Sweet Run: Pacific Wild Trail (Ucluelet, BC)

By: Magi Scallion

Most people head to the west side of Vancouver Island to play in the Pacific. Whether it be surfing or storm watching, the waves are where it’s at. I headed west because I was feeling out of the loop, having not been here, but also to get away from distractions and get some work done.

It was absolutely pouring rain when I arrived on Saturday evening and checked in to the Surf’s Inn guest house. The guest house was a real find – cheap bed, great shared kitchen, and welcoming hosts who were more than happy to point me toward all of the local attractions. Luckily the first attraction they pointed out was the Pacific Wild Trail, a “hiking” trail that starts right in the town of Ucluelet.

I went out for a quick rainy run on Saturday evening to the south end of the trail. It was about 1 km along the paved road (great sidewalk) to the trail head and then the trail was a 2.5 km loop. The trail was AMAZING, especially if you’re a beginner trail runner. It is a 1 metre wide gravel surface that takes you through the jungle and right to the Ocean’s edge where you can see amazing waves and great views.

There are lots of quick zigs and zags and lots of rolling hills. I can’t think of a flat section of trail! In that sense it’s really great for rhythm running and the soul. Further, the trees are so thick (rainforest for real) that you don’t even really notice the rain. It was kind of like looking out to the ocean from the shelter of a 2.5 km long porch!

On Sunday I took a spin out to the other end of the Pacific Wild Trail. It’s about a 4.5 km stretch along the ocean that I did as an out and back. You could also make it a shorter loop and run back along the main road. Again there were excellent views and a very similar style of trail. This trail was a bit more difficult to navigate as there were many intersections. Once I got in the groove it was OK though.

These are fantastic trails – I’d definitely come back again for a vacation and may even do some surfing and other such water sports.

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Born in Nova Scotia and emigrating to British Columbia via Ontario and Alberta, Magi has been running the entire way. Primarily defined as a cross country ski racer, Magi has competed nationally and internationally in that sport. The highlight of her career was competing in the World University Games and the World Cup races in Canada in 2007. Cross country skiers rely heavily on running for cross training and Magi has become an accomplished trail and mountain runner, representing Canada at the World Mountain Running Championships in 2005 and the winning numerous national championships medals.

Today Magi runs for fun… and it’s a lot of fun! Epic mountain runs, city cruises with friends, and more keep her happy and occupied outside of work and school.