Adventure Plans
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
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