Vancouver Island is one of the best places in Canada to go for a hike. Whether you’re just getting into hiking or you’ve been backpacking for years, there’s something out here for you. From rugged coastlines and quiet forests to mountain views and remote beaches, the island has a little bit of everything.
In this article, we'll discuss:
- The best hiking trails on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
- What to know before you go, including gear and seasonal tips
- Where to find guided hiking tours and lesser-known gems
Why hike Vancouver Island?
There’s a reason so many hikers keep coming back to this island.
Vancouver Island is packed with variety. One day you’re walking along a quiet beach with tide pools and sea stacks, and the next you’re climbing through alpine meadows toward a mountain summit. The landscapes change fast, but the feeling of being out in nature stays the same—peaceful, grounded, and a little wild.
The island is also less crowded than many popular hiking spots on the mainland. You can go for hours without seeing another person, especially on the more remote trails. That makes it a great place to unplug, reset, and explore without distraction.
And it’s not just the views that make hiking here special. The island is home to old-growth forests, rare wildlife, and deep Indigenous history. Every trail has a story, and you can feel that connection to the land as you move through it.
Whether you're here for a quick day hike or a full-on backpacking trip, the island invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Top hiking trails on Vancouver Island
There’s no shortage of trails on Vancouver Island, but a few stand out for their scenery, challenge, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're looking for a tough multi-day trek or an easy day hike with a view, these are some of the best places to start.
North Coast Trail
Distance: 43.1 km
Time: 5–7 days
Difficulty: Hard
Remote, rugged, and wild—this one’s for the serious backpackers. The North Coast Trail runs along the northern tip of the island and takes you through muddy forest, sandy beaches, tidal crossings, and bear country. It’s a true backcountry experience and one of the most rewarding long hikes in BC.
Juan de Fuca Trail
Distance: 47 km
Time: 3–5 days (or shorter day hikes from trailheads)
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Running parallel to the better-known West Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca Trail is a little less intense but just as stunning. Expect coastal cliffs, dense forest, waterfalls, and plenty of ocean views. You can tackle the full trail or just sample a section like Sombrio Beach or Botanical Beach.
Mount Albert Edward
Distance: 31 km round trip
Time: 2–3 days
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
This alpine hike in Strathcona Provincial Park is perfect if you want mountain views without glacier gear. The trail takes you past lakes, ridges, and wildflower meadows before you reach the summit, where you’ll get one of the best panoramic views on the island.
Cape Scott Trail
Distance: 24 km round trip (to the lighthouse)
Time: 1–2 days
Difficulty: Moderate
This historic trail heads through boggy forest and open meadows to the white sands of Nels Bight and the Cape Scott Lighthouse. It’s a classic coastal hike with the chance to spot wolves, eagles, and incredible sunsets. Bring gaiters—it gets muddy.
Della Falls Trail
Distance: 30 km round trip
Time: 2–3 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, but getting there is part of the adventure. First, you’ll need to boat across Great Central Lake (or arrange a water taxi). Then it’s a peaceful forest hike to the base of the falls. Less traffic, more reward.
East Sooke Coast Trail
Distance: 10 km one-way
Time: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
A perfect coastal day hike, this trail winds along rocky cliffs and quiet coves just outside Victoria. It’s well-marked, full of ocean views, and easy to reach. You might even spot whales offshore if you're lucky.
Little Mountain – Parksville
Distance: 1 km or less
Time: 20–30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Tucked away near Parksville, Little Mountain isn’t well known, but it should be. It’s an easy walk with sweeping views and a few hidden rock ledges that feel a bit magical at golden hour.
These hidden spots are ideal if you're looking to slow things down, avoid the crowds, or explore the island at a gentler pace.
Planning and preparation tips
Even if you’re just heading out for a short hike, it’s worth taking a few minutes to plan ahead. Vancouver Island’s trails are beautiful—but also remote, rugged, and weather-prone in many places. Here’s what to keep in mind before you lace up your boots.
Check the season and the weather
Most trails are best from late spring to early fall, when the snow is gone and conditions are dry. Coastal hikes like the Juan de Fuca can be muddy year-round, so waterproof footwear is a good call. In winter, stick to low-elevation hikes unless you’re experienced and have the right gear.
Always check the forecast before you go. Conditions can shift quickly, especially in the mountains and along the coast.
Know what to bring
At the very least, pack the ten essentials, including:
- Water and snacks
- Layers (it gets chilly fast in the shade or after sunset)
- A map or GPS app with offline access
- A first aid kit and a headlamp if you’ll be out for more than a couple of hours
If you're doing an overnight or multi-day hike, add a tent, sleeping bag, bear-safe food storage, and all your backcountry camping basics.
Get your permits and check access
Some parks require permits or camping reservations, especially in the summer. Trails like the North Coast and Cape Scott have limited facilities and might require registration. Double-check ferry schedules if you're hiking on a Gulf Island, and don’t assume cell service will work once you’re out there.
Leave no trace
Stick to marked trails, pack out your garbage, and avoid disturbing wildlife. These places are wild and beautiful because people have treated them with care—let’s keep it that way.
Guided hiking and backpacking tours
If you want to explore Vancouver Island’s trails but don’t feel ready to go it alone, guided hikes are a solid option. Whether you’re short on time, new to backpacking, or just want to learn from someone who really knows the area, there are guides who can help.
What to expect from a guided tour
Most guided trips include:
- A knowledgeable guide who knows the trail inside and out
- Safety gear, maps, and sometimes meals
- Group transportation or ferry coordination
- Support with pacing, camping setups, and basic skills (if needed)
There are options for every comfort level—short half-day hikes near Victoria, full multi-day trips along the Juan de Fuca Trail, or even alpine adventures in Strathcona Park.
Who guided hikes are great for
- Beginners who want to try backpacking without the stress of planning everything
- Solo hikers who prefer company or want to join a small group
- Visitors with limited time who want to make the most of one or two days
- Photographers and wildlife lovers who want help spotting good locations or learning about the area’s ecology
How to choose a hiking tour on Vancouver Island
Look for guides or companies that are:
- Licensed and insured
- Well-reviewed by past hikers
- Transparent about what’s included and what’s not
- Knowledgeable about Leave No Trace principles and local history
You can find local companies based in Victoria, Nanaimo, Tofino, and other hub towns, or book tours through larger adventure travel platforms.
Safety tips for hiking Vancouver Island
With its wild terrain and remote trails, hiking Vancouver Island requires more than just good boots and a map. Whether you're on a short day hike or a multi-day trek, a few smart safety practices can make all the difference.
1. Plan and share Your route
Always tell someone where you’re going, when you plan to return, and what to do if you don’t check in. For longer or less-traveled hikes, consider using a trip-planning app or leaving your route with park staff, if available.
2. Start early and know your limits
Some trails take longer than expected due to elevation gain, muddy conditions, or route-finding. Start early to avoid getting caught out after dark — and know when to turn back.
3. Stay on marked trails
Many areas, especially coastal and forested trails, have fragile ecosystems and sudden drop-offs. Stick to marked paths to avoid getting lost and to help protect the environment.
4. Be bear and cougar aware
Black bears and cougars are part of the ecosystem on Vancouver Island. Make noise on the trail, hike in groups when possible, and carry bear spray. Learn how to react if you encounter wildlife — and don’t leave food unattended.
5. Check the weather and trail conditions
Coastal fog, heavy rain, or snowfall in higher elevations can roll in quickly. Use resources like BC Parks or AllTrails to check recent trail reports, and always prepare for wet conditions, even in summer.
When to go hiking on Vancouver Island
Timing is everything when it comes to hiking Vancouver Island. Seasonal shifts can dramatically affect trail conditions, accessibility, and the type of experience you’ll have.
Best time of year to hike
Late Spring to Early Fall (May–October): This is the prime hiking season. Most trails are snow-free, and the weather is mild. July and August offer the driest conditions, but also bring larger crowds and more bugs.
Winter and Shoulder Seasons (November–April): Higher elevation trails may be snowed in or impassable. Coastal hikes like East Sooke and Botanical Beach can still be stunning — just be ready for wet, windy conditions and early nightfall.
Day hike vs multi-day planning
Day hikes are easily accessible from cities like Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River. Most require minimal prep but still demand good footwear and weather protection.
Multi-day hikes like the Juan de Fuca Trail or Cape Scott require more logistical planning, transportation, permits (if needed), bear-proof food storage, and route research.
Trail conditions & access
Ferry schedules: Getting to Vancouver Island often involves BC Ferries — book in advance, especially in summer.
Trail reports: Use apps like AllTrails or check BC Parks and regional trail associations for recent updates.
Local regulations: Some areas are on Indigenous land or protected areas with specific rules — always respect signage and closures.
Hidden gems and Gulf Island trails
Vancouver Island gets most of the attention, but the nearby Gulf Islands are full of peaceful trails with big views and way fewer crowds. These spots are perfect if you're looking for something quieter, shorter, or just a little different.
Here are a few worth checking out:
Mount Norman – South Pender Island
Distance: 1.5 km one-way
Time: 30–45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This short but steep climb takes you to the highest point on South Pender Island. The lookout has a bench, ocean views, and a great place to watch the sunset. It’s a mellow hike you can pair with a picnic or beach visit.
Bodega Ridge – Galiano Island
Distance: 4 km one-way
Time: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
This ridge trail follows a rocky bluff high above the ocean. It’s a great place to see bald eagles and look out over Trincomali Channel. The path is well-marked and not too busy, even in summer.
Mount Maxwell – Salt Spring Island
Distance: 2 km round trip (from the upper parking lot)
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
You can drive most of the way to the top, which makes this a great option if you're short on time but still want a killer view. From the summit, you can see Vancouver Island, other Gulf Islands, and even Mount Baker on a clear day.
Key takeaways
Vancouver Island is packed with hiking trails that offer ocean views, alpine peaks, peaceful forests, and a real sense of escape. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or just looking for a quiet afternoon hike, this place has something worth lacing up your boots for.
To recap, we covered:
- Some of the best hiking trails on Vancouver Island and the nearby Gulf Islands
- How to plan and prepare for safe, enjoyable hiking adventures
- The benefits of guided hikes and how to find one that fits your style
If you’re feeling inspired to hit the trail, the next step is making sure you’ve got the right gear. A solid backpack, good footwear, and a few essentials can make all the difference.
