There are hikes, and then there are hikes. You know, the once-in-a-lifetime treks that are equally challenging as they are inspiring; the ones that you’ll remember for years to come; the ones that will ignite an instant connection when you’ve met another person who has done the same trek.
The West Coast Trail is one of those hikes. Located on the West Coast of British Columbia’s Vancouver Island, the “WCT” requires serious planning and preparation. In return for your hard work, it will reward you with one of the best experiences you’ll ever live. Here are six reasons to check out the West Coast Trail.
It’s the Challenge of a Lifetime
It takes most people a week or so to trek their way through the grueling 47 miles of demanding terrain. Tackling the trail in a shorter amount of time is not recommended: not only are you more likely to injure yourself, but you’ll rush through some of the most incredible sites in the world.
To get the most out of the West Coast Trail, make it an experience to remember: ensure that you’re in tip top shape, get some decent backpacking and hiking experience under your foot, and acquire (and learn how to use) the right gear. Be ready to tackle some seriously challenging weather—6 inches of rain in 12 hours, anyone.
It’s Not Overcrowded
The problem with so many popular trails is that they can get overcrowded and overused. The West Coast Trail requires all hikers within a group (with a maximum group size of 10 people) to secure a Trail Use Permit. A limited number of permits are issued every year, so the best plan of action is to apply for one at the beginning of spring. The trail is usually open between June and September, so plan ahead to find a time that works for you—and be willing to be flexible.
You’ll Get to Experience the Rugged Wilderness
The West Coast Trail is situated within the Pacific Rim National Park. It covers some of the most awe-inspiring terrain in the country. There are two main points of ingress and egress on the trail: one at the north end of the trail in Bamfield, and one at the south end in Port Renfrew. Hikers can start from either end, but most people prefer to start north and wind their way south. The most arduous terrain is situated towards the southern end, and it’s often easier to navigate with a lighter pack and toughened legs.
Between Bamfield and Port Renfrew, hikers will plod through old-growth forests, trek through wild beaches, and wade through bogs. They’ll encounter moss, mud, sand, pebbles, exposed cliffs and ever-changing tides. In other words, it won’t be boring.
You Might Encounter Wildlife, Up Close and Personal
Other hikers aren’t the only ones you’re likely to encounter on the West Coast Trail. The presence of wildlife is part of what makes the trek so exciting: black bears, wolves and cougars live in the forests, while seals and sea lions hang out around the shore. If you keep your eye on the water, you might spot some orcas or gray whales. Keep your eye skywards to see eagles soaring overhead.
There Are Surprises Along the Route
We won’t spoil all of them here—they are surprises, after all—but here are a few hints of what you might come across en route: Ship wrecks; log walks; hidden coves; cable cars; and a special place called Hole in the Wall. Intrigued yet?
It Has a Great Story
The West Coast Trail has a rich history that makes the hike that much more meaningful. The first inhabitants of the West Coast of Vancouver Island were the Nuu-chah-nulth group, a group of Aboriginal Peoples who established a culture based on the rainforest, the ocean and the inter-tidal zones that characterize the area. The West Coast Trail is situated in their traditional territory.
The 18th century brought the arrival of Captain James Cook to the West Coast of Vancouver Island. The ocean route alongside what is now the West Coast Trail was a busy thoroughfare—one that was greatly affected by challenging weather and tidal conditions, eventually earning it the moniker “the Graveyard of the Pacific”.
In 1907, the West Coast Trail was roughed in as a way to assist those who survived shipwrecks along the Graveyard of the Pacific. Prior to its establishment, it was next to impossible to reach shipwreck victims from the shore.
Ready to embark on the adventure that is the West Coast Trail? Check out the Parks Canada website to get planning. Good luck—and don’t forget your camera.
