Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
47 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Schooner Cove Trail

Schooner Cove Trail
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The Schooner Cove Trail is a 1.2mi out-and-back hiking route through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve near Tofino that will allow hikers to experience the beautiful West Coast rainforest along a boardwalk. Descending the series of wooden steps, you will arrive at the edge of the ocean on Schooners Beach. Time your hike with the low tide to fully explore the coastal landscape.

Route Description for Schooner Cove Trail

Hiking along the Schooner Cove Trail is a magical experience in the Tofino area that will allow you to experience the natural beauty of the coastal rainforest landscape; however, there are several things to keep in mind when you decide to head out on this trail. The route follows along a wooden boardwalk through the rainforest and has several steps built-in so that hikers can descend the terrain and access the beach. Due to the number of steps, hikers with limited mobility and families with strollers will not be able to use the trail safely. Additionally, the area around the beach is at the mercy of the tide, and hikers looking to explore the area should practice caution around the water’s edge.

This hike is a great way to get out and explore the varied landscapes that make the Tofino area so beautiful and unique. Along the trail, you will be able to explore the almost magical atmosphere within the dense stretch of old-growth Pacific Temperate Rainforest before emerging on the white sandy beaches of Schooner Cove. Depending on the tide, you will be able to walk the length of the beach and explore the rocky terrain around the point while gazing out at the mesmerizing waters of the Pacific Ocean. This short trail is a must-do if you are in the Tofino area.

Setting out from the parking area, enter into the forest and follow the trail as it makes its way across Nuu Piit Taah Chilth Road and re-enters the dense tree cover. Following the boardwalk, you will very quickly come to a stream crossing. Make your way over the stream and continue on the wooden path through the mystical atmosphere of the rainforest. Along this stretch of the trail, you will be surrounded by massive old-growth cedar and hemlock trees that are covered in thick moss and seem to be almost dripping from the high levels of moisture in the air.

After working your way down the boardwalk and countless steps, you will eventually exit the wooded confines of the forest and onto the white sandy expanse of Schooner Beach. From here, you will be able to explore the coastal landscape and, depending on the tide, work your way around the rocky point to Schooner Cove. When you’ve had your fill of the scenic views overlooking the Pacific Ocean, enter the rainforest for your return journey along the wooden boardwalk to the parking area.

Insider Hints for Schooner Cove Trail

  • Time your hike with the low tide to explore the rocky point around Schooner Beach.
  • There are many stairs along the trail that will make travel difficult for less mobile hikers.
  • Arrive early to ensure that you get a parking spot.

Getting to the Schooner Cove Trail Trailhead

To reach the parking area for the Schooner Cove Trail from Tofino, head to the southeast on BC-4 for 8.9mi and make a right turn to enter the parking lot.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Schooner Cove Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter