West Coast Trail Friends Adventure

Expedition Itinerary: West Coast Trail Adventure

Primary Objective: through hike

Trip Duration: 7 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: 48.7285, -125.0000 to 48.5546, -124.4212

- Permits: Obtain through Parks Canada website

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DAY 1: Pachena Bay to Darling River

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +200 ft

- Terrain description: Dense forest paths, beach walking

- Notable features or side quests: Pachena Lighthouse

- Key water sources: Darling River

- Campsite location: Darling River Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery boardwalks

- Trail tip: Start early to enjoy the lighthouse

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DAY 2: Darling River to Tsusiat Falls

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +300 ft

- Terrain description: Rock shelves, forest trails

- Notable features or side quests: Tsusiat Falls

- Key water sources: Tsusiat River

- Campsite location: Tsusiat Falls Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear territory; use food caches

- Trail tip: Take time at the falls for photography

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DAY 3: Tsusiat Falls to Nitinat Narrows

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +250 ft

- Terrain description: Mixed beach and forest

- Notable features or side quests: Hot lunch at Nitinat Narrows

- Key water sources: Nitinat River

- Campsite location: Provided after crossing (subject to availability)

- Wildlife or safety notes: Check tide schedules

- Trail tip: Enjoy the local seafood

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DAY 4: Nitinat Narrows to Cribs Creek

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +300 ft

- Terrain description: Sandy beaches, rugged paths

- Notable features or side quests: Scenic ocean views

- Key water sources: Cribs Creek

- Campsite location: Cribs Creek Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Marine wildlife sightings possible

- Trail tip: Be mindful of tides and beach access

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DAY 5: Cribs Creek to Walbran Creek

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +450 ft

- Terrain description: Clifftop paths, beach segments

- Notable features or side quests: Sea arches

- Key water sources: Walbran Creek

- Campsite location: Walbran Creek Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for changing weather conditions

- Trail tip: Use trekking poles for steep sections

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DAY 6: Walbran Creek to Camper Bay

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +500 ft

- Terrain description: Challenging beach routes, ladders

- Notable features or side quests: Shelf hike experience

- Key water sources: Camper Creek

- Campsite location: Camper Bay Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Robust surf at high tide

- Trail tip: Secure footing on wet rocks

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DAY 7: Camper Bay to Gordon River

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4 miles, +1000 ft

- Terrain description: Dense forest, ladder climbs

- Notable features or side quests: Final ladder ascent

- Key water sources: Gordon River

- Campsite location: None (end of trail)

- Wildlife or safety notes: Completion photo op at trail’s end

- Trail tip: Take the late ferry from Gordon River for flexibility

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Darling River, Tsusiat Falls, Nitinat Narrows, Cribs Creek, Walbran Creek, Camper Bay

- Fire restrictions: Check current regulations

- Bear safety and food storage: Utilize provided food caches

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Tsusiat Falls, Cribs Creek

- Noise level or solitude factor: Varies; popular sites may be busy

- Nearest water source: Each campsite has nearby water

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 50-70°F

- Sun exposure: Limited under forest canopy

- Acclimatization tips: Not applicable; low elevation

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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 critical; use quick-dry clothing for variable weather

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Lighthouse visits along the trail

- Photo-worthy moments: Stunning coastal views throughout

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Visit Port Renfrew's local eateries for a hearty meal

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 5-7 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise with sunrise, rest by sunset

- Estimated calories burned per day: ~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.