You'll want a good zoom lens for the sea lions.
You should cross Owen Point at low tide. But if the tide is too high you can often scramble over the point. We have reports of groups getting stuck on the rocks at very high tides.
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Heading towards Bamfield the hiking gets slightly easier though it is still challenging even at low tide. Slippery surge channels interrupt progress. Bypass those that look difficult by scrambling around.
Blisters and Bliss recommends you ascend at the next access past 150 Yard Creek, near km 65. If you bypass that one you’ll come to a dangerous surge channel which can ruin your day if you hit it at the wrong time.
Actually, we recommend you stay on the coast as long as you can ... but not too long. Many hikers stay on the shelf too long & are forced to backtrack. Watch the map & scramble up one of the marked beach access points to the forest Trail. The last access is near km 64.
It’s a relief to get up on to the boggy, muddy, but peaceful, quiet old growth forest trail. The boardwalks are mostly in good shape.
Most people arrive at Camper exhausted, but relieved to have survived the most difficult section of the Trail.
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Heading towards Thrasher the shelf is gorgeous & challenging; gargantuan boulders, huge drift logs, treacherous footing! Psyche up for this section! It challenges everyone!
We think this section of coast is the most difficult on the Trail. Negotiating the huge algae-covered boulders poses the greatest risk of injury. You can bypass a few of the slippery boulders by using huge beached logs as shortcuts – if you are a former gymnast, experienced at walking the balance beam.
If in doubt, drop your pack and check the route unencumbered. Keep a “comfort” rope handy when first crossing slippery surge channels. It won’t necessarily save you, but it will help you balance.
