Solo Traverse on West Coast Trail
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
The West Coast Trail, Vancouver Island BC
DATE
Aug 16, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: West Coast Trail Traverse
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~47 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: coastal
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~4000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Pachena Bay Trailhead, BC to Gordon River Trailhead, BC
- GPS coordinates: 48.7518, -125.0093 to 48.5639, -124.4170
- Permits: Obtain through Parks Canada online or by phone
---
DAY 1: Pachena Bay Trailhead to Darling River
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~7 miles, +500 ft
- Terrain description: Coastal forest and beach
- Notable features or side quests: Pachena Lighthouse
- Key water sources: Darling River
- Campsite location: Darling River Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery roots
- Trail tip: Start early to catch low tide crossings
---
DAY 2: Darling River to Tsusiat Falls
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~8 miles, +700 ft
- Terrain description: Mixed rugged beach and forest
- Notable features or side quests: Tsusiat Falls
- Key water sources: Tsusiat Falls
- Campsite location: Tsusiat Falls Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bears frequent the area
- Trail tip: Have a tide table handy
---
DAY 3: Tsusiat Falls to Cribs Creek
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~11 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Challenging beach and ladders
- Notable features or side quests: Explore caves
- Key water sources: Cribs Creek
- Campsite location: Cribs Creek Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Sea lions nearby
- Trail tip: Secure food with bear canisters
---
DAY 4: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~8 miles, +500 ft
- Terrain description: Sandy shores and tidal zones
- Notable features or side quests: Whale watching potential
- Key water sources: Walbran Creek
- Campsite location: Walbran Creek Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Tidal pool exploration
- Trail tip: Plan for slick rock at low tide
---
DAY 5: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~9 miles, +1000 ft
- Terrain description: Ladders and forest trails
- Notable features or side quests: Logan Creek Bridge
- Key water sources: Camper Creek
- Campsite location: Camper Bay Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Cougars sighted occasionally
- Trail tip: Grip boots help on ladder climbs
---
DAY 6: Camper Bay to Gordon River Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~4 miles, +500 ft
- Terrain description: Rocky paths and forest trails
- Notable features or side quests: Finish line at Gordon River
- Key water sources: None, stock up at Camper Bay
- Campsite location: None (end)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay on marked trails
- Trail tip: Arrange shuttle for pickup upon completion
---
CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Darling River, Tsusiat Falls, Cribs Creek, Walbran Creek, Camper Bay
- Fire restrictions: Often in place; use designated fire rings
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear boxes or hang food
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Tsusiat Falls, Cribs Creek Beach
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate with popular campsites
- Nearest water source: Each campsite has water access nearby
---
WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 50-70°F in August
- Sun exposure: Varies; some shaded forest sections
- Acclimatization tips: None needed below 1,500 ft
---
GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- 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: Consider lightweight rain gear and durable footwear
---
OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Use a day to explore Tsusiat Falls more thoroughly
- Photo-worthy moments: Capture sunset at Tsusiat Falls
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Enjoy a meal at a local Port Renfrew restaurant
---
FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-9 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Wake by 6 AM, sleep by 9 PM
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000-4000 calories
- Water needed per person: 2-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-40 lbs
---
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.
