The world-renowned 75-kilometer (47-mile) lifesaving route built in 1907 for shipwrecked mariners stretches along the coast between Bamfield and Port Renfrew. Its reputation as one of the most grueling treks in North America is an attraction in

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The world-renowned 75-kilometer (47-mile) lifesaving route built in 1907 for shipwrecked mariners stretches along the coast between Bamfield and Port Renfrew. Its reputation as one of the most grueling treks in North America is an attraction in itself. Its demands on backpackers include fording streams; climbing cliff-side ladders; negotiating steep slopes; following slippery—and often rain-soaked—pathways; and, of course, surviving a weeklong self-sufficient immersion. The trail runs along beaches and through temperate rainforest, entailing constant ascents and descents, along with creek crossings on foot, by cable car and watertaxi. Highlights include Tsusiat Falls, a beautiful, high and wide cascade that plunges into a pool on the beach, impressive sandstone formations, marine life, giant rainforest, ocean exposure, relic cabins, fragments of shipwrecks and plenty of lookouts. Parks Canada does not recommend the trail for children under twelve.

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