Early fall (September) is the best time to go as there are less people on the trail than the summer months and it is still usually dry.
As an experienced hiker I would say it definitely was challenging at times. The southern section has the harder, steeper sections so on the one had its good to get through this when you are fresh but on the other hand your pack will also be heaviest. The waterfalls that you can camp at are located in the N section and are a nice reward if you start from the S. When you have the option to walk on the beach vs trail always take the beach route if tides allow it. If its stormy I guess hiking in the forest would be better than being exposed on the beach routes but if not the beach routes are obviously flatter, just pay attention to what the tides are doing. The beach is also great as you can check out tide pools and chances are good of seeing eagles and other wildlife.
Make sure you take cash for the water ferries and also some extra cash for a first nations lady who sells burgers and drinks at a camp in the middle of the hike (Carmanah). After eating dehydrated meals or whatever you end up bringing that burger might taste like the best burger you have ever had. On that note try to pack as light as possible. Also, one last tip is to make sure you have good hiking boots that you don't get blisters in right away. If you don't have blisters from start to finish its much more enjoyable! When blisters do start to form patch them up with mole skin right away before they break.
Good luck!
|