Nootka Trail – A Journey Through History and Wilderness
Explore the wild beauty of Nootka Island on a 5-day guided trek along the Nootka Trail. With fewer hikers on this trail, you’ll experience a profound connection to nature, wildlife, and the unique landscapes of this incredible region. Remote, rugged, and deeply rewarding, the Nootka Trail is an adventure that immerses hikers in the wild spirit of Canada’s west coast.
Trip Highlights
This 37 km route weaves through lush temperate rainforest, windswept beaches, rugged headlands, and tidal rock shelves, providing a true backcountry experience far from the crowds.
Rich in Indigenous history, the trail follows the ancestral lands of the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, whose deep connection to the land is evident in ancient village sites and cultural landmarks along the way.
Wildlife thrives in this untouched landscape—black bears roam the shores, eagles soar overhead, and sea otters and whales can often be spotted just offshore. Every step reveals the raw beauty of the Pacific coast, with sea caves, towering cliffs, and driftwood-strewn beaches creating a dramatic and ever-changing backdrop.
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Duration: 5 days, including transportation logistics and preparation.
Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for hikers with good fitness and a love for remote, wild terrain.
Season: May to September.
Group Size: Maximum 6 participants per guide for an intimate experience.
Price: $1500 per person.
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Included
Professional ACMG hiking guide for safety, navigation, and insights.
Pre-trip, virtual meet up for resources & packing recommendations.
Transfers between Tahsis, Tongue Point, and Yuquot via sea plane.
Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations access fees.
Nootka Island map for reference and navigation.
Not Included
Transportation to and from Tahsis (staging area).
Pre- and post-trip accommodations in Tahsis.
Travel to the staging area.
Accommodation before/after the trip.
Personal backpacking gear, clothing & food (we’ll provide a detailed guide on what to bring).
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Day 1: The Journey Begins
Meet in Thasis, BC for a trip briefing.
Gear check, and orientation.
Travel via sea plane to Tongue Point and hike to your first coastal campsite.
Days 2-4: Full Immersion into Nootka Island
Journey along the Nootka Trail, crossing rocky headlands and and lush rainforest sections.
Search for glass balls whilst crossing pristine beaches.
Enjoy camping beachside or bathing in Calvin Falls.
Day 5: Triumph & Return
Complete your hike at Yuquot.
Yuquot is a national historic site and stands as a powerful symbol of Indigenous resilience, early global trade, and the complex history of Canada’s west coast.
Celebrate your adventure as you return to Tahsis whilst taking in the views you just experienced, this time from above.
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Requirements
Fitness Level: Participants should have moderate fitness, capable of hiking 10-12 kilometers per day on uneven terrain with a loaded pack.
Experience Level: Varied terrain types means prior multi-day backpacking experience is recommended. Beach hiking can be tiring, although flat.
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After completing the remote and breathtaking Nootka Trail, you’ll be ready for even more ambitious backcountry adventures. Consider hiking the North Coast Trail, a rugged and challenging route that showcases Vancouver Island’s untamed northern coastline. For an alpine experience, explore the Strathcona Park area, where multi-day routes like the Comox Glacier Traverse offer stunning mountain vistas and technical challenges.
Why book?
The Nootka Trail offers a rare blend of cultural history, remote wilderness, and stunning landscapes. With VIBE’s expert guidance, you’ll safely navigate this challenging yet rewarding journey, creating memories of pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring coastal scenery.
Book your spot today and experience the unparalleled beauty of Nootka Island!