Hike The Wild Pacific Trail In Ucluelet, Canada

On the west coast of Vancouver Island lies one of the most iconic hikes on the island – the Wild Pacific Trail.

This place is a quintessential Pacific Northwest hike – scenic views, epic sunsets, and photographic opportunities around every corner.

In fact, dare we say it’s probably even better after a storm? Or even in the rain? It’s just THAT gorgeous!

Wild Pacific Trail Sign in Ucluelet Tofino

Stormy shoreline on Wild Pacific Trail - West Coast Vancouver Island

In this post, we’ve got all the tips you’ll need to make the most out of your hike here. Let’s get to it!

Hike the Wild Pacific Trail near Tofino, Canada

Table Of Contents

Hike the Wild Pacific Trail near Tofino, Canada
History of the Wild Pacific Trail
Where to Stay in Ucluelet (or Tofino)
The Best Time to hike the Wild Pacific Trail
Trail Details
The Wild Pacific Trail (Breakdown of Things To See)
Things To Do Nearby (Ucluelet and Tofino)
More Things To Do on Vancouver Island

History of the Wild Pacific Trail

The Wild Pacific Trail is located in Ucluelet (pronounced ‘you-clue-let”) just south of Tofino.

Along the trail, you will see a wide range of ecosystems, including coastal forests, bogs, and mudflats, which you can learn about on your hike from interpretive signs or on a guided walk.

The original residents of the area were the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ, or Ucluelet First Nation, who were stewards of the area.

They follow resources like salmon, herring, salal berries, and other wild plants to support their coastal diet. Using Cedar trees for shelter, clothing, and tools, this area was abundant in resources for the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ people in the past.

You can learn more about the history of the land and the Ucluelet First Nation along the Terrace Beach Interpretive Trail.

The trailhead for this is at He-Tin-Kis Park or add this trail to your hike along the Wild Pacific Trail.

Emily Mandagie standing in front of Amphitrite Point Lighthouse

You will also see the Amphitrite Lighthouse, which was built in 1906 after the Pass of Melfort got caught in a storm on Christmas Day and crashed into the headland.

In 1915, the lighthouse was replaced to better withstand storms, especially after the first was knocked down by a tidal wave!

Where to Stay in Ucluelet (or Tofino)

Places To Stay In Tofino - Ocean Village Resort

Hiking in Tofino - Tonquin Beach, Third Beach Wooden Bridge in the forest

There are plenty of places to stay in Ucluelet/Tofino. Either place is great, because there are an abundance of hikes in between towns, especially in Pacific Rim National Park.

The West Coast Motel on the Harbour in Ucluelet is super close to the Wild Pacific Trail and has all the perks of staying close to town ($115 per night).

Green Point Campground in Pacific Rim National Park is a good budget-friendly option ($32 per night) that overlooks a sandy beach and is a convenient midway point between Ucluelet and Tofino.

The Best Time to hike the Wild Pacific Trail

Waves crashing during sunset in Ucluelet, Canada

The best time to hike the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet is right after a coastal storm!

This is when the waves haven’t quite died down yet, and crashing waves are still making a dramatic scene right off shore. Just make sure to bring a rain jacket!

Visit during the annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival in mid-March to celebrate the return of the Pacific Gray Whales to the west coast of Vancouver Island. It’s a fun time to enjoy the natural scenery and see whales!

There are also tons of interpretive programs hosted by the Wild Pacific Trail Society every day, making this the perfect destination for families with kids.

Trail Details

Distance: 1.9 mile loop, 209’ elevation gain
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Ucluelet, BC
Fees? None
Parking: Medium lot at trailhead or at Amphitrite Lighthouse
Restrooms: Available at trailhead

Rocky shoreline of the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet, Canada

The Wild Pacific Trail (Breakdown of Things To See)

There are a few ways to enjoy the Wild Pacific Trail, making it one of the coolest hikes near Tofino!

The most popular way to hike this trail is walking clockwise on the Lighthouse Loop to enjoy beaches, the historic Amphitrite Lighthouse, and notable scenic lookouts along the way.

There are no stairs on this loop and the trail is well maintained! The trail to the lighthouse is paved and wheelchair accessible.

You can add the Bog Interpretive Loop or Spring Cove Mudflat Interpretive Trail to extend your hike.

Alternatively, you could hike the trail counterclockwise, thus reaching them first while on the main loop!

Shoreline of Ucluelet near Tofino, Canada

You can also hike the Artist Loop, which is another extension to the Wild Pacific Trail. It follows the west coast and ends at the Ancient Cedars Loop and Rocky Bluffs (you can start here, too).

This loop does not connect with the main Wild Pacific Trail loop. Rather, it’s just a section or “satellite” portion of the Wild Pacific Trail!

Things To Do Nearby (Ucluelet and Tofino)

Now that you’re out here, what else is there to do?

Check out the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve! It’s a large park that includes a vast beach, tons of small islands, and lots of epic hiking.

The Clayoquot Sound is another cool destination where you can stay at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge and go on a wildlife tour with Clayoquot Wild.

The Broken Group Islands are a cluster of 100 islands, islets, and rocky outcrops. They are super popular for kayakers and paddlers! Rent a kayak from Broken Islands Lodge to jumpstart your adventure.