Trails

Happy trails to you

Wooden walkway in dense forest

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.

"We are here. We restore and promote our traditional values, we provide enhanced services to improve the quality of life for all."

Learn more at tla-o-qui-aht.org

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”. 

 

MUP Sign w Rider 5472x3648

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 B.C. in 2023 will see 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.

E-Bike Policy for the MUP

The District has developed a new policy for e-bikes on the MUP to:

1. Support safety for everyone using the MUP

2. Increase active transportation and MUP use, while decreasing community greenhouse gas emissions

MUP Safety Tips

-Share the trail and be safe 

-Stay right and alert others to pass on the left

-Watch for kids, dogs, and driveways 

-Watch your speed and slow down in busy sections

-Use the road or highway for faster riding

-Use lights at night

-Alert others with a bell

MUP Rules

Permitted on the MUP

-Pedestrians

-Pets on leash

-People-powered / non-motorized pedal bikes, kick/push scooters, skateboards, etc. 

-Electric bikes, including adaptive bikes: 2 or 3-wheeled bikes with pedals, an electric motor, max. power of 500 watts, and max. speed of 32 km/h

-Electric mobility devices for people with disabilities: electric wheelchair or mobility scooter 

NOT permitted on the MUP

-Gas-powered vehicles

-Other electric devices not permitted by MOTI/ICBC on public roads and sidewalks: electric motorized skateboards or electric kick scooters; electric bikes with maximum power greater than 500 watts or maximum speed than 32 km/h

-Limited-speed motorcycles: mopeds or scooters (including those with electric motors)

Questions or concerns about MUP rules and safety? Contact Bylaw Services

Tonquin Trail signage
Woman hiking up wooden stairs on Tonquin Trail
Glowing sunset through trees on forested path
Wooden platform with views of ocean

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 forest 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.

Car and bike parking is available at the Tofino Community Hall.