West Coast Trail

At a glance

Use these quick facts to compare this route with others in the thru-hikes hub.

Distance: 75 km
Time needed: 6 days
Difficulty: Hard
Continent: North America
Accommodation: Tent
Cost/day (all-in): Usd 75 150 Per Day

Why Hike It

West Coast Trail is one of North America's most iconic short thru-hikes, where route difficulty comes from terrain complexity rather than pure distance. It is a high-focus trip that rewards careful planning and disciplined pacing.

Trail Snapshot

Distance: 75 km
Typical duration: 6 days
Difficulty: Hard
Route style: Point To Point
Elevation gain: 2,100 m
Primary accommodation: tent

Highlights and Signature Sections

Ladders and cable sections: A distinctive technical identity unlike most coastal trails
Beach-and-forest transitions: Constant terrain variety and pacing shifts
Pacific exposure: High scenic payoff in a compact timeframe

Permits and Rules

Permit required: Yes, quota and reservation system applies
Official source: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/sco-wct

Tags: thru-hike north-america canada