San Josef Bay - Day Hike
The San Josef Bay - Day Hike is a mild hiking tour down to the beach that is approximately 45-60 minutes each way on a beautiful and well-maintained trail through an old-growth forest. The trail has very little elevation gain and is suitable for people of all ages who are comfortable walking in wilderness terrain.
Tour Highlights
Without a doubt, one of the most amazing things to see at San Josef Bay are the sea stacks. These are ocean-eroded sea stacks that have developed over time from water surging through the sandy passages at high tide slowly eroding the softer rock, leaving behind only the harder formations. Our small & intimate group sizes make exploring the beach and sea stacks fun and informative. Our knowledgeable guides will lead guests to the areas of interest and provide interpretation and tidal pool walks.
Scenic Drive & Wildlife Viewing
The San Josef Bay hiking tour begins with a comfortable drive in our passenger van from Port Hardy to the Cape Scott Provincial Park parking lot and trail head. During the drive always make sure to keep your eyes peeled as there is a good chance of seeing a black bear, black-tail deer, or Roosevelt Elk. Upon leaving Port Hardy we will be travelling on active logging roads and will pass through the historic logging town of Holberg.
Hike Details
Upon reaching the Cape Scott trail head we will walk approximately 45-60 minutes on a well-maintained trail that winds through old-growth stands of forest and down to the vast tract of San Josef Bay. There is an outhouse at the trail head and near the beach. In total, the day can end up being approximately 10 - 12 kilometers of walking depending on how much exploring is done.
The area is on the traditional lands of the Tlatlasikwala First Nations and is also loaded with local history. Did you know that an attempted Danish settlement between 1887 and 1910 was unsuccessful due to the remote and harsh climate of Cape Scott Provincial Park? Your tour guides will discuss and inform on this, the local flora and fauna as well as other historical events.
Beach Activities
The San Josef Bay beach is expansive and breathtaking. Your guides provide an interpretive walk along the sandy beach, among the sea stacks and through tidal pools. Breathe in the air and watch the waves. Allow the wild West Coast to overtake you. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, harbour seals, sea otters and many intertidal creatures. The views are wonderous and the photo opportunities are endless.
Tour Schedule
8:30 am - Depart from Port Hardy
10:15 - 10:30 - Stretch our legs in Holberg at the celebrated Scarlet Ibis Pub 11:00 - 11:45 - Hike down to San Josef Bay through the old growth forest and lowlands
12:00 - 2:00 pm - Individual time to eat, explore and engage with guides or observe the beauty and surroundings
2:00 -2:45 pm - Hike back to the van awestruck and refreshed
4:30pm- Arrive back in Port Hardy
