ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Pathway

The pavement continues for the whole route, usually on gentle grades and separated from the highway by trees. It is about 3.2 m wide with shoulders, so it feels more like a parkway than a narrow hiking trail. The line curves through forest and wetland, with boardwalk sections and exits to beaches and day-use sites. Walk a short piece from one of the park lots if you do not want the full one-way outing; the numbered markers help you judge how far you have gone.

Most of the path is fairly flat, but two short hills exceed a 10% grade near the 9 km and 14 km markers. Wayii is the named escarpment overlooking Long Beach; the S-curve on Wick Road is another steep stretch. At Wayii, pause for the view across the sand and surf, with the coastal forest framing the beach. It is the route’s clearest change from a sheltered forest walk to an open coast.

There is one Wick Road crossing without a signal, plus two pedestrian-controlled Highway 4 crossings near Radar Hill Road and the Rainforest Trails. These are the main places where traffic interrupts an otherwise separated route. Stay alert at the Wick Road crossing and use the pedestrian controls where provided. Cyclists use the same path, so expect two-way traffic along its length.

The name, translated by Parks Canada as “going in the right direction on the path,” was given by Elders from Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ. They connect the route with walking ancestral land respectfully and with humility. The pathway opened in 2022 after years of work with the Nations. Take time at its cultural signs and place names, and leave natural and cultural objects where they are.

There is no single trailhead: most Long Beach Unit parking lots provide access, and the two ends join the Tofino and Ucluelet community pathways. If you walk the full length, arrange transport at the far end. Use designated lots only, since roadside parking is prohibited, and a National Park Entry Pass is required. Washrooms are available at several day-use areas, including Wickaninnish, Rainforest Trails, Combers Beach, Long Beach South and North, and Incinerator. The path information does not list food vendors or refill taps, so bring what you need. Dogs are allowed in the Long Beach area on leash and under control; they are not allowed on Combers Beach from April 1 to October 1. The pathway is not maintained in winter, when leaves, fallen trees, snow and ice can accumulate; Parks Canada recommends mid-April to mid-October.