Top hiking destinations in Canada May 02, 2008

The West Coast Trail, Canada’s most expensive and well known hiking trails.

The West Coast Trail lies on the south west coast of Vancouver Island. It hosts spectacular beaches, forest and mountain views. The west coast trail is one of the most difficult hikes in Canada, so make sure you are up for the challenge. It spans 77(Km) 47 miles from Port Renfrew to Bamfield. Thousands of people worldwide come each year for the excitement and the beauty of it all. The West Coast Trail is a protected section of the Pacific Coast Mountains and poses a challenge to the forestry for the environmental impact. For this reason a hefty fee is required before anyone can hike the trail.

The west coast has a temperate rainforest climate which allows for the magnificent trees and wildlife to explode in multitude. Some of the scenic beauties many vacationers come for are the waterfalls, caves, sandy beaches, tidal pools, wildlife & sunsets. Bird watchers and naturalists alike are attracted to the magnificent cedars, hemlock and fir trees that are some of the largest old growth forest in Canada.

In 1890 a telegraph route was established and serviced the west coast for many years. The trail was established in 1907, then, known as the Dominion Life Saver Trail. It had been named for the lifesaving of the shipwrecked sailors who were stranded after their ships had the misfortune of sinking. Close to 70 vessels sank in that region known as "The Graveyard of The Pacific.

To hike this natural wonder, you have to purchase a permit which is $140 plus a $25 registration fee; reservations are recommended a year in advance and payable on the day your hike begins.

The hike itself will take approximately 5-8 days and preparing properly is advised. This means pack enough light weight food that won’t spoil such as beef jerky energy bars etc, covering a light weight tent, rain gear (a must) and first aid.

A compass and sunscreen is also advised. Pack 2 pairs of hiking boots (in case one pair gets wet) plenty of socks and bandages, and don’t ever forget your camera and lots of batteries. Being in good physical shape will be an advantage. Be prepared to climb 70 ladders, walk 130 bridges and ride 4 cable cars.

The trail is open from May 1 to Sept 30. There are a limited number of hikers allowed on the trail each day so plan ahead and make that reservation. It is a privilege to be one of the few to say, I hiked The West Coast Trail.

More Thoughts on Travel & Destinations to Come

By Lana Reese