Nootka Island Solo Hiking Expedition
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Nootka Island Trail, Vancouver Island BC
DATE
Aug 30, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Nootka Island Coastal Traverse
Primary Objective: through hike
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~35 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: coastal
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 2500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Louie Bay Trailhead, BC
- GPS coordinates: 49.7760, -126.7668
- Permits: Contact Nootka Trail Reservations at Nootka Sound Service for permits
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DAY 1: Louie Bay Trailhead to First Beach
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5 miles, +300 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Mixed beach and forest paths
- Notable features or side quests: Explore tidal pools along the way
- Key water sources: Freshwater streams crossing the trail
- Campsite location: First Beach
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of slippery rocks
- Trail tip: Hike during low tide for easier beach walking
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DAY 2: First Beach to Calvin Falls
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Sand and pebble beaches, some rugged forest sections
- Notable features or side quests: Calvin Falls – great for photography
- Key water sources: Calvin Falls
- Campsite location: Calvin Falls Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for bears; hang food
- Trail tip: Use tide charts to plan beach walks
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DAY 3: Calvin Falls to Beano Creek
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Beach trails with driftwood obstacles
- Notable features or side quests: Stunning sunset at Beano Creek
- Key water sources: Beano Creek
- Campsite location: Beano Creek Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Check for swift currents in creeks
- Trail tip: Prioritize ankle support due to unstable surfaces
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DAY 4: Beano Creek to Bajo Point
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky headlands and forest sections
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views from headlands
- Key water sources: Stream near Bajo Point campsite
- Campsite location: Bajo Point Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Seal and sea lion sightings possible
- Trail tip: Scout best sleep spots early upon arrival
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DAY 5: Bajo Point to Yellow Bluffs
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Varied terrain including cliffside trails
- Notable features or side quests: Explore caves near Yellow Bluffs
- Key water sources: Caves with fresh dripping water
- Campsite location: Yellow Bluffs Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Caution on cliff edges
- Trail tip: Collect water in the afternoon when streams flow best
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DAY 6: Yellow Bluffs to Louie Bay Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail
- Terrain description: Dense forest leading back to the trailhead
- Notable features or side quests: Ephemeral waterfalls
- Key water sources: Streams intercepting the trail
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery roots and logs
- Trail tip: Early start to ensure timely completion and transport
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: First Beach (10 ft), Calvin Falls (20 ft), Beano Creek (15 ft), Bajo Point (25 ft), Yellow Bluffs (30 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local regulations
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear hangs or provided bear caches
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Beano Creek, Yellow Bluffs
- Noise level or solitude factor: High solitude, potential ocean sounds
- Nearest water source: Typically close to campsites, use streams
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 50–70°F in late summer
- Sun exposure: Moderate, carry sun protection, especially on beach sections
- Acclimatization tips: Not applicable below 8,000 ft
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Use waterproof dry bags for gear. Quick-dry layers recommended.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Explore adjacent smaller coves
- Photo-worthy moments: Calvin Falls, sunrise at Beano Creek
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Visit a local seafood spot in Gold River
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise with first light, rest by sunset
- Estimated calories burned per day: 2500-3500 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-40 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
