Active West Coast Canada Discovery
Active West Coast Canada Discovery
$2449
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Active West Coast Canada Discovery" tour, an exhilarating adventure through the stunning landscapes of Canada's west coast. Begin your journey in vibrant Vancouver, then hop on a ferry to Sooke for hikes in the lush Pacific rainforest and along the Juan de Fuca trail. Paddle around the serene Lake Cowichan and explore the breathtaking views from the Stawamus Chief trail. Experience the icy waters of Elfin Lakes in Garibaldi Provincial Park and ride the Whistler gondola to hike the High Note trail. With a mix of private vehicle, ferry, and hiking, this small group tour offers an active and immersive experience, complete with participation camping and meals prepared en route. Enjoy free time to explore Whistler and soak in the natural beauty of this incredible region. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Vancouver/Sooke
Location: Vancouver, Sooke
Accommodation: Sooke River Campground
Accommodation Name: Sooke River Campground
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a morning welcome meeting with your CEO in Vancouver before catching the ferry to Sooke on Vancouver Island. Eat a picnic lunch upon arrival before setting off into East Sooke Regional Park for some hiking. There’s a wide range of trails that have different levels of difficulty, but all of them will offer great views of the dramatic, rocky coastline, and lush Pacific rainforest filled with moss and green ferns. In the evening set up camp, get settled, and have dinner around a fire with the group. ...more ...less
ACTIVITY: Located west of Victoria, this park is one of the more spectacular in the region offering lots of challenging hikes in a wilderness setting. It spans miles and miles of protected coastal landscapes and offers trails through forest, marsh, and fields with beaches, rocky bays, and tide pools sprinkled in for exploring. The views are amazing and it’s definitely worth the challenge.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery as you take a ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria and Sooke on Vancouver Island.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Sooke
Location: Sooke
Accommodation: Sooke River Campground
Accommodation Name: Sooke River Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After fuelling up with a camp breakfast the group will travel to the Juan de Fuca Strait from Sooke to embark on a hike along a section of the impressive trail. You’ll traverse miles of dense coastal forest and walk over beautiful pebble beaches, past gurgling waterfalls, slippery suspension bridges (watch your step) and the occasional pit of mud, but the dramatic views along this hike are well worth the effort. Transfer back to Sooke in the evening to rest up at camp and have dinner as a group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Covering 47 kilometres of dense coastal forest the Juan de Fuca trail is quite a feat for hikers. There are multiple trail options and it can be hiked in sections. It offers plenty of challenges with its rugged terrain featuring plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns. However, the adventure is worth it along this western edge of the world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Sooke
Location: Sooke, Victoria
Accommodation: Sooke River Campground
Accommodation Name: Sooke River Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today after breakfast at camp the day is yours to do as you wish. If you need a break from hiking consider one of the many optional activities available like, sea kayaking, whale watching, bicycle rentals, or a visit to the quaint town of Victoria for some people watching and cafe hopping.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a free day to continue exploring Sooke and Victoria. Choose from optional activities like whale watching, sea kayaking, and renting a bicycle to make this day as memorable as possible.
Day 4: Sooke/Parksville
Location: Cowichan Valley, Parksville
Accommodation: Mountain Fun Campground
Accommodation Name: Mountain Fun Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning after breakfast the group will transfer to Cowichan Valley where you'll go out on canoes and kayaks in Cowichan Bay. In the afternoon the group will travel to Parksville and walk in Rathtrevor Park along the beach. Feel the sand beneath your feet, hear the waves crashing, see old growth forests along the shoreline, and look for wildlife in the tide pools. In the evening set up camp and relax in the outdoors.
ACTIVITY: A vast and beautiful Cowichan Bay is the best location for getting out onto the water. Explore this stunning environment, keeping your eyes on the lookout for wildlife and taking loads of photos. Please note this kayaking excursion is considered sea kayaking and the group will be in the ocean along Cowichan Bay.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Rathtrevor park is located at the east end of the city of Parksville in British Columbia. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, a stand of old-growth Douglas fir trees and many available recreational activities to spruce up your visit. Enjoy the park's extensive trail network and try to spot wildlife like deer, racoons, squirrels, otters, and mink.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Parksville/Squamish
Location: Parksville, Nanaimo, Squamish
Accommodation: Mountain Fun Campground
Accommodation Name: Mountain Fun Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave Parksville behind and head to the ferry port in Nanaimo to hop on a ferry to Horseshoe Bay. Once across the water, the group will drive to Squamish and hike The Stawamus Chief trail. This trail is one of the region’s best hikes and will take you up a steep incline to one of its three peaks. The views of the area surrounding Squamish, with the Howe Sound and the Garibaldi Park to the north are incredible. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your hike and in the evening relax at camp and have dinner as a group, refuelling after the day’s adventure.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: This trail is known locally as, “The Chief” and happens to be one of North America’s largest granite monoliths. Home to the Sea to Sky Corridor this challenging hike begins with a quick incline kicking your heart into overdrive right off the bat. It’s divided into three summits and you can reach any of them from this one hiking trail. The views of the surrounding landscape make the climb well worth it.
Day 6: Squamish
Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park, Squamish
Accommodation: Mountain Fun Campground
Accommodation Name: Mountain Fun Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Another great day of hiking to discover captivating views and new heights (literally). Set out to trek the Elfin Lake trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Offering amazing views you’ll hike 11km to get to the lakes, but it’s certainly worth it. Go for a dip in the icy water, fill up your bottles in another pond reserved only for drinking water and have lunch as you admire those insane views. After hiking the 11km downhill you’ll be able to have dinner wherever you choose in Squamish before heading back to camp for the night.
ACTIVITY: The hike to Elfin lakes is 11km each way, but it’s not very steep and actually very scenic on the way up. The trail is wide and you are surrounded by towering mountains all the way up to the lakes. At the top it’s always a treat to dip into the icy waters. While the water is cold it is very clean and clear like a mirror. If you’re lucky you’ll see this on a sunny day with the massive mountains reflected in their surfaces.
Day 7: Squamish/Whistler
Location: Squamish, Whistler
Accommodation: Mountain Fun Campground
Accommodation Name: Mountain Fun Campground
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning the group will travel from Squamish to Whistler to take the Whistler Gondola up to the peak and hike the High Note trail. This trail offers hikers with the most scenic views of Cheakamus Lake with its vibrant aquamarine waters. The hike begins at the top of Whistler Mountain and takes you around the backside with views of the surrounding mountains and a descent through an alpine area. After the hike you’ll have free time to enjoy Whistler. Consider checking out the Squamish-Lil'wat Cultural Centre, the Cloudraker Skybridge, or find a cozy coffee shop in town. In the evening at camp you’ll have your final dinner as a group around the campfire.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: This hike provides you with incredible views of Black Tusk and the other mountain ranges. You’ll start this hike from the top of Whistler Mountain and walk 9.5km gaining 420m in elevation. Pass by alpine lakes and see Flute Summit in the distance and ending with a loop around Harmony Lake.
Day 8: Whistler/Vancouver
Location: Whistler, Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel from Whistler to Vancouver. Tours ends on arrival in Vancouver.
Additional Information: Please book any departing flights no earlier than 4:00pm.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Participation camping (7 nts). -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners -
Welcome Moment
Your Welcome Moment includes meeting your CEO and group.
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Ferry Ride
Ferry ride from Vancouver to Sooke is included.
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Hiking in East Sooke Provincial Park
An afternoon of hiking in East Sooke Provincial Park is included.
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Juan de Fuca Trail Trek
A trek along a portion of the Juan de Fuca trail is included.
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Canoe or Kayak Rental
Canoe or kayak rental on Cowichan Lake is included.
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Ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay
Ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay is included.
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Hike up The Stawamus Chief Trail
A hike up The Stawamus Chief trail is included.
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Visit to Garibaldi Provincial Park
A visit to Garibaldi Provincial Park and a hike to the Elfin Lakes is included.
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Whistler Gondola Ride
A ride up the Whistler Gondola to hike the High Note trail is included.
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Transportation
All transportation between destinations is included.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
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International Travel
International travel is not included.
Accommodation
Experience participation camping for 7 nights in clean local campgrounds, with all necessary equipment provided except for your sleeping bag and pillow. Enjoy the comfort of dome tents and camp mattresses, with access to showers and sanitary facilities at each site.
Transport
Private vehicle, ferry, and hiking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Group Size
Max 11.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with a private vehicle, ferry rides, and hiking as your main modes of transportation, ensuring a seamless journey through the stunning landscapes of Canada's West Coast.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. HIKES AND WALKS
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be a moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover Canada's beauty and landscape.
2. COMBO TRIP
Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.
book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
3. An essential part of your trip is participation - from putting up your tent (while camping) or packing it away in the morning, to helping with meal preparation and cleaning up - it is all part of your adventure and when everyone puts in a little effort the trip will run smoothly. Your CEO will do all the meal planning, but we do ask the clients to help with the preparation and washing up. Team spirit is part of the fun! All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied. We supply dome tents and assembly/disassembly takes only 5 minutes. All tents have built-in insect nets. Comfortable, self-inflating mattresses are also provided, which are approximately 4cm thick.
4. Proper sleeping bags are necessary for this tour. Please ensure that your sleeping bag is rated to (-17°C for spring and fall trips and 0°C for trips June - Sept). Prices range from $60-$150USD.
5. Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out in Las Vegas is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
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Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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About Accommodation
Participation camping in clean local campgrounds.
All camping equipment (with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow) is supplied, including comfortable camp mattresses. We supply dome tents that take only 5 minutes to assemble/disassemble. They are good quality, durable, industry-standard, oversized 2-person tents, each with 2 separate and convenient zip-up doors, so that each person has his/her own entrance.
We use 2 types of campgrounds in Canada:
1.) Private campgrounds: These are privately run sites, usually with all services such as fire pits, picnic tables, drinking water, toilets & shower buildings. Some have small outdoor swimming pools and laundry facilities. These campgrounds are typically located near national park entrances or towns.
2.) Public campgrounds: These are park-run sites, usually with basic facilities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and drinking water.
3.) All campgrounds provide showers and sanitary facilities within the campground. Please note that the shower facilities at the Sooke River Campround are coin-operated hot showers ($1.00 / 5min) with keypad entrance.
4.) Charging stations may or may not be available at every campground. Most provide them, but your CEO can alert you when there will be a time between charging access points.
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.
For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.
It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
NOTE: Mountains in the Canadian Rockies can have unpredictable weather with snow and heavy rain even in Summer time. Spring time could be snowy (until end of June) and fall season could start as soon as mid-August. Make sure you have equipment and clothing for all conditions!
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a combination of private vehicles, ferries, and hiking to transport participants between destinations.
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What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?
Accommodation is provided through participation camping for 7 nights at local campgrounds. All camping equipment, except for sleeping bags and pillows, is supplied.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners. Meals are prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops, and markets.
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What activities are included in the tour itinerary?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as hiking in East Sooke Provincial Park, trekking along the Juan de Fuca trail, canoeing or kayaking on Cowichan Lake, hiking The Stawamus Chief trail, visiting Garibaldi Provincial Park to hike to the Elfin Lakes, and riding the Whistler Gondola to hike the High Note trail. ...more ...less
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) acts as the group manager, leader, and driver. They organize and lead meal preparations, provide general knowledge about the countries visited, and offer suggestions for activities and local dining options.
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What should I bring for the camping aspect of the tour?
Participants should bring a proper sleeping bag rated to -17°C for spring and fall trips and 0°C for trips from June to September. A backpack or medium-sized suitcase is recommended, along with a daypack for personal gear. Clothing for warm days, cool evenings, and unpredictable weather conditions is advised.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can join if accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 11 participants.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Active West Coast Canada Discovery
8 Days Starting and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Vancouver, Sooke, Victoria, Cowichan Valley, Parksville, Nanaimo, Squamish, Garibaldi Provincial Park, Whistler ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25741
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 11
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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