Juan de Fuca Trail Alternatives

West Coast Trail

There’s a debate about which trail is harder, but the West Coast Trail is most definitely longer. The trail crosses the traditional territories of the Pacheedaht, Ditidaht, and Huu-ay-aht First Nations, who continue to steward these lands and co-manage the trail in partnership with Parks Canada. At 75 kilometres, this world-renowned coastal hike is the crown jewel in every backpacker’s bucket list. Rugged and full of roots, cable cars, ladders, suspension bridges, slippery shorelines, and kilometres of mud, it is an incredibly difficult trail; however most of the difficult parts are located on the southern half of the trail. Not ready to tackle the full trail? Try entering in the middle at Nitinaht instead and completing either the 32 kilometre northern half or 43 kilometre southern half.

NOTE: You must have a reservation for this trail as there are a limited number of entries allowed per day. While it does book up quickly, keep an eye on the reservations page for cancellations. Traditionally there are usually more spots available at the middle entry point of Nitinaht, and many hikes choose to enter there and “boomerang” the trail; however if you do this you will next to pay for an extra ferry crossing at Nitinaht Narrows.

Cape Scott and the North Coast Trail

Located in Cape Scott Provincial Park, the Cape Scott Trail trek winds 23 kilometres one way through coastal forest and bog, terminating at the Cape Scott lighthouse. While shorter than the Juan de Fuca, backpackers can extend their trip by completing part of the park’s North Coast Trail from Nissen Bight, or exploring nearby trails and beaches, such as Raft Cove, Cape Palmerston, and Grant Bay.

For those looking for a more rugged adventure, the North Coast Trail runs 43 kilometres from Shushartie Bay to Nissen Bight, plus an additional 15 kilometres along the Cape Scott Trail, adding up to a grand total of 58 kilometres. Like other coastal hikes, you’ll navigate through lush rainforest, bog, and beautiful sandy beaches. But be warned—rough, rugged, and muddy, this trek isn’t for the faint of heart. The trail is difficult, incredibly remote, and not recommended for beginner backpackers.

NOTE: To complete the North Coast Trail, you must book a water taxi from Port Hardy to enter or exit the trail at Shushartie Bay.

NOTE: 05/08/2025: The North Coast Trail is temporarily closed due to winter storm damage. For updates, please see Cape Scott Provincial Park Advisories.

Sunshine Coast Trail

Located in Powell River, tackling this multi-day hut-to-hut hiking trail is a daunting trek at 180 kilometres long. Luckily, there are several different access points, providing an array of options for completing different sections of the trail. Popular is the northern part from Sarah Point to Powell River, winding through gorgeous rainforest and coastal bluffs. Other alternatives include the Powell River to Lang Bay section and the Saltery Bay Loop to Mt. Troubridge, although you probably don’t want to miss the crown jewel of the trail: Tin Hat Mountain, a former fire lookout that provides gorgeous 360-degree views of the area.

NOTE: While the trail and huts are entirely free to use, to reach Sarah Point you may need to book a water taxi or shuttle. While you can drive to Sarah Point, the road is rough and parking options are limited.

Strathcona Provincial Park

While there are no lengthy multi-day backpacking trails in Strathcona Provincial Park, it does have some gorgeous options to assemble a series of overnight and day hikes. Combine these to create a multi-day alpine experience in the park.

Mt. Albert Edward

For stunning mountain views and wildflower meadows, consider a trek to Mt. Albert Edward. From Paradise Meadows, an easy trail leads to Circlet Lake and continues on to the summit of Mt. Albert Edward. Round trip this hike is 32 kilometres, but for those wanting a slower pace, another night can be spent at Kwai Lake or Lake Helen Mackenzie.

Cream Lake via Bedwell Lakes

Consider extending your trip to Strathcona Provincial Park by completing the Bedwell and Cream Lakes hike at 20 kilometres round trip. The route first climbs steeply through forest before reaching the beautiful Bedwell and Baby Bedwell Lakes. From there, a rougher, less-maintained trail continues towards Cream Lake. Many camp at Bedwell Lakes and hike to Cream Lake as a day trip.

Landslide Lake

A steady uphill trail follows the Elk River to beautiful Landslide Lake, set against the backdrop of the craggy Mt. Colonel Foster. There are two backcountry campsites along the way, but at 22 kilometres round trip, it can also be done as a long day hike.

NOTE: Camping is available at designated backcountry sites only. The Bedwell and Cream Lake is access via a rough road that may require 4WD depending on its condition.

The Wild Side Trail and Telegraph Trail

The Wild Side Trail winds 11 km along the coast of Flores Island from Ahousaht to Cow Bay. Like other coastal hikes, it boasts beautiful beaches and lush coastal rainforest. The trail is located entirely within the traditional territory of the Ahousaht First Nation. Managed by the Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS) and the Ahousaht community, this trail helps support their stewardship efforts and cultural preservation.

To extend your trip, head over to Vargas Island and hike the Telegraph Trail to Ahous Bay. While a short hike at 3 kilometres long, you’ll want the extra time to explore and savour all that this wild, beautiful beach has to offer.

NOTE: To access these trails, you must take a water taxi from Tofino. A permit must be obtained to hike the Wild Side Trail at $15 per person per day, payable at the Ahous Fuel Stop, MHSS in Tofino, or online.

Della Falls Trail

Located deep in Strathcona Provincial Park, the Della Falls Trail leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. The hike is 30 kilometres return, following an old logging road along Drinkwater Creek. Many hikers camp near the base of the falls and take time to ascend to Love Lake at around 10 kilometres round trip.

NOTE: Reaching the trailhead requires crossing Great Central Lake by boat or water taxi. It is also possible to canoe or kayak the length of the lake to reach the trailhead; however factor in another 2-4 days to do so.

Nootka Trail

This rugged and remote coastal trail traverses the west side of Nootka Island, stretching 37 kilometres from Starfish Lagoon to Yuquot. Like the Juan de Fuca, it offers stunning beaches, rugged coastline, and rainforest. It’s a true wilderness experience. Accessing the trail can be expensive.

NOTE: Access requires a floatplane or water taxi from Gold River, and hikers must register and pay a trail fee to the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation.

Kludahk Trail

The Kludahk Trail is the Juan de Fuca’s lesser known cousin—both in length and geographic placement. Located inland from the Juan de Fuca, it follows 40 kilometres of the mountainous backbone of the San Juan Ridge through alpine habitat. With four different access points, portions can also be completed as day hikes while camping in one of Juan de Fuca’s frontcountry campsites.

NOTE: This trail is managed and maintained by Kludahk Outdoors Club. The huts along the trail can only be booked by members of the club booked through them at $15 per person per night, which can be done via their website. They also ask that group sizes be kept small to avoid damage to sensitive ecosystems. Camping options are limited. Access roads may require AWD or 4WD.