Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Vancouver Island, BC
British Columbia is known for its natural beauty, which is on prime display at the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, this protected reserve is home to pristine beaches and a wide range of outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking to kayaking. During the warmer months, it’s also a popular place for camping.
The basics
Explore the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island on a trip to this national park reserve. You can choose between experiences such as hiking the West Coast Trail across suspension bridges and through old-growth forests, and kayaking through the Broken Group Islands. Some people go for half a day to surf or walk the beaches, while others camp to experience the park day and night.
Things to know before you go
This park reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers, birders, and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Park access is year-round, but certain trails like the West Coast Trail are only open seasonally, from May through September.
There are several options for entry passes, including a beach walk pass, a daily pass, and an annual pass; entry is free for those 17 and under.
Scenic drives are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and a multi-use pathway offers a stretch of paved trail, but beaches and hiking trails have limited accessibility.
How to get there
Visitors reach Long Beach Unit—and gain access to this national reserve—by flight from Vancouver or by ferry to Nanaimo. The flight from Vancouver takes about 1 hour, while the drive from the ferry terminal at Nanimo takes about 3 hours. Many people choose to rent a car to explore the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve at their own pace.
When to get there
For the best accessibility to this park reserve, plan a trip from May through September, when trails and facilities are open for the warm-weather season. Before any visit, check the park’s website for up-to-date details on trail conditions. July and August are the most popular time of year to visit, so plan ahead at this time, especially if you want to reserve a campground.
Camping in the Broken Group Islands
One of the most desirable backcountry experiences in this park reserve is camping in the Broken Group Islands, which you can only reach by boat or kayak. Stay overnight on one of seven islands and discover sheltered bays and quiet beaches during a kayak adventure. (Note that reservations for overnight camping are required.)
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