Hikes in Tofino

Hiking along the picturesque coastal landscapes surrounding Tofino is the perfect way to fully appreciate the diversity and natural beauty that British Columbia has to offer. Not only will you be able to experience the wonderfully atmospheric rainforests that characterize the western portions of the province, but you will also be able to explore the coastal playground that offers access to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

While most tourists will come to Tofino during the hotter, dryer summer months, any seasoned traveller to the area will tell you to come explore this oceanside retreat during the off-season. During this time, you will not only avoid the crowds, but you will be able to fully experience the natural beauty of the landscape and atmospheric climate that make this place so unique. Whether you are looking to hike through a dense rainforest filled with ancient trees or take a leisurely stroll along the beach, Tofino is the perfect destination for exploring the rugged coastal areas of Vancouver Island.

The 10 Greatest Hikes In Tofino

While Tofino may be a bit remote in comparison to other cities on Vancouver Island, there are a number of amazing hiking routes in close proximity to the town that can be easily accessed. From relaxing beach walks for beginners to more intense slogs through the dense canopy of the rainforest, you will be sure to find the perfect adventure to match your skill level.

One of the most popular hiking activities in the area - thanks to the picturesque location along the Pacific Ocean - are sunset walks along the beach. With a number of gorgeous sandy beaches only a short drive from Tofino, you will no doubt experience more than your fair share of these stunning sunsets that are framed by the crashing of the waves along the coast. If you are looking for something a bit more challenging and remote, try taking a boat out to a nearby island in order to traverse some more rugged and physically demanding terrain. If you are hiking in Tofino, the one thing that surely won’t be lacking is amazing views that scratch out along the rugged and rocky, yet beautiful terrain of the coast.

• Wild Pacific Trail - Lighthouse Loop: This is a spectacular hike near Ucluelet that provides several beach access points and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This 2.9 km trail is well-maintained and features steep sections, making it ideal for hikers of all ages. With the chance to visit a functional lighthouse, this hike is perfect for those who love picturesque ocean views and visiting historical sites.
• Schooner Cove Trail: This short out-and-back hiking route will take you through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, providing the chance to experience the wonderfully atmospheric West Coast rainforest while walking along a boardwalk. Make sure to time your hike with the low tide to fully explore the coastal landscape along the stunning Schooners Beach.
• South Beach Trail: This 1.7 km hiking route near Tofino takes you through the dense canopy of a coastal forest to arrive at several vantage points with scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy your time on South Beach, a secluded spot along the water where you can watch the waves crash against the rugged rock formations. This hike is also great for whale-watching and checking out the surfers as they ride the waves of Wickaninnish Beach.
• Wild Pacific Trail: The entire Wild Pacific Trail is divided into three non-continuous sections, but this scenic stretch is the longest, following along the shoreline from Brown’s Beach to the Rocky Bluffs near the Ancient Cedars Trail. This hike is great for looking out over the deep blue waters of the ocean and watching the mesmerizing waves crash against the rocky shore.
• Long Beach: This 8.2 km route is more of a leisurely walk along the beach than a true hike. While out on the trail you will experience the scenic coastal atmosphere and take in some amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, before arriving at the rocky terrain surrounding Green Point.
• Cox Bay Lookout: This short route near Tofino will take you up to a scenic vantage point with sweeping views overlooking the bay. Although short, this trail is no cake walk, as you will climb up exposed rocks and roots to access the viewpoint. You will need some basic route finding skills for this journey; however, the incredible views here are well worth the effort, as you will have an amazing sightline overlooking the entire area.
• Big Tree Trail: This scenic loop will take you through the dense rainforests of Meares Island to view several huge and ancient trees. The trail has an almost magical atmosphere, as you walk along the wooden boardwalk and look out onto the mature trees and thick underbrush that characterizes this diverse landscape. You will need to make prior arrangements to access the island, as this trail is only accessible by boat.
• Canso Crash Site Trail: This 5.2 km hiking route south of Tofino will take you across a variety of terrain in the dense forest to reach the location of a Royal Canadian Air Force plane crash that occurred in 1945. This hike is a great option for anyone looking to combine a fun day of hiking with a visit to a unique historical site.
• Radar Hill: This hike follows a very short loop trail that leads you through the forest to reach a charming lookout over the surrounding woodland landscape. Along the trail, you will also be able to visit several interesting historical sites from the Cold War Era. This quick adventure is a great option for those who love the outdoors and historical sites.
• 5040 Peak: This 6.9 km trek will take you uphill past the shores of Cobalt Lake for some amazingly scenic views overlooking the stunning Vancouver Island landscape. Hikers along this trail will experience beautiful woodland scenery, waterfalls, and alpine views as they hike along the Effingham River towards the summit viewpoint.

When is the Best Time to Hike in Tofino

If you are looking to explore Tofino during a time when the weather is most conducive to engaging in outdoor activities, then you will likely want to come during the summer months when the temperature is a bit hotter and less rainy. The downside to this is the throngs of tourists that have the same idea, flooding the small town with a higher volume of visitors to the area and placing more stress on the local infrastructure. If you are looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of this area in solitude, try planning your next hiking trip between October and May. The weather might be a bit soggy during this off-season period, but you are sure to get the full experience of exploring the wild west coast.

Other Outdoor Activities in Tofino

Tofino’s location along the west coast of Vancouver Island makes it an ideal place for a variety of water sports and sightseeing adventures. Possible activities include boating trips to nearby islands, paddling out on the Pacific Ocean, whale watching excursions, and some of the best surfing that can be found in Canada. If sticking to the land is your idea of a fun adventure, try zip-lining through the rainforest, storm watching along the coast, hitting the links for a few rounds of golf, or exploring the culinary specialties of the area on a food tour. It may be a small town, but there is no shortage of fun activities to do in Tofino.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tofino

What is Tofino known for?

One of Canada’s westernmost towns, Tofino’s location on the west coast of Vancouver Island makes it a prime destination for all things water related. From gorgeous sunsets and long beach walks, to whale watching adventures and some of the best surfing in the country, Tofino is an amazing gateway to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

Hope long does it take to get to Tofino from Vancouver?

Travellers looking to take a road trip to Tofino from Vancouver will be in for a long but scenic journey across the rugged expanse of Vancouver Island. First, you will need to drive to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, before taking the 1.5-hour ferry to the city of Nanaimo. From there, it is a roughly 3-hour drive across the interior of the island to Tofino.

Does it rain a lot in Tofino?

Due to the temperate rainforest climate of the Tofino area, you can expect to experience a fair amount of rain year-round. Exceptions to this can be found during the summer months, when temperatures increase to produce a bit of a drier climate; however, this also coincides with the busy tourist season.