A rugged 47 km coastal backpacking trail along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, running between China Beach and Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew. The route crosses several wave-cut headlands and beaches that can only be passed at low tide, so tide planning is essential. Tide heights are based on the Port Renfrew Tide Tables (CHS station 8525).
The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail can be hiked in either direction. The default direction is Westbound to Eastbound, but you can toggle the route direction in the Route Planner tab to see timing information for both directions.
Backcountry camping permit required for overnight trips. Pay at self-registration vaults at trailheads or via BC Parks.
Store food securely. Use bear caches/food storage where provided and follow BC Parks wildlife guidance.
May through September for the best weather and lowest daytime tides.
Moderate to Difficult - Tide planning essential
Southeastern trailhead off Highway 14 near Jordan River, with a day-use parking area (Km 0).
View on Google Maps →Northwestern trailhead near Port Renfrew, with parking at the Botanical Beach day-use area (Km 47).
View on Google Maps →The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail has 5 tide-dependent sections that must be crossed at low tide. Review the Tide Calendar and Route Planner tabs for detailed timing information.