Visitor safety

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Visiting Pacific Rim National Park Reserve will be different than previous years. Be prepared and know what is open and closed before you go.

Current advisories, warnings and closures

We rarely head out for an outdoor adventure with the expectation that something will go wrong, and most times everything will go right. However, sometimes the unexpected happens and when it does, it’s important that you are well informed and well prepared to minimise the negative impact of unfortunate circumstances.

For general information on how to stay safe when enjoying the outdoors visit adventuresmart.ca.

Wildlife safety

When you visit Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you are visiting an area that is home to a diverse array of wildlife. What you do can have an impact on the safety of wildlife, your safety and the safety of other park visitors.

Water safety

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve borders the Pacific Ocean. Many visitors come to this region to participate in the recreational activities the ocean has to offer. While the ocean may look inviting, hazards such as large surf, rip currents and cold water temperatures are present. Knowing that these hazards exist and taking reasonable precautions can minimize the risk of personal injury.

Shoreline safety

The sandy coastlines and rocky shores along Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are exposed to the open Pacific Ocean. This means that high tides, large waves and rolling logs can expose hikers and storm watchers to hazardous situations. Creeks and streams flowing into the Pacific Ocean will also be affected by these conditions. Being aware of shoreline risks and taking reasonable measures to mitigate them will minimize the risk of personal injury.

Weather and climate

Weather in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is characterized by cool summers, mild winters and abundant moisture. Although the west coast climate can be seen as mild in comparison to the rest of Canada, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is often subject to extreme weather. Extreme weather conditions include prolonged and heavy rainfall, hurricane force winds and dense, wet fog.

West Coast Trail safety

The West Coast Trail is one of the three units that makes up Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The west Coast Trail is an overnight backpacking trail that is suitable for experienced hikers. Wet and foggy weather conditions, remote locations, wilderness, rough terrain and proximity to the ocean and rivers make this trail challenging; these challenges mean that accidents and injuries sometimes occur. Please read this safety information specific to the trail to be prepared for the risks you may be exposed to during your hike and how to minimize personal injury.

AdventureSmart

For general information, hints and tips related to how to prepare for wide range of outdoor activities we encourage you to visit AdventureSmart. Get informed & go outdoors!

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. At Parks Canada, we do our part to make sure you can have a safe visit by assessing the risks, managing hazards, and making sure that safety information is freely available to everyone. You can do your part as visitors by making sure you seek out the information you need to stay safe and make well informed decisions while enjoying these special places. Visit our websites and stop at a visitor center to speak with our employees for the most up to date information. Make sure you are fully prepared for whatever activities you choose to participate in so you can have a safe, enjoyable and memorable visit.

In case of emergency contact: 250-726-3604 or 1-877-852-3100.

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