W Coast Trail vs. W Coast Trail?

Looks like I'll be in Victoria July 2014. I understand that the WCT is 47 miles long. Is it reasonable to try and hike it in two days or should I allow for three?

+1 on Juan de Fuca if you are taking kids. Depends how old and skill levels I guess but I would only take experienced teens on the WCT. I've done the JDF trail as a day trail run. It's very lovely without any of the permitting hassles and much more suitable for a family trip.

Ferry costs and water taxi/ shuttle cost and logistics for the both the WCT and NCT are about equal. So I would not characterize these as hidden costs. There is no permitting fee or hassle for the NCT but the drive is longer, not sure if I would describe it as tedious to a first time visitor…but I would take the drive over the red tape and crowds anytime.

Cape Scott is lovely either way.

"Looks like I'll be in Victoria July 2014. I understand that the WCT is 47 miles long. Is it reasonable to try and hike it in two days or should I allow for three?"

I would plan for 3, you may find your average hourly mileage reduced due to pebble, gravel, rock, and sand beaches as well as ladders and likely very wet, slippery structures.

running trip but nonetheless a useful comparison of terrain.

http://trailadventurer.blogspot.com/2008/05/north-coast-trail-run-may-10-2008.html