Highlights
- Immersed in First Nations history. The Nootka Trail passes through the traditional lands of the Mowachaht/Muchalat First Nations. Making an effort to learn about their history encourages a respectful awareness and a richer hiking experience.
- Beautiful wilderness camping. The main primitive campsites are located on gorgeous sandy beaches or clean pea gravel mounds. Calvin Falls is a highlight with its refreshing falls and tidal swimming creek. Evening sunsets are colourful and serene.
- Fewer human encounters. The remote location of Nootka Island and the logistics of getting to the trailhead (seaplane or water taxi) means that fewer people hike this trail. One might travel the entire route and not see another human until Yuquot.
- Frequent wildlife observations. Because fewer humans hike this trail, wildlife can be seen in their natural environment more often. Black bears, wolves, river otters, eagles, ravens, and sea birds are familiar friends along the way.
- Majority of hiking on beach. More beach hiking means fantastic views, exciting terrain, fresh air, and better chances to see wildlife. The intertidal obstacles and shifting pebbles are challenging to hike on, but the rewards are endless for the eyes.
I had so much fun on the Nootka trail! Mike helped prepare me for the trip and during the trip had great tips and guidance to keep us safe and shared hidden gems (caves, intertidal creatures, awesome apps and historical points). Mike gives participants space to learn and experience the trail at our own pace, in a safe manner. Thanks for welcoming me as a solo traveler and I will be back next year for another adventure, to meet new friends and build my skills!
MB Guiding led a very successful and fun trip to Nootka Island from June 13-17 2022. Mike Blake is an excellent hiking guide and very knowledgable about the route and local conditions, and is good at managing risk.
I can’t say enough good things about MB guiding.
I did the Nootka trail with Mike and had an absolute blast. Mike is super organized, professional, friendly, and patient.
Every aspect was well-planned. Logistics were taken care of, and we had several opportunities to chat, zoom call, and more before the trip.
Each evening after we hiked, we were given opportunities to have a lesson on things like fire-starting, tarp hanging, bear safety, etc.
I will absolutely be heading out on more MB guided trips in the near future.
I did the Nootka trail with Mike and had an absolute blast. Mike is super organized, professional, friendly, and patient.
Every aspect was well-planned. Logistics were taken care of, and we had several opportunities to chat, zoom call, and more before the trip.
Each evening after we hiked, we were given opportunities to have a lesson on things like fire-starting, tarp hanging, bear safety, etc.
I will absolutely be heading out on more MB guided trips in the near future.
I’ve now completed 3 hikes plus the wilderness navigation course. My favourite was North Coast for abundance of wildlife sightings and challenging terrain. I love the small groups. I’ve learnt so much. The best part is learning it the right way right from the start, rather than the hard way and having to undo bad habits. Mike’s clients are a mixed ability, varied knowledge and personality and he is great at catering to all. Mikes knowledge of gear is great and he shares his knowledge. Highly recommend. Good value. Great time with skills learnt along the way from the moment you register till you end the trail.
