More Than 70 Hikers Evacuated From West Coast Trail Following Heavy Rainfall

More than 70 hikers have been evacuated from Vancouver Island’s West Coast Trail after relentless rainfall caused flooding, deep mud and dangerous conditions along the popular route.

Parks Canada said parts of the 75-kilometre multi-day hiking trail had become impassable. Hikers were also advised not to cross swollen rivers or creeks on foot.

Long-Awaited Hike Cut Short

Patrick Laprise had been looking forward to hiking the West Coast Trail for 25 years. However, just two days into the trip, he found himself aboard a boat evacuating hikers from the area.

Laprise had travelled from Montreal with his 15-year-old son and a friend. The group spent much of the journey completely soaked while moving through knee-deep mud and passing creeks carrying approximately four feet of water.

They also crossed a decaying bridge that broke beneath them.

On the second day, Laprise’s son injured his ankle. Despite the injury, the group continued moving quickly so they could reach the final ferry departing from the Crab Shack, a restaurant located near the middle of the trail.

Laprise said the conditions were frightening because the hikers were extremely cold, needed to move quickly and had limited access to assistance.

Family-Run Ferry Service Leads Evacuations

Carl and Shelley Edgar, owners of the Crab Shack and Nitinat Wilderness Charters ferry service, have helped evacuate more than 70 people since Sunday.

The West Coast Trail attracts thousands of hikers each year, with many visitors reserving their trips several months in advance.

Carl, who has operated the ferry crossing for 51 years, said he could not recall experiencing such a powerful July storm in the area. He explained that heavy summer storms are more commonly seen in August.

According to Carl, hikers arrived at the Crab Shack dock completely drenched, while additional groups continued making their way toward the evacuation point.

Trip Cancellations Increase After Parks Canada Warning

Shelley said the family business usually helps evacuate between four and eight hikers each week. The unusually high number of evacuations has placed significant pressure on their small operation.

Many hikers have cancelled or postponed their trips following advice from Parks Canada. The agency warned on Monday evening that people should avoid attempting to cross rivers and creeks on foot.

Shelley has also been coordinating with shuttle bus operators to help hikers rearrange their transportation and travel plans.

Parks Canada did not provide an interview or respond to questions before publication.

Extra Buses Added to Meet Demand

Michael Anderson, owner of the West Coast Trail Express bus service, said additional buses had been scheduled to handle the increased demand.

However, cancellations from hikers who decided not to enter the trail created some extra space for those needing transportation away from the area.

First Nation Guardians Monitor Flooded Creek

Guardians from the Huu-ay-aht First Nation have been monitoring Darling Creek along their section of the trail and advising hikers not to attempt a crossing.

Edward Johnson, a member of the nation’s executive council, warned that flash flooding can affect more than rivers and creeks. Heavy rainfall can cause parts of the hiking trail itself to turn into flowing water and deep mud.

Experienced Hiker Turns Back After Dangerous Conditions

Heather Millar, a 61-year-old Victoria resident and experienced hiker, decided to return to the Crab Shack on her second day.

Millar became concerned after seeing eroded beaches, rapidly moving creeks and injured hikers along the route.

Her decision was reinforced when she discovered a drowned mouse after eating dinner beneath a tarp, which she interpreted as a warning that conditions were unsafe.

Despite the disappointing experience, Millar is already planning another attempt. She hopes to complete the entire West Coast Trail next year during sunnier and safer weather.

Extreme rainfall transformed sections of Vancouver Island’s West Coast Trail into dangerous, muddy and flooded terrain, forcing more than 70 hikers to evacuate.

Local ferry operators, shuttle companies and First Nation guardians have been helping visitors leave safely while officials continue warning against hazardous creek and river crossings.