North Coast Trail

North Coast Trail is a one-way wilderness backpacking trek along the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, routed through Cape Scott Provincial Park. Typical completion is 5–8 days, and the trip runs for about 43 km through the park before continuing with an additional coastal connector section that brings many itineraries to ~58 km when combined with the Cape Scott Trail.

The trail is marked by dense coastal rainforest, upland bog and marsh sections, and long beach stretches that require tide awareness. Expect extensive mud and slow travel, with rope-assisted climbs/descents, fixed-cable crossings (cable cars), and uneven scrambling over roots and fallen timber.

If you hike east to west, the route becomes progressively easier in that direction. The eastern trailhead access is by boat or floatplane only (no road access to Shushartie Bay), and the western end ties into the Cape Scott area near Nissen Bight / the Cape Scott trailhead region for the return transport logistics.

Navigation is generally straightforward, but there are specific beach travel problems when water is high; some areas can be impractical or impassable at high tide, so plan beach timing and camp placement around the tide line.

Backcountry logistics are focused on self-sufficiency: the route is remote and not regularly patrolled, with limited supplies. Camp infrastructure is basic (pit toilets and bear caches/lockers are present at designated camps), and cell service is not dependable in the park, so carry a satellite communicator or other emergency plan.

Expect wildlife encounters in a predator-rich coastal wilderness (black bears, wolves, and cougars are all possible). Use bear-proof storage for food and scented items, and build your routine around tide, weather, and food safety rather than expecting easy, low-impact hiking conditions.

Weather is a defining constraint: northern Vancouver Island can bring rapid changes, including hard rain and thick fog. When conditions turn wet, check committed features like rope/cable sections before committing, and scout steep or slick crossings on approach—mud can drastically change footing and handholds.

More information: A Hiker's Guide to the North Coast Trail and Cape Scott Trail, A Guide to Backpacking the North Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island/North Coast Trail - The Mountaineers