This denotes the day(s) spent on Vancouver Island before the listed start date of the trip. We like to have a pre-trip meeting the evening before this trip to go over gear and backpack weights.

This morning we will pick you up from your accommodations in Nanaimo and drive to the west coast of Vancouver Island and the community of Gold River. After arrival in Gold River, we will fly by floatplane to Louie Bay on Nootka Island. Our pilot usually flies us over Friendly Cove, the end of our hike, and along the stretch of coast we will be hiking for a bird’s-eye view of our journey. After landing in Louie Bay, a short hike will bring us to the west coast of Nootka Island and our first campsite on a beautiful sandy beach.

Today’s hike is a full day with a wide variety of rainforest and beaches, from sand to small boulders, forming our path. Our goal is Calvin Falls, a fantastic spot to enjoy on a warm day. This is our longest day km wise at approx. 15 km. Third Beach to (Skuna Ck 2.25, 1hr) or Tide permitting to Crawfish Falls 15.25 km, 4-6 hrs

Beano often has a perfect swimming hole to enjoy after a day of hiking. We will cover approx. 10 km today, all on the “beach”. Of course “beach” can have many meanings!!

Today's hike more than any other will be dictated by the access to available water at camp. We have a special camp in mind. Flexibility is the key today. Beano Ck to Maquina Pt. Cross Creek if on north side. Round Bay below cliffs, or along trail through forest. Up short rope 10m. Through forest to Calicum Ck. 2.25km, 45 mins east end Beano. In and out of pocket beaches. 1.25km, +1.25km to sea cave beach. 2nd rope (hand line) into forest and on to Maquina Pt. Look out and down to beach 1.5km east of Maquina Pt.

Our final full day of hiking will take us just short of Friendly Cove. The terrain today is varied as we climb in and out of the rainforest onto pocket beaches. Each small beach has its own special character and is full of stunning views and possibly treasures from the sea (Japanese glass fishing balls anyone!) Tides will dictate some of our route and options. Maquina Pt. to Friendly Cove. Across Lagoon and along pebble beach to Friendly Cove. Set up camp. Swim in warm lake. Explore area and take photographs of church, colourful totems, old totem, lighthouse and visit Sanford Williams workshop.

We will arrive at the village of Yuquot and Friendly Cove before noon. Yuquot is the traditional village of the Mowachaht who have lived in the region for over 4000 years. Spain and England alternately occupied the area. It was during Cook’s third voyage around the world in 1778 that he was forced to make repairs to his vessels in Nootka Sound. In recognition of the friendliness accorded him and his crew, he named the area Friendly Cove.

Of special interest here are the lighthouse and the elegant little church with spire that rises above the surrounding brambles. The church is no longer used for services because of the relocation of the Mowachaht to Gold River, but serves as a museum of replica houseposts.

In the late morning we will be returned to Gold River by floatplane. We will lunch in Gold River or Campbell River before returning to the Comox Valley and a well-deserved hot shower! Have a leisurely morning as we wait for the MV Uchuck to boat back to Gold River, or we fly back to Gold River by float plane. Drive to Nanaimo for ferry.