The Toquaht Marina initiated tourism development at Secret Beach. The project was completed in 2019, through an investment with Island Coastal Economic Trust. Photo courtesy of Toquaht Nation.
VANCOUVER ISLAND – Toquaht Marina and Campground, operated by the Toquaht Business Development Corporation, will build the Secret Beach Trail to expand its trail network. The new path will create a continuous trail network that links m̓aʔaquuʔa (Macoah) to all local tourism amenities through a new project investment with Island Coastal Economic Trust.
Tourism continues to grow throughout the Pacific Rim region, and Toquaht Nation recognizes the demand for culture and nature-based tourism opportunities. By establishing the Secret Beach Trail, Toquaht Nation aims to enhance overall visitor experiences and welcome more guests into their territory. Interpretive signs will invite cultural learning opportunities for all trail users. The route will also provide easier access to services and amenities located across the community, encouraging longer stays in the area.
The trail is also part of the proposed Telegraph Trail that follows the historical telegraph line from Port Alberni to Ucluelet. When this trail is fully developed, m̓aʔaquuʔa (Macoah) and Secret Beach will be poised to benefit as an important resupply point along the multi-day route.
The initiative offers residents a safe and accessible link from Toquat’s community to employment opportunities at the campground, marina, and ongoing infrastructure projects at Secret Beach. Inspired by the West Coast Trail Guardians program, the Nation plans to create employment for building and maintaining the trail network. Collectively, the trail will provide temporary and permanent jobs, while spurring additional opportunities in expanding and new tourism businesses.
The Secret Beach Trail supports key priorities outlined in Toquaht Nation’s 2021-24 Strategic Plan, including infrastructure development, economic diversification, and strengthening overall community wellbeing.
“Toquaht community members and citizens visiting home are very excited to be able to access historical sites with ease. The new trail will connect trail networks previously built, creating another alternative for commuting to and from work or play. The main goal of the trail Is to boost health and wellness in our community and nothing better than a walk through the forest beachside. This trail will welcome our guests at Secret Beach campground and give them another reason to visit. The future of recreation at the campground and Toquaht is bright with hydro and water currently being installed. This will bring more opportunities and amenities to support the trail recreation,” said Noah Plonka, Business Manager of the Toquaht Nation.
The project began in June 2024, with a targeted completion date of October 31, 2024. To learn about the positive impacts Toquaht Nation is focused on achieving to strengthen wellbeing through this new investment, please see our project investment summary.
Island Coastal Economic Trust is investing with Toquaht Marina and Campground LP through its Capital and Innovation Program. The Trust will contribute $100,000 towards a total new investment of $995,790. The trust is making this investment with a focus on Cultural and Nature-based Tourism, one of eight impact priorities introduced by the Trust earlier this year.
Source: islandcoastaltrust.ca
