I’m looking for first hand advice on the lastest, greatest hike on Vancouver Island, B.C.
The North Coast Trail has been on our list of best hikes in North America since before it opened officially in 2008.
Nathan Derksen hiked it in 2004 – trip report
one of Nathan’s excellent photos – larger version
… The 43.1 km trail in Cape Scott Provincial Park runs along beaches and in forest around the northern tip of Vancouver Island from Shushartie Bay to Nissen Bight. At Nissen Bight it links up with an existing 15 km trail which leads to the trailhead at San Josef River[1]. The total distance for hikers between the trailheads is 61 km. The trail is in a wilderness area and hikers may see deer, elk, black bears, cougars, wolves, sea birds, seals, sea lions, grey whales and sea otters. …
It’s often compared with the famed, nearby West Coast Trail.
I have already contacted the 3 main trailhead transportation companies as I won’t have a personal vehicle.
Cape Scott Water Taxi
Box 580 Port Hardy B.C. V0N 2P0
Phone (250) 949-6541
Toll Free: 1-800-246-0093
info@capescottwatertaxi.ca
capescottwatertaxi.caCatala Charters Jim & Cathy Witton
Box 526 Port Hardy, BC V0N 2P0
Phone/Fax (250) 949-7560;
Toll Free 1-800-515-5511
catalacharters@hotmail.com
northcoasttrailwatertaxi.comNorth Coast Trail Shuttle
Box 977 Port Hardy, BC V0N 2P0
Phone: 250-949-6888 Cel 250-230-1994
shuttle2@telus.net
northcoasttrailshuttle.com
Leave a comment if you have recommendations for me.
besthike.com 
I would recommend, unlike the guy in the trip report, not to take a 70lb pack. What are some people thinking ?
Looks like it could be 5: days with ~25lb pack and a bit of exploring around Cape Scott. All reports are that the mud and the weather is variable and that there are little in the way of improvements like on the WCT.
Long trip up Vancouver Island for this hike, would be a good 7 days from Saturday to Friday and then a day to return.
Thanks Dannie. I can’t believe I haven’t gotten to the North Coast as yet. Likely I’ll do it in September.