Pacific Rim National Park Reserve of Canada

Challenges of the West Coast Trail

This rugged 75 km (47 mile) hike is not for everyone. Your group's fitness, knowledge and skills must meet the challenges of the area.

All hikers in your group must be prepared:

• for 5-7 days in the backcountry.

• for rugged, uneven ground. It takes a minimum of 2 days to travel the southern 22km of the trail between Gordon River and Walbran Creek.

• for slippery conditions on muddy trails, wooden surfaces, boulders and rocky shorelines.

• to wade rivers, negotiate steep slopes, earth, climb ladders, use cable cars and follow an irregular trail.

• for damaged structures. While trail maintenance is a full time effort, wear and tear, storms and other factors may quickly change their condition.
• for a temperate rainforest climate. Rainfall averages 300 cm (120 in.) per year with heavy rainfall possible at any time. Floodwaters can delay hikers for days. Fog is common, especially in July and August. The average summer temperature is 14° Celsius (57° F). Incidents of hypothermia and physical injury increase significantly during prolonged wet period.

• for accidents and injuries. It may take 24 hours or more before help arrives if an accident occurs.

The West Coast Trail is for hikers who are:

• able to walk long distances through rough terrain with a heavy pack.
• prepared to have an isolated wilderness experience and adhere to low impact back country camping policies .

The West Coast Trail should not be considered by:

• children under twelve.
• hikers with little experience in multi-day backpacking trips.
• those with little stamina or recurring knee, back or ankle injuries.

Note: an experienced group leader will not compensate for inexperienced hikers.