STOP #1: WILD PACIFIC TRAIL (8.8km, flat) - HIGHLIGHT!!!
Rated as the top outdoor attraction in BC, this trail was truly a journey right along the edge of the open Pacific Ocean, with its majesty, power and beauty in full sight. A large portion of this trail overlooks the open Pacific Ocean. It offers hikers various kinds of vistas and the perspectives are all different and interesting in their own ways.
What distinguishes the Wild Pacific Trail is a rocky coastline, and it is most commonly known for its mesmerizing coastal views. The trail leads you through an old gnarled forest with moss suspended from tree branches. The trail then leads you to astounding shoreline panoramas as it overlooks the Barkley Sound and Broken Group Islands across the Pacific Ocean.
STOP #2: WILD PACIFIC LIGHTHOUSE LOOP TRAIL (2.6km, flat)
This easy trail begins at the Whale parking lot midway on Coast Guard Road. Swivel right to reach the jagged and wind-swept coastline with breathtaking vistas of Barkley Sound and the lighthouse. The trail is literally a loop so you won't get lost, but you must follow the trail, and take precautions to avoid going too near the cliffs or the rocks as it is dangerous.
STOP #3: SCHOONER COVE TRAIL (2km, 336 stairs) TOWARDS LONG BEACH
As a short and relatively easy trail, this scenic hike leads you through lush rainforests and over wandering streams before alighting at a beachfront area.
The trail begins at the far corner of the parking lot, as it crosses a gravel road and enters the forest. The trail continues briefly on a gravel path before reaching a set of wooden stairs, which quickly descends into the forest. The forest floor is coated with green moss, and the trail continues on a series of stairs and boardwalks before descending into a tiny valley and bridge, which crosses a little creek.
As you wind through Schooner Cove's flourishing rainforest trail, you will listen to the ocean. Continue following the path, keep on the trail, and the beach is a short distance away.
This beautiful and pristine beach offers amazing views of a rocky outcrop, which can be accessed at low tides. However, it's important to be extremely careful as tides change really rapidly.
Head south along the ocean to Long Beach, a 10km expanse of beach that seems to stretch on for infinity.
Spotting a bald eagle was pretty awesome, there is plenty of wildlife in Tofino!
STOP #4: CLAYOQUOT SOUND
Raw, wild and free, this waterscape is definitely refreshing.
STOP #5: TONQUIN PARK TRAIL SUNSET (3km, 91 stairs)
The trail down to the beach takes approximately 15 minutes, is mostly stairs and is slightly dangerous so definitely be careful when descending.
We heard amazing things about Tofino sunsets, and this is where we were able to witness one, a pretty unforgettable sight.
