The best walks and hikes in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit
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Hiking in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit offers diverse terrain characterized by expansive sandy beaches, lush temperate rainforests, and rugged coastlines along the Pacific Ocean. The region features old-growth forests with massive trees like Douglas fir and Western Red Cedar, alongside unique ecosystems such as the Shorepine Bog. The landscape includes hills like Radar Hill and Vargas Cone, remnants of the area's volcanic past.
Best hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit
- The most popular hiking route is Canso Plane Wreck – Canso Bomber Ruins Trail loop from Radar Hill Rd Parking Lot, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 17 minutes to complete, leading to an intriguing plane wreck site within the forest.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wickaninnish Beach – Lismer Beach loop from Parking Lot E, a moderate 5.5 miles (8.8 km) path. This route offers scenic coastal views and access to extensive sandy beaches.
- Local hikers also love the Pillar of the Community – Ancient Monarch Cedar loop from Rainforest Reconstruction Zone, a 1.6 miles (2.6 km) trail leading through old-growth forests of giant Western Red Cedar, often completed in about 39 minutes.
- Hiking in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit is defined by temperate rainforests, expansive sandy beaches, and rugged coastlines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy boardwalk loops to more challenging coastal paths.
- The routes in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
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hikers
1.59km
00:40
50m
50m
Hard hike. Great for any fitness level. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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hikers
820m
00:12
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0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(78)
838
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(67)
567
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
140
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit
Tips from the Community
Radar Beach is a quiet, sandy stretch of shoreline backed by dense coastal forest and scattered driftwood logs. A small creek often winds across the sand before meeting the ocean, adding to its tucked-away feel. It’s a peaceful place to sit, watch the waves, or explore the shoreline. While it’s not known for classic rocky tide pools, at very low tide you may spot small patches of intertidal life along parts of the coast.
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Radar Beach Trail is short and fun, but far from easy. Expect muddy sections, exposed roots, and steep scrambling where you’ll use ropes and tree roots to climb. It can be slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is essential. Navigation can also be a bit confusing in spots, so keep an eye out for trail markers. The effort pays off at the end with a wide, rugged beach and open ocean views that make the challenging approach worthwhile.
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From the Pacific Rim Highway, the Canso Bomber Ruins Trail leads to a low ridge where the ruins of a building stand. The former utility building is covered in graffiti. The trail continues down a muddy, root-filled path into a wetland; rubber boots are recommended for the hike. Fortunately, wooden planks have been laid in the depression, allowing us to reach the site where the plane wreckage was left with dry feet. The wreckage fascinated more than just us; on no other hike on Vancouver Island did we encounter so many people. (May 17, 2025)
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On the path to the crash site of the Vickers PBV-1A Canso A, there is an abandoned building, a lost place, covered in graffiti. It was presumably part of a communications or radar station during World War II and was used for coastal surveillance.
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The Royal Canadian Air Force's Canadian Vickers PBV-1A Canso A crashed at the foot of Radar Hill shortly after takeoff in February 1945. All 12 passengers survived the crash. https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/338715 https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/canso-bomber-plane-crash The path to the aircraft's wreckage is not an official Parks Canada trail but is entirely within the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
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Ancient Monarch is the oldest tree on the Rainforest Trail. The red cedar stands at the northernmost point of Trail A and is approximately 950 years old. https://cortescurrents.ca/learning-about-old-growth-on-the-rainforest-trail/
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Pillar of the Community is the oldest tree on Rainforest Trail B; the red cedar is more than 800 years old.
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RVs and buses are not permitted at the small parking lot on either of the rainforest trails. So, we walk from the Combers Beach parking lot along the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii to the trailhead; the paved pedestrian/bicycle path runs parallel to the highway. Rainforest Trail A is located north of the Pacific Rim Highway, while Trail B is south of the road at the parking lot. Both routes lead approximately 1,200 meters through a breathtaking forest of giant Western Red Cedar and Western Hemlock trees. The trails are constructed almost entirely of wooden boardwalks with numerous stairs and bridges, some of which are made from whole tree trunks. Walking through the forests is a beautiful experience. https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/randonnee-hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit?
There are over 15 hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls through ancient forests to more challenging coastal paths. The komoot community has explored these routes over 3000 times.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit?
The Long Beach Unit is a year-round destination, but the best time for hiking depends on your preference. Summer offers warmer, drier weather ideal for beach walks and forest trails. However, the temperate rainforest thrives with abundant rainfall, making spring and fall lush and vibrant. Winter brings dramatic storm watching opportunities, though trails can be muddy.
What makes the hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit unique?
The trails here are unique due to their diverse landscape, blending expansive sandy beaches, lush temperate rainforests with massive old-growth trees, and rugged coastlines. You can explore ecosystems like the Shorepine Bog, which features stunted, twisted trees and ancient sphagnum moss, or walk along the longest sandy beach on Vancouver Island.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit?
The trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain from beaches to ancient forests, and the well-maintained paths, including boardwalks through sensitive ecosystems.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking trails in the Long Beach Unit?
Yes, the Long Beach Unit offers several easy and family-friendly options. The Shorepine Bog Trail is an accessible 0.8 km boardwalk loop through a unique bog ecosystem. The Rainforest Trails (A & B) are also popular 1 km loops that lead through old-growth forests on constructed boardwalks and stairs, perfect for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit?
While dogs are generally welcome in the park on leash, specific trail regulations may apply to protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. It's always best to check the official park regulations or signage at trailheads for the most current information regarding dog access on specific hiking trails and beaches.
Are there any loop trails available for hiking?
Yes, there are several loop trails. For instance, the Canso Plane Wreck – Canso Bomber Ruins Trail loop from Radar Hill Rd Parking Lot is an easy 4.8 km loop leading to an intriguing plane wreck. Another option is the Pillar of the Community – Ancient Monarch Cedar loop from Rainforest Reconstruction Zone, a 2.6 km trail through old-growth forests.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The Long Beach Unit is rich in wildlife. Along the coast, you might spot eagles, various seabirds, and marine life like whales (especially during migration seasons) and sea lions. In the rainforests, keep an eye out for deer and smaller forest creatures. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
You can explore several unique features. The Rainforest Trail offers breathtaking old-growth forests. The Canso Plane Wreck is an intriguing historical site deep within the forest. You can also visit the Wickaninnish Beach and Lismer Beach for stunning coastal views and beachcombing.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is available at various trailheads throughout the Long Beach Unit. Popular spots like the Rainforest Trail, Shorepine Bog Trail, and Combers Beach have designated parking lots. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season as spaces can fill up quickly.
Are there any trails that offer coastal views?
Absolutely. The Wickaninnish Beach – Lismer Beach loop from Parking Lot E is a moderate 8.8 km path offering extensive scenic coastal views. The South Beach Trail also provides dramatic views of rugged cliffs and crashing waves, leading to a pebble beach known for the sound of rolling stones.
What are the entry fees for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit?
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve requires a valid park pass for entry. These fees contribute to the maintenance of facilities and conservation efforts. You can purchase passes at the park gates or visitor centers. For detailed and up-to-date fee information, please check the official Parks Canada website.
Can I find ancient trees or old-growth forests on the hikes?
Yes, the Long Beach Unit is renowned for its ancient trees and old-growth temperate rainforests. Trails like the Rainforest Trail and the Pillar of the Community – Ancient Monarch Cedar loop specifically lead you through areas with massive Douglas fir, Western Red Cedar, and Sitka spruce trees, some reaching up to 100 meters in height.
Most popular routes in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit
Most popular attractions in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit
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