planning a hiking trip (west coast trail)

alcoholic_engineer

I am trying to arrange a trip next summer of the the west coast trail, and have a question about timing.

Because I am a university student still, timing is a big issue with summer jobs and the like. I was thinking of trying to arrange the trip for around may 1st (that is apparently when the trail opens).

Has anyone done this trail before at this time? It is way earlier then peak times, and so it shouldnt be buisy.


Aside for the experience I have never done more then a couple days trip (i am an experienced outdoorsman though), but will be going with people who have done it before.

Any other suggestions or input above and beyond the time of year?

slackersupreme

I'd be a bit concerned about how much snow will still be covering the trail that early in the year. It may be clear in most spots, but still snowey passes would make the going much slower.

Could call some of the ranger stations along the route to determine how passable the trail really is around that time. The rangers would also be able to indicate when the trail gets busy.

Corvus

I believe he's talking about the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island. In that case, there will be neither snow nor ranger stations.

I haven't personally done it, so I can't really help you out. Check out some guide books if you haven't already. If Mountain Equipment Co-OP(mec.ca) has forums on its site, that would be a good place to ask for info as well.

slackersupreme

Damn, I really missed the mark on that. Somehow was thinking of the Pacific Crest Trail. Does explain the concern about the busy season.

Afraid I don't have any input then. My old scout troop travelled part of the trail before I joined; don't know anything other than they had a great time.

supertall

Bring rain gear.