Plan ahead. It will take you several days at least to hike the 50-mile trail, so it will take careful planning to ensure that you have all the supplies, food and gear you will require.
Start training early. The West Coast Trail is known to be a very difficult hike. You will need to be in good aerobic and muscular shape to tackle this challenge.
Consult a quality West Coast Trail hiking guidebook that you can easily take along for your journey, such as 'Hiking the West Coast Trail: A Pocket Guide' (see Resources below).
Don't rush it. Experienced hikers spend months, sometimes even years planning their West Coast Trail hike. There is no substitute for preparedness, because proper planning can protect you against potential disaster. Lost in Canada's unforgiving wildnerness is one place you don't want to find yourself.
Book your reservations early. The short hiking season of May 1 to September 30 means that there is a lot of demand for a limited amount of space.
Set a goal of hiking about 10 miles each day. Experienced hikers can do more, but you're there to enjoy the scenery, so don't rush it.
Start out early each day. Getting an early start gives you plenty of time to make it to your next camp and plenty of time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Eat often and plentifully. You'll be expending a lot of energy traversing this rugged terrain, so you'll need to make sure you're providing your body with enough energy to get you through the day.
Visit the West Coast Trail Information Center before you hit the trail. You'll want people to know your name, face and itinerary should complications arise during your hike.
