Cape Scott Provincial Park is a truly magnificent area of rugged coastal wilderness that is located at the northwestern tip of    Vancouver Island, 563 kilometres from Victoria.

Established in 1973 and named after the site of a lighthouse that has guided mariners since 1960, Cape Scott is characterized by more than 115 kilometres of scenic ocean frontage, including about 30 kilometres of spectacular remote beaches.

Conditions and Equipment

Be prepared for wet conditions.  Trails can be muddy and boardwalks slippery.

The need to be prepared for adverse weather conditions in Cape Scott Provincial Park cannot be overemphasized.

A good tent with a waterproof fly is imperative. It is simply not possible to expect to sleep outdoors here without adequate cover. Clothing, sleeping bags and food should be kept in waterproof bags. Proper rain gear is a must, as torrential rains can be expected at any time and may last for days on end.

Hiking and Camping Guidelines

Backcountry Camping Fees apply. Backcountry Camping Fee: $10.00 per adult/night (persons 16 years of age or older). Please pay in cash only at the self-registration booths located at either trailhead.

Be Bear Aware. Bear encounters are common and should be expected in the park.  Wolves and cougars are also present in the area. It is important to stick together as a group.

Water sources are few and far between. Ensure all hikers carry enough water to last them for at least two days at a time. All water should be boiled, treated or filtered prior to consumption.

Location: Cape Scott Provincial Park
Round Trip: 34 km (with a couple of side trips 32km approx.) Total approx. 66km.
Elevation Gains: Minimal
Hiking Time: 6 days 5 nights (2 days travelling, 4 days on the trail, 3 nights camping
on the trail)
Difficulty: moderate
Brochure & Map: https://goo.gl/UcFkJD

August 8th: Travel to Port Hardy and stay at the hostel.
August 9th: Two hrs to drive to the trailhead. Nels Bight: Length 16.8 km from the trailhead. Average one-way hiking time: 6 hours. With a beautiful sandy beach stretching more 2,400 metres long and 210 metres wide at low tide, Nels Bight is the most popular camping destination in the park. This area is also a good base for those exploring the rest of the park.
August 10th: Day hike over to Nissen Bight: approx. 6-7km (12return). This is a popular camping destination with a beautiful sandy shoreline.
August 11th: Day hike to Guise Bay and Cape Scott 16km return.
August 12th: Hike out can stay at Hostel in Port Hardy.
August 13th: Return rest of the way home.

Hiking style is to allow plenty of time to smell the flowers, photograph, and enjoy the views. Terrain will be moderate and at times may be slick on boardwalks.