Trails
Happy Trails to You
Tofino is situated in the ha'houlthee (traditional territory) of Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. Through mutual agreement and our common interests, both communities agree to uphold the Nuu-chah-nulth principles of Hish-uk ts'a-walk (everything is one), and Iisaak (a greater respect with caring).
Please consider these principles as you enjoy the trails, parks and beaches.
Multi-Use Path (MUP) ʔaayaḥwałyak tašii
Distance: 8.8 kilometres
Tofino’s 8.8-km Multi-Use Path (MUP) is a popular trail used year-round by walkers, runners, cyclists, skateboarders, e-bikers, and other active members of the community.
The trail runs parallel to Pacific Rim Highway (Highway 4) connecting the town centre to Tofino’s neighbourhoods and beaches, such as Mackenzie, Chesterman, and Cox Bay.
The MUP extends past the Tofino Visitor Centre to join the 25-km ʔapsčiik t̓ašii pathway through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced ups-cheek ta-shee) translates as “going the right direction on the path”.
History
The MUP represents the culmination of more than 20 years of planning and hundreds of hours of fundraising by volunteers.
In 2021, the expansion of a new 2.8-km section of trail to connect the MUP to the new Parks Canada ʔapsčiik t̓ašii multi-use path through Pacific Rim Park Reserve was completed.
New investment from the Province of BC in 2023 has seen the MUP extended with a separate path along Mackenzie Beach Road and end-of-trip facilities, including washrooms and improved public access to the beach.
Path Rules & Etiquette
Tonquin Trail & Connector
Distance: 3 kilometres plus 800 metres of boardwalk and stairs leading from Tonquin Beach to Tonquin Beach Road.
The Tonquin Trail is a moderate gravel trail that includes beautiful views of Clayoquot Sound. The trail begins at the Tofino Community Hall and meanders through old-growth forests to Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach. Along the way are many points of interest and ocean-view opportunities. This trail makes a lovely family outing for visitors and residents.
The wide gravel Tonquin Connector trail is popular with runners and also suitable for biking. This 1-km trail leads from the Community Hall and Bike Park to Industrial Way.
Trail Tips
- Leash your dog
- Use caution on steep sections
- Leave no trace: pack it in, pack it out and leave no trace
Washrooms are located at the Tofino Community Hall and Tonquin Beach Road trailheads.
Closure: Please be advised that the section of the Tonquin Trail leading from Tofino Community Hall to Tonquin Beach is temporarily closed due to construction activities at the Headwaters apartment buildings. The District anticipates reopening this trail section in the fall of 2024. Alternative access to Tonquin Beach is available through Tonquin Beach Road.
"We are here. We restore and promote our traditional values, we provide enhanced services to improve the quality of life for all."