West Coast Trail Friends Expedition

Expedition Itinerary: West Coast Trail Traverse

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, BC to Gordon River, BC

- GPS coordinates: 48.7262, -125.0084 (start), 48.5378, -124.4221 (end)

- Permits: Obtain permits through the Parks Canada website or call the reservation line.

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DAY 1: Pachena Bay to Michigan Creek

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

- Terrain description: Dense coastal forest, sandy beaches

- Notable features or side quests: Pachena Lighthouse

- Key water sources: Filter from nearby creeks

- Campsite location: Michigan Creek

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery boardwalks

- Trail tip: Start early to enjoy the cooler morning air

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DAY 2: Michigan Creek to Tsusiat Falls

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +500 ft

- Terrain description: Beaches and cliffside trails

- Notable features or side quests: Tsusiat Falls

- Key water sources: Falls provide ample water

- Campsite location: Tsusiat Falls

- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of high tides

- Trail tip: Relax and enjoy a swim at the falls

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DAY 3: Tsusiat Falls to Klanawa River

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +700 ft

- Terrain description: Varied terrain, forested areas

- Notable features or side quests: Explore sandstone cliffs

- Key water sources: Klanawa River

- Campsite location: Klanawa River

- Wildlife or safety notes: Check tidal charts for safe passage

- Trail tip: Set up camp early to explore the area

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DAY 4: Klanawa River to Nitinat Narrows

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, +400 ft

- Terrain description: Mixed forest and beach sections

- Notable features or side quests: Nitinat Narrows hot lunch

- Key water sources: Narrows crossing

- Campsite location: Provided by dining area

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for boats at the narrows

- Trail tip: Take a break and enjoy the local cuisine

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DAY 5: Nitinat Narrows to Cribs Creek

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

- Terrain description: Rocky beaches, tidal zones

- Notable features or side quests: Stunning coastal views

- Key water sources: Streams at Cribs Creek

- Campsite location: Cribs Creek

- Wildlife or safety notes: Pack out all waste

- Trail tip: Tide tables are crucial for safe beach walking

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DAY 6: Cribs Creek to Camper Bay

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1000 ft

- Terrain description: More challenging terrain, ladders

- Notable features or side quests: Check out old shipwrecks

- Key water sources: Small streams en route

- Campsite location: Camper Bay

- Wildlife or safety notes: Bears may frequent the area

- Trail tip: Test ladders for sturdiness

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DAY 7: Camper Bay to Gordon River

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +700 ft

- Terrain description: Forested path and beach sections

- Notable features or side quests: Final beach walk

- Key water sources: Streams near Gordon River

- Campsite location: None, end hike

- Wildlife or safety notes: Congratulate your team for completion

- Trail tip: Arrange for shuttle pickup well in advance

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CAMPSITE INTEL

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

- Fire restrictions: Fires allowed in designated areas only

- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear caches provided

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

- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate noise at popular sites

- Nearest water source: Creeks and falls at each campsite

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 50-70°F in August

- Sun exposure: Limited shade, use sun protection

- Acclimatization tips: No concerns, low altitude

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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: Consider bringing trekking poles for stability on ladders and rocky terrain. Opt for waterproof gear to combat coastal moisture.

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Explore hidden beaches off main route

- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Tsusiat Falls

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Enjoy fresh seafood in Port Renfrew

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 5-7 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise with sunset rest

- Estimated calories burned per day: ~2,500 calories

- Water needed per person: ~3-4 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 35-45 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.