Cape Scott Provincial Park
Cape Scott Provincial Park
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Cape Scott Provincial Park is a truly magnificent area of rugged coastal wilderness that is located at the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, 563 kilometres from Victoria. Cape Scott is characterized by more than 115 kilometres of scenic ocean frontage, including about 30 kilometres of spectacular remote beaches. The rugged North Coast Trail is a challenging and popular 43.1 km hiking track that connects many pristine beaches by stretches of tough overland passage. The park stretches from Shushartie Bay in the east, then westward around Cape Scott and south to San Josef Bay. Rocky promontories, salt marshes and jagged headlands punctuate the fine-textured, white-sand beaches. The most impressive of these beaches, Nels Bight, stretches more than 2,400 metres long and 210 metres wide at low tide, and is one of the park’s most popular camping destinations. Other significant beaches include San Josef Bay, Guise Bay, Experiment Bight, Lowrie Bay and Nissen Bight.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Allan W
Nanaimo, Canada115 contributions
Aug 2014 • Business
Worked at Cape Scott Provincial Park as a Park Facility Operator (PFO) for the 2014 summer season, so I wanted to share some tips I think others might find helpful.
The Drive:
About 60km from Port Hardy, almost exclusively gravel roads. They are usually graded, but be prepared for bumps and the possibility of a flat (carry a spare tire!). Holberg, about 20km from the park, is the only spot along the road with cell service. You can get it in the corner of the Scarlet Ibis parking lot, and there is also a payphone in the pub.
The Hike:
Easiest hike in the park (in this case more like a walk) is down to San Josef Bay. The trail to there is fine gravel and is wheelchair accessible. Takes about 45min.
The main trail out to the cape is a lot rougher. Expect lots of mud unless it's been exceptionally dry for a week. Parking lot to Fisherman's River (about halfway) is usually the rougher part. Starts off with lots of uphill to Eric Lake, mostly corduroy road and boardwalk. Then from EL to FR is boardwalks and up/down trail as you walk in the valley. From FR to Nels Bight is fairly good trail unless it has rained. This area is mostly bog so there will be lots of mud if it has rained. If it hasn't rained, this section is quite easy. Total time from Parking lot to Nels is anywhere from 3.5 - 5 or even 6 hours, highly dependant on your hiking speed and how many breaks you take.
The trail from Nels to the Lighthouse is fairly easy as well. I quite like this section of the park, nice to hike in. You can take the high tide trails along experiment bight over to the sand dunes, then cross over, or take the main trail from Experiment to Guise Bay. Nels Bight to the light house is about 1.5-2 hours one way.
Camping:
San Josef Bay is great for family camping. Beautiful big sandy beach with plenty of places to pitch a tent in the sand. Be advised that late in the season there may be a shortage of firewood on the first beach, though there's usually plenty on second beach. The only water source here is on second beach, make sure you treat it (boil/filter) just like any water in the park.
Eric Lake has 11 wooden tent pads in the forest. Nice place to stay if you want a head start on your way to the cape. However, be prepared for LOTS of bugs! Water can be treated from the lake.
Fishermans River has 2 wooden tent pads. Look left once you're at the pit toilet. Be advised there is no food cache here so bring rope! Also, BUGS!
Nissen Bight is popular with North Coast Trail hikers. It's all beach camping with pit toilet and food cache near the trail. Not many bugs here, but the walk to the water source is 2km round trip.
Nels Bight is the most popular beach near the cape. It offers lots of beach camping and a few forested sites near the old cabin. There was a new ranger cabin built this year at mid beach, meaning there is no longer a cabin at the SouthEast end. Food caches and pit toilets are spread throughout the beach. Water is in the corner at the creek,look for a black pipe with water coming out of it. Treat/filter the water as usual. Expect to see PFO's here during the summer months, they come by every night to check for permits. Not many bugs here, apart from noseeums in June.
Guise Bay is another nice place to camp. It has a pit toilet, a food cache, and a water source that sometimes runs dry in the summer. This beach is typically quieter because it can be very exposed to the winds.
Other tips:
1. Bring some change if you want to buy something at the lighthouse. Todd and Harvey usually have pop, chips, and chocolate bars for sale from their house in the summer months. They are quite friendly and nice to chat with. Make sure you sign the guest book.
2. On the off season (from around Oct-May) the Nels ranger cabin is open for public use on a first come first served basis. It has 2 small bedrooms, a main area with table/chairs and a wood stove, and a loft. It can sleep upwards of 6 people easily. It's located mid beach Nels Bight.
3.Don't bring your dog! Seriously, no dogs are allowed in the park! Wolves and domestic dogs do not make friends with each other. There have been wolf attacks on dogs in the past. Domestic dogs brought in to the park attract wolves to campsites. Please don't bring your dog here!
4. Be on the watch for wild animals. Cougars/Bears/Wolf sightings are very common in this park and sightings occur regularly. Make sure you know what to do when you encounter these animals.
5.Remember to pay! This park works on an honour system, please remember to pay at the parking lot. If you encounter PFO's while in the park, they will check to ensure that you have paid.
6. Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Rain, sun, fog, mist... you can easily see it all in a few hours.
7. Cape Scott Provincial Park is in the Fog Zone, meaning you can have campfires year-round! Don't forget matches.
8. Be on the watch for glass floats. I was lucky enough to find 2 this year near Guise Bay.
I never had a chance to do the North Coast Trail, so I can't say much about that. I've been told it's like the WCT from 20 years ago. Lots of mud!
I hope I'm not forgetting anything...
This was an amazing place to work in over the summer. I recommend visiting in July or August (though August sometimes turns into Fogust).
If anyone has any other questions, there are lots of local forum sites to ask them.
Bring a camera and have a truly incredible backcountry experience!
The Drive:
About 60km from Port Hardy, almost exclusively gravel roads. They are usually graded, but be prepared for bumps and the possibility of a flat (carry a spare tire!). Holberg, about 20km from the park, is the only spot along the road with cell service. You can get it in the corner of the Scarlet Ibis parking lot, and there is also a payphone in the pub.
The Hike:
Easiest hike in the park (in this case more like a walk) is down to San Josef Bay. The trail to there is fine gravel and is wheelchair accessible. Takes about 45min.
The main trail out to the cape is a lot rougher. Expect lots of mud unless it's been exceptionally dry for a week. Parking lot to Fisherman's River (about halfway) is usually the rougher part. Starts off with lots of uphill to Eric Lake, mostly corduroy road and boardwalk. Then from EL to FR is boardwalks and up/down trail as you walk in the valley. From FR to Nels Bight is fairly good trail unless it has rained. This area is mostly bog so there will be lots of mud if it has rained. If it hasn't rained, this section is quite easy. Total time from Parking lot to Nels is anywhere from 3.5 - 5 or even 6 hours, highly dependant on your hiking speed and how many breaks you take.
The trail from Nels to the Lighthouse is fairly easy as well. I quite like this section of the park, nice to hike in. You can take the high tide trails along experiment bight over to the sand dunes, then cross over, or take the main trail from Experiment to Guise Bay. Nels Bight to the light house is about 1.5-2 hours one way.
Camping:
San Josef Bay is great for family camping. Beautiful big sandy beach with plenty of places to pitch a tent in the sand. Be advised that late in the season there may be a shortage of firewood on the first beach, though there's usually plenty on second beach. The only water source here is on second beach, make sure you treat it (boil/filter) just like any water in the park.
Eric Lake has 11 wooden tent pads in the forest. Nice place to stay if you want a head start on your way to the cape. However, be prepared for LOTS of bugs! Water can be treated from the lake.
Fishermans River has 2 wooden tent pads. Look left once you're at the pit toilet. Be advised there is no food cache here so bring rope! Also, BUGS!
Nissen Bight is popular with North Coast Trail hikers. It's all beach camping with pit toilet and food cache near the trail. Not many bugs here, but the walk to the water source is 2km round trip.
Nels Bight is the most popular beach near the cape. It offers lots of beach camping and a few forested sites near the old cabin. There was a new ranger cabin built this year at mid beach, meaning there is no longer a cabin at the SouthEast end. Food caches and pit toilets are spread throughout the beach. Water is in the corner at the creek,look for a black pipe with water coming out of it. Treat/filter the water as usual. Expect to see PFO's here during the summer months, they come by every night to check for permits. Not many bugs here, apart from noseeums in June.
Guise Bay is another nice place to camp. It has a pit toilet, a food cache, and a water source that sometimes runs dry in the summer. This beach is typically quieter because it can be very exposed to the winds.
Other tips:
1. Bring some change if you want to buy something at the lighthouse. Todd and Harvey usually have pop, chips, and chocolate bars for sale from their house in the summer months. They are quite friendly and nice to chat with. Make sure you sign the guest book.
2. On the off season (from around Oct-May) the Nels ranger cabin is open for public use on a first come first served basis. It has 2 small bedrooms, a main area with table/chairs and a wood stove, and a loft. It can sleep upwards of 6 people easily. It's located mid beach Nels Bight.
3.Don't bring your dog! Seriously, no dogs are allowed in the park! Wolves and domestic dogs do not make friends with each other. There have been wolf attacks on dogs in the past. Domestic dogs brought in to the park attract wolves to campsites. Please don't bring your dog here!
4. Be on the watch for wild animals. Cougars/Bears/Wolf sightings are very common in this park and sightings occur regularly. Make sure you know what to do when you encounter these animals.
5.Remember to pay! This park works on an honour system, please remember to pay at the parking lot. If you encounter PFO's while in the park, they will check to ensure that you have paid.
6. Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Rain, sun, fog, mist... you can easily see it all in a few hours.
7. Cape Scott Provincial Park is in the Fog Zone, meaning you can have campfires year-round! Don't forget matches.
8. Be on the watch for glass floats. I was lucky enough to find 2 this year near Guise Bay.
I never had a chance to do the North Coast Trail, so I can't say much about that. I've been told it's like the WCT from 20 years ago. Lots of mud!
I hope I'm not forgetting anything...
This was an amazing place to work in over the summer. I recommend visiting in July or August (though August sometimes turns into Fogust).
If anyone has any other questions, there are lots of local forum sites to ask them.
Bring a camera and have a truly incredible backcountry experience!
Written September 17, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Larry J
Seattle, WA3 contributions
Jul 2013 • Friends
I drove the 1.5 hour road from Port Hardy area, to the end of the road with Pat P., who submitted the previous review of mostly the San Josef Heritage Park, and the road to get there. I just wanted to add to her accurate review.
The Heritage Park adjoins the Cape Scott Park. If one wants to launch their kayak or other small boat, one drives into and through the Heritage Park, into the tight woods on a short bumpy, possibly muddy road to get to the river. The river level is affected by the tides, and differs accordingly. It is a fairly small river, with lots of vegetation. Recommendation is to park in Heritage Park where there is plenty of room, and the owner, Doug will watch over the car. I have no idea if there is much vandalism history at the Cape Scott Park, parking lot...but peace of mind for a minimal fee would be worth it to me. Just meeting Doug, the owner for 25 years is worth it alone! A nice guy living quite remotely.
The other thing I really enjoyed was the 45 minute walk from the parking lot to San Josef Bay. A easy, wide trail with bridges, and is considered wheelchair approved (we saw wheelchair tracks in the beach sand to prove some had been there). I made a point of looking around and up to see the wonderful trees along the walk. I was amazed seeing old trees which in earlier life, began on a "nurse log", but were no longer there, leaving the large trees propped up on amazing roots. The beach is a very wide, shallow sandy beach to stroll on. I immediately thought how nice this would be to camp on in sunny warm weather like we had. We didn't walk to the caves and places in the cliffs further down the beach (1/2 mile or so?).
I would have loved to talk more with Doug about his creating his park. I found it lovely with lots of cut grass, woods, and some huge trunk remnants in the woods, and a nice stream flowing through. He threw fish feed into the stream outside his house, and we watched the horde of fish taking it in. Also loved the talking Ravens.
Just remember to bring water. The stream might be ok, or use a filter to be sure, but there is no development anywhere along the stream, and the appearance was fine.
The telephone number I listed is the owner, Doug. His listed mail address is Box 38, Holberg, BC VON 1Z0.
The Heritage Park adjoins the Cape Scott Park. If one wants to launch their kayak or other small boat, one drives into and through the Heritage Park, into the tight woods on a short bumpy, possibly muddy road to get to the river. The river level is affected by the tides, and differs accordingly. It is a fairly small river, with lots of vegetation. Recommendation is to park in Heritage Park where there is plenty of room, and the owner, Doug will watch over the car. I have no idea if there is much vandalism history at the Cape Scott Park, parking lot...but peace of mind for a minimal fee would be worth it to me. Just meeting Doug, the owner for 25 years is worth it alone! A nice guy living quite remotely.
The other thing I really enjoyed was the 45 minute walk from the parking lot to San Josef Bay. A easy, wide trail with bridges, and is considered wheelchair approved (we saw wheelchair tracks in the beach sand to prove some had been there). I made a point of looking around and up to see the wonderful trees along the walk. I was amazed seeing old trees which in earlier life, began on a "nurse log", but were no longer there, leaving the large trees propped up on amazing roots. The beach is a very wide, shallow sandy beach to stroll on. I immediately thought how nice this would be to camp on in sunny warm weather like we had. We didn't walk to the caves and places in the cliffs further down the beach (1/2 mile or so?).
I would have loved to talk more with Doug about his creating his park. I found it lovely with lots of cut grass, woods, and some huge trunk remnants in the woods, and a nice stream flowing through. He threw fish feed into the stream outside his house, and we watched the horde of fish taking it in. Also loved the talking Ravens.
Just remember to bring water. The stream might be ok, or use a filter to be sure, but there is no development anywhere along the stream, and the appearance was fine.
The telephone number I listed is the owner, Doug. His listed mail address is Box 38, Holberg, BC VON 1Z0.
Written July 23, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pat P
Seattle, WA6 contributions
Jul 2013 • Couples
If you brave the dusty, wash-boardy, gravel road from Port Hardy to Cape Scott Provincial Park, you’ll want a place to camp , because you probably don’t want to do that road twice in one day. Pickings are VERY slim, and information hard to come by, but there’s hope: Doug. Doug’s place is called “Heritage RV Park,” but get any notion of hook-ups out of your mind. There are no-hook-ups, in fact there is no electricity and no water, period (except for the creek). There is another campground up there, but it’s not maintained (moss growing on tables), and there’s no water there, either. 25 or so years ago, the area was clear-cut. Since then, Doug has created a little park--grassy swaths through the woods with little camping alcoves carved out. Most have tables and fire pits, and they all have mosquitoes (but this is north Vancouver Island, you do have bug dope, right?), but there are also birds (especially the ravens!), and you’re minutes from the Cape Scott main parking lot where the trails take off (or Doug will let you park your rig at his place where he’ll keep his eye on it). I don’t want to create false expectations--this is no provincial park campground with showers and hosts coming by to sell wood, but for the same price as a BC park, it is a little oasis at the end of a really long road, and wood’s available for “a donation.” Doug’s an eccentric guy who lives a pioneer life in the 21st century, and we wish we’d had more time to talk to him, but the weather was great and the walk to San Josef too tempting. If you’re a Vancouver Island car camper looking for something literally off the beaten track, head for Doug’s and tell him Hi from us in the US. Oh, and bring your own water!
PS: More about the road. Port Hardy to Holberg, takes an hour, and the first part is actually worse than the last part. Take advantage of the Scarlet Ibis Pub in Holberg where you can wash out the dust with a pint. Holberg to Cape Scott is just under half an hour, and actually not as bad as we’d been warned. We drive a Chevy van, so we ride more like a truck--a sedan might be a smoother ride. The biggest problem was the logging trucks, but we got good advice from a local: keep track of pull-offs, so you’ll know how far to back up and which side of the road you need to retreat to. The truckers know there will be tourists on the road, but they have the right of way, and they move fast.
PS: More about the road. Port Hardy to Holberg, takes an hour, and the first part is actually worse than the last part. Take advantage of the Scarlet Ibis Pub in Holberg where you can wash out the dust with a pint. Holberg to Cape Scott is just under half an hour, and actually not as bad as we’d been warned. We drive a Chevy van, so we ride more like a truck--a sedan might be a smoother ride. The biggest problem was the logging trucks, but we got good advice from a local: keep track of pull-offs, so you’ll know how far to back up and which side of the road you need to retreat to. The truckers know there will be tourists on the road, but they have the right of way, and they move fast.
Written July 19, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FarFlungStarling
Qualicum Beach, Canada968 contributions
Aug 2016 • Friends
We visited San Joseph Bay a number of years ago and always vowed we would go back when we could spend more time. Finally we returned and it is just as beautiful, wild and pristine as we remembered.
This park is quite off the beaten track and takes some planning and determination to get there which is why it is also never crowded.
From Port Hardy the drive in is about 60k but all on gravel logging roads. It starts out as two lanes but gets narrower and narrower until finally it is down to one lane of winding, bumpy gravel roads where you will have to dodge potholes and working vehicles. We encountered graders working on the road and had to pull over to allow them to pass, several pick-ups traveling at high rates of speed and one logging truck. It was a week day so "workers" were to be expected. Drive cautiously and "Expect the Unexpected" as the sign along the road advises. Also, watch for the "Shoe Tree Memorial". Bring an old pair of shoes if you wish to make a contribution.
Finally you will come to a sizeable parking lot but the later in the day the more cars there are. If you are just in for the day there is no charge but if you plan to camp overnight be sure to pay attention to the fees listed and make the proper payment.
Take note of the signs about bears, cougars and wolves and what to do if you should encounter them. For their own safety dogs are not allowed in the park.
Following the main trail you will come to a sign post directing you either left or right.
Right takes you to Eric Lake 2.4km, Nissen Bight 14.2km, Nels Bight 16.4km and Cape Scott 21.7km. Back to these later.
Left takes you to San Josef Bay 1.7km, which was where we were headed on this day. It's a two-person wide, flat gravel path which winds back and forth and up and down small hills through the old growth forest. Lots of gnarly trees, some quite spectacular. You have to stop and wonder how they could have grown that way.
We saw a man pushing two large coolers on a dolly toward the beach and a woman returning from the beach with a sleeping infant in a stroller so it is a very accessible path and an easy 45 min. walk.
Just before you reach the beach you will come to a sign post with the times for high and low tides listed. Pay attention to this if you plan to travel to the second beach.
If the tide is coming in BEWARE: if you get to the second beach and linger there you could find that the way back is under water forcing you to wade through the surf or taking an alternative overland route. Keep an eye on the tide - it comes in a lot faster than you might imagine. All of that aside, enjoy the beach. Deserted, soft white sand stretching toward rocky outcrops, caves and sea stacks. Lots to see and explore. This has got to be one of Canada's most beautiful beaches.
If you are going through all the trouble to get here plan on spending the day. Pack food and water and make sure to bring clothing to accommodate changes in the weather. There are no stores and no drinking water available after you leave Port Hardy. There are some pit toilets at the parking lot and at the entrance to the beach and some bear proof garbage receptacles. Please use them or pack out your garbage. Leave the beach as natural as you found it.
Back to Cape Scott, we did this hike over four days some years back, packing in all of our food and camping gear.
Day1 - our group of 6 met early, organized our stuff and drove up to the park from mid island. We hiked in to San Josef with only the food and water we needed for that night, spent the balance of the day setting up camp and enjoying the beach. Camp fires are allowed all throughout the year.
Day 2 - we packed up and headed back to the parking lot where we picked up and distributed the rest of the food and refilled our water bottles, then set off for Nels Bight. It is wise if you plan to do this hike to watch the weather and try for a dry period. The trails are narrow and rutted, muddy and treacherous, rocks and roots, slippery muddy hills up and down, fallen trees to climb over or crawl under, corduroy roads - the whole nine yards. We reached Nels Bight mid afternoon, set up camp and relaxed. There are pit toilets and a source for drinking water - a black pipe sticking up out of the sand. Treat your water and if you can't stand the taste of iodine - pack some Gatorade crystals to mask it. We watched wales for hours that afternoon, explored the beach and played in the surf. We had consolidated our camping equipment to lighten our packs and collaborated on our meals, mostly all dry or dehydrated foods.
Day 3 We walked to the lighthouse, chatted with the two guys that man the lighthouse and returned to camp. There are many smaller coves and the walk takes you in and out of woods and beaches - very scenic.
Day 4 We hiked back out to the parking lot and drove home. Very tired, but what a memorable trip and one that not very many people can claim to make. Well worth the time and effort!
This park is quite off the beaten track and takes some planning and determination to get there which is why it is also never crowded.
From Port Hardy the drive in is about 60k but all on gravel logging roads. It starts out as two lanes but gets narrower and narrower until finally it is down to one lane of winding, bumpy gravel roads where you will have to dodge potholes and working vehicles. We encountered graders working on the road and had to pull over to allow them to pass, several pick-ups traveling at high rates of speed and one logging truck. It was a week day so "workers" were to be expected. Drive cautiously and "Expect the Unexpected" as the sign along the road advises. Also, watch for the "Shoe Tree Memorial". Bring an old pair of shoes if you wish to make a contribution.
Finally you will come to a sizeable parking lot but the later in the day the more cars there are. If you are just in for the day there is no charge but if you plan to camp overnight be sure to pay attention to the fees listed and make the proper payment.
Take note of the signs about bears, cougars and wolves and what to do if you should encounter them. For their own safety dogs are not allowed in the park.
Following the main trail you will come to a sign post directing you either left or right.
Right takes you to Eric Lake 2.4km, Nissen Bight 14.2km, Nels Bight 16.4km and Cape Scott 21.7km. Back to these later.
Left takes you to San Josef Bay 1.7km, which was where we were headed on this day. It's a two-person wide, flat gravel path which winds back and forth and up and down small hills through the old growth forest. Lots of gnarly trees, some quite spectacular. You have to stop and wonder how they could have grown that way.
We saw a man pushing two large coolers on a dolly toward the beach and a woman returning from the beach with a sleeping infant in a stroller so it is a very accessible path and an easy 45 min. walk.
Just before you reach the beach you will come to a sign post with the times for high and low tides listed. Pay attention to this if you plan to travel to the second beach.
If the tide is coming in BEWARE: if you get to the second beach and linger there you could find that the way back is under water forcing you to wade through the surf or taking an alternative overland route. Keep an eye on the tide - it comes in a lot faster than you might imagine. All of that aside, enjoy the beach. Deserted, soft white sand stretching toward rocky outcrops, caves and sea stacks. Lots to see and explore. This has got to be one of Canada's most beautiful beaches.
If you are going through all the trouble to get here plan on spending the day. Pack food and water and make sure to bring clothing to accommodate changes in the weather. There are no stores and no drinking water available after you leave Port Hardy. There are some pit toilets at the parking lot and at the entrance to the beach and some bear proof garbage receptacles. Please use them or pack out your garbage. Leave the beach as natural as you found it.
Back to Cape Scott, we did this hike over four days some years back, packing in all of our food and camping gear.
Day1 - our group of 6 met early, organized our stuff and drove up to the park from mid island. We hiked in to San Josef with only the food and water we needed for that night, spent the balance of the day setting up camp and enjoying the beach. Camp fires are allowed all throughout the year.
Day 2 - we packed up and headed back to the parking lot where we picked up and distributed the rest of the food and refilled our water bottles, then set off for Nels Bight. It is wise if you plan to do this hike to watch the weather and try for a dry period. The trails are narrow and rutted, muddy and treacherous, rocks and roots, slippery muddy hills up and down, fallen trees to climb over or crawl under, corduroy roads - the whole nine yards. We reached Nels Bight mid afternoon, set up camp and relaxed. There are pit toilets and a source for drinking water - a black pipe sticking up out of the sand. Treat your water and if you can't stand the taste of iodine - pack some Gatorade crystals to mask it. We watched wales for hours that afternoon, explored the beach and played in the surf. We had consolidated our camping equipment to lighten our packs and collaborated on our meals, mostly all dry or dehydrated foods.
Day 3 We walked to the lighthouse, chatted with the two guys that man the lighthouse and returned to camp. There are many smaller coves and the walk takes you in and out of woods and beaches - very scenic.
Day 4 We hiked back out to the parking lot and drove home. Very tired, but what a memorable trip and one that not very many people can claim to make. Well worth the time and effort!
Written August 22, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Govancouver
Toronto12 contributions
Aug 2016 • Couples
Did the 16k hike to Nels Bight and camped for 3 nights and did day hikes to Cape Scott and area. Was a nice change from the West coast trail in that you set up and tear down your camp only once. Not a lot of rain hiking in so the trail was decent with lots of boardwalk. Coming back it had rained for two days and lots of mud, rock and exposed tree roots that somehow we did not remember on the hike in. Lots of historical markers and signs along the way gave the entire trip some neat context. The park rangers check on you every night and are super nice. Previous campers leave tarps, hammocks and fire set-ups intact, except the rangers will take them down if no one uses them. If you are lucky when you arrive at Nels Bight, take a site that already has a tarp to offer sun and rain protection if you have not brought one of your own. Hike to Cape Scott from Nels takes about 2 hours and is a great hike and well worth it. The best water is at the lighthouse and the two keepers are super friendly. We drove from Port Hardy to the trail head in about 1 hour, 30 minutes with a rental that you must be careful. Logging road with lots of pot holes and big rocks to avoid. The restaurant in Holberg was a great place to stop on the way back for lunch and cold beer. Great food!! Overall we loved this trip and would do it again.
Written September 2, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ThinkHoliday
Austin58 contributions
Aug 2014 • Couples
Drove the 67 km from Port Hardy to Cape Scott. The road was dry and not potholed or rutted. Took our time, as we were in a rental and didn't want to shred a tire or two. One can go faster on the road, but shouldn't unless you have reinforced sidewall tires. Took us around 2 hours each way with various stops at the shoe tree, Ronnin Gardens and black bear photo ops.
We're not big backpackers, so the hour hike into the bay with all our gear was the plan. The trail to the bay is very well maintained and offered room to pull a wagon full of gear. Excellent camping in San Josef Bay ($10 per person/per night). Campsites are private with great views of the bay. Low tide gave us lots to explore: second beach, sea stacks, caves, barnacles, mussels, sea stars, anemones, wolf tracks on the beach, etc. Fresh water can be obtained on the second beach from a waterfall (should be treated). Fires were allowed on the beach, which made for some great evenings. Hiked the unmaintained trail to the summit of Mt. St Patrick (highest peak in the park, elevation around 1320 ft), . This is a great hike that will take 2.5 - 4 hrs round trip and rewards one with outstanding views on a clear day. The only tricky part of this trail (aside from the roots and mud) was exiting the forest to the summit. There are a couple of different trails (possibly game trails) to chose from once you come out of the bush. Just remember where you exited and you'll have no issues.
Since the dreaded road has already been conquered, one might consider a couple of days at nearby Raft Cove (we had neither the time nor provisions). I hear the trail to Raft takes about the same amount of time, but is not as well maintained (read: tougher hike in, but not strenuous).
If you make it up to Port Hardy, then you must go to Cape Scott. One normally finds great things at the end of long roads and this one does not disappoint. Good travels.
We're not big backpackers, so the hour hike into the bay with all our gear was the plan. The trail to the bay is very well maintained and offered room to pull a wagon full of gear. Excellent camping in San Josef Bay ($10 per person/per night). Campsites are private with great views of the bay. Low tide gave us lots to explore: second beach, sea stacks, caves, barnacles, mussels, sea stars, anemones, wolf tracks on the beach, etc. Fresh water can be obtained on the second beach from a waterfall (should be treated). Fires were allowed on the beach, which made for some great evenings. Hiked the unmaintained trail to the summit of Mt. St Patrick (highest peak in the park, elevation around 1320 ft), . This is a great hike that will take 2.5 - 4 hrs round trip and rewards one with outstanding views on a clear day. The only tricky part of this trail (aside from the roots and mud) was exiting the forest to the summit. There are a couple of different trails (possibly game trails) to chose from once you come out of the bush. Just remember where you exited and you'll have no issues.
Since the dreaded road has already been conquered, one might consider a couple of days at nearby Raft Cove (we had neither the time nor provisions). I hear the trail to Raft takes about the same amount of time, but is not as well maintained (read: tougher hike in, but not strenuous).
If you make it up to Port Hardy, then you must go to Cape Scott. One normally finds great things at the end of long roads and this one does not disappoint. Good travels.
Written August 27, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom C
Victoria, Canada6 contributions
Aug 2015 • Family
Just back from a few lovely days staying at San Josef Heritage Park. We'd delayed our trip to avoid some rainy weather in the north island, even though we're truck campers. Drove in late Sunday, so no logging trucks. Back out late afternoon Tuesday, and only met one logging truck moving slowly with lots of room to pass. Guess we were lucky. OTOH, a few things shook loose in our camper, but nothing that can't be fixed!
As prior reviewers have noted, this camp site is run by Doug. His card says:
San Josef Heritage Park
At the Cape Scott Park Boat Ramp
On the brink of adventure!
Hiking, Group Camping, Tenting, RV Parking, River Access
Doug DesJarlais 250-288-3682 Box 38, Holberg, BC V0N 1Z0
I'd been here a few times 16+ years ago, and had wanted to show the place to my kids. Apart from the longish ride in over logging roads, quite a pleasant experience. We made two trips out to San Josef Bay to enjoy walking in the sand and amongst the rocky islets and spires that separate the two beaches. There were a few campers each day, and also a few families on day trips, and we saw hikers along the trail and at the beach. A few kayakers had left their vehicles at Doug's, and the Cape Scott Park parking lot was well used but still had plenty of capacity.
Cape Scott Park and the area is home to wildlife that includes black bears, cougars and more recently wolves. The addition of wolves to the mix has BC Parks advising that dogs are not welcome in the park. The old advice was to keep your pet leashed, but now they do not want you to bring your dog into the park at all. We saw several folks with dogs at the beach, but I think most overnight hikers into the park left their furry friends at home.
Bathroom facilities, both park and Doug's site, are outhouses. As said elsewhere, bring your own drinking water.
One of the best things I enjoyed about camping at San Josef is the quiet. There were a few other campers at Doug's place, and vehicles came and went through the day. But as night fell, there was just silence. No distant highway or train noises. No overpassing aircraft. And probably because Doug feeds the local birds, no first light foraging of crows and jays through your camp site, as seems to occur at most provincial parks.
Sixteen years ago, I recall a bear wandered harmlessly through Doug's site, sending folks running for their cameras. This time. no bear was seen while we were there.
Doug's camping fees match whatever BC Parks is charging at Cape Scott, which in August 2015 is $10 per night per adult. Firewood, as noted elsewhere, is by donation. Bring cash, as there are no banks or ATMs anywhere nearby!
As prior reviewers have noted, this camp site is run by Doug. His card says:
San Josef Heritage Park
At the Cape Scott Park Boat Ramp
On the brink of adventure!
Hiking, Group Camping, Tenting, RV Parking, River Access
Doug DesJarlais 250-288-3682 Box 38, Holberg, BC V0N 1Z0
I'd been here a few times 16+ years ago, and had wanted to show the place to my kids. Apart from the longish ride in over logging roads, quite a pleasant experience. We made two trips out to San Josef Bay to enjoy walking in the sand and amongst the rocky islets and spires that separate the two beaches. There were a few campers each day, and also a few families on day trips, and we saw hikers along the trail and at the beach. A few kayakers had left their vehicles at Doug's, and the Cape Scott Park parking lot was well used but still had plenty of capacity.
Cape Scott Park and the area is home to wildlife that includes black bears, cougars and more recently wolves. The addition of wolves to the mix has BC Parks advising that dogs are not welcome in the park. The old advice was to keep your pet leashed, but now they do not want you to bring your dog into the park at all. We saw several folks with dogs at the beach, but I think most overnight hikers into the park left their furry friends at home.
Bathroom facilities, both park and Doug's site, are outhouses. As said elsewhere, bring your own drinking water.
One of the best things I enjoyed about camping at San Josef is the quiet. There were a few other campers at Doug's place, and vehicles came and went through the day. But as night fell, there was just silence. No distant highway or train noises. No overpassing aircraft. And probably because Doug feeds the local birds, no first light foraging of crows and jays through your camp site, as seems to occur at most provincial parks.
Sixteen years ago, I recall a bear wandered harmlessly through Doug's site, sending folks running for their cameras. This time. no bear was seen while we were there.
Doug's camping fees match whatever BC Parks is charging at Cape Scott, which in August 2015 is $10 per night per adult. Firewood, as noted elsewhere, is by donation. Bring cash, as there are no banks or ATMs anywhere nearby!
Written August 12, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RedSnapper40
Port Hardy, Canada21 contributions
I just completed my fifth hike to Nels Bight. The trail is fairly flat with several muddy section but lots of boardwalk too (careful - some is quite slippery). Good footwear is a must to ensure an enjoyable hike. There are signs along the 17km trail that provide information about the park and the previous settlement attempts by the Danes.
Nels Bight is a big, beautiful, sandy beach that stretches about a kilometre. There are humpback whales feeding in the bay all summer and early fall. Totally breath-taking and worth the 5-7 hour hike in.
Many also do a day hike from this beach to explore Guise Bay, Experiment Bight, and the lighthouse at Cape Scott.
Do be prepared for the elements and check the weather. The park rangers Dave and Cathy were very helpful too, loaning us a few tarps that are stored behind the ranger station.
Nels Bight is a big, beautiful, sandy beach that stretches about a kilometre. There are humpback whales feeding in the bay all summer and early fall. Totally breath-taking and worth the 5-7 hour hike in.
Many also do a day hike from this beach to explore Guise Bay, Experiment Bight, and the lighthouse at Cape Scott.
Do be prepared for the elements and check the weather. The park rangers Dave and Cathy were very helpful too, loaning us a few tarps that are stored behind the ranger station.
Written September 4, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean R
Longueuil, Canada57 contributions
Jul 2015 • Couples
My wife and I went to Cape Scott Provincial Park in July 2015. It is a 2-hour drive on a logging road to get there but it is really worth it. After the drive, a hiking trail goes through a beautiful forest with huge trees, leading to the beach. The two beaches we went to were magnificient, made of nice sand and very long and deep. They made for a great walk, in a romantic setting. Some caves can be explored from the beach directly. The water is cold for swimming, but nice to refresh yourself. The park was very quiet when we went; we saw only 2 other persons.
Written July 19, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
G-dub_YVR
Vancouver5 contributions
Jul 2016 • Family
We completed the Cape Scott Trail with our kids - 7 and 11. Apparently the Park Rangers told us that my son at 7 is the unofficial record for a kid with a full backpack that has hiked the CST. We hiked roughly 55km and spent 4 nights on the beaches. The trail is quite varied, corduroy, boardwalk and let's not forget the mud pits! Find a way around or have a hiking pole or stick to balance on rocks and branches..
We were there in late July and experienced mostly sunshine during the day. It rained during the night, not that big of a deal. Bring a water filter.. the water source at Nels and Nielsen is, um, brown and tastes like rotten sea onions, lol. We had a sterile pen which does not filter, ugh. The kids had fun collecting marine debris and driftwood and making structures out of it. Lots of fishing nets, floats etc and even washed up tsunami debris like a Toyota car wheel.
It was a great trip for all. My advice is that you really only want to spend the nights on the beach, not the forest unless you want to be eaten alive by the mosquitoes. It can be difficult for the little ones so be prepared to go slow and have lots of 'energy' food for the kids - granola and candy does wonders..
We were there in late July and experienced mostly sunshine during the day. It rained during the night, not that big of a deal. Bring a water filter.. the water source at Nels and Nielsen is, um, brown and tastes like rotten sea onions, lol. We had a sterile pen which does not filter, ugh. The kids had fun collecting marine debris and driftwood and making structures out of it. Lots of fishing nets, floats etc and even washed up tsunami debris like a Toyota car wheel.
It was a great trip for all. My advice is that you really only want to spend the nights on the beach, not the forest unless you want to be eaten alive by the mosquitoes. It can be difficult for the little ones so be prepared to go slow and have lots of 'energy' food for the kids - granola and candy does wonders..
Written May 23, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HAllo, Annsootje,
Afgelopen zomer zouden wij met zijn vieren naar Vancouver Island gaan. Dat ging uiteraard niet door. Nu we thuis zitten en extra tijd hebben om de route te bekijken, willen we graag naar Cape Scott gaan.
Met wat voor een soort auto hebben jullie de weg afgelegd?
Wij zijn van plan om met een camper te gaan. Is dat haalbaar? We zijn met 2 kinderen van dan 3 en 6 jaar.
Ik hoor heel graag van u.
Met vriendelijke groet,
Jessica
Written November 28, 2020
We will be in Port Hardy in June in a midsized rental car and wondered if it was reasonably practical to drive to Cape Scott Park. (We come from Scotland where we are used to narrow roads with passing places and logging trucks coming towards you).
Any guidance/advice most welcome!
Jim Thomson
Written April 23, 2018
Anyone know if there are any gas stations once you leave port hardy? Worried about running out of gas lol
Written July 6, 2017
There are not. Fill up in Port Hardy, get a jerry can if you're very worried or you drive an insane beast of a gas guzzler. Keep in mind that Port Hardy is a small town - things close early!
Written July 18, 2017
Planning on a trip in Sept to San Joseph and wondering specifically if there's enough water in the river to allow us to ferry in our gear and supplies? We are hikers but thinking that shud the tides allow, this might add more options to our adventure.
Written May 15, 2017
Not bad. Best to have high clearance vehicle but we saw people do it in normal cars. Go slow though. Road can at times tempt you to speed up but then you hit bumpy parts and easy to lose some control of going too fast.
Written July 3, 2016
How long is the drive from port hardy? And what of car is recommended?
Written April 4, 2016
It is about 64 km and a high wheel car or a 4x4 will be the best.We were there with a truckcamper, driving very slow is recomanded
Written May 19, 2017
Trail condition and best time of year to go. How long to hike to beach?
Written December 27, 2014
Best time is summer. Drier the better as the trail can be muddy in many sections.
Trail is in pretty good shape usually without any many hills (apart from the start).
The trail just to San Jo is wheelchair accessible.
Written March 15, 2016
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