West Coast Solo Adventure Trek
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, Vancouver Island BC to Port Renfrew Trailhead, Vancouver Island BC
- GPS coordinates: 48.7270, -125.0010 (Pachena Bay), 48.5539, -124.4172 (Port Renfrew)
- Permits: Obtain through the Parks Canada website for the West Coast Trail
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DAY 1: Pachena Bay to Darling River
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +400 ft
- Terrain description: Dense forest, beach stretches
- Notable features or side quests: Pachena Lighthouse
- Key water sources: Pachena River
- Campsite location: Darling River
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slick rocks
- Trail tip: Start early to adjust to trail conditions
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DAY 2: Darling River to Tsusiat Falls
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +600 ft
- Terrain description: Pebbled shores, forested path
- Notable features or side quests: Tsusiat Falls
- Key water sources: Klanawa River
- Campsite location: Tsusiat Falls
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be bear-aware
- Trail tip: Use hiking poles for extra stability
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DAY 3: Tsusiat Falls to Cribs Creek
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 11 miles, +500 ft
- Terrain description: Sandy shores, boardwalks
- Notable features or side quests: Sea Lion Rock
- Key water sources: Carmanah Creek
- Campsite location: Cribs Creek
- Wildlife or safety notes: Tides may affect progress
- Trail tip: Plan crossings with tide charts
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DAY 4: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Rocky headlands, forest sections
- Notable features or side quests: Bonilla Point
- Key water sources: Walbran Creek
- Campsite location: Walbran Creek
- Wildlife or safety notes: Check for strong currents
- Trail tip: Footwear with good traction recommended
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DAY 5: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +900 ft
- Terrain description: Steep climbs, ladders
- Notable features or side quests: Logan Creek Suspension Bridge
- Key water sources: Camper Creek
- Campsite location: Camper Bay
- Wildlife or safety notes: Slippery ladders
- Trail tip: Stagger rest and hydration stops
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DAY 6: Camper Bay to Port Renfrew
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Challenging footing, rugged coastline
- Notable features or side quests: Owen Point
- Key water sources: None; carry enough from previous
- Campsite location: Reach Port Renfrew
- Wildlife or safety notes: Mind the tides at Owen Point
- Trail tip: Early start ensures timely shuttle catch
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Darling River, Tsusiat Falls, Cribs Creek, Walbran Creek, Camper Bay
- Fire restrictions: Fires allowed in designated fire rings
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear caches provided
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Tsusiat Falls, Bonilla Point
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate; varies by campsite
- Nearest water source: Listed at each campsite
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 50-70°F in August
- Sun exposure: Coastal exposure, sunscreen needed
- Acclimatization tips: N/A as altitude is low
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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: Waterproof boots are essential; pack light but warm layers
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Explore Owen Point sea caves
- Photo-worthy moments: Capture sunsets at Tsusiat Falls
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Enjoy local seafood in Port Renfrew
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise with daylight, sleep by dusk
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-35 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.
