July 8-13, 2024
On July 8th, the six of us in our group drove in two vehicles to Fair Harbour, the last two hours on logging roads, going through Zeballos before driving to Fair Harbour. The resort there provides safe parking, for a fee, of course. From there, it was a 25-minute boat ride with Voyageur Water Taxis to Rugged Point. From Rugged Point, we hiked as far as the bay just before Yellow Bluff, and back. Leo Jack, our captain, picked us up on schedule on the 12th. Yes, we had farther to drive than going from Tahsis (another option), but our boat ride was much shorter and more sheltered. Some people opt to take a float plane in, hike one way, and be picked up at the other end. I’d much rather avoid taking a float plane, and the trail is short (about 20 k , so you might as well do an out-and-back. And the direction we went is preferable, too, because the last section south of Tatchu Creek is rugged; best done without overnight packs.
A smooth ride to Rugged Point on July 8th
Where did we camp?
July 8 and 11 – Sandpiper Creek, 3k. from Rugged Point
July 9 and 10 – Tatchu Creek, 11 k from Rugged Point
On July 9, we hiked to Tatchu Creek where we set up camp. On the 10th, we hiked to the bay just before Yellow Bluff, and back to our camp. On July 11th, we meandered back to Sandpiper Creek, and on the 12th to Rugged Point, where Leo picked us up at noon.
Around Sandpiper Creek – July 8 and 11
Dean and Michael caching our food
Paul hauling a make-shift bench
Around camp at Tatchu Creek on July 9 and 10
Hiking along the coast
Natural art, naturally!
Look at this seastack!
A bedraggled eagle drying its feathers after diving for breakfast!
Crossing headlands – some rugged going here!
Fording creeks
And after four beautiful days of hiking (and only seeing six others the whole time!), Leo Jack picked us up, right on time, and we returned to Fair Harbour.
A smooth ending to a great outing!
Thanks to Sherry, Sue, Michael, Dean, and Paul for joining me on this great trip!