- Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Heather Schmitt
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, near Tofino on Vancouver Island, Canada, is unquestionably one of the most beautiful places on earth. Stretching along the west coast of the island in a series of long sandy beaches and towering old-growth forest, it is a coveted destination for surfers, hikers, kayakers, storm-watchers, and anyone wanting to get a little closer to nature.
After enjoying the warm hospitality of the small local fishing villages of Tofino and Ucluelet, and burying your toes deep in the sand as you stroll along the seemingly endless Long Beach, it's time to discover some of the Pacific Rim Park's hidden secrets. In one afternoon, you can walk deep into the heart of the temperate rainforest, explore a mysterious shore pine bog, and go back in time to experience the indigenous history of the area. The local trail map shows exactly where to find these remarkable short hikes.
The Rainforest Trail
This trail is divided into two 1 kilometre (0.6 mile) loops of well-maintained boardwalk, taking you through lush old-growth coastal rainforest. Interpretive signs let you in on a few rainforest secrets (like “How do those trees get to be so old?” and “How can I tell what kind of animals live in this forest?”) as you make your way through the quiet stands of trees, listening to water dripping softly from the moss-laden branches, and the occasional calling of local songbirds.
This short, easy hike is a wonderful way to get close to some of the biggest, oldest trees in the world, and gives you a chance to shake some of that beach sand off your feet!
The Bog Trail
This often-overlooked trail is one of the hidden gems of the park. Right alongside the towering cedars and tangled undergrowth of the rainforest exists this surprising slice of bog terrain. A sturdy, wheelchair-accessible 0.8 kilometre (0.5 mile) boardwalk path circles through the heart of the bog. The shrubby pine trees, thick sphagnum moss carpets, and open, wind-swept landscape will come as an almost disorienting shock after the deep forest.
This quick loop trail offers insight into an unexpected and charming ecosystem tucked right in the middle of a coastal rainforest – it's well worth a visit!
The Nuu-Chah-Nulth Trail
If you're looking for a slightly longer hike through the stunning coastal forest, this 2.5 kilometre (1.6 mile) trail is the one to take. Snaking along the coastline and offering many spectacular viewpoints out to the open ocean – keep your eyes peeled for breaching whales! – this trail leads down to Florencia Bay, a secluded spot perfect for a picnic lunch. Designed by the local Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nation in cooperation with Parks Canada, this trail has gorgeous, multi-lingual information stations on First Nations culture, both historical and present-day. It provides a great way to understand how the cultural and ecological richness of the area combines to make the Pacific Rim National Park so special.
This longer trail takes you through rainforest, bog, and beach ecosystems, giving you a taste of each while providing a window into the local First Nations culture. If you only have time for one hike, make it this one!
How to Get There and Where to Stay
The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, just off of Highway 4. See Parks Canada for more detailed directions and estimated driving times.
There is a wide variety of accommodation options in the two closest towns of Tofino and Ucluelet, although they fill up rapidly during the summer months. Choices include a provincial campground and several hostels as well as a range of hotels, rental cottages, and B&Bs – it is best to book ahead to make sure you have a comfortable place to sleep after a full day of hiking.
Heather Schmitt - Heather Schmitt - A freelance writer and nature enthusiast, Heather Schmitt has a Masters degree in Environmental Studies...
