The West Coast Trail

Operation: West Coast Trail Traverse

Mission Parameters:
Distance: 58 miles / 94 km
Route: North to South along Vancouver Island’s coastal corridor—Pachena Bay to Gordon River
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Objective: Full traverse of the West Coast Trail with overnight staging at Darling River, Tsusiat Falls, Cribs, Cullite Cove, and Thrasher Cove

Tactical Synopsis

The West Coast Trail is not a trail—it’s a crucible. The route carves through the broken coastline of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, forcing movement through beach landings, surge channels, deep forest bogs, and over 100 vertical ladder systems. Navigation is a hybrid of trail marker alignment, tidal intel, and terrain awareness. Critical timing is required at multiple beach sections to avoid impassable headlands and flooding estuaries.

Campsites doubled as essential morale stations. Tsusiat Falls offered freshwater and shelter beneath cliffs. Cullite Cove stood as a dramatic cove bordered by vertical rock and constant surf. Wildlife sign was present—bear tracks near Cribs noted, with seal and eagle sightings along the shoreline. Cable cars over major rivers (like Klanawa and Carmanah) required team effort and gear checks. Pack loadouts fluctuated with weather, which ranged from clear sky heat to cold, rain-soaked slogs.

After-Action & Debrief

Completion of the full 58-mile push confirmed operational readiness—this route punished hesitation and rewarded disciplined movement. Every kilometer required focus, from slippery boardwalks to log crossings in tide zones. The trail passes through unceded territory stewarded by the Huu‑ay‑aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht First Nations—respect for the land and its history was constant.

Team cohesion, load discipline, and weather adaptation were mission-critical. This is not a casual coastal stroll. It’s a field test in logistics, endurance, and leadership over one of the most rugged coastal lines in North America. Mission status: Complete. Ground respected. Lessons logged.