Raft Cove Trail

While the route is a bit rough and rugged, the Raft Cove Trail is an exceptional hike along the West Coast of Vancouver Island that will reveal some breathtaking scenery and the chance to camp out overnight along the beach. As stretches of the trail are covered in rock and mud, it is best to wear proper hiking footwear in order to have the best traction along the technical route. Additionally, this route is dog friendly, but keep in mind that wolves are frequently seen in the area. Make sure to either keep your dogs on leash or within close distance.

Setting out from the parking area, follow the trail to the southwest as it enters into the thick cover of the rainforest on a route towards the coast. Carefully make your way along the rocky trail and do your best to avoid getting covered in mud, which is easier said than done while out hiking on the West Coast. Eventually, you will break out from under the forest canopy and arrive at the welcome sight of the wide sandy beach. Take some time to explore the pristine landscape and gaze out across the vast blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean. If you make your way along the beach to your right, you can find a neat cave that is the result of countless years of weathering in the harsh coastal environment, and to the left you can walk along the sandy beach where you will find the camping area next to the mouth of the Mackjack River. After exploring the area, head back along the Raft Cove Trail to return to the parking area where you began your hike.