Hike to San Josef Bay
Details
Distance
1.6 miles
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Carrie Cole
This is an amazing all day adventure from Port Hardy to a vast vacant 2 kilometre beach complete with caves, tidal pools and sea stacks to explore!
San Josef Bay in Cape Scott Provincial Park is a hike-in park at the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island. The trailhead for San Josef Bay and Cape Scott is located 64 kilometres west of Port Hardy and can be reached by active logging Roads.
Once you reach the parking lot, the trail to San Josef Bay is a family friendly 2.5 kilometres from the trailhead, taking about 45 minutes one way. The trail can accommodate a jogging stroller for those hiking with small children. In fact, we shared the trail that day with a couple families who came equipped to stay for a few nights with their children. Much of their camping equipment was hauled into camp using kids wagons!
As we arrived at San Josef Bay, we were taken with the sheer vastness of the vacant beach. Awesome sea stacks which are accessible at low tide and are located between first and second beach. After waiting and planning the trip for many months I was filled with awe and emotion at first glimpse of the sea stacks. The wild trees growing atop them left me wondering how they can grow despite little soil, and the wild west coast storms! Sea caves accessible during low tide provide an opportunity for exploration.
Our day at San Josef Bay went by far too quickly. We often talk of our adventure there hoping to return. We had the beach to ourselves for a great portion of the day which is almost unheard of. It is peaceful, awe-inspiring and a place easily enjoyed as a family!
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Reviews
Leave a ReviewRoads are garbage. Beaches dirty... not worth the trip
Drove for so long! Almost died from a logging truck. Wolves and garbage all over the beach. Not worth the trip!! Stay home
1.0
Just Beautiful
This spot had been on my bucket list for a while to check out and a couple of weeks ago I finally did. It is utterly stunning and rugged. I love northern Vancouver Island.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
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