Reservations for overnight excursions within the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (British Columbia, Canada) begin this week.
According to a report, online reservations for Green Point Campground and the Broken Group Islands opened earlier today, while hiking trails for the West Coast Trail open on January 21 at 8 a.m.
“This year, we intend to open up everything from May 1 to Thanksgiving. Knock on wood. And we will be working very closely with the First Nations communities to make sure everyone is safe,” said Park Reserve Acting Superintendent Dave Tovell.
“We’re just really excited. COVID has revived Canada’s love for camping. Make sure you get on early. Login around 7:30 a.m. or 7:45,” Tovell said.
As spots for Green Point Campground on Long Beach snapped up quickly, Tovell encourages folks to keep an eye on the website.
“There are still weekends in May and September and early June that are open, and there are always cancellations. Always keep checking back the site. You never know,” Tovell said, adding that people can also book tours of the Broken Group Islands in Tseshaht First Nation territory with local tour companies.
“They will do the bookings for you. Go out with a guided tour operator and see something spectacular,” Tovell added.
All Parks Canada fees went up on January 1 by around 4.2% to keep up with inflation. An annual family park entrance pass is currently CA$104.50, and a site in Green Point is now CA$34.50/night.
The increase in revenue is reflected directly in projects within the PRNPR, such as rejuvenating the boardwalk along the Nuu-chah-nulth trail, fixing cable cars on the West Coast Trail, and buying new picnic tables for Green Point, enhancing cleaning protocols, and the shorebird monitoring program.
Tovell also noted that the PRNPR’s 25-km paved multi-use trail would be fully accessible this summer, with some sections opening in spring.
For reservations, visit reservation.pc.gc.ca or contact the call center at 1-877-737-3783.