Hike to Schooner Cove
2.49 Miles
Chillin, Photography, Hiking
Intermediate
Year Round
Out-and-Back
Schooner Cove in Pacific Rim National Park is a great afternoon adventure suitable for families. It features a rainforest, beautiful sandy beaches, and tide pools. This 4km roundtrip hike also includes 336 stairs you'll have to climb.
Park at the well marked parking lot off of the Pacific Rim Highway (4) about 16 kilometres south of Tofino. Start off on a relatively easy two kilometre trail. The scenic hike wanders through lush rainforest before arriving at a spectacular beachfront area. You will pass giant cedars, a number of small gullies and over a few bridges spanning small creeks. Near the end of the trail you will pass a 600 year old sitka spruce. As you get closer to the beach the rolling sounds of the ocean will greet you.
The pristine beach offers amazing views including rocky outcrops that can be accessed at low tide, so check your tide charts before arriving. A long day of exploring awaits you as you walk south along the beach to Long Beach which is a 10 kilometre expanse of beach. Allow a lot of time, because you will love exploring this area!
If you plan to stay to watch the sunset, remember to bring a flashlight as the densely forested trail back to the parking lot gets really dark!
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
