Left Seattle and caught noon ferry at Tsawwassen, B.C., to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island. B.C. Highway 14 to Port Renfrew. Arrived 6 p.m. Bypassed the first kilometer of the trail, from the Gordon River to Thrasher Bay, since it has a reputation for being extremely muddy. Camper Bay to Walbran River, 8.8 km. Most difficult section.
Overland route has swamps, many ladders, rough terrain and a suspension bridge.
Cable-car crossing at Walbran River and Carmanah Creek. Visit Carmanah Lighthouse. Nitinat Narrows to Klanawa River, 9.2 km. At 1.3 km from Nitinat, choose beach or overland trail to Tsusiat Falls, a spectacular, must-see sight. Sea caves at Tsuquadra Point large enough to set up tents inside, enjoy a campfire and dry out gear.