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British Columbia

CANADIAN PROVINCE

Discover Hiking Adventures in British Columbia

British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province, is a land of breathtaking landscapes, defined by its majestic Pacific coastline and towering mountain ranges. These vast natural areas offer an unparalleled abundance of hiking opportunities for every skill level, from coastal rainforests to alpine peaks.

Provincial Snapshot:

  • Time Zone: Most of British Columbia, including Vancouver, observes Pacific Time (PST/PDT).
  • Capital: Victoria
  • Population: Approximately 5.6 million
  • Provincial Hiking Organization: Federation of Mountain Clubs of British Columbia (Consider linking if this is their site or a key partner)
    • (Note: Listing individual directors like Pat Harrison and Roy Howard is unusual for a general website page about hiking trails. This might be better suited for an “About Us” page if this website belongs to the Federation itself, or omitted otherwise.)

Below, explore some of British Columbia’s most prominent trails, many of which proudly form part of the National Hiking Trail (NHT).

Featured Hiking Trails in British Columbia

Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail / Nuxalk-Carrier Grease Trail (NHT)

This historic 420 km (NHT) route stretches from the Fraser River to Bella Coola on British Columbia’s west coast. Renowned among the many “grease trails” that connected the coast to the interior, it’s often simply called the “Grease Trail.” Originally a vital corridor for the Nuxalk and Carrier First Nations, it served for communication, transport, and trade, particularly for the prized eulachon grease from the Pacific.

West Coast Trail

Embark on a demanding 75 km journey along Vancouver Island’s famously rugged coastline. The West Coast Trail (WCT) will challenge and awe you with its windswept sandy beaches, gnarled old-growth forests, slippery boulder fields, surge channels, and vibrant tidal pools. Most thru-hikers complete the WCT in 6 to 8 days, camping at designated beach campgrounds. Shorter 3-5 day adventures are possible by entering at a midpoint.

Vancouver Island Trail (VIT, NHT)

At nearly 800 km, the Vancouver Island Trail (VIT) is the longest trail network on Vancouver Island (NHT). It’s a “living trail,” continually evolving due to weather, water levels, and human activities. This continuous, non-motorized path traverses the traditional territories of numerous Indigenous Peoples, from the Songhees in the south to the Tlatlasikwala in the north.

Log Train Trail (Component of VIT, NHT)

Follow a piece of history on the Log Train Trail, a former rail bed developed in the early 1900s for the Bainbridge Mill logging operation. The main section offers a 25 km trek along the base of the scenic Beaufort Range and is part of the larger Vancouver Island Trail network.

Beaufort Range Trail (Component of VIT, NHT)

Explore the majestic Beaufort Range on Vancouver Island’s eastern side. This trail system, part of the Vancouver Island Trail, connects eight of the range’s 16 named peaks, stretching from Home Lake to Comox Lake, offering incredible alpine adventures. A highlight is conquering Mount Joan, the tallest peak at 1556 metres.

Sunshine Coast Trail (NHT)

Discover Canada’s longest free hut-to-hut hiking experience on the Sunshine Coast Trail (NHT). This incredible 180 km route in southwest British Columbia meanders along and away from the coastline, guiding hikers through landscapes featuring serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and ancient old-growth forests.

Suncoaster Trail (NHT)

The multi-use Suncoaster Trail (NHT) currently connects Earl’s Cove to Halfmoon Bay (Phase 1 completed). It’s designed for hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Sunshine Coast.

Sea to Sky Trail (NHT)

Journey 100 km on the Sea to Sky Trail (NHT), linking the coastal town of Squamish to the mountainous region of Pemberton. This route showcases the dramatic transition from the Pacific Ocean to the towering Coast Mountains, passing by stunning turquoise lakes and numerous points of interest.

Collins Telegraph Trail (NHT)

Step back in time on the Collins Telegraph Trail (NHT), a significant portion of the historic Collins Overland Telegraph line and the subsequent Yukon Telegraph Trail. Located in the Cariboo Regional District, this approximately 275 km trail extends from 70 Mile House in the south to the border with the Bulkley-Nechako Regional District, northwest of Quesnel.

1861 Gold Rush Pack Trail (NHT)

Retrace the steps of prospectors on the 1861 Gold Rush Pack Trail (NHT). Sparked by gold discoveries in the mid-Quesnel River basin around Keithley Creek and Quesnel Forks (c. 1860), and further finds near Williams Lake in 1861, this trail became crucial as the Cariboo gold rush intensified. Explore this historic route that echoes with tales of fortune seekers.

Goat River Historic Trail (NHT)

The 95 km Goat River Historic Trail (NHT) follows an historic gold mining route, connecting Barkerville to the upper Fraser River. Running east-west along the scenic Goat River, this trail is a designated section of Canada’s National Hiking Trail.

  • Contact/More Information: Roy Howard (Fraser Headwaters Alliance) via ro*@**************rs.org (Consider if a webpage link is available, as email might not be ideal for general public inquiries).

Plan Your BC Hiking Adventure!

Each of these trails offers a unique window into the diverse beauty and rich history of British Columbia. Remember to always check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and ensure you are well-prepared before embarking on any hike. Happy trails!