Pachena Point Lighthouse

The Pachena Point Lighthouse was constructed in 1989 to serve as a navigational aid on Vancouver Island's West Coast Trail.

History

• The lighthouse is part of Pacific Rim National Park and has been maintained by the Canadian Coast Guard since its establishment.
• The light source emits a white beam with a range of 14 nautical miles and a period of 7.5 seconds, with a sequence of flashes that repeat every 30 seconds.

Architecture

The octagonal wooden tower stands at a height of approximately 47 meters (154 feet) above sea level, while the focal height reaches around 64 meters (210 feet).

The lighthouse's architecture is notable for its octagonal shape, which provides stability in strong winds.

The structure is made from wood and features a distinctive design that blends into the surrounding environment.

Light Characteristics

The Pachena Point Lighthouse emits a Fl (first order) light with a sequence of flashes that repeat every 30 seconds.

The light's range is approximately 14 nautical miles, making it an important aid to navigation for mariners in the area.

Current Status

In Summer 2024, it was announced that Pachena Point Light would be destaffed before the end of the year.

As a result, the lighthouse was left unstaffed on October 26, 2024, with the lightkeepers departing the station.

This change has been met with criticism from some quarters.

Location and Accessibility

The Pachena Point Lighthouse is located on Vancouver Island, approximately 13 kilometers south of Bamfield in Pacific Rim National Park.

The lighthouse can be accessed via the West Coast Trail, which runs along the coast of the island.

Heritage Status

The Pachena Point Lighthouse has been recognized for its historical significance and is listed as a notable landmark on Vancouver Island.

Notable Historical Events

In 2024, the announcement that Pachena Point Light would be destaffed sparked controversy among local residents and mariners.

The decision to leave the lighthouse unstaffed was met with criticism from some quarters, highlighting concerns about the impact on navigation and safety in the area.