You marvel at but don't disturb artifacts you find along the trail and beach. The Indian Band does not physically occupy the land but does use it periodically. A meadow opens at the end of the trail and you spread out the blanket and unpack the picnic basket. Out on the water, a passenger ferry toots its horn at a cluster of fishing boats, their occupants trolling for the mighty spring salmon. Seabirds bob in the waves while overhead bald eagles circle endlessly.
Seals pop their heads above the surface, then quickly submerge in the chase for a fish.
You spend about four or five hours hiking the trail and viewing the activity on Active Pass. Tomorrow, you plan on taking the ferry back to Vancouver Island and head west of Victoria to the head of the famed West Coast Trail. Last fall, after hearing about the 72-kilometer trail along the west coast of Vancouver Island, you phoned and booked your passage. The trail, you heard, has become so desirable as a wilderness adventure that hiker numbers have been restricted and reservations are a must. It's early morning and a fine rain is falling.