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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.
68 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.9 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.
0.5-1h
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

Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop

Wild Pacific Trail
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop is a fantastic hiking route near Ucluelet, BC, that offers several beach access points, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and the chance to visit a functional lighthouse. This 1.8mi trail is well-maintained and features no stairs or steep sections, making it ideal for hikers of all skill and mobility levels. This hike is perfect for those who love scenic ocean views, hanging out by the beach, or visiting historical sites.

Route Description for Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop

Hiking along the Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop is a fun, exciting, and educational experience that almost everyone can enjoy as there is so much to do and see along this short route. While the Wild Pacific Trail is broken up into three non-consecutive trails in the Ucluelet area, the Lighthouse Loop lies south of the town and is arguably the most beautiful. With the trail’s reputation as a popular tourist destination comes the increased levels of foot traffic and strain on the parking infrastructure. If you want to guarantee yourself a parking space close by and have the trail to yourself, make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds. High foot traffic aside, this is a spectacular trail that offers so much for hikers with all types of interests. Those who enjoy visiting historical sites can check out the lighthouse built in 1915 or take a guided tour to learn more about the area. Wildlife lovers can explore the local plant life and whale watching, and people who enjoy spending time by the water can visit one of several beaches just off the trail. No matter your secondary interests, everyone who hikes along the Lighthouse Loop will be taken aback by the natural beauty, and picturesque scenery found along this special stretch of Pacific coastline. Setting out from the parking area, head east and follow the trail into the forest, where you will soon reach a junction. Go right and follow along the wooden boardwalk for 722ft as it heads towards the rocky edge of the water. Reaching another junction, take the trail to the right to follow the water’s edge, and you will quickly come to a monument for the Graveyard of the Pacific. This part of the coast stretching from Vancouver Island to Oregon was infamous for the number of shipwrecks in its waters during the 18th century. Continuing along the trail, you will pass by several scenic vantage points that overlook the captivating expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Roughly 1148ft after the Graveyard of the Pacific Monument, you will come to another junction. Follow the path to the left to head towards the Amphitrite Lighthouse, an active lighthouse built in 1906 and replaced with the current structure in 1915. After the lighthouse, the trail will turn north and pass by a few lookouts on the left before making its way around the edge of a rocky beach. This is a great spot to explore the rugged coastal landscape that characterizes this stretch of the island. As you continue through the temperate rainforest, the trail will meander along the edge of the coast until you get to He-Tin-Kis Beach. Here, hikers can sit in the sun and enjoy the nice views over the water. After wrapping up at the beach, follow the trail to the east as it begins to cut through the thick forest on a route back to the trailhead. Along this part of the hike, you will be able to witness the beautiful biodiversity of the West Coast temperate rainforest in its full glory. Arriving at Coast Guard Drive, make your way over the road to pick the trail back up and head into the parking area on the right, having completed the Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop. Trail Highlights Amphitrite Point Lighthouse The Amphitrite Point Lighthouse is an active lighthouse in Ucluelet, BC. It is actually the only one in the Tofino area that can be reach by land, with others only accessible by boat. The original wooden structure was built in 1906 but was destroyed during a storm in 1914. The current concrete lighthouse has been in operation since 1915. The lighthouse is named after the Greek sea goddess and Poseidon’s wife, Amphitrite.

Insider Hints for Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop

  • Arrive early to secure parking and beat the crowds.
  • Book a lighthouse tour if you want to learn more about the historical sites in the area.
  • Bring your swimwear to jump in for a refreshing dip at one of the several beaches along the route.
  • Keep an eye out for whales while looking out over the ocean from numerous viewpoints.

Getting to the Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop Trailhead

To get to the Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop from Ucluelet, head southeast on Peninsula Road for 1.2mi and turn right onto Coast Guard Drive. You will find the parking area on the left at 1312ft.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Wild Pacific Trail – Lighthouse Loop Elevation Graph

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