West Coast Heritage Park Trail

February-March 2004

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
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Thanks to Parks Canada

Nature, culture and enterprise are coming together in new ways on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, thanks to partnerships between Parks Canada and several area First Nations.

The Nuu-chah-nulth Trail opened June 21, 2003—National Aboriginal Day—offering a whole new perspective on the park.

“It’s a shift from the past”, says Parks Canada First Nations program manager Nadine Crookes, a member of the Ahousaht Nation (one of 14 that comprise the Nuuchah- nulth Tribal Council). Crookes worked directly with elders, local villagers and artists to develop the 2.5-kilometre trail from Wickaninnish to Florencia Bay.

Signposts along the way in English, French and Nuu-chah-nulth feature stories and images of Nuu-chah-nulth culture and history, helping to make the hike a more meaningful experience for visitors and area residents alike.

In 2004, Nuu-chah-nulth guides will start leading tours, adding to local employment opportunities and helping meet Parks Canada’s goal of protecting ecological integrity in the National Park Reserve.

Under the umbrella of the Quu’as Society, the Pacheedaht, Ditidaht and Huu-ayaht First Nations are involved in managing the trail and interpreting cultural sites.

Each of the three communities has two trail workers who provide information and cultural interpretation. Six more First Nations people are employed clearing trees, limbs and stumps to keep the trail passable.

The partnership creates better service for trail users, increased protection of the trail itself and new opportunities for First Nations communities.

See www.alberni.net/quuas