The Ultimate Guide to the West Coast Trail: Waterfalls, Beaches, and Bucket-List Adventure
Discover the West Coast Trail: Vancouver Island’s Legendary Hike
Distance from Port Renfrew: 5 minutes to the southern trailhead (Gordon River)
The West Coast Trail isn’t just a hike — it’s a rite of passage. Winding through 75 kilometers of rugged coastline, ancient rainforest, waterfalls, and beachscapes between Port Renfrew and Bamfield, this world-famous trail blends wild Pacific adventure with rich Indigenous history.
Where the Trail Starts and Ends
Southern Terminus: Gordon River Trailhead (Port Renfrew)
Northern Terminus: Pachena Bay (Bamfield)
Total Distance: 75 km (47 miles)
Recommended Time: 5–7 days
Whether you start from the north or south, most seasoned hikers recommend beginning in Port Renfrew for a more gradual progression of challenges. Plus, the town makes a perfect jumping-off point with accommodation, food, and friendly locals who know the trail inside out.
What You’ll See Along the Way
Tsusiat Falls – A Coastal Waterfall Oasis
One of the most iconic stops on the trail, Tsusiat Falls cascades right into a beachside cove where hikers often camp and rinse off under the falls. It’s raw, photogenic, and unforgettable.
Ladders, Cable Cars, and River Crossings
This isn’t your average walk in the woods. The trail features over 70 ladders, hand-operated cable cars across rivers, and suspension bridges. It’s a physical and mental challenge — and that’s what makes it legendary.
Wildlife and Sea Life Galore
You may spot:
Whales breaching offshore, Sea lions sunning on rocks, Bald eagles overhead, Black bears in the distance, Tide pools brimming with urchins and sea stars
Pro tip: Explore intertidal zones at low tide near Carmanah Point and Tsusiat Beach.
Beaches, Bays, and Breathtaking Campsites
From the long golden stretch of Keeha Beach to the cliffside sites of Walbran Creek, there’s no shortage of surreal places to pitch a tent. Most campsites are on or near the beach, offering ocean views and unforgettable sunsets.
Trailside Treasures: Where to Eat and Recharge
The Crab Shack at Nitinaht Narrows
Yes, there’s real food on the trail. At Nitinaht Narrows, you can stop at the Crab Shack, a family-run floating restaurant where hikers devour fresh crab, salmon, and halibut caught just hours before.
The Bannock Lady
Near the Ditidaht Reserve, just off the trail, you’ll find warm, fresh bannock made by a local Indigenous woman who’s become a legend in her own right. Served with jam or honey, it’s the comfort food hikers dream of mid-trek.
When to Go and How to Prepare
Season: May 1 to September 30 (permits required)
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially June–August
Permits: Required from Parks Canada (including orientation session)
Transportation: Shuttles available to/from Bamfield and Port Renfrew
Gear: Waterproof everything, bear-safe food storage, trekking poles, camp stove, water filtration
Why Start in Port Renfrew?
• Only 2 hours from Victoria
• Local shops for last-minute gear
• Home to Live Port Renfrew, your basecamp for backcountry adventure
• Nearby lodging and food at Wild Renfrew, Renfrew Pub, Trailhead Resort and Haliwoods Fish & Chips
Ready to Walk the Wild Edge?
Live Port Renfrew is proud to be the southern gateway to this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re looking for a soft place to land before or after the hike, or you’re dreaming of owning property near the trail, we’ve got the local insight to help.