Dakota 576 Crash
On a windy day in April 1944, a Dakota 576 overshot the Port Hardy runway. It circled around again to make a second attempt but ran out of fuel. The plane crashed, killing the pilot and navigator. The crew member in the back of the plane survived. You can read the full story on the 101 NI Squadron website.
To reach this trail it is best to park your vehicle at the Bear Cove boat launch parking lot, just before the BC Ferries terminal. From there it is a short walk to the trailhead. Walk towards the ferry terminal and there is a paved road on your right going uphill.
The first time we did this hike we followed the paved road until we could no longer follow it. This is not the trail. Near the top of the hill, the paved road heads to the right, to an old sawmill. There is also a trail that heads left. Follow the trail the first time and save yourself the pointless walk into the bushes. Along the trail, you can see harvested wood that never made it to the sawmill.
This trail is a short hike that takes less than on hour each way. Someone made the effort to make this sign and take it out to a section of trail but could not be bothered to take it out with them and left it behind. Remember to carry your trash out so others don’t have to do it for you.
The trail is dog friendly and is open all year round. However, the trail has many deep mud pits if you hike during the rainy season. The trail is steep in many sections. The final section of the trail has ropes to help both your descent and ascent.
The steep nature of this hike means that you are afforded many opportunities to see wonderful views across the bay to Port Hardy. This trail spends much of it’s time in the forest. Be on the lookout for wildlife. It is always a good idea to bring bear spray or something to protect yourself with.
At the end of the trail are the remains of the Dakota 576. Under the cover of trees, protected from at least some of the rain, this plane is well preserved. The wet climate in Port Hardy does not help sites like this stay in the best condition. It is best to remember that is site is deserving of respect as the site of a tragedy. There is a memorial that has been erected to the two fallen crew members.
