Vancouver Island Pacific Rim National Park

Canada's network of National Parks began in 1885. On the west coast of Canada on Vancouver Island is one of those beautiful protected parks and it is named the Pacific Rim National Park. The Pacific Rim National Park consists of three sections mixing water and land... the Long Beach area, the Broken Islands and the famous West Coast Trail backpacking experience.

The whole Pacific Rim area encompasses over 13,000 hectares of which only 7,000 is land! The Pacific Rim National Park is a protected area recognized by the Government of Canada that represents both the land and marine eco-systems of the area. The Pacific Rim parks and trails receive over 700,000 visitors a year.

The Pacific Rim National Park falls within the traditional territory of the Nuu-Chah-nulth-aht First Nations people. Parks Canada and the Nuu-Chah-nulth-aht cooperate fully protecting and preserving the lush rainforests, islands and beaches of the Pacific Rim National Park.

The Pacific Rim National Park trails located in the Long Beach section and the West Coast Trail section of the park are surrounded by surf, sand, cliffs and rainforests. It is always wise to prepare for fast changing weather conditions by wearing appropriate footwear on the trails as many of the trails are muddy and slippery. Always carry with you water, food, jacket, flashlight and rain gear. On extended overnight trips proper gear is a must as the weather can get rough and challenging battling storms and tides. The park is preserved in it's natural environment so please do not step off the trails or approach any of the wildlife viewed along the route.

The Broken Islands Group is accessed by a boat or kayak only. The Broken Group of Islands is fast becoming recognized as a top kayaking destination in the world. There is overnight beach wilderness camping available on various islands. Plan accordingly. The hundreds of islands make it an ideal kayaking destination for family kayaking trips offering safe coves and bays creating ideal kayaking conditions as you are protected by the islands from the rough seas of the Pacific Ocean.

The West Coast Trail is an overnight rough and rugged backpacking trail stretching out over 70 kilometres in length. An ideal gruelling backpacking trail once used by shipwrecked mariners to hike back to civilization. The West Coast Trail is one of the best opportunities to view the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. The backpack adventure is to be challenged by experienced, well fitted backpackers only as the trail is muddy and can be very steep in parts with many areas involving climbing hundreds of feet of ladders straight up, crossing muddy swamps and over rivers. The trail is accessed from the communities of Bamfield and Port Renfrew. A park permit is required.

The Pacific Rim wave action and rolling surf can be gentle at times or can transform into roaring, crashing surfs at other times. The large waves can sometimes sweep up beaches and shorelines, washing away logs and driftwood. In storm watching seasons logs can float, roll, trap and crush the unwary hiker or storm watcher, so no crazy stupid stunts is good for your health. When planning any extended hike in the Pacific Rim National Park it is always wise to carry a watch and to check the tide tables.

The Pacific Rim National Park is blessed with much wildlife. The park is home to Black Bears, Cougars, and Wolves. They will usually stay to themselves unless garbage is left out or unattended. This careless attitude invites trouble. All visitors are encouraged to act responsibly. Pack in what you pack out!

It is illegal to collect and remove natural objects from the park; feed, harass or hunt wildlife in the park; to have dogs off leash and to camp without a permit.