Day 1: Spirits were high despite the overcast day and wet weather. We arrived in Port Renfrew, a two hour drive north of Victoria, and arrive at the WCT Information Center. After confirming our reservation and participating in a short trail orientation we take the short ferry ride across Gordon River to the trailhead. The admission for this ferry is included in the trail fee. Once you "walk the plank" the real journey begins.

We had decided to walk northwards became we wanted to hike the most difficult sections of the trail first while legs are strongest. Others prefer instead to hike southwards, preferring to walk the easier sections when packs are heaviest.