West Coast Trail
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The West Coast Trail is 75 km long backpacking trail [1] following the southwestern edge of Vancouver Island (British Columbia, Canada). It is open from May 1st until September 30th. Because of the high number of shipwrecks along this stretch of coast in the late 1800s, (see Graveyard of the Pacific) the Pachena Point Lighthouse and the "Dominion Life Saving Trail" were constructed [2].
The trail allowed shipwreck survivors and rescuers to travel the forest making use of the telegraph line and cabins. In 1973, the trail became part of Pacific Rim National Park and has been continuously upgraded. The trail is still extremely rugged and requires a high level of fitness, knowledge and skill to complete. Hikers usually take 5 to 7 days to complete the trip.
Hikers can choose to begin the trail in Port Renfrew and travel north, or in Bamfield to travel south. The southern parts of the trail are far more challenging than the flatter kilometers in the north. An overnight permit must be purchased by the hiker who wishes to complete the trail from beginning to end, however individuals are permitted to visit during the day at no expense.
The trail itself winds through forests, bogs and beaches. It passes oldgrowth trees, waterfalls, streams and thick patches of mud. Designated campgrounds along the way feature "Bear Boxes" for safe storage of food, an outhouse and usually a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.
Wildlife that can be encountered include cougars, bears, wolves, gray whales, eagles and more.
[edit] Books
- The West Coast Trail & Nitinat Lakes, Sierra Club, Victoria
- Blisters & Bliss, D. Foster & W. Aitken
- Pacific Rim Explorer, Bruce Obee. Whitecap Books
- Hiking on the Edge: West Coast Trail - Juan De Fuca Trail, Ian Gill & David Nunuk, ISBN 1-55192-505-2
- Hiking The West Coast Of Vancouver Island, Tim Leadem, ISBN 1-55365-024-7
[edit] See also
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Hiking Trails in Canada edit | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Bruce Trail | Canol Heritage Trail | Chilkoot Trail | Confederation Trail | Galloping Goose Regional Trail | International Appalachian Trail | Iron Horse Trail | Mantario Trail | Oak Ridges Trail | Rideau Trail | Trans Canada Trail | Waterfront Trail | West Coast Trail | Wildside | |||
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