Keeha Bay Backpack, June 2-4, 2017 (an Island Mountain Ramblers' outing)

Ah, Keeha Bay! So worth it driving the bumpy, muddy or dusty logging road and hiking the muddy, rough trail to get there. 

The trailhead starts near Bamfield and is technically part of the West Coast Trail.

We camped at the east end of Keeha Beach near the creek.

We started hiking about 3 p.m. on Friday, under sunny skies and perfect temperatures for hiking. The trail, which is never dry, was wetter than usual, and although there is some boardwalk a lot of the trail is lacking in upgrades. I hope it stays that way, or the route will become more popular.

Susann preparing to descend the tsunami dune about 100 meters from the beach. The dune was likely left by a huge earthquake (8.7-9.2) that hit the west coast in 1700 A.D.

Enjoying the fire Friday night.

Our tents along the beach

Beautiful plants near our camp-site!

Thistle

Cinquefoil

Strawberry

Rosy owl clover

We rambled east of the camp on Saturday morning.



We took a rugged trail across the headlands towards Pachena Bay.

And came out to a beautiful bay.





With beautiful tidal pools.


Saturday afternoon we headed west from camp towards Cape Beale.


Before long the walking became more difficult.

A beautiful clump of Indian Paintbrush

Some beautiful caves along the way


This sea arch was just east of our camp.

Maidenhair fern

A father and son were camped the other side of the creek and came out to play at dusk.








We returned Sunday morning, still enjoying the beautiful weather!

Cinquefoil near the end of the trail.

And so ended my seventh trip to this beautiful spot!