Date: July 13th, 2024

Location: Juan De Fuca Marine Trail to Mystic Beach

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Today was an unforgettable day filled with adventure, nature, and quality family time. We set out on the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail, aiming to reach Mystic Beach, a 2km journey each way. Our goal was not only to enjoy the hike but also to train with our fully loaded day bags. The trail did not disappoint.

Setting Off

We started our hike in the late morning, greeted by the dense forest that immediately embraced us. The air was fresh, and the towering trees provided a beautiful canopy above. The path was moderate, offering a mix of ups, downs, and sideway paths that kept us on our toes.

Crossing the Suspension Bridge

One of the highlights of the hike was crossing the suspension bridge. It was a thrilling experience, swaying slightly under our weight and providing stunning views of the forest below. This was a first for our son, and his excitement was infectious. We paused for a moment to take in the view and snap a few photos before continuing on.

The Trail’s Challenges and Beauty

The trail continued to challenge us with its varied terrain, but each step brought new sights and sounds. We encountered a few fellow hikers along the way, exchanging smiles and brief conversations about the trail. It felt like we were all part of a small, adventurous community.

Arriving at Mystic Beach

After navigating the twists and turns of the trail, we finally arrived at Mystic Beach. The sight of the ocean and the sound of the rolling waves instantly washed away any fatigue. The beach was breathtaking, with its expansive shoreline and the endless horizon. We found a spot to rest, unpacked our snacks, and took in the beauty around us.

Our son immediately ran to the water’s edge, and my wife and I followed. We spent time exploring the beach, finding interesting rocks and driftwood, and simply enjoying the moment. The combination of the forest and the ocean felt magical, a perfect blend of serenity and adventure.

There were a lot of people on this beach actually which made it a little less intimate than we had hoped but it did not detract from the experience too much. The main highlight of the beach is the waterfall at the one end where freshwater meets the ocean water below.

Reflecting on the Day

As we made our way back to the trailhead, we talked about our favorite parts of the hike. The suspension bridge, the dense forest, and of course, the stunning beach all made the list. But what stood out the most were the memories we created together. This hike was more than just a training exercise; it was a bonding experience, a chance to connect with nature and with each other.

Conclusion

Today’s hike on the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail to Mystic Beach was everything we hoped for and more. It was the perfect adventure for our family, combining physical challenge with the reward of breathtaking natural beauty. We returned home tired but happy, already looking forward to our next adventure.

Mystic Beach also offers a camping experience for those who bring their gear. It is the first leg of a MUCH longer hiking trail. The next campsite is approximately 10kms away at Bear Beach followed by Chin Beach, Sombrio Beach, and more. The entire hike is a multi-day, 47 km long hike that we hope to tackle next year once we get our trail legs.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure, everyone. Remember, you only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. Embrace the adventure, cherish the moments, and I’ll see you next time!

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Photos from the Hike:

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Gear Used:

• Daypacks (fully loaded with our Day Pack list which can be found here.
• Water bottles
• Lunch/Snacks
• Trekking poles
• Hiking shoes
• Camera/Smartphone

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Trail Information:

• Trail map: Juan de Fuca Trail Map PDF
• Distance on this trek: 7.5 kms total (2km each way plus a visit to China beach before the trail head)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Rating: 8/10

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Tips for Future Hikers:

• Start early to avoid the midday heat.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes.
• Take your time, it’s not a race!
• Don’t forget your camera for the beautiful views!