWorks water filter since it doesn’t require pumping and you can clean it easily by backflushing it with clean water. Be prepared to have your filter run very slowly when filtering coastal water, especially if it’s not new. We replaced our filter cartridge after a recent coastal trip and were surprised to see how much better it ran!

The tannins in the water give it a dark colour that many people find unappealing. Some also say that they don’t like the taste (although I usually don’t notice it). If that bothers you, bring juice powder to mask the taste and colour. My favourite for backpacking is Nuun, a sports drink with electrolytes. I love that it comes in tablets rather than loose powder so it’s less messy.

Waterproof Everything

Even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain, waterproof everything. Everything! The weather on the coast is notoriously fickle and rainstorms can blow in unexpectedly. Coastal fog can also create damp camping conditions. (And sometimes the forecast is just for rain. On my first North Coast Trail hike we had torrential rain EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.)

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Bring good quality waterproof breathable jacket and pants. I wear the MEC Synergy Jacket, which is Gore-Tex, and the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch pants. Another great option is the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. It’s pretty durable for the low price.

READ NEXT: Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

Bring a good quality backpacking tent with a full-length rainfly. We use the MSR Hubba Hubba NX or the Zpacks Triplex.

Pack a lightweight silnylon tarp and some cord so you can set up a kitchen shelter. We have a RAB siltarp 2 that scrunches down to the size of a burrito and comes on every coastal trip.

It’s also important to keep your gear dry when you’re hiking on the coast. My Gregory Amber backpack came with a pack cover, but if yours didn’t, buy a lightweight sil-nylon pack cover.

I also use lightweight dry bags inside my pack for things that absolutely need to stay dry like my sleeping bag and warm clothing. For smaller things like maps, toilet paper, etc., I use Ziploc freezer bags, which are thicker and more durable than their regular ones. Don’t throw them away after your trip – I reuse mine over and over again.

On longer trips, or when there’s rain in the forecast, I also use a pack liner. You can buy sil-nylon pack liners, but you can also just line your pack with a garbage bag. I actually use trash compactor bags. They are thicker and more durable than regular garbage bags, so they last longer – I can usually use one for a whole year.

READ NEXT: 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain

Keep Your Sleeping Bag Dry

One of the most common coastal hiking tips you will hear is that you need to use a synthetic sleeping bag. Unlike down, synthetic insulation will keep you warm even if it gets wet from rain, fog, or condensation. BUT… synthetic bags are bulky and heavy compared to down. If you are already own a synthetic sleeping bag, then go ahead and bring it. But if you already own a down sleeping bag, DON’T go out and buy a synthetic bag specifically for your coastal hike. It’s not necessary!

That’s right… I’m here to tell you that you can definitely use a down sleeping bag on a coastal hike. I only use down sleeping bags since they are so much lighter and more compact. I’ve spent more than 30 nights sleeping in coastal environments, all in down sleeping bags, without any problems. Here’s how I do it:

• I store my sleeping bag inside a water-resistant compression sack.
• Then I wrap the sleeping bag inside a garbage bag.
• The garbage bag -wrapped sleeping bag goes inside my pack, which is lined with a pack liner.
• And when it rains, I put a rain cover over top.
• I always use a good quality waterproof tent and make sure to vent it to avoid condensation.
• I also use sleeping bags with water-resistant outer fabric and water-resistant down fill.
• And when it’s sunny, I spread my sleeping bag out on a log or the top of my tent to let it air out.

On my coastal hikes, I’ve had days of torrential rains, tons of fog, and 100% humidity. And I’ve fallen into streams with my backpack on. My sleeping bag has never gotten more than a tiny bit damp. If you take care of your sleeping bag, you can definitely bring a down sleeping bag on a coastal hiking trip. Right now my favourite sleeping bag for beach backpacking is the Therm-a-rest Ohm 32F/0C which is super warm but packs down really small.

Beware of Blisters

I’ve said it a few times already, and I’ll say it again: coastal hikes are terrible for blisters. All the water, sand, and rough terrain can lead to unhappy feet. I’ve got a whole guide to preventing and dealing with blisters. It’s a must-read before a coastal hike. Honestly, if you are going to take just one piece of advice from this post, make it this one. Preventing blisters is the most important of my coastal hiking tips.

Embrace the Mud

You’ll encounter a lot of mud on coastal trails. But rather than avoiding it, embrace it. Walk through the middle of the mud bogs instead of skirting around the side. The mud is usually wetter and deeper on the sides. Often there is drier ground just below the surface since the middle of the trail is usually designed for the best drainage. (Sometimes you’ll even find boardwalk or rocks hidden under that mud!) Plus, you avoid erosion and damaging vegetation by going through the center, which is a key part of Leave No Trace.

Carry a Tide Table

Knowing the timing of high tide is super important on a coastal hike for a few reasons. You want to make sure your tent is high enough up the beach to avoid waves at night. Some trails also have beach sections that are impassable at high tide or at tides of a specific height, and you’ll need to time your hike around that. Knowing the low tide can also be helpful so you know when the best times for exploring tide pools and sea caves. (Don’t miss the incredible offshore sea caves and tide pools at Shi Shi Beach and Toleak Point.)

You can find Canadian tide tables on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website and American ones on the Tides and Currents section of the NOAA website. Be sure to select the correct table for the region you’ll be hiking in. I carry a printout of the table inside a Ziploc bag. Make sure you print out the version with the hourly predicted heights, not just the highs and lows.

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Learn to Pitch Your Tent in the Sand

Regular tent pegs will just slide out of soft sand. This leads to a saggy rain fly that droops against the interior of your tent and causes condensation to build up. In windy weather, it could also mean that your tent will blow all over the place. You can use a few different strategies to anchor your tent in the sand.

The easiest way is to peg out your tent, then place rocks on top of the pegs. This works ok sometimes but doesn’t usually hold up that well.

You can also opt for beefier tent pegs with more holding power. We often bring a few snow stakes since they work well in sand too. They are longer and have holes in them to let the sand leak through and lock into place.

Another option is to fill stuff sacks or plastic bags with sand and tie the tent out to them. For even more holding power, bury the bags in the sand.

You can also bring some lengths of guy line and tie your tent out to driftwood logs or large rocks. The trick can be finding logs that are in the right place, are light enough to move, and that have a place to loop the guy line around.

Since I use a non-freestanding Zpacks tent on many of my trips, I need to make sure my tent really stays put or it will fall down. I’ve started bringing a handful of screw-in eyelets from the hardware store on beach hikes. I screw them into driftwood and tie out my tent. When it’s time to go home, I unscrew them and bring them with me.

Secure Your Food

Coastal ecosystems are home to lots of critter like birds, mice, raccoons, and bears. And they all want your food. You need to secure your food away from animals or risk losing it. While losing your food might be an inconvenience to you, it can be very dangerous for other backpackers who camp there in the coming weeks and months. It’s easy for bears to progress from raiding poorly stored food to approaching people or flattening tents looking for food.

Do some research to find out what food storage options are available on your trip. On some trails, like the West Coast Trail, the Cape Scott Trail, and the North Coast Trail there are metal food storage lockers at every campsite. In other areas, like on Washington’s Olympic Coast, you will need to pack your food inside bear canisters. (There it’s mostly for the very bold raccoons.) And some places like the Nootka Trail have no food storage at all so you will need to bring rope to rig a food hang in a tree. (Read more about bear safety here.)

Respect Indigenous Land

Being respectful of indigenous land isn’t just a coastal hiking tip – it’s good practice for anywhere you hike. And really, it’s just the right thing to do.

Indigenous people have lived in what is now Canada and the US since time immemorial. When you hike, you traverse land that has a cultural history that predates European contact. On many coastal hikes, you will find shell middens, village sites, petroglyphs, and other cultural artefacts. Some trails, like the West Coast Trail, Wild Side Trail, Nootka Trail, North Coast Trail, Tatchu Trail, and Shi Shi Beach, cross indigenous reserve land. No matter which trail you hike, be respectful of indigenous land and culture – you are a guest here. Leave what you find. Native-land.ca is a great resource for researching which indigenous peoples’ land you are on.

Bring Gloves

Gloves can be helpful on some coastal trails. Some people like to wear gloves to protect their hands and add grip on cable cars, ladders, and fixed ropes. Others like the added abrasion resistance that gloves provide from barnacles and sharp rocks when you’re boulder hopping or navigating technical sections of coastline.

I brought cheap nitrile-coated work gloves from the hardware store when I did the North Coast Trail. They were really helpful for the fixed ropes. I’ve had lots of people tell me they like to hike in lightweight wind gloves for the West Coast Trail ladders and cable cars or the coastal route around Owen Point. I think gloves aren’t necessary for the WCT, but if you want some, cheap work gloves are a better option. They are much less expensive too!

Wear Good Boots

There’s a lot of debate in the hiking community about whether hiking in boots or trail runners is better. I do both, so I understand both sides of the argument. However, when it comes to coastal hiking, I always wear boots.

I wear waterproof hiking boots for beach hiking. The waterproof membrane inside the boots is great for keeping your feet dry, but the bigger benefit is keeping sand out. I’ve done day hikes on the beach in trail runners with mesh panels. You end up with a shoe full of sand, which can cause blisters. No good!

If you aren’t used to carrying a heavy backpack, or you have weak ankles, you should also choose a hiking boot with ankle support. Coastal hikes involve lots of uneven terrain, roots, slippery rocks, and unstable sand. Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries on the West Coast Trail and other beach hikes.

I wear Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX boots which are waterproof, fairly lightweight, and offer moderate ankle support. My husband wears the Salomon Quest 4D GTX boots which are similar, but a little beefier with more ankle support.

Plan Trailhead Transportation in Advance

Getting to and from the trailhead for a coastal hike can be an adventure in itself. Most trailheads are in remote locations without public transportation and where hitchhiking is difficult. Some trails like the Juan de Fuca Trail and West Coast Trail have a scheduled bus. Others like the North Coast Trail, Tatchu Trail, and Nootka Trail require you to book a water taxi or charter a floatplane.

Make reservations for transportation far in advance. I’ve heard lots of stories of people who waited until the last minute to reserve, then found out the bus or boat was fully booked for their dates. And don’t rely on just showing up at the trailhead and hoping you can get on the bus. On my first West Coast Trail trip, we didn’t book transportation. On our last day we showed up at the trailhead got the last seats on the bus. A group who arrived behind us had to camp and wait a full day for the next bus!

Prep for Hot AND Cold Weather

Coastal weather is notoriously fickle. It can be sunny and smokin’ hot one minute, then cool off to a few degrees above freezing. Bring warm clothes for wearing around camp as it gets chilly in the evenings, especially when the wind kicks up. And don’t forget sun protection (sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses) for the warm days – I’ve gotten some wicked sunburns on coastal trips.

Bring Your Gear Inside

It can be tempting to leave wet or stinky gear out overnight to let it dry off or air out. Don’t do it! As soon as the sun sets, the dew and condensation starts. The coast is a humid environment and any gear you leave out will get soaking wet. Bring everything inside your tent or vestibule, or store it under a tarp. I like to put extra gear inside my pack at night, put the pack cover on, then stow my pack inside my vestibule, under a log, or under my kitchen tarp. Of all the coastal hiking tips on this list, this one is the one that most people forget about (even me!). It’s so easy to think that your gear will dry overnight, when really it will just get wetter.

So there are all of my  coastal hiking tips. Did I miss anything? What advice would you give someone heading out for a backpacking trip on their first beach trail? Tell me in the comments.

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More hiking advice:

• 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• 20+ Ways to Reduce Your Backpack Weight
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

My trail guides for British Columbia coastal hikes:

• West Coast Trail
• Juan de Fuca Trail
• North Coast Trail
• Cape Scott Trail
• Nootka Trail
• Wild Side Trail
• Tatchu Trail

My trail guides for Washington (Olympic National Park) coastal hikes:

• Ozette Loop Trail
• Shi Shi Beach Trail
• Toleak Point Trail

The post Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I have also talked to lots of hikers who didn’t book transportation and thought they’d just figure it out a few days before. DON’T DO THAT! You definitely need to figure out how to get to the West Coast Trail and make reservations in advance.

The West Coast Express shuttle bus is definitely the most popular option for getting to the West Coast Trail, but you can also drive yourself, take a floatplane, take a boat or organize your own private shuttle van. I’ve got all the details on each West Coast Trail transportation option for you below. And since you may need to stay overnight at one of the trailheads before or after your trip, I’ve also got info on that too.

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO?  Check out these posts:

• West Coast Trail Basics
• Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• Complete Guide to Every Campground
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for your support! -Taryn

If you aren’t familiar with Southern Vancouver Island, it can be confusing to figure out where the trailheads and other transportation hubs are. I’ve made a custom google map for you that shows you every single location I mention in this guide.

Getting to Vancouver Island

The West Coast Trail is located on the West Coast of southern Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Since Vancouver Island is an island (duh!) it takes a bit of planning to get there.

You can take a ferry to Vancouver Island. BC Ferries has scheduled sailings from the Vancouver area to both Victoria and Nanaimo. If you are coming from Washington, you can take the Coho ferry from Port Angeles or the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes to the Victoria area. You can bring a car on any of these ferries.

You can also fly to Vancouver Island. Both Victoria and Nanaimo have regional airports with regular flights to Vancouver and Calgary. Victoria is also an international airport and has flights from Seattle.

Where Does the West Coast Trail Start and Finish?

The West Coast Trail has two main trailheads at the southern and northern ends of the trail. You can hike the trail in either direction. You can also start or finish the trail at the trail’s midpoint, Nitinaht Narrows. (Read my section-by-section overview of the West Coast Trail for a full description of the trail. See my West Coast Trail Itineraries for info on the pros and cons of starting at each of the three trailheads.)

Southern Trailhead: Port Renfrew/Gordon River

The southern trailhead is at the mouth of the Gordon River at the Pacheedaht campground near the town of Port Renfrew. Port Renfrew is on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island north of Sooke. You can drive to Port Renfrew via paved roads from the Victoria and Duncan areas. The trailhead is about 4.5km from Port Renfrew.

Unfortunately, there is no local taxi service. The Parks Canada office is located at the Pacheedaht campground. From there you walk about 100m down the road to Butch’s dock where you catch the ferry across the Gordon River to start the West Coast Trail. 

Even though it is a small town with a population of just 144 people, there are lots of things to do in Port Renfrew. It is becoming a popular eco-tourism spot thanks to its location on the Pacific Marine Circle Route, a fun road trip. Some of Canada’s largest trees are also nearby including Avatar Grove and Big Lonely Doug. 

Port Renfrew has a small general store, a gas station, and several restaurants. But it’s not a big place so plan to pick up all your supplies before you get there.

Northern Trailhead: Bamfield/Pachena Bay

The northern West Coast Trail trailhead is at the Pachena Bay campground near the town of Bamfield. Bamfield is on the central west coast of Vancouver Island. You can drive there on a gravel road from Port Alberni, or on logging roads from Lake Cowichan. The Pachena Bay trailhead is 5.5km from Bamfield. However, they do have a taxi service that can take you between the two.

Bamfield is slightly larger than Port Renfrew – they have 179 residents! It’s a unique place since the town is divided by an inlet and there is no road access to the western part – you have to take a water taxi across. It’s a popular place for fishing and there’s a world reknowned marine research station.

Bamfield has a small grocery store and several restaurants. But like Port Renfrew, you shouldn’t plan to do much shopping for the trail there.

Middle Trailhead: Nitinaht Narrows

The Nitinaht Narrows trailhead is located near the middle of the trail at KM32. There is no town at Nitinaht Narrows – there is a small First Nations Reserve with a restaurant called The Crab Shack. To get to Nitinaht Narrows you have to take a water taxi for 23km from Nitinaht Village at the head of Nitinaht Lake to the narrows at the outflow of the lake. The water taxi runs once a day at 9 am or you can arrange a private charter for other times of the day. Call them at 250-745-3509 to book. You can drive to Nitinat Village on gravel roads from the Lake Cowichan area. 

Nitinaht Village is located on the Ditidaht First Nations Reserve and has a population of about 120. The village is on Nitinaht Lake, which is a popular place for windsurfing. It has a motel, campground, gas station, restaurant, and a small general store.

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Public Transportation to the West Coast Trail Trailheads

Unfortunately, there is no public transportation to the West Coast Trail. You’ll have to take a private shuttle bus or drive yourself. If you want to save money, you could take public transit to Sooke or Lake Cowichan, then take the West Coast Trail Express private bus from there. See the BC Transit website for more info.

Psst! The West Coast Trail is on my list of the best car-free backpacking trips in BC.

West Coast Trail Express Private Bus Service to Trailheads

The West Coast Trail Express is a private shuttle bus company that provides scheduled bus services to all the West Coast Trail starting and ending points including Port Renfrew, Gordon River, Nitinaht Village, Pachena Bay, and Bamfield. They also pick up and drop off in Victoria, Nanaimo, Sooke, and Lake Cowichan.

A popular option is to drive yourself to one trailhead, then use the shuttle bus to get to the other trailhead. However, you can take the West Coast Trail bus from Victoria or Nanaimo to the trailhead, then back again. It’s a better deal than renting a car. Be sure to reserve your West Coast Trail bus tickets well in advance as they do book up! There’s also a slight discount if you book a return ticket.

The shuttle buses are school buses and they aren’t that comfortable. The roads they travel on are very winding and bumpy. If you get car sick, plan to take anti-nausea medication.

Tip: If you are going to drive to one trailhead and take the West Coast Express bus to the other, take the bus before you start the West Coast Trail. That way you’ll finish at your car and won’t have to worry about trying to make it back to the trailhead in time for the scheduled shuttle pick up.

On my first West Coast Trail hike in 2004, we didn’t have shuttle reservations AND we chose to take the shuttle at the end of our hike. It was super stressful trying to finish the last few kilometres of trail in time to meet the bus, and then we managed to get the LAST seats available. If we hadn’t been able to get on, we would have had to wait an entire day for the next bus!

Private Charter Shuttles to the West Coast Trail Trailheads

The West Coast Trail Express schedule doesn’t work for everybody. It’s especially annoying if you are hiking from north to south. If you have a bit of extra cash to splash out, you can hire a private driver to take you wherever you want to go, at whichever time you choose. The West Coast Trail Express offers charter services and my group of 8 used it on my 2019 West Coast Trail trip. It’s definitely expensive, but if you go with a larger group of people, it can be a similar price to taking the scheduled bus.

Flying to the West Coast Trail Trailheads

It’s possible to charter a floatplane between Port Renfrew and Bamfield. You can also fly to Bamfield directly from Vancouver International Airport. It’s definitely not a cheap option, but it will save you some time. You’ll need to contact the floatplane companies directly to arrange a charter. 

Taking a Boat to the West Coast Trail Trailheads

For many years there was a water taxi service between Port Renfrew and Bamfield. Many hikers would drive their car to one end, then take the water taxi to the other to start their hike. Unfortunately, the person running this service retired and it’s no longer offered. 

However, you can still take a boat to Bamfield. Lady Rose Marine Services runs a freight ship a few days a week between Port Alberni and Bamfield. It takes passengers too! Once you get to Bamfield, you can take a taxi to the trailhead.

Driving to the West Coast Trailheads

For the most part, it’s not too hard to drive yourself to any of the three West Coast Trail trailheads. However, it’s really time-consuming and some of the navigation can be a bit tricky since the logging roads aren’t always easy to follow.

You can rent a car in Victoria or at the Victoria Airport. I use Discover Cars since it lets you compare prices from lots of different rental companies to make sure you are getting the best deal.

However, read the rental agreement carefully. The route from Victoria to Port Renfrew is on paved roads, so it should be no problem for a rental car. However, the route between Port Renfrew and Bamfield, and between Victoria and Bamfield involves lots of travel on unpaved roads. Some rental car companies won’t let you drive on unpaved roads.

If you are going to drive, my advice would be to drive to one trailhead, then take the West Coast Express bus to the other trailhead. You could leave a car at each trailhead, but setting up the car shuttle would take up nearly a full day of your trip. Here’s everything you need to know about driving to the West Coast Trail.

Driving to Port Renfrew/Gordon River

This is the easiest trailhead to drive to. It’s an easy 2-hour drive from Victoria on Highway 14. There are some curvy and bumpy sections, but it’s paved the whole way. It’s part of the scenic Pacific Marine Circle Route, so if you have extra time, it’s worth spending a day road-tripping it to stop at waterfalls and beaches. Get directions.

It’s also fairly straightforward to drive from Duncan to Port Renfrew in about 1.75 hours. Take highway 18 to Lake Cowichan. From Lake Cowichan take South Shore road to Mesachie Lake, then take the Pacific Marine Road to Port Renfrew. This is the other half of the Pacific Marine Circle Route and has some big trees you can stop at. It’s also paved the whole way, but it does have some bumpy sections. Get directions.

You can park on the Pacheedaht First Nations Reserve near the Gordon River trailhead. You can pay for parking inside the Pacheedaht Campground office. The parking is in the yard of an abandoned house directly across the street from Butch’s dock where you catch the ferry across the Gordon River. Parking is $5/day.

Driving to Nitinaht Village

Driving to Nitinaht Village involves driving on unpaved and sometimes poorly signed logging roads. You don’t need a 4 wheel drive, but you should carry a spare tire. You’ll be sharing the road with logging trucks which can be FAST.  Pull-over whenever you see one. I recommend bringing a copy of the Vancouver Island Backroad Map Book. There’s no cell service out there, so having a map can make all the difference. Unfortunately, google maps doesn’t have detailed directions.

From Duncan drive highway 18 to Lake Cowichan, then continue to Youbou. Shortly after Youbou, the pavement ends and you’ll see an “End of Public Road” sign. Continue on the gravel road as it follows the shores of Cowichan Lake to the end of the lake and a campsite. Look for the sign for the Nitinaht Motel and turn left onto Nitinaht Main. Follow it until you reach a T-junction. Go left on the Carmanah Main to Nitinaht Village. There should be signs for the Motel at the junction. You’ll know you’ve reached the village when the road turns to pavement again. 

Driving to Bamfield/Pachena Bay

Driving to Bamfield and Pachena Bay involves driving some rough logging roads. There are a LOT of confusing junctions and no cell service. And google maps doesn’t really work for this route. Definitely bring the Vancouver Island Backroad Map Book or consider taking the shuttle instead of driving. 

The most straightforward way to drive to Bamfield is to start in Port Alberni. It will take about 1.5 hours. From downtown Port Alberni take 3rd Avenue south to Ship Creek Road. This will turn into Franklin River road, which is the start of the gravel logging road. Stay on this road until it forks and you go left onto Bamfield Road. Stay on Bamfield Road all the way into Bamfield.

If you’re coming from Southern Vancouver Island, you can also start from Duncan. This will take about 3 hours. From Duncan drive Highway 18 to Lake Cowichan, then continue on to Youbou. Shortly after Youbou, the pavement ends and you’ll see an “End of Public Road” sign. Continue on the gravel road as it follows the shores of Cowichan Lake to the end of the lake and a campsite. Look for the sign for the Nitinaht Motel and turn left onto Nitinaht Main.

Follow it until you reach a T-junction. Turn right at the T junction onto Carmanah Main. (Left goes to Nitinaht Village.) Stay on that road, then cross the river to turn left on Flora Main and drive 13km. Turn left onto Central Main and drive 17km. Then turn right onto Klanawa Main, left at Between the Lakes and left on to Bamfield Main. Follow the signs into Bamfield and the start of the paved road.

In Pachena Bay you can park in the lot near the Parks Canada Info Centre. There is no fee for parking.

Driving Between Port Renfrew/Gordon River and Bamfield/Pachena Bay and Nitinaht Village

It’s definitely a serious undertaking to drive between the Port Renfrew and Bamfield West Coast Trail trailheads. It takes about 4 hours and requires travel on some rough gravel roads that aren’t well signed. Unfortunately, google maps is useless and there’s no cell service. Definitely bring the Vancouver Island Backroad Map Book or consider taking the shuttle instead of driving.

From Port Renfrew, take the Pacific Marine Road to Lake Cowichan. It’s paved, but winding and bumpy. From Lake Cowichan turn left onto Highway 18 and head to Youbou. Shortly after Youbou, the pavement ends and you’ll see an “End of Public Road” sign. Continue on the gravel road as it follows the shores of Cowichan Lake to the end of the lake and a campsite. Look for the sign for the Nitinaht Motel and turn left onto Nitinaht Main.

Follow it until you reach a T-junction. Turn right at the T junction onto Carmanah Main. (Left goes to Nitinaht Village.) Stay on that road, then cross the river to turn left on Flora Main and drive 13km. Turn left onto Central Main and drive 17km. Then turn right onto Klanawa Main, left at Between the Lakes and left on to Bamfield Main. Follow the signs into Bamfield and the start of the paved road.

You’ll also pass by the turn-off to Nitinaht Village on the above route. To reach Nitinaht Village, go left at the T junction, then drive another 7km into the village.

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Where to Stay Near the West Coast Trail

Since the West Coast Trail trailheads are so remote, your itinerary will likely require an overnight stay before or after you hike the trail. (Or maybe both?) With the orientation session schedule and West Coast Trail Express schedule to consider, most hikers stay at least one night before their hike. Some also like to stay a night afterward to unwind and take a shower before heading home.

Where to Stay in Port Renfrew

Pacheedaht Campground: Located right at the Gordon River trailhead. It’s got lots of forested sites, plus a few prime campsites right on the beach. I stayed here before my first West Coast Trail hike in 2004, and also in 2018 when I visited Port Renfrew to see the big trees. They have a new-ish washroom building with pay showers. Call or email them to book: 250-647-0090, camping@pacheedaht.ca

Wild Renfrew: Cabins right on the water in Port Renfrew just down the pier from the pub. I splurged on a night here during my big tree trip to Port Renfrew. They have covered porches with propane fire pits. So cozy on a rainy day! Check rates.

West Coast Trail Lodge: They have budget dorm rooms as well as regular hotel-style rooms. Located in Port Renfrew around the corner from the pub. Check rates.

Trailhead Resort: A fishing lodge with nice cabins and lodge rooms. But they also have “hiker huts” – tiny cabins designed for hikers on a budget. Check rates.

Other hotels in Port Renfrew: There are a few other hotels, motels, and lodges in Port Renfrew.

Where to Stay in Nitinaht Village

Nitinaht Lake Campground: Located just south of Nitinaht Village. Currently, they are first-come, first-served, but they plan to offer online reservations in 2020. It’s run by the Ditidaht First Nation and is really popular with kite surfers. Check rates.

Nitinaht Village Motel: This basic 9 room motel is the only place to stay in Nitinaht Village if you aren’t camping. They also have a restaurant. Call them for info: 1 888-745-3844

Where to Stay in Bamfield

Pachena Campground: This campground is about 5.5km from Bamfield, but it’s right next to the Pachena Bay Trailhead. They have forested campsites just behind the beautiful beach at Pachena Bay. I stayed here before my August 2019 West Coast Trail hike. We booked the hiker site, which is the closest site to the trailhead and has a food cache. Book well in advance since they are very popular and get totally booked up. Check rates.

Hacas Inn: Formerly known as the Bamfield Motel, this inn is run by the Huu-ay-aht First Nation. They have backpacker rooms for hikers that are a little bit cheaper than their regular rooms. Check rates.

West Coast Magic B&B: This gorgeous looking bed and breakfast is located in the rainforest near Brady’s Beach on the east side of Bamfield. Check rates.

Other hotels in Bamfield: There are a few other hotels, motels, and lodges in Bamfield.

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I hope you’re reading this well in advance of your trip. Now that you know how to get to the West Coast Trail, make your booking ASAP.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC

The post West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO?  Check out these posts:

• West Coast Trail Basics
• Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• Transportation: How to Get There, Where to Stay Near the Trailheads
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

West Coast Trail Camping Basics

There are 13 official campgrounds on the West Coast Trail. They are all on the coast. With a few exceptions they all have:

• composting toilet(s)
• access to fresh drinking water from a nearby creek
• metal food storage lockers (and sometimes food storage poles too)
• a mix of cleared campsites in the forest and campsites on the beach sand. (Be sure to pitch your tent WELL above the high tide line.)

There are also a few other places to camp on the West Coast Trail. Legally, you can camp anywhere along the trail; you don’ t have to camp in a designated campground. However, there aren’t many good spots to camp outside of campgrounds as flat ground is hard to find. As well, there are two different paid places to camp on First Nations Reserves: Ditidaht Comfort Camping near Tsuquadra Point (closed in 2023) and cabins and tenting at Nitinaht Narrows.

You can’t make reservations for any of the free campgrounds on the West Coast Trail – just show up and hope there is room. You also don’t have to file an itinerary with Parks Canada so you can change your mind on the fly if you come to a nice campground and want to stay awhile.

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Toilets on the West Coast Trail

There are no flush toilets on the West Coast Trail. All the toilets are composting outhouses.

These are typically two-story structures with the waste at the bottom and a cubicle at the top with a toilet seat. Most of them have ladders up to the top level, but a few of them have stairs or a ramp.

They produce compost by combining human waste with wood chips. After you are finished your business, pour a scoop of wood chips down the hole. In general, the toilets don’t smell too bad. To me, they smelled a bit like a hamster cage that needs cleaning. (I guess that’s the woodchips?)

One important thing to note: toilet paper is not supplied! You’ll have to bring your own. (They do provide LOTs of wood chips though.)

You can find toilets on the West Coast Trail at every campsite except Orange Juice Creek. There are also toilets at the Pachena Bay trailhead, Gordon River Parks Canada Office, Ditidaht luxury tents and Nitinaht Narrows. There are no public toilets at the Carmanah and Pachena lighthouses.

If you need to go to the bathroom and you aren’t near a toilet, use Leave No Trace best practices. Pick a spot 200ft/70m away from trails, campsites and water sources. Dig a hole 6″ (15cm) deep, then bury your poop. You can use a small trowel, a tent peg or a stick to dig. Bring a ziploc bag to pack out your used toilet paper, then dump it in the next outhouse you find.

Drinking-Water on the West Coast Trail

The West Coast Trail is in a wet climate, so there are lots of streams to collect water. The only exception to this is the stretch between the Ditidaht luxury cabins (km30) and Dare beach (km40), which doesn’t have a lot of freshwater streams.

Every campsite on the trail has a nearby creek to collect drinking water. However, some of them are tidal so you may have to walk far upstream to collect water at high tide or wait for the tide to go out.

While the water on the West Coast Trail may look pristine, you have no idea what animals and humans may have been doing upstream. Many of the creeks originate outside the park in prime logging territory. You never know – there could be dead animals, human waste or other nastiness in the water. Always use a filter or purifier.

Food Storage on the West Coast Trail

The West Coast Trail is in prime bear, cougar and wolf country. There are also lots of mice, squirrels and other little critters that want to eat your food. It’s important to store your food out of the reach of animals. That way you won’t go hungry for the rest of your trip. And also animals won’t get used to human food (which is bad for their health) and start harassing people. Because that can be scary!

Most campgrounds on the West Coast Trail have food storage boxes or poles. (The only exception is the Orange Juice Creek campground.) Store your food inside the boxes to keep it out of reach of animals. Make sure you do up the latches.

And make sure you take all your food and garbage with you when you leave. Apparently, some hikers have left food in the boxes thinking they are being helpful. But then no one eats the food, it rots, makes the food boxes smell disgusting, and then they attract animals. Gross.

Two of the campgrounds on the West Coast Trail also have food poles. (As of 2019, you can find them at Michigan Creek and Thrasher Cove. Parks Canada plans to install them at other campgrounds soon.) These are metal poles with prongs on the top. You throw a rope up over the prongs, tie one end to your food bag, haul it up high, then use the cleats to secure the other end to the bottom of the pole. The slippery metal poles are impossible for animals to climb, so your food stays safe.

Sometimes the food storage boxes get full. Or maybe you are choosing to camp at a place without food storage. In that case, you’ll need to hang your food in a tree. It needs to be 2 meters (6 feet) from the branch you hang it off it, 2 meters (6 feet) from the tree trunk and 4 meters (12 feet) off the ground.

Bring some rope, a carabiner, and a secure bag for your food just in case you need to use this method. It can be a bit challenging to get the hang right, so it helps to practice at home first. You can read more about safe food storage in bear country on in my post about Bear Safety Tips for Backpackers.

Campgrounds on the West Coast Trail

Michigan Creek Camp (KM12)

The Michigan Creek campground is often used as a first-night or last-night camp since it is the closest campground to the Pachena Bay trailhead. You can camp on the sloping beach, but there isn’t that much room above the high tide line. There are also campsites in the forest near where the trail meets the beach, as well as on the other side of the creek. There is often not very much driftwood at this site, so it’s not great if you are determined to have a campfire.

Darling River Camp (KM14)

The campground at Darling River is nicer than the one at Michigan Creek. We wanted to stay there on our August 2019 West Coast Trail hike, but there was a bear in area warning at the time, so we stayed at Michigan 🙁 The Darling River campground has nice soft sand to camp on and lots of driftwood for fires. The main campsite is on the south side of the Darling River, which is usually easy to wade across.

Orange Juice Creek Camp (KM15)

This is the only official campground on the West Coast Trail that doesn’t have an outhouse or a food storage locker. Therefore, it doesn’t get used that frequently. There are some campsites in the forest and a bit of room on the sandy beach above the high tide line. Orange Juice Creek flows out to the beach through a lot of driftwood.

Tsocowis Creek Camp (KM17)

The campground at Tsocowis Creek is another seldom-used campground. It’s got a beautiful sandy beach. There are a few tent spots on the main beach and more tucked around the corner near the creek. There is a Guardian cabin here for the First Nations trail guardians who do maintenance.

Klanawa River Camp (KM23)

There is a wide, sandy beach on the north side of the Klanawa River, plus more spots in the forest for camping. However, the Klanawa River is tidal so you can’t get drinking water from it, even at low tide. The easiest place to get water is at a creek on the south side of the river. But unfortunately, the only way to get there is via the cable car!

Tsusiat Falls Camp (KM25)

This is the most popular campsite on the West Coast Trail, and for good reason. Beautiful Tsusiat Falls cascades down the cliffs from the forest into a gorgeous swimming hole. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. There are lots of spots to camp on the sand above the high tide line, but even with all the room, it gets crowded here. If you don’t like drinking water that other people have been swimming and bathing in, collect water from the river at the top of the falls before you descend the ladders to camp.

Cribs Creek Camp (KM41.5)

Cribs Creek is another popular campsite even though it doesn’t have any stand-out scenery. The real reason many people camp here is because there are no official campsites between KM25 and Cribs at KM41.5.

It does have a rather unique feature though: there’s a band of rocks stretching across the mouth of the bay. At high tides waves crash across them, which is fun to watch. There are lots of spots on the sand on both sides of the creek. Be careful of the tides here though. It’s a shallow beach so it can be hard to make sure you are well above the high tide line at higher tides. On my first West Coast Trail hike in 2004, our tent was inches from the ocean at high tide!

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Carmanah Creek Camp (KM46)

The Carmanah Creek campground is beautiful! Lots of fine sand with driftwood, plus spots in the forest. However, most hikers march right past it since it isn’t on the usual 7-day itinerary. The best camping is on the north side of the creek. You can wade across or take the cable car. Try to get your drinking water at low tide or go far upstream as the creek gets salty otherwise.

Bonilla Point Camp (KM48)

In my opinion, the campground at Bonilla Point is the nicest one on the entire West Coast Trail. It has a beautiful fine sand beach. The campsites are set back amongst the trees for a bit of shade, but they still have soft sand to pitch on. And a creek runs next to the campsite with a gorgeous little waterfall. It’s a smaller campground, but since it doesn’t get used that often, you might get it to yourself.

Walbran Creek Camp (KM53)

Walbran Creek is many hiker’s pick for the best campsite on the West Coast Trail. The creek forms a deep (and cold!) swimming hole against the cliffs as it flows out to the ocean. There are a bunch of campsites in the sandy gravel, plus a few more in the forest. The beach campsites are quite close together and it can get crowded.

Collect water far upstream and at low tide to avoid salty water. If you’re arriving from the north you’ll need to use the cable car to access the campground from the forest route or wade across Walbran Creek if you used the beach route.

Cullite Creek Camp (KM58)

The little campsite at Cullite Creek has room for only 4 or 5 tents in the forest and the beach is quite rocky. But it’s in a pretty little cove that provides a beautiful setting. You can reach the campsite via a short and rough side trail on the south side of the creek. It’s been washed out a few times so you may have to walk in the creek bed, then scramble up into the forest. Since it is in a deep gorge, the Cullite Creek Campground doesn’t get a lot of direct sunlight.

Camper Bay Camp (KM 62)

The campground at Camper Bay is usually quite busy. The tent sites are along the edge of the beach, up against the forest edge. Some sites face the creek as well. Don’t camp too close to the creek as it floods during times of heavy rain! The creek does a long meander in front of the campground, and there’s a large gravel berm in front of that. That means that you can’t really see the ocean from the campground unless you cross the creek and climb up the berm.

There’s also a First Nations Guardian cabin hidden amongst the trees here. If you’re arriving from the south you’ll need to take the cable car across the creek or wade.

Thrasher Cove Camp (KM70+1)

Thrasher Cove is a very popular first-night or last-night camp on the West Coast Trail. It is located down a steep 1-kilometre-long trail from the main trail. The cove itself is quite small, but it has lots of beautiful fine sand.

Since the cove is inside Port San Juan (the big bay at Port Renfrew) the water is calmer and warmer, which makes it great for swimming. However, you can literally see Port Renfrew across the bay, so it doesn’t have much of a wilderness feel. This campground can get crowded, with tents close to each other on the limited sand. There are also a couple of small sites in the forest.

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Paid Campgrounds and Cabins on the West Coast Trail

Ditidaht Comfort Camping at Tsuquadra Point (KM30)

Note: Ditidaht Comfort Camping is not operating in 2023.

The Ditidaht First Nation used to offer a comfort camping experience at Tsuquadra Point (KM30) with cabins and luxury tents. However, they have not operated this service since 2021, their website is down, and reportedly, the tents and cabins have been removed.

Nitinaht Narrows Cabins and Camping (KM32)

The Edgar family runs The Crab Shack restaurant and water taxi service from their floating dock on the south side of Nitinaht Narrows. They also have a couple of heated cabins you can rent just up the hill. If you want to camp, they have a covered deck where you can pitch your tent on while staying out of the rain. As of 2019, it’s $100-200/night for the cabins (depending on which one you book) and $30/night for a tent. You can book by contacting them on Facebook.

Other Places to Camp on the West Coast Trail

You are allowed to camp anywhere you like on the West Coast Trail. You don’t have to camp in an official campground. The only exception is that no camping is allowed between KM 34 and KM 38 due to high wildlife activity.

However, if you choose to wild camp, you need to keep a few things in mind: There won’t be a food locker so you’ll need to hang your food. You’ll also have to use your best bear safety practices, like cooking away from your campsite. There also won’t be a toilet, so you will need to go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way: dig a cat hole, bury your poop, and pack out your toilet paper. You also will need to keep an eye on the tides and water levels in the creeks. You don’t want to wake up in the water!

If you’re looking for solitude, wild camping on the West Coast Trail is a good way to find it. Pick an empty stretch of beach and pitch your tent.

However, sometimes people also camp outside of the official campgrounds because the camps aren’t spaced in a way that works for their itinerary. It’s worth noting that there are not a lot of good places to camp outside of campgrounds. The forest is thick and often not flat. And many of the beaches are sloped or inundated at high tide.

Here are a couple of places on the West Coast Trail where people commonly camp.

Dare Beach (KM40): There’s a stream here and a bit of room to camp above the high tide mark. Hikers often camp here since it is the first/last place you can camp before the long stretch with no official campsites between Tsusiat Falls (KM25) and Cribs Creek (KM41.5).

Beach Access A (KM65): There is a large clearing in the forest at the junction with the Beach Access A trail that goes down to the shelf near Owen Point. Hikers sometimes camp here to get an early start for the Owen Point section if they are going south, or if they finish the Owen Point section late in the day when going north.

150 Yard Creek Beach (KM66): Apparently there is a small, wet campsite where 150 Yard creek meets the ocean on the beach route to Owen Point. I’ve never taken the beach route around Owen Point (damn tides never work for me!) so I haven’t visited this site. Hikers camp here in an emergency or as part of an early/late Owen Point strategy.

WCT Highpoint (KM 71): There’s a clearing at the high point that can hold a few tents. A few meters off the trail there’s another clearing for camping. I’ve heard there’s a stream nearby, but that it runs dry later in the year. Hikers camp here to break up the section between Gordon River and Thrasher Cove if they got a late start on the trail or they want to get to an early morning Gordon River ferry.

I hope I answered all the questions you might have camping on the West Coast Trail. If there’s anything I missed, let me know in the comments.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC

The post West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

The first time I hiked the West Coast Trail in 2004 I was really inexperienced and used mostly borrowed gear. My pack was really heavy and I brought waaay too much clothing.

On my second trip in 2019, I did lots of gear research. I  managed to put together a backpack full of gear that wasn’t too heavy or bulky but still kept me dry in the wet West Coast weather. In general, I was really happy with what I brought.

Here’s my complete West Coast Trail packing list. It includes everything you should bring on the West Coast Trail, plus my specific recommendations for gear.

Heads up: You can also use my West Coast Trail packing for the North Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca Trail, and the Cape Scott Trail.

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO?  Check out these posts:

• West Coast Trail Basics
• Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• Complete Guide to Every Campground
• Transportation: How to Get There, Where to Stay Near the Trailheads
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

West Coast Trail Pack Weight

Before we get into my West Coast Trail packing list, I wanted to take a minute to talk about pack weight.

Even if you’re an experienced backpacker, the West Coast Trail is unusual: it’s a long trip (typically 7 days) and it involves ladders, tons of mud, lots of rain, technical terrain and beach walking – things you don’t find on most other backpacking trips. There can be a bit of a temptation to overpack for a bunch of just-in-case scenarios.

And yes, you do want to make sure you are prepared and you don’t leave behind anything crucial. But at the same time, you want to make sure you aren’t carrying a ridiculous amount of weight.

In general, Parks Canada recommends that you pack weight 15-20% of your body weight. In practice, that means your pack should weigh somewhere between 25 and 40 pounds. However, it’s really easy to accidentally carry more.

On my 2019 West Coast Trail trip my friends and I’s packs weighed between 35 and 60 pounds. And we all agreed we could have shaved down our pack weight more and had a better time. Especially the guy who carried the 60-pound pack – it contained sooo much extra food!

(For reference, my pack weighed 37 pounds on day 1 and 27 pounds on the last day. Apparently I carried a LOT of food.)

Tips for Reducing Pack Weight on the West Coat Trail

Here are my main tips for reducing pack weight:

1. Go lightweight for your big items: sleeping bag, tent, backpack, and sleeping pad
2. Don’t bring too many clothes on the West Coast Trail. You don’t need fresh underwear every day! You don’t need clean clothes!
3. Think about the coldest temperature you’ll face. Put together a combination of clothing layers could you wear in that temperature and stay warm. And then don’t pack more clothes than that.
4. Save weight on food. Look at calorie counts and weight carefully.
5. Forego luxuries. Leave the chair, hammock, heavy camera lenses, etc. at home.
6. Share gear with your group. Together you only need one tarp, first aid kit, water filter, etc.

We actually have a basic luggage scale we use to weigh our packs. We put it in the car so we can weigh packs at the start of backpacking trips. It’s this one.

On the West Coast Trail there are scales you can use to weigh your pack on the front porch of the Pachena Bay ranger station, at Butch’s dock on Gordon River, and at the Crab Shack at Nitinaht Narrows.

Want more tips? I have a whole post about how to reduce your pack weight!

West Coast Trail Essentials

Trail Permit

When you check-in at the ranger station during your orientation session, the ranger will give you a small paper permit. It’s not waterproof so bring a ziploc bag to keep it in. When you take the ferries at Gordon River and Nitinaht Narrows, the ferry operator will ask to see your permit. If you don’t have your permit, you can’t get on the ferry.

For more information on how to make a West Coast Trail reservation, get permits and how much they cost, see my Guide to the West Coast Trail.

National Parks Pass

You need a National Parks pass to hike the West Coast Trail. You can buy one when you check-in to start the trail, or bring your annual pass if you already have one. They aren’t waterproof, so stick them in the same ziploc bag you put your permit in.

West Coast Trail Map

Pretty much the most important thing you will carry on the entire West Coast Trail is your map. When you check-in at your orientation session, the ranger will give you a waterproof copy of the trail map. You will want to refer to it multiple times a day to see how far away campsites and water sources are or to figure out if you should take the beach route or the forest route.

Tide Table

The second most important thing you need on the West Coast Trail is a tide table. The park ranger will tape a basic tide table to your West Coast Trail map. HOWEVER… it’s basic. Too basic. All it has are the daily high and low tides. AND it hasn’t been adjusted for daylight savings time so if you choose to use it you’ll have to mentally add an hour to the times.

A MUCH better option is to bring your own tide table. You can print out a tide table from Fisheries and Oceans Canada that IS adjusted for daylight savings time AND has the hourly predicted tide height for every hour of the day. No more guessing!

Print out the Tofino tide table, then put it in your trusty ziploc bag. (If like me you’re a nerd and you were wondering why Parks Canada recommends using the Tofino tide table and not the Port Renfrew or Bamfield tide tables (which are closer to the trail), it’s because Tofino is more open ocean conditions similar to what you get on the WCT. Port Renfrew and Bamfield are both in long inlets that have different tidal behaviour. The more you know, right?)

Bring a tide table is one of my top coastal hiking tips.

Watch or Cell Phone

Having a tide table is pretty much useless without a way to tell time. Bring a watch or use your phone to tell the time. If you use your phone, make sure you close all the apps you aren’t using, put it in airplane mode, and turn on power-saving mode so you maximize battery life. We carried a small battery pack to recharge our phones and were glad to have it.

Guidebook (Optional)

I didn’t bring a guidebook on the West Coast Trail, but I did read a few before I left. I used Blisters and Bliss: A Trekker’s Guide to the West Coast Trail, and Hiking the West Coast of Vancouver Island, which has a long section on the West Coast Trail. Instead of bringing the whole book, I took photos of the most relevant pages on my phone, then looked at them on the trail.

GPS (Optional)

We used the Gaia GPS app on our phones and our Garmin GPS watches on the West Coast Trail. It was nice to know how far we had walked and to be able to gauge how far it was to the next landmark.

We also used our GPS to figure out that the kilometre markers on the West Coast Trail are usually not in the right place. When we felt tired, we could look at our GPS and see that while we thought we would be walking 10km, we had actually walked 12 or more! It made us feel a bit better about ourselves!

(Psst! Want to save 20% on a Gaia GPS premium annual membership, which gets you the same maps I used on the West Coast Trail? Use this link.)

I have a Garmin vivoactive 3 that keeps track of my distance, heart rate, etc. I swapped out the plain black band for this fun (and cheap!) blue one. My husband has a Garmin Fenix 5 that you can load maps on to, which is MUCH more helpful for hiking.

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Backpacks and Bags

Backpack

When looking for a backpack, choose something between 60 and 75L. Do a test pack at home to make sure all your gear fits. Make sure you pick a backpack that fits you well and is comfortable to carry.

I used my old (and discontinued) Boreas Lost Coast 60 on the West Coast Trail. My husband and a couple of our friends brought their Gregory Stout 75 and Gregory Amber 60 (the women’s version). In general, they said the packs were comfortable, even under heavy loads.

Stuff Sacks and Organizers

To stay organized I like to pack my gear in a combination of different sized stuff sacks. Mostly I use lightweight dry bags. It can rain a LOT on the West Coast Trail so keeping your gear dry is really important.

I like the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil window dry bags. They’re waterproof but still incredibly lightweight. Plus they have a clear panel so you can see what’s inside.

Rain Protection

If your gear gets wet, it can really ruin your trip. Thankfully, on my trip, we had hardly any rain. However, the week before there was record-setting rainfall  – almost 100mm in one day!

I brought a rain cover for my backpack. Some packs come with a custom-sized rain cover. If yours didn’t, buy a lightweight silnylon one that fits your pack well. Pro tip: If you tend to overstuff your pack or attach things to the outside, buy a slightly larger sized rain cover.

I also lined the inside of my pack with a trash compactor bag. They are HUGE plastic garbage bags that are much more durable than a standard garbage bag since they are designed to go inside a kitchen trash compactor. Some hikers report that they can use the same one for several years before it develops holes. They are hard to find in Canada so it’s easiest to order them online.

Tent and Sleeping Gear

Tent

The West Coast Trail sees some serious bad weather and heavy rain. You need a proper backpacking tent that is lightweight, compact and has a full-length waterproof rain fly. This isn’t the place for a cheap, big-box store tent that will leak.

We actually brought our ultralight Zpacks Triplex on the West Coast Trail. It’s a single wall tent, so we did have a bit of condensation inside, but for me, the weight savings were worth it.

The Triplex is a niche, ultralight tent, so if you’re looking for something more mainstream, I recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba NX. I’ve been using one for over a decade and I can’t say enough good things about it. (Well except that it isn’t cheap!) If the Hubba Hubba isn’t in your budget, check out the MSR Elixir.

Tent Pegs

Most of the campgrounds are the West Coast Trail are sandy, which can make it difficult to peg out a tent. (See my guide to camping on the West Coast Trail for more info on what the campgrounds are like.)

You can bring the regular pegs that came with your tent, but be prepared to put rocks on top of them to make sure they stay put in the soft sand. Another option is snow stakes (which double as sand stakes), but they are pretty heavy so I opted not to bring them.

You may also want to bring a few extra lengths of guyline. Tie your tent out to rocks or pieces of driftwood. My Zpacks tent is not free-standing, which means it needs to be guyed out really well to stand up properly. We brought a few cheap hardware store screw-in eyelets. Screw them into a handy piece of driftwood, tie on the guyline. Easy-peasy.

Tarp and Cord (Optional)

You’ll be lucky if you can hike the entire West Coast Trail without being rained on. It’s a good idea to add a lightweight silnylon tarp to your West Coast Trail packing list. It’s great for  cooking and hanging out under at camp. It also doubles as a great sunshade if you are lucky enough to need one.

We brought an 8’x10′ RAB Siltarp 2 that was big enough to fit our entire group. You’ll also want to bring lots of cord and some extra pegs to help set it up.

Sleeping Bag and Compression Sack

The weather on the West Coast Trail is pretty mild. It’s never too cold, but it’s also never too hot either. (Check out the weather section of my Ultimate Guide to the West Coast Trail for more info.) I recommend packing a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag rated at least +10C but preferably more like 0C.

Many people say you need to use a synthetic sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail since down bags don’t keep you warm when they get wet.

I don’t agree. I think you can use a down or a synthetic sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail.  I’ve used a down sleeping bag on both my trips and countless other wet British Columbia backpacking trips.

If you use a quality waterproof tent, pack your sleeping bag inside a water-resistant stuff sack or dry bag, wrap that stuff sack in a garbage bag, use a pack liner and a rain cover, it’s pretty hard to get your sleeping bag wet. I wouldn’t worry about your down bag if you take care of it properly.

I used a really old MEC sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail that is rated about 0C. (It’s the predecessor to the MEC Talon.) It was warm enough at night that I never needed to zip it up all the way. My friend brought her new Therm-a-rest Space Cowboy +7C sleeping bag on the West Coast Trail. She was impressed at how small it packed down and how warm it was.

Make sure you pack your sleeping bag inside a compression sack so it takes up less space in your pack. I like the Outdoor Research Ultralight Compression sacks since they come in lots of sizes.

Sleeping Pad

While all the West Coast Trail campsites are on the sand, it’s not always soft and the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. You’ll need a sleeping pad for that. Choose one that is compact, lightweight and has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth).

If you expect cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value. I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. (Although it was probably overkill for the West Coast Trail.) My husband likes his NeoAir XLite which weighs less but isn’t quite as warm.

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend adding a compact camping pillow to your West Coast Trail packing list. Your neck will thank you. I use a simple MEC inflatable pillow. For a slightly more deluxe experience check out the Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium.

Ear Plugs (Optional)

Some of the West Coast Trail campsites get really crowded, which means your tent will be a few feet from your snoring neighbours. And while you might be on an early morning schedule, inevitably the people next door will be night owls. And there’s the sound of the waves. It might sound soothing at first, but it can be LOUD.

If you’re a light sleeper, I recommend bringing a few pairs of foam ear plugs. You’re bound to lose some so it’s good to have extras. I like the contoured ones since I find they fit in my ears better.

Clothing

Rain jacket

I can’t imagine doing the West Coast Trail without a good rain jacket. And even if it doesn’t rain, it will block the wind. Add a waterproof breathable rain jacket designed for hiking to your West Coast Trail packing list – preferably one with pit zips for venting. It’s HUMID out there.

I didn’t get much rain on my most recent West Coast Trail hike, but we did get a bit. I brought my new MEC Flash Cloud Gore-Tex jacket. It’s incredibly light so it didn’t take up much space in my pack on the days I didn’t wear it.

If you want something less expensive but still very lightweight, the Outdoor Research Helium II is a great option.

READ NEXT: Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

Rain Pants

Pack a pair of waterproof breathable rain pants that you can easily layer over top of your hiking pants. I didn’t need to use mine the last time I hiked the West Coast Trail, but I’ve definitely been glad to have them on cold and wet days in the past. Ones with side zippers for venting are easy to put on and take off without removing your shoes. 

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants. They have full-length side zips so they aren’t as light as the popular Outdoor Research Helium Pants.

Fleece Jacket or Light Weight Puffy Jacket

After dark or when the wind picks up, it can get a little cold on the West Coast Trail. Pack a fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy jacket that you can layer on over a t-shirt and under your rain jacket.

I brought my MEC Rockwall fleece jacket and wore it every night in camp. My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. He wore it in camp on a few of the colder nights. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm. It comes in a women’s version too.

Hiking pants or tights (1 pair)

Choose quick-drying hiking pants made of nylon or polyester (and maybe with a bit of spandex for stretch).

Many women prefer to hike in tights or leggings, but I wouldn’t recommend them for this hike since they are prone to tearing and snagging. You’ll be doing lots of scrambling across rocks, dodging brush and even butt scooting on logs. It’s waaaay too easy to tear leggings that way.

However, you can buy reinforced hiking tights that could work on the WCT. Read my guide to the best hiking leggings for recommendations.

I love my MEC Terrena Stretch pants and brought them on the West Coast Trail. I also like the Prana Halle Pants.  If you like pants that convert into shorts, the Halles come in a convertible version. The men’s version of the Prana Halle are the Stretch Zion pants.

READ NEXT: 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)

Shorts (1 pair) (Optional)

In July and August, the weather on the West Coast Trail is warm enough for shorts. You may find you want shorts in May, June, and September too. However, some people prefer to hike the West Coast Trail in pants no matter the season to protect from rain, bugs, and scratches.

I’m a shorts person and wore shorts every day on both of my West Coast Trail hikes. The Black Diamond Valley Shorts are my favourite hiking shorts. They’re really lightweight, stretchy, dry quickly and aren’t too short. They also come in a men’s version.

Shirts (2)

I usually hike in quick-drying workout t-shirts. On the West Coast Trail, I brought one short-sleeved t-shirt and one long-sleeved button-up shirt.

Mostly I wore the short-sleeved shirt, but the long-sleeved shirt was great for sun protection on the hotter beach days. I also brought a tank top that I wore a couple times in camp. But in retrospect, I definitely didn’t need it.

I love the Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail t-shirt since it looks like a regular t-shirt but wicks sweat and resists odours. But any old quick-dry polyester workout t-shirt will do.

For a long-sleeved shirt, I brought an older version of the MEC Sun Dodger Shirt. Even though it has long sleeves, since it’s so lightweight it doesn’t feel hot. If you’re shopping for a long-sleeved shirt, look for one with UPF protection.

Sleeping and Camp Clothes

When you get to camp, you’ll want to take off your sweaty hiking clothes and put on something a little fresher. You’ll also want something warm and dry to sleep in.

I brought some lightweight long underwear to wear at camp and to sleep in. (Although, mostly I wore my long-sleeved shirt and hiking pants around camp, then changed into thermals just to sleep.)

For bottoms, I brought Smartwool merino wool long johns that can pass as tights so I can wear them around camp. I also brought a MEC T3 Hoodie which is so cozy soft and warm, yet really lightweight thanks to the waffle-cut fabric. My husband likes Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight long underwear.

Underwear (3 pairs)

I like to bring two kinds of underwear on long trips: two or three pairs of quick-drying synthetic underwear for hiking and one pair of comfortable cotton underwear for wearing at night.

You don’t need a fresh pair for every day. Let them air out at camp for an afternoon or two or rinse them in a stream, then wear them again. Seamless underwear will be way more comfortable for hiking since they prevent chafing.

I swear by Patagonia’s Active seamless underwear. Many of the guys I hike with swear by boxer briefs like the ones from Saxx with a built-in pouch to prevent their package from rubbing the inner thighs. For more hiking underwear recommendations, see my guide to hiking underwear.

Sports Bra

You don’t need a ton of support for trekking, so try to choose a bra without a lot of fabric layers that will take a long time to dry. I really like the Knixwear bras for trekking since they are super lightweight, don’t absorb too much moisture and are seamless so they don’t chafe

Toque or Buff

Bring a fleece or wool hat that covers your ears. Or bring a buff that you can wear as a hat, an ear warmer or a neck gaiter. It can get chilly at night on the West Coast Trail, especially in the spring and fall.

I brought both a toque and buff and ended up never wearing the toque. I brought a merino wool buff, which was cozy warm but still lightweight.

Sun Hat and Sunglasses

The sun can be harsh on the West Coast Trail especially when it reflects off the water. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses for protection. If you’re hiking south to north, you will have the sun at your back all day so you may want a hat that protects the back of your neck.

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they let you see into the water better, which is great for tidepools. I love my Sunskis since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses.

Gloves (Optional)

Some people swear by having simple fleece gloves on the West Coast Trail, but I never used mine. They would be helpful in spring and fall when it’s chilly at night, or if you get cold hands during long days hiking in the rain, but if you’re hiking in July or August, I don’t think they are necessary.

Some people also like them to protect their hands on the ladders, cable cars and beach boulder section around Owen Point. They bring work gloves or garden gloves. I have soft city-girl hands and didn’t wear work gloves. It was totally fine and I didn’t miss them.

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Footwear

Hiking Boots

The West Coast Trail is muddy and WET. Having waterproof boots is SO important. As well, make sure you bring boots that offer a bit of ankle support, especially if you are carrying a heavier pack than usual or don’t have strong ankles.

The most important thing is to bring boots that you’ve already worn already and that are comfortable. You really want to take care of your feet.

(Funny story – I forgot my boots at home when I hiked the West Coast Trail in 2019. I discovered they were missing when I was in Nanaimo on my way to the trail. Thankfully I was able to visit a local outdoor store and buy the exact same boots I already owned in the exact same size. And I didn’t have a single blister on the trail!)

I wore Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX boots on the West Coast Trail. They aren’t a full leather boot. Instead, they use a durable fabric outer and a waterproof breathable membrane which kept me totally dry. They are lightweight and not too stiff, so they didn’t feel heavy and clunky like leather boots can. They have mid-cut ankle support, which was enough for me.

If you want more support, my husband wore a higher cut version of my boots called the Salomon Quest GTX. He loves them.

Camp/River Crossing Shoes (Optional)

It’s nice not to wear your boots all day. Pack a lightweight pair of shoes or sandals for around camp. Pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack. If you also plan to wear them for river-crossings, pick something with a heel strap so they won’t slip off in the water.

I brought a pair of slip-on foam shoes. They were super light and they stayed on well for river crossings. Native Shoes makes some that are really similar to mine. A few people in my group had Crocs, which they loved.

One guy didn’t bring camp shoes at all. He crossed the rivers barefoot and walked around camp barefoot since most of the campsites were sandy. He said he didn’t regret not having camp shoes at all.

Socks (3 or 4 pairs)

Keeping your feet happy on the West Coast Trail is super important. Pack 3 or 4 pairs of wool and synthetic blend socks that fit well. I also wear liner socks since they can help reduce the rubbing that can cause blisters.

Try your socks and boots at home before your trek to make sure they don’t cause any problems. Air your socks out when you get to camp to keep them fresh.

I’m a recent convert to wearing Darn Tough socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever. I wear the Light Hiker Micro Crew. For liners, I love Injinji toe socks since they help prevent blisters between your toes. I wore my Injini liners every day on the West Coast Trail and had NO BLISTERS!

Gaiters (Optional)

Most people I saw on the West Coast Trail wore gaiters. They are helpful to keep mud, sand, and water out of your boots.

A few people in my group didn’t wear gaiters. Some wore pants to help things out of their boots, and others just stepped carefully. They all said they were fine without gaiters – but they definitely got muddy at times.

Personally, I always recommend that hikers wear gaiters on coastal trails. It’s one of my top tips for beach backpacking.

I brought a pair of basic MEC short gaiters on the West Coast Trail. They were the right height to protect from sand and mud, but they weren’t as hot and uncomfortable as tall, waterproof gaiters. The model I have is discontinued, but if you are buying gaiters specifically for the West Coast Trail, I’d recommend short gaiters designed for trail running since they are very lightweight.

Avoid anything with a zipper as they just get clogged with sand. I’ve been eyeing these Outdoor Research Thru Gaiters.

Toiletries, First Aid and Safety

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

I get travel-sized tubes of toothpaste from the dentist to take on hiking trips. I also use a Carry Clean toothbrush. It splits into two pieces, then you can nest the head inside the handle to keep it clean. AND it’s a lot shorter so it’s easier to fit into a smaller toiletry bag.

Deodorant, Baby Wipes and Face Cloth

You’ll be getting sweaty every day. Bring a small travel-sized deodorant and some baby wipes for having a quick sponge bath at the end of the day. I also brought a small quick-dry face cloth. I got it wet in the creeks, then used it to give my face and stinky parts a quick wipe down.

Sunscreen and Lip Balm

Pack sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect yourself from the sun. I brought a Sun Bum sunscreen stick. It was really easy to just swipe an extra layer of sunscreen on my nose and cheeks without getting it all over my hands.

Bug Spray (Optional)

In general, the bugs aren’t bad on the West Coast Trail. There can be some mosquitos on the forested trails early in the season or in some of the forested campsites. However, it’s usually too breezy on the beach for most insects. I didn’t bring bug spray on the West Coast Trail and I didn’t  miss it.

Hair Brush and Hair Ties

If you’ve got long hair, you know why you need these.

Glasses, Contact Solution and Spare Lenses

If you wear contacts, be sure to pack contact solution and extra lenses.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are composting toilets at every campsite, but toilet paper isn’t supplied. Put toilet paper on your West Coast Trail packing list. Put it inside a Ziploc bag to keep it dry.  Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands after you use the toilet and before you eat.

Menstrual Supplies

If you expect your period on the trail, be sure to pack your favourite menstrual supplies. Learn more about how to camp and hike while on your period.

First Aid Kit

You should pack a small first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, medical tape and a compression bandage for sprains. 

You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.) Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers, and anti-diarrhea pills just in case.

And of course, don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids

Your first aid kit should also contain stuff to help repair your gear in case you have any problems. We packed a small multi-tool and some gear repair tape.

Bear Spray

The West Coast Trail is home to black bears, wolves, and cougars, although you’re more likely to see tracks and poop than the animals themselves. Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking.

Buy bear spray and a holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt. I’ve got lots more tips for hiking and camping in bear country in this post.

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Electronics

Camera

Of course, you can bring your phone to use as a camera, but you may want to bring a stand-alone camera. I brought my Sony A6000. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. It’s easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

I use a Peak Design Capture clip to carry it on the shoulder strap of my pack so it’s easy to grab.

I also borrowed a GoPro Hero 7 Black to shoot some fun video footage on the trip. It was so fun to use that I bought my own Go Pro afterwards!

Headlamp

Bring a headlamp to find your way around after dark. I brought the Petzl Bindi. It’s TINY yet still quite bright. Plus its USB rechargeable, which is so much more convenient than buying AA batteries.

Power Bank/Portable Charger (Optional)

If you’re bringing electronics, you’ll need a way to keep them all charged. Some people like solar chargers, but with the cloudy weather on the West Coast Trail, a power bank is more reliable.

Bring a power bank that has enough storage to charge your devices at least once, but isn’t too big and heavy. The size you choose will depend on how many devices you bring, but at least 2,500mAh capacity or larger is probably a good idea.

Cooking Gear

Stove, Fuel, and Lighter

While you can have a fire on the beach on the West Coast Trail (as long as there isn’t a fire ban), often the wood is wet or there isn’t much of it. Plan to cook on a stove, rather than relying on a fire. Bring a lightweight and compact backpacking stove. And don’t forget a lighter!

Our friends brought their tiny Snow Peak Giga stove, which uses disposable fuel canisters. We have one too, but we opted to bring our Primus Omnifuel stove on the West Coast Trail. Since it was a longer trip, we wanted to bring a white gas stove so we could carry the exact amount of fuel we needed and not have to pack out empty canisters.

If you’re flying to Vancouver Island, remember that you can’t fly with fuel. Pick it up in Victoria or Nanaimo. You can also arrange to have the West Coast Trail bus driver bring you some fuel, but you need to book in advance.

Cooking Pot

Choose lightweight camping pots. Unless you are making elaborate meals, you probably just need one pot. We use a Primus Primetech pot that has a built-in heat exchanger that optimizes fuel consumption and protects the flame from the wind.

Bowl & Mug

I like the Sea to Summit X Bowls since they are collapsible and I can store them inside my cooking pot. You’ll want hot drinks to warm you up on cold evenings. I recently upgraded to a swanky Snow Peak Titanium double wall mug. It’s pricey, but it’s soooo light. Plus the double walls keep my morning tea toasty warm.

Knife and Utensils

Bring a sharp knife for cutting, plus a spoon and fork for eating. Or get a spork – they do double duty!  I love my Snow Peak Titanium spork.

Dishwashing Supplies

We carry a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth, and some biodegradable soap. Use soap sparingly and be sure to pour your dishwater into the ocean. Don’t put soapy water directly into streams since even biodegradable soap isn’t safe to go directly into the water. (Read more about how to Leave No Trace.)

The GSI compact scraper has a hard edge for scraping stuck on stuff and a spatula-like edge for scraping softer stuff. We use Dr. Bronner’s for really greasy dishes and the rest of the time we skip soap and just use warm water and a scraper.

Food and Water

Water Treatment

You need to treat all the water you drink on the West Coast Trail. The streams might look clean, but there are animals and humans upstream who poop. We brought our Platypus Gravityworks filter. It is really easy to use since there’s no pumping or squeezing. You just hang it up and let it drip through.

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir

Bring a couple of water bottles or a hydration reservoir. There are streams at regular intervals along the trail, except between kilometres 30 and 40. I brought a Platypus Big Zip Evo 3L reservoir. Most days I just put 1 or 1.5L in it in the morning, then filtered more when we stopped for lunch.

The extra water capacity was helpful on the no water stretch between KM 30 and 40, and at Tsusiat Falls where we collected water from above the falls, then carried it down to camp to avoid drinking water people were bathing in.

Food

Bring lots of high-calorie food that is lightweight and compact. Don’t forget the snacks! You’ll burn more calories hiking than on a usual day so don’t be afraid to pack a little extra. Check out my tips for choosing the best backpacking meals and my guide to making cheap backpacking meals with grocery store ingredients.

Food Bag

To protect your food from bears and other critters, you need to store your food either inside metal food lockers, hung on a food pole or hung in a tree. We used a lightweight dry bag to store our food. They are waterproof and the roll-top cuts down on odours, so animals will be less attracted to your food.

We used two SealLine Bulkhead View dry bags. They’re waterproof, they have a purge valve to squeeze out excess air and the window makes it easier to figure out what’s inside.

Optional Extra Gear

Trekking Poles

The West Coast Trail has a LOT of uneven terrain where it can be tricky to keep your balance. They’re also helpful for stream crossings. I bought trekking poles for my first West Coast Trail hike back in 2004 and have been a convert to them ever since. If you already use trekking poles, definitely consider taking them on the West Coast Trail.

However, they do have a few downsides: they get in the way on the ladders so you have to stow them, and they can get snagged in boardwalks. Despite that, I think they are definitely worth taking. I brought my Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles on the West Coast Trail and was really happy to have them.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel

There’s nothing better than a swim after a day of sweaty hiking. There are a few places to go for a quick swim along the West Coast Trail. The ocean and all of the creeks are really COLD, but on a hot day, you might not mind.

Men can likely just wear their trekking shorts as a bathing suit. Women may want to bring a swimsuit just in case, but I usually swim in my sports bra and underwear.

If you plan to swim, bring a quick-drying microfibre towel. I like the PackTowl microfibre towels since they dry fast. You can get away with a small one.

Entertainment for Camp

You’ll have a few hours each night in camp when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book or some headphones to listen to music or podcasts. I always travel with my Amazon Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from. We’ve brought the card game Exploding Kittens on a few backpacking trips and it’s always a hit.

Ultralight Chair or Seat

After a long day of hiking, you don’t always want to sit on the ground. My friend M, my husband, and I all have the ultralight Helinox Chair One. It collapses down really small and weighs about 1kg. (You can find cheaper knock-off versions on Amazon too!)

My husband and my friend M brought theirs on the West Coast Trail but I opted to leave mine at home to save weight. Instead, I brought a folding foam bum pad. It was nice to have a dry place to sit at all times. And at only 60g, I saved a LOT of weight compared to a chair. Both M and my husband used their chairs every chance they got, including snack breaks. The Thermarest Z Seat foam bum pad is a popular choice but the Forclaz Trek Pad foam seat from Decathlon is really similar and way cheaper.

Change of Clothes for After You Finish

Pack a change of clothes to put on after you finish the trail. You can leave them in your car. If you took the West Coast Trail bus they will also bring a bag to you for an extra fee.

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Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for the West Coast Trail

Here’s my list of stuff you don’t need and shouldn’t pack for your West Coast Trail:

• Tons of outfit changes: Everyone else will be wearing the same stinky clothes over and over, so you can too. Plus it’s just too heavy to pack an outfit for every day.
• Portable speakers: Most people come to the West Coast Trail to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down.
• Axe: Campfires are allowed, but axes are against the rules. In any case, you should be able to find lots of small driftwood to make a fire. Remember to follow Leave No Trace best practices and make a small fire.
• Your dog: Dogs are not permitted on the West Coast Trail.
• A gun: They aren’t allowed on the West Coast Trail.
• Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park unless you have a special use permit.

Have you hiked the West Coast Trail? What piece of gear made the biggest difference? Which gear do you recommend other hikers add to their West Coast Trail packing list? Tell us in the comments.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide
• West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC

MORE HIKING GEAR POSTS:

• 20+ Ways to Reduce Your Backpack Weight
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Which Women’s Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying? (And what can you just buy unisex?)

The post West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

But when I was planning my 2019 trip I worked out tons of options. However, during my research I found out that the best West Coast Trail itinerary was the standard 7-day itinerary that most hikers use. In fact it was nearly identical to the itinerary I ended up with on my 2004 hike.

But lots more options are possible including slower trips for beginner walkers, faster trips for strong hikers, and trips that take in only part of the trail by starting at Nitinaht Narrows.

I’ve set out a few sample itineraries below so you can pick the one that works best for you. To help you decide, I’ve also included some factors you should consider when picking a West Coast Trail itinerary including the best campsites, which direction to hike, when to take the orientation session, the tides and the ferry schedule.

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO?  Check out these posts:

• West Coast Trail Basics
• Section-By-Section Overview
• Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• Complete Guide to Every Campground
• Transportation: How to Get There, Where to Stay Near the Trailheads
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

Choosing Your West Coast Trail Itinerary

When you are planning your West Coast Trail hike there are a few factors to consider when choosing how many days to take.

First, consider your fitness. How many hours a day can you comfortably walk? How do you do on climbs? Read my section-by-section overview of the West Coast Trail to get an idea of what to expect along the way. Then read my guide to West Coast Trail campgrounds to decide which ones look nicest.

Next figure out your priorities. Do you want to spend lots of time exploring the beaches? Do you want to a rest day where you stay at the same camp for two nights? Is completing the trail in fast-and-light style more your thing? Just because the standard itinerary is 7-days doesn’t mean you need to stick to it.

Lastly, plan for the weather. West Coast Trail weather is notoriously fickle, even in the middle of summer. Keep in mind that any itinerary you choose needs to account for poor weather. On a tight itinerary, you will have to keep walking through heavy rain, which makes everything slippery and dangerous.

But if you opt for a longer itinerary, you have the flexibility to wait out storms a little bit more. (But then of course you’ll have a heavier pack since you have to carry more food.)

Which Direction Should You Hike the West Coast Trail

There are three different places to start the West Coast Trail: In the north at Pachena Bay near Bamfield, in the south at Gordon River near Port Renfrew, and in the middle at Nitinaht Narrows. (If you start in the middle at Nitinaht you can hike either north or south from there, or double back and do both.)

When you make your WCT reservation, you’ll need to pick one of these three starting points. (See the section on West Coast Trail reservations in my Guide to the West Coast Trail for more info on booking.)

In 2004 I hiked the trail south to north. In 2019 I hiked it north to south. Many people I’ve talked to have a clear preference for one direction over the other. Having done it both ways, I have a slight preference for south to north. But honestly, I don’t think it makes a big difference.

Which entrance point and direction you pick will depend on two things: personal preference and availability. The West Coast trail is really popular so you may not be able to book your first choice of start location. Here are the pros and cons of each option.

South to North (Gordon River/Port Renfrew to Pachena Bay/Bamfield)

Pros: 

• Get the harder sections out of the way first when you have fresh legs
• Start by taking the ferry so you don’t have to worry about the ferry schedule when you finish
• Easier to arrange transportation with the Trail Bus schedule

Cons:

• Have to hike the hardest sections at the southern end with a heavy pack

North to South (Pachena Bay/Bamfield to Gordon River/Port Renfrew)

Pros: 

• Do the easier sections first to warm up
• Hike the harder southern end of the trail with a lighter pack

Cons:

• Have to hike the hardest sections at the southern end when you’re tired. (And you might spend the entire first half of the trail worrying about how hard the second half will be.)
• Arranging transportation with the Trail Bus is less convenient due to their schedule
• You have to catch the ferry across the Gordon River to finish, which only runs a few times a day.

Starting at Nitinaht Narrows

There are two reasons you may want to start at Nitinaht Narrows: you only have the time or fitness to hike a portion of the trail OR the other entrances are booked up for your dates.

However, keep in mind that the only way to reach the Nitinaht Narrows starting point is via water taxi, which makes it more expensive than any of the other starting options. If you start from Nitinaht you can go south, north or both. Here’s the breakdown on each of those options:

Nitinaht Narrows north to Pachena Bay/Bamfield: The shortest and easiest option on the West Coast Trail. Best for less experienced backpackers. Typically takes 3 days to hike the 33km-long section.

Nitinaht Narrows south to Gordon River/Port Renfrew: Includes all the tough sections at the southern end of the trail, plus some of the beautiful beach sections in the middle. Best for experienced backpackers who don’t have the time to complete the whole trail. Typically takes 4-5 days to hike the 43km-long section.

Nitinaht Narrows to one trailhead, then to the other: The only way to complete the whole trail when starting at Nitinaht. You can have two options: The first is to start at Nitinaht, hike to one trailhead, then hike the entire trail back through Nitinaht to the other trailhead. The other is to start at Nitinaht, hike to one trailhead, take the shuttle and water taxi back to Nitinaht Narrows, then hike to the other trailhead. The first option requires more days on the trail while the second requires a lot more money spent on transportation.

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Factoring in the Mandatory West Coast Trail Orientation Session

Every person hiking the West Coast Trail must attend an orientation session. You’ll need to factor the orientation session into your West Coast Trail itinerary.

West Coast Trail Orientation Information

West Coast Trail orientations are a little different than in pre-pandemic years. Parks Canada will send you an email one week before your trip with a link to an orientation video. The video is a narrated power point presentation about the trail that is very similar to the in-person power point presentation given in normal years. All hikers in your group must watch the video before travelling to the trail.

If you are starting the trail from Gordon River or Pachena Bay, you must also also attend a short in-person briefing. Briefings are offered at 10am and 2pm. You can attend the briefing on the day you start or the day before you start.

If you are starting the trail at Nitinaht you must check in at 7am the day you start your hike or before 3:30pm the day before your hike.

When you check in, Parks Canada staff will test each member of your group to make sure you understood the orientation video. Staff will also give short updates on tides, weather, wildlife, and trail conditions.

If you are using the West Coast Express trail bus, their schedule may dictate which orientation you can do. In general, I think it’s best to do your orientation the day before you start or the morning that you start. If you do the afternoon orientation, you won’t have very much time for hiking before it gets dark. This is especially true if you are starting from Gordon River and need to tackle the difficult section with heavy packs.

Factoring in the Tides

Another consideration is the tides. If you have flexibility in your schedule, consult the Tofino tide tables. Try to find dates where the low tide is in the middle of the day so you can maximize the time you spend walking on the beach, rather than in the forest. If you want to take the Owen Point coastal route between Camper Bay and Thrasher Cove, make sure you look at the tide tables for the day you plan to hike that section. 

Factoring in the Ferry and Water Taxi Schedules

There are two ferries on the West Coast Trail. The first is across Nitinaht Narrows near KM32. The second is across the Gordon River at the southern trailhead. These ferries have limited schedules so you need keep them in mind when planning your itinerary.

Nitinaht Ferry Schedule: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on an as needed basis (Yell across to the operator if you are coming from the north side.)

Gordon River Ferry Schedule: 8:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm. (If you are coming from the north, raise the buoy next to the ladder so the operator knows you want a pickup.)

If you are starting or finishing the trail at Nitinaht Narrows, you’ll need to take a water taxi from the narrows to Nitinaht Village. There is only one trip per day in each direction.

Nitinaht Lake Water Taxi Schedule: 9 am from Nitinaht Village to Nitinaht Narrows. 5 pm: from Nitinaht Narrows to Nitinaht Village.

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Standard 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

This is the itinerary that most people who hike the West Coast Trail do. It doesn’t matter which direction you start your trip from, most hikers complete the West Coast Trail in 7 days and stay at these campsites:

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek or Darling River; 12-14km; 4-6 hours.

Day 2: Michigan Creek OR Darling River to Tsusiat Falls; 11-13km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Tsusiat Falls to Cribs Creek; 16.5km; 7-9 hours.

Day 4: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek; 11km; 4-6 hours.

Day 5: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay; 9.2km; 4-6 hours.

Day 6: Camper Bay to Thrasher Cove; 8.8km; 4-5 hours.

Day 7: Thrasher Cover to Gordon River; 6km; 4-5 hours.

Standard 6-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

Strong hikers can shave a day off their hike by skipping a night at Thrasher Cove. If you don’t have the tides to go around Owen Point, you can skip the 1km side trail into Thrasher Cove entirely. That will save you time, and save your knees!

Keep in mind that the sections between Camper Bay and Gordon River is very tough. Only very fit and experienced hikers will want to tackle it all in one day. On my first West Coast Trail trip in 2004, we started our trip by doing that section all at once. It was REALLY HARD. I cried.

That being said, now that I have more fitness and experience, I would consider tackling it. (See my section-by-section overview for more info on this part of the trail.)

If you plan to use this itinerary, you’ll need to keep the ferry schedule and orientation session schedule in mind. If you are starting the trail at Gordon River you should do your orientation the night before and then get on the first ferry of the day at 8:30 am.

When I did it, we did the 10 am orientation so we weren’t on the trail until 11:30 am. We staggered into Camper Bay as it was starting to get dark! If you are finishing in Gordon River, keep in mind that the last ferry of the day is at 3:30 pm.

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek or Darling River; 12-14km; 4-6 hours.

Day 2: Michigan Creek OR Darling River to Tsusiat Falls; 11-13km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Tsusiat Falls to Cribs Creek; 16.5km; 7-9 hours.

Day 4: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek; 11km; 4-6 hours.

Day 5: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay; 9.2km; 4-6 hours.

Day 6: Camper Bay to Gordon River; 13km; 7-10 hours.

Off-Beaten-Path 6-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

This itinerary maximizes the use of less popular campsites so you get more solitude on the trail. However, it does include staying a night at Nitinaht Narrows, which will add to your budget.

As well, it includes a stay at Orange Juice Creek, which doesn’t have a toilet or food cache. If you feel more comfortable with those amenities, adjust the itinerary to stay at Tscowis Creek (KM17) or Darling River (KM14)

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Orange Juice Creek; 15km 5-6 hours

Day 2: Orange Juice Creek to Nitnaht Narrows (paid cabins or camping); 17km; 5-7 hours

Day 3: Nitinaht Narrows to Bonilla Point: 16km; 6-8 hours

Day 4: Bonilla Point to Cullite Creek: 10km; 4-5 hours

Day 5: Cullite Creek to Thrasher Cove: 13km; 6-8 hours

Day 6: Thrasher Cove to Gordon River: 6km; 4-5 hours

Fast 5-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

This itinerary lets you do the trail in 4 nights and 5 days, perfect for fit and experienced hikers who want to carry less food. It includes some long days on the trail. It also includes the notorious Camper Bay to Gordon River section all at once, so the same cautions I mentioned in the Standard 6-Day itinerary above apply here.

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Klanawa River; 23km; 7-9 hours

Day 2: Klanawa River to Cribs Creek; 18.5km; 8-10 hours

Day 3: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek; 11km; 4-6 hours.

Day 4: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay; 9.2km; 4-6 hours.

Day 5: Camper Bay to Gordon River; 13km; 7-10 hours.

Super-Fast 4-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

This 4-day itinerary features some really long days on the trail, but it wouldn’t be too painful for hikers in good shape. Honestly, I think an itinerary like this is a bit fast since you won’t get to savour the West Coast Trail scenery. But I know some people would rather complete the trail in less time.

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Klanawa River: 23km; 7-9 hours

Day 2: Klanawa River to Carmanah Creek: 23km; 7-9 hours

Day 3: Carmanah Creek to Camper Bay: 16km; 6-8 hours

Day 4: Camper Bay to Gordon River; 13km; 7-10 hours.

Relaxed 8-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

If the long day in the middle of the standard itinerary scares you, plan for 8 days on the trail instead. You can pay to stay in a cabin or camp at Nitinaht Narrows. Another option for an 8-day itinerary would be to use the standard 7-day itinerary, then take a rest day somewhere. Tsusiat Falls is a popular spot to do that.

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek or Darling River; 12-14km; 4-6 hours.

Day 2: Michigan Creek OR Darling River to Tsusiat Falls; 11-13km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Tsusiat Falls to Nitinaht Narrows (paid): 7km; 3-4 hours

Day 4: Nitinaht Narrows to Cribs Creek: 11km; 4-5 hours

Day 5: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek; 11km; 4-6 hours.

Day 6: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay; 9.2km; 4-6 hours.

Day 7: Camper Bay to Thrasher Cove; 8.8km; 4-5 hours.

Day 8: Thrasher Cover to Gordon River; 6km; 4-5 hours.

Beginner-Friendly 10-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary

This beginner friendly itinerary has lots of short days to avoid fatigue. However, it is a 10-day itinerary, which means your pack might get heavy with all the extra food. Plan to eat lunch and dinner at The Crab Shack at Nitinaht Narrows on day 3, then breakfast there on day 4 to save food weight.

Day 1: Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek or Darling River; 12-14km; 4-6 hours.

Day 2: Michigan Creek OR Darling River to Tsusiat Falls; 11-13km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Tsusiat Falls to Nitinaht Narrows (paid): 7km; 3-4 hours

Day 4: Nitinaht Narrows to Cribs Creek: 11km; 4-5 hours

Day 5: Cribs Creek to Bonilla Point: 6.5km; 2-3 hours

Day 6: Bonilla Point to Walbran Creek: 5km; 2-3 hours

Day 7: Walbran Creek to Cullite Creek: 5km; 2-3 hours

Day 8: Cullite Creek to Camper Bay: 4km; 2-3 hours

Day 9: Camper Bay to Thrasher Cove; 8.8km; 4-5 hours.

Day 10: Thrasher Cover to Gordon River; 6km; 4-5 hours.

Easy 3-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary Starting at Nitinaht Narrows

If you choose to start the trail at Nitinaht Narrows and want an easy and scenic hike, head north from the Narrows. You’ll enjoy some beautiful beach hiking and gorgeous Tsusiat Falls on your first two days. Your last day is an easy-ish walk through the forest.

Day 1: Nitinaht Narrows to Tsusiat Falls: 7km; 3-4 hours

Day 2: Tsusiat Falls to Michigan Creek OR Darling River: 11-13km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Michigan Creek or Darling River to Pachena Bay: 12-14km; 4-6 hours.

5-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary Starting at Nitnaht Narrows

If you’re looking for a harder option starting from Nitinaht Narrows, head south. The first two days are gorgeous beach walking. The last three days are more challenging with lots of inland trail and ladders.

Day 1: Nitinaht Narrows to Cribs Creek: 11km; 4-5 hours

Day 2: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek; 11km; 4-6 hours.

Day 3: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay; 9.2km; 4-6 hours.

Day 4: Camper Bay to Thrasher Cove; 8.8km; 4-5 hours.

Day 5: Thrasher Cover to Gordon River; 6km; 4-5 hours.

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So now you should have all the info you need to choose your West Coast Trail itinerary. Don’t forget to take into account the West Coast Trail Express shuttle bus schedule and the pre-trip orientation session when you plan your trip. For your first time, I recommend the standard 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary, but if you want something a bit different, I’d pick the Off-the-Beaten-Path itinerary to stay at some of the less popular campsites.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• West Coast Trail Section-By-Section Overview
• West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide
• West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC

The post 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve hiked the West Coast Trail twice. I went south to north in June 2004 and north to south in August 2019. Both times it was gorgeous but challenging. I’ve put together a section-by-section overview of the West Coast Trail to give you a taste of the trail and help you get prepped for your trip. It’s got info on distances, difficult, hiking times and things you won’t want to miss for each section. There are also loads of photos!

WANT MORE WEST COAST TRAIL INFO?  Check out these posts:

• West Coast Trail Basics
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• Complete Guide to Every Campground
• Transportation: How to Get There, Where to Stay Near the Trailheads
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Key Distances on the West Coast Trail

A Quick Note: I’ve chosen to layout this guide from north to south because KM0 is in the north. Also, I use the official Parks Canada kilometre markers throughout this guide. As anyone who has hiked the trail with GPS can tell you, many of Parks Canada’s kilometres are much longer than an actual kilometre! So for each West Coast Trail section below, I’ve given the “official distance”. You may find that you travel much further than the official distance!

West Coast Trail Orientation Sessions

Every hiker heading out on the West Coast Trail MUST attend an orientation session. Pre-pandemic orientation sessions included a powerpoint presentation about the trail. It includes information about safety, tides, wildlife and trail etiquette. It also included a section-by-section breakdown of what the trail will be like. You’ll also learn a bit about the history of the trail and the local First Nations people who have lived in the area since time immemorial.

During the pandemic, you’ll receive a link to a video orientation a week before your trip. When you check in, they will ask you skill testing questions to check if you have watched the video. They will also give you an update on the latest trail conditions.

Check-in schedule:

Pachena Bay: 10 am and 2 pm

Gordon River: 10 am and 2 pm

Nitinaht Village: 7 am and 3:30 pm

You can attend either orientation on the day you start the trail or the afternoon of the day before. You don’t have to reserve a spot at an orientation – just show up. However, they do ask that you come 15-30 minutes early to check-in.

Bring your emailed permit confirmation to the orientation session. When you get to the orientation, the ranger will check you in and give you a copy of the waterproof trail map and tide table. You’ll also have to buy your National Parks pass (or show your annual pass if you have one.)

After the orientation you will sign a waiver and the ranger will give you your trail permit. You must carry your trail permit and parks pass at all times on the trail. They aren’t waterproof so bring a ziplock bag to carry them in.

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Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek (KM0 to KM12)

Official Distance: 12km Actual Distance: 13km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Highlights: Sea Lion rocks, Pachena Lighthouse

The northern-most West Coast Trail section is easier than the rest of the trail, but it’s still not that easy. The trail starts next to the ranger station at Pachena Bay. Right from the start, you have a choice between the beach route and the forest route. You can take the beach route if the tide is below 2.4m. You’ll only be on the beach for 0.5 km, but it’s worth it since the forest route involves a few ladders to go up and over a bluff. The two routes rejoin at a small bridge over Clonard Creek.

The next 12 kilometers are all in the forest. The trail is a former jeep road that was used to supply the Pachena Point Lighthouse. However, most traces of the road are long gone and it’s not entirely easy walking. There are lots of gullies to climb in and out of. There are even a few short ladders to give you a taste of what’s to come on the southern part of the trail. As well, the trail is well away from the coast and climbs up to 100m above sea level, so there is more up and down that you’d think.

At roughly the 9km mark look for a side trail heading towards the ocean. Follow the trail for about 100m to a viewpoint on a bluff high above the ocean. There are usually sea lions on the rocks just off shore. On my August 2019 visit, we didn’t see any sea lions, but we did spot grey whales feeding!

Back on the main trail, it’s another 500m of walking to reach the turnoff to Pachena Lighthouse around the 9.5km mark. The side trail emerges from the forest on the manicured lawn of the lighthouse. You are allowed to walk around the grounds and enjoy the views, but respect the privacy of the lighthouse keepers and their homes. Be sure to watch for whales below the bluff. We spotted a grey whale in the cove just below the lighthouse.

The final 2.5km of walking to Michigan Creek is also in the forest. There are a few more hills to climb before descending to the beach at Michigan Creek where there is a campsite.

Michigan Creek to Tsusiat Falls (KM12 to KM25)

Official Distance: 13km Actual Distance: 14.5km Time: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: beaches, sandstone shelf Valencia Bluffs viewpoint, Klanawa River cable car

From Michigan Creek, the only route is along the beach for 2km to Darling River campground. There is no bridge at Darling River so you’ll have to ford. It’s not usually very deep, especially at lower tides. Both times I’ve been able to rock hop across without removing my boots.

From Darling River, you can take the beach route for another 2.5km to Tscowis Creek campground at the 16.5km mark if the tides are below 2.7m. Along the way, you’ll pass Orange Juice Creek campground at the 15km mark. I’ve never taken the inland trail option, but I’ve heard it’s a bit overgrown since it doesn’t get used that often. 

After Tscowis Creek the trail goes inland and immediately goes up a few sets of ladders and then across a short suspension bridge. For the next 3.5km, the trail runs along the top of the bluffs. The trail is near the edge of the bluffs and there are lots of good viewpoints. The best one is at Valencia Bluff where there are a pair of the iconic Parks Canada red chairs you can take a break in. After the bluff viewpoint watch for a derelict donkey engine and grader. This section of the West Coast Trail is easy walking on a good trail.

Descend back to the beach on a ladder near the 20km marker at Trestle Creek. From here you’ll be on the beach for the next 3km to Klanawa River camp. (Keep in mind that you need tides below 2.7m for this route and there is no inland alternative.) You can walk on the sandstone shelf at lower tides for MUCH faster travel. Cross the Klanawa River on the cable car. It’s too wide and deep to wade. In my opinion, this is the most difficult cable car on the West Coast Trail since it sags lower than the others and requires lots of arm strength for pulling.

After the cable car, you’ll climb up onto the bluff again via some ladders. The 2km of trail before the Tsusiat River bridge is easy walking, thanks to the boardwalks. A set of steep ladders drops you down to the beach and campground at Tsusiat Falls just after the bridge. 

Tsusiat Falls to Nitinaht Narrows (KM25 to KM32.2)

Official Distance: 7.2km Actual Distance: 7.25km Time: 3-4 hours Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Hole in the Wall, Ditidaht Luxury Tents, Nitinaht Narrows, beaches

From Tsusiat Falls you have a choice between the beach route and the forest route until near the 29km marker. The beach features some deep sand that can be tough to slog through. On my most recent West Coast Trail hike we got tired in the sand and did a short section in the forest. We decided that we liked the sand better and headed back out again. I’ve heard that there’s a large cave along the inland trail, but I’ve never hiked that portion of the trail so I haven’t seen it.

If you take the beach route you can walk through the “hole in the wall” at Tsusiat Point. It’s a natural arch. You’ll need a tide below 2.1m to do that. However, if the tide is too high to go through the hole, you can still walk the beach and take a short bypass trail around Tsusiat Point.

You’ll have to go back into the forest near the 29km marker. From there it’s a short hike to the Ditidaht luxury tents near Tsuquadra Point and km 30. (Note: they are not open for the 2022 season.)

The streams here are the last place to get water until kilometer 40 so be sure to fill up. Past the luxury tents, the trail climbs up onto the bluffs a bit, then turns inland on boardwalks towards Nitinaht Narrows. Once you reach the dock, yell across the Narrows. The ferry operator will come pick you up. The ferry runs between 9:30 am and 4:30 pm.

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Nitinaht Narrows to Cribs Creek (KM32.2 to KM41.5)

Official Distance: 9.5km Actual Distance: 11km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Highlights: The Crab Shack, Clo-oose Village, Cheewhat River, beaches

You’ll get off the ferry on the south side of Nitnaht Narrows directly on to the dock at the Crab Shack, the Edgar family’s restaurant and cabin rentals. Stop and buy some lunch, then continue up the ramp and into the forest.

The trail is almost entirely boardwalk from here until the Cheewhat River bridge near the 36km marker. Along the way, you’ll pass through the abandoned village of Clo-oose. It’s a First Nations Reserve and is private property, so be respectful and don’t leave the trail.

Cross the Cheewhat River on a wide suspension bridge. The river is tidal and has a high mineral content so you can’t drink it. Just past the bridge is another beach access. The beach is firm sand that makes for easy walking. I haven’t hiked the inland trail in this West Coast Trail section, but I hear it is also nice and easy to walk. Just past kilometer 38, there’s an impassable headland that forces you to take ladders to an inland trail for a few hundred meters, but you can get down onto the beach again quickly.

Eventually, the sand gives way to tidal shelf with some scrambly bits around the headlands. There’s a brief section around KM38 where you must take a ladder to the forest route to bypass a dangerous surge channel. Then, there’s a short section at KM39 where you must take the beach. Around the 40km mark, you’ll need to make a decision. If the tide is below 2.1m you can take the beach route around the point to Cribs Creek campground. If not, you’ll have to go up the ladder into the forest. The beach route traverses several rocky shelves before emerging on a rocky peninsula that juts out across Cribs Bay. 

Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek (KM41.5 to KM 53)

Official Distance: 11.5km Actual Distance: 12. 1km Time: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Moderate

Highlights: Carmanah Point Lighthouse, Chez Monique’s Carmanah Creek cable car, beaches

The route south from Cribs Creek is along the beach. It’s relatively easy walking along the sand for the first kilometre or so. If the tide is below 2.1m you can continue along the coast to Carmanah Point at the 44km mark, then climb the stairs up, up, up! to the lighthouse. If you don’t have the right tides, it’s an easy walk in the forest for a few hundred meters to a junction with the side trail to the lighthouse. 

It’s worth taking the detour to Carmanah Point Lighthouse for the great views. They also have a big whale skeleton on the grass that’s pretty cool. Remember, the lighthouse buildings are private property so be respectful.

From the lighthouse, it’s a quick walk in the forest, then down some ladders back to the beach. You’ll find Chez Monique’s near the beach access. For decades this informal restaurant on a First Nations reserve was a key stopping point for West Coast Trail hikers. It’s been since 2018 since the owners have passed away, but their children are considering getting it up and running again. Stay tuned!

Past Chez Monique’s, you continue on the beach. The sand gets deeper so it’s not easy walking. You can wade across Carmanah Creek at the 46km mark or take the cable car. There’s a campground here on the north side of the creek. The next 2km to Bonilla Point campground is also on the beach, but you may be able to get on to the sandstone shelf for faster travel. The section of the West Coast Trail from Bonilla Point at km 48 to the beach access just before Vancouver Point near km 51 starts with some easy walking on the shelf but then turns into some brutally deep sand. It’s definitely a workout to walk through it!

You need to make a decision at the Vancouver Point beach access. If the tide is below 2.7m and you don’t mind wading a creek, continue on the beach route. If not, take the forest route inland. I’ve never taken it, but I hear it’s a bit rough and overgrown. It ends with a ride across Walbran Creek on the longest cable car of the West Coast Trail. The beach route is mostly easy walking on the sandstone shelf. The crux is the ford of Walbran Creek. Try to cross near the mouth at low tide for the easiest crossing. The campground is near the 53km marker on the south side of the creek.

Walbran Creek to Camper Bay (KM53 to KM 62.2)

Official Distance: 9.2km Actual Distance: 11.8km Time: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Difficult

Highlights: Ladder sections at Walbran, Cullite, Sandstone, and Camper Creeks, Logan Creek suspension bridge, boardwalks through bogs, Cullite Creek cable car

Some people find the West Coast Trail section between Walbran and Camper to be the hardest part of the trail due to all the ladders.  The trail from Walbran starts with a section of ladders. At the top, you’ll go through a bog on boardwalks. When the boardwalk ends, the mud, roots, and logs begin. It’s about 3km from Walbran to Logan Creek at the 56km mark.

Logan Creek used to the the site of some of the scariest ladders on the West Coast Trail. But as of 2021, a new suspension bridge crosses the top of the canyon. That means you will be through this section in a few minutes when it used to take close to half an hour.

Once you reach cross Logan Creek you have another 2km of mud, tree roots, and wrecked boardwalks to contend with before reaching the Cullite Creek ladders just before the 58km mark. Cullite Creek has the most ladders on the West Coast Trail: 7 on one side of the gorge and 11 on the other. In the middle, you can wade (or rock hop) across Cullite Creek or take the cable car.

The Cullite Creek campground is a short walk downstream to the beach. The trail has been washed out in a few places so you may have to walk in the creek bed. (And that’s only possible later in the season at times of lower runoff.) Even if you aren’t camping, the beach is a nice lunch spot.

After Cullite Creek the trail heads through the forest for another 1.5km to Sandstone Creek at 59.5km.  It’s not as muddy or boggy as the earlier section, but it’s also not smooth walking. At Sandstone Creek you’ll descend a few ladders to a bridge, then climb ladders right back up the other side. The route from Sandstone Creek to Camper Bay has a few sections of newer boardwalk, but there are still mud holes, broken boardwalk and tree roots to climb over most of the time. 

Just past the 62km marker, you’ll descend ladders and a section of steep trail to Camper Bay. The campground is just downstream on the beach.

Camper Bay to Thrasher Cove(KM 62.2 to KM 70+1)

Official Distance: 8.8km Actual Distance: 9.8km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Very difficult

Highlights: Ladder sections, Owen Point, challenging forest terrain

To leave the campground at Camper Bay you’ll need to take the cable car or ford the creek. Later in the season, it’s possible to rock hop across. Next, it’s time for another section of ladders. The forest trail between Camper Bay and the 65km mark has some muddy sections, but there is lots of boardwalk and it’s not too bad, as far as forest sections go. 

At kilometre 65 you’ll need to make a choice: coastal route or forest route. Despite having hiked the West Coast Trail twice, I’ve never taken the coastal route. Both times the low tide we needed was in the middle of the night!

The coastal route includes some sections of easy sandstone shelf walking. But it also includes lots of boulders and logs to scramble over. You need a tide of less than 2.4m to do the coastal route, except around Owen Point where you need a tide of less than 1.8m to pass through a sea cave. Reportedly, the route is much easier at very low tides.

The forest route is one of the roughest parts of the whole trail. The 5km between the 65km beach access and the Thrasher Cover junction at 70km include lots of mud, slippery tree roots and lots of narrow log crossings. Some of the log crossings are 10 to 15 feet off the ground! Both times I’ve hiked the trail I’ve had my slowest travel speeds through here and I think it’s the hardest part of the trail.

From the 70km junction you’ll have 1km of side trail to descend to Thrasher Cove campground. The trail is rough and very steep in places. It ends with a series of ladders down to the beach. If you took the coastal route, you’ll arrive directly on the beach.

Thrasher Cove to Gordon River (KM 70+1 to KM75)

Official Distance: 6km Actual Distance: 6.6km Time: 4-5 hours Difficulty: Very difficult

Highlights: Ladder sections, highest point on the WCT, donkey engine, challenging forest terrain

This West Coast Trail section starts with an ascent out of Thrasher Cove. It begins with ladders, then heads steeply uphill on a few switchbacks. After 1km you’ll reach the 70km junction and be back on the main trail.

The trail from this point to Gordon River is rough and technical, but I thought it was slightly easier walking than the forest section between km 65 and 70. However, lots of hikers say this is the most difficult part of the trail, especially those who tackle this part on their first day with heavy packs.

From the junction, the trail starts to climb. It crosses two creeks including one with some ladders. As of 2019, a major bridge is damaged so you have to follow the rough flagged bypass route. Just after the 71km marker, you’ll reach the high point of the trail at 213m. It’s a stiff climb to get up here! The trail undulates gently and passes by a huge derelict donkey engine and a bunch of old logging cables around km 72. 

The trail descends slowly towards the ocean over the next few kilometres, although you don’t really get any views. In the last kilometre you might start to see the ocean through the trees and hear the waves.

Finally, you’ll come to the top of a very tall and VERY steep ladder. (This is the steepest ladder on the entire trail!) Head down the ladder to the beach on the Gordon River. You’re done! Use the rope next to the ladder to raise the buoy up to the top. This signals to the ferry operator that you want a pickup. The ferry comes by at 8:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm.

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Finishing the West Coast Trail

After you take the ferry across Gordon River, you’ll arrive at Butch Jack’s ferry dock. Head up the ramp to the road, turn right and walk a few hundred metres to the Parks Canada office. Head inside to drop off your permit with the ranger and officially check-out from the trail. They have souvenir hats, t-shirts and more if you want them. 

So that’s my West Coast Trail overview with a section-by-section breakdown of the trail. If you have any questions while planning your hike, let me know in the comments.

MORE WEST COAST TRAIL POSTS:

• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• 7-Day West Coast Trail Itinerary (Plus More Itinerary Options)
• West Coast Trail Packing List: Everything You Need to Bring
• West Coast Trail Camping: Your Complete Guide
• West Coast Trail Transportation: How to Get There
• Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking

MORE VANCOUVER ISLAND POSTS:

• Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait: Everything You Need to Know
• Things to do on North Vancouver Island
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC

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