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Port Renfrew
Thursday, June 18th, 2009 by GetawayBC.com
It was the Pacheedaht Peoples that historically made their homes at the mouth of the San Juan River, facing out into the open Pacific Ocean. The Spanish name originated with the explorers from Madrid who sailed on this coast in the 1790s. Before the 19th century turned, European settlers were beginning to carve lumbering enterprises, homes and subsistence farms out of the rainforest in the San Juan Valley. In this mighty drainage basin, the terrain and precipitation joined forces to foster the growth of an abundance of Sitka Spruce in addition to the Red cedar, Douglas-fir, Grand Fir and Western Hemlock to be found throughout the southwest coast.
Early in the 20th century, a series of incredible tidal pools situated on the ocean front attracted the attention of scientists, who set up a research station for a time. The tidal pools are one of the major attractions of this area. At low tide (under four feet) it is possible for walkers to view a colourful array of marine life in the myriad of pools.
Two notes of caution: Enjoy viewing the specimens, but please do nothing to disturb them or detract from their ability to survive in their natural environment.
Hikers should always exercise caution in exposed areas of this rugged coast, being watchful while on the shoreline to avoid becoming victim of a rogue wave.;