Getting to Pacific Rim National Park
Pacific Rim National Park sits in BC, Canada, with Ucluelet the nearest town of any size — about 12.4 km (7.7 mi) out, or roughly 21 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Ucluelet | 12.4 km (7.7 mi) | 21 min |
| Tofino | 22.9 km (14.2 mi) | 36 min |
| Port Alberni | 68.3 km (42.4 mi) | 1 hr 25 min |
| Cumberland | 81.3 km (50.5 mi) | 1 hr 39 min |
| Denman Island | 84.7 km (52.6 mi) | 1 hr 42 min |
| Union Bay | 85.3 km (53 mi) | 1 hr 42 min |
| Bowser | 86.1 km (53.5 mi) | 1 hr 43 min |
| Puntledge | 86.9 km (54 mi) | 1 hr 44 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Pacific Rim National Park?
Ucluelet, about 12.4 km (7.7 mi) away — roughly 21 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Pacific Rim National Park?
The practical bases are Ucluelet, Tofino, and Port Alberni — all within a reasonable drive of the park.