British Columbia’s travel advertising campaign slogan from a few years back was “Super. Natural.” Pacific Rim National Park in B.C., situated on the west coast of Vancouver Island, lives up to that catch line, and more. The park’s long beaches (among the longest in the country) offer walking and hiking, swimming, kayaking and surfing. But this park goes beyond the usual outdoor activities.
It’s coastal to start with, and part of a unique large island, and therefore has water-related activities that many other national parks in Canada do not offer. Plus, it’s oceanic, not lakes or rivers. Beyond that, this is a carefully monitored ecological area. Visitors are welcome to explore its beauty, the flora and the fauna, but must not remove any natural items such as plants or even rocks. Hunting is not permitted. Neither are off-road vehicles, and paragliding or parachuting; drones are not allowed without special permits (often granted only to professional film crews).
Pacific Rim National Park is an idyllic spot for long hikes, exploring tidal pools, cycling and mountain-biking. The interpretive centre offers a one-hour walk designed to inform and be easy on beginners. Crucial to the make-up of the park is its connection to indigenous history and native culture, another aspect of the park that commands respect and reverence. Enjoy the peace and beauty of this serene and sacred place.
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