FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why the quota on hikers?
In 1992 a quota system was put in place to limit environmental impact. We like the restriction. Lets keep the WCT as pristine as possible. Anyone who can’t get on the WCT can hike the Juan de Fuca or Nootka Trail instead as neither have quotas.
Frustrated with this policy? There is no quota during shoulder season. Therefore you are guaranteed to be able to hike from the trailhead of your choice starting:
- May 1 - June 14
- Sept 16 - Sept 30
updated Trail use peaked in 1990 when over 9300 hikers did the West Coast Trail with no quota in place. In the 2002 hiking season, only 5600 of the 8000 available spots were taken — no reservation is needed during the shoulder season.
Don’t consider bushwhacking in -- the Wardens keep close track of everyone on the Trail. They will check your trail Permit, probably several times.
What is the required Orientation Session?
Before being allowed to buy your Permit, every hiker is required to attend a 90 minute session at one of the two Trailhead Information Centres. You'll get a lecture & short video. Each hiker is given a map, and asked to update it with the latest trail conditions & potential hazards. You’ll get a copy of the tide tables.
Gordon River (Port Renfrew) orientation sessions are offered at 9:30 a.m., 12:00 noon, 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Pachena Bay (Bamfield) orientation sessions are offered at 9:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.
Check the posted Hiker Advisory at the trailhead.
Check which of the solar composting toilets are still working, and which have been washed-out to sea or otherwise disabled.
Check the status of the cable cars.
This is your last chance to ask questions. (Some hikers, after hearing the scary details, decide not to hike the WCT and set off instead for the slightly less demanding Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.)
You purchase your Trail Use Permit — store it immediately in a waterproof baggie — it includes instructions on what to do if you are injured & need help.
If you arrive after 1 pm on the day of your scheduled departure, your Permit may be sold to hikers waiting. Telephone if you are going to be late:
- Port Renfrew (Gordon River WCT Registration) -- 250 647-5434
- Bamfield (Pachena Bay WCT Registration) -- 250 728-3234
Tip: You can attend Orientation & pickup your Park Use Permit one day in advance (e.g. 3:30 pm) if you want to get an early start the next morning. This is an especially good idea if you are starting from Port Renfrew as you are facing a long, tough day to Thrasher. In fact, you can attend Orientation at one Trailhead & start hiking from the other.
In 2004 hikers were give a free WCT t-shirt. Whoo hoo!
At the end of your hike “Register-Off” the Trail and advise the officers of any problems you experienced.
More details on Orientation from Parks Canada.
Sea star in tidal pool.
