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    Schooner Cove Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    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
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    1.9 km
    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
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
    Schooner Cove Trail

    The Schooner Cove Trail is a 1.9 km 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.

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    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 14.4 km 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

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