In August 2023, I hiked the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island. It’s probably my favorite backpacking trail to date and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

So many folks on the trail were surprised when I told them I was doing the trail solo and how that took a lot of courage. But what I think it really takes is trust – trust in yourself and your abilities (both physical and mental) and also trust in other people you meet on the trail. I gained a whole trail family as well as a bunch of bruises and blisters (yellow jackets are evil and so are my boots) but I couldn’t be happier. Forever grateful for this healing journey and thankful to the Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht and Pacheedaht First Nations who continue to steward this land. 

Day 1: Pacheena Bay to Michigan Creek – 12 km

Day 2: Michigan Creek to Tsusiat Falls – 12 km

Day 3: Tsusiat Falls to Nitinaht Narrows to Cribs Creek – 16.5 km

Day 4: Cribs Creek to Walbran – 11.5 km

Day 5: Walbran to Camper – 9.2 km

Day 6: Camper to Thrasher – 7.8 km

Day 7: Thrasher to Gordon River – 5 km

Total: 7 days and 75 km