The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail on southern Vancouver Island is expected to fully reopen for hiking and backcountry camping this summer following extensive repairs from storm damage. BC Parks, in partnership with the Pacheedaht First Nation, is nearing the completion of a $950,000 project to restore the 47-kilometre coastal route.
The trail had been closed due to severe damage sustained during storms in late 2024 and 2025. Harsh weather conditions washed out sections of the path, toppled trees, created unstable slopes, and damaged vital infrastructure including bridges, boardwalks, and campsites. A confirmed reopening date is expected to be announced in mid-May, allowing visitors to begin planning trips to the popular destination.
Repair work has involved significant construction efforts to improve trail safety and durability. Crews have installed seven engineered bridges designed to withstand future storms, built over 800 metres of stepped boardwalk, added multiple staircases, and rerouted several sections of the trail to bypass areas affected by landslides and erosion. This project is primarily funded through the Government of Canada Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program.
Despite the trail closures, the broader park area remained a significant draw, recording between 455,000 and 596,000 visits in the 2024-25 fiscal year. While portions of the park such as Mystic Beach, East Sombrio Beach, and China Beach day-use areas remained accessible, five backcountry campgrounds have been closed to the public during the construction period.
