What AI tells travelers about Tofino
British Columbia, Canada · 98 traveler questions × 4 AI assistants (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity) × 7 repetitions = 2,744 answers, checked against 67 verified facts: 63 scored, of which 9 are cultural and flagged, and 4 held out of the score until confirmed.
- Key findings
- Progress
- Fix first
- In their words
- By AI assistant
- What it protects
- The unasked gap
- Who speaks for you
- Safety
- Cultural review
- Appendices
- Method
What to take from this audit
- Visitors get Tofino's guidance 66 times in 100. 11 times they get something too vague to act on, 2 times something wrong, and 21 times nothing at all. Detail
- Guidance reaches people who ask for it and misses people who do not. Asked directly, 83 in 100 get it. Asked for a trip plan, 65 in 100 do, and that is how most visitors ask. Detail
- Welcome everyone is the weakest outcome. Guidance that serves it reached visitors 65 times in 100. Detail
- The fix to make first: no lifeguards on any beach. Told wrongly 3% of the time and left out 25%; weakest on ChatGPT and Perplexity. Detail
- Gemini gets Tofino wrong most; Claude least. Scores of 67 and 73. Fixes aimed at Gemini's sources move the most visitors. Detail
- Your own sites and land managers are 44% of what the AI assistants cite. Blogs and everything else are 16%. Being cited is not the same as being heard: the fix is plain statements on the pages already cited. Detail
- 26 answers gave wrong information on a safety-critical fact. Each one is quoted in the safety section. Detail
- 4 cultural facts are held out of the score until confirmed. They rest on a tourism-board page rather than the Nation's own publication. The cultural section shows what the AI assistants said and what would unlock each one. Detail
Told the right thing
66in 100
Stated fully and correctly. Counting half of vague answers too: 71 (70 to 72).
Told something vague
11in 100
Touched the topic but too thin to act on
Told the wrong thing
2in 100
Contradicted the verified fact
Told nothing
21in 100
The fact never came up
Told without asking
65in 100
On trip-planning questions that never mention rules
Your own voice
44%
Of 11,046 citations point to your sites or land managers
Stewardship Signal Score
69/ 100
Moderate. Right answers plus half of vague ones, minus wrong ones. The number to track over time.
Since the last audit
The Stewardship Signal Score moved up 16 points to 69 since Jan 2027, and up 38 since the first audit in Oct 2026. That is larger than the margin of noise, so it is real movement.
Told right66%+14 pts
Told wrong2%-2 pts
Without asking65%+18 pts
Own voice44%+10 pts
The guidance most often missing or wrong, in the order to address it
Each entry names the AI assistants that fail most and the surface they draw on, which is where the fix goes. Tags show the kind of fact and what it protects; safety-critical marks a fact where a wrong answer could hurt someone, new rule one that took effect within the past year, and changes often one that changes yearly or more, and cultural one that concerns a Nation and rests on the Nation's own publication.
Critical1. No lifeguards on any beach
The truth: There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Says Long Beach has lifeguards or Surf Guards in summer
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a sourced edit request on the Wikipedia talk page for the place. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical2. Storm watching hazards
The truth: During fall and winter storms, large waves can sweep over beaches and rocks without warning, and drift logs can float, roll and crush people. Official guidance is to stay off drift logs when the tide or swell is high, stay on trails and off the rocks, and check tide tables and the swell forecast first.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Does not mention any safety precautions for storm watching
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical3. Stay 100 m from predators
The truth: In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve visitors must stay at least 100 metres from wolves, bears and cougars. A park order prohibits approaching, remaining near or viewing these animals within 100 metres unless fully inside a vehicle, with a maximum penalty of $25,000.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Gives a shorter distance such as 30 m
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a YouTube video whose description states the guidance in text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical4. Cold water all year
The truth: Ocean water around Tofino stays between about 7°C and 14°C all year, even in summer. Parks Canada tells surfers to wear a wetsuit at all times and warns that maximum survival time in water this cold is two to three hours.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Gives much higher summer water temperatures
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a YouTube video whose description states the guidance in text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical5. Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit
The truth: Parks Canada has had a 'Wolves in Area' warning in effect for the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve since September 18, 2025, until further notice. Visitors are told to leave pets at home, keep children close, carry accessible bear spray and not hike alone.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Does not mention wolves at all
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a YouTube video whose description states the guidance in text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a sourced edit request on the Wikipedia talk page for the place. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical6. Rip current response
The truth: Rip currents are present at Tofino-area beaches. CoastSmart advises that if caught in one you stay calm, never swim directly against it, keep hold of your board or flotation, and swim parallel to the beach until out of the current before heading in.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Does not mention rip currents when recommending surfing or swimming
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a YouTube video whose description states the guidance in text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
Critical7. Park food storage rules
The truth: In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve all food, garbage and scented items, including empty coolers, pet food, toiletries and cookware, must be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or food locker, never in a tent or tent trailer. Parks Canada also says never to approach or search for wolves, bears or cougars for photography.
What the AI assistants get wrong: Lists only food, not toiletries, sunscreen or empty coolers, as attractants
Where the fix goes: the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text; the official or land-manager page that already covers this, stating the rule outright in plain text, and a reply with the source link in the forum threads the audit shows Perplexity citing. In every case, update the existing page rather than adding a new one, and show the date it was last checked.
What travelers are told, in the AI assistants' own words
Stay 100 m from predators
The rule
In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve visitors must stay at least 100 metres from wolves, bears and cougars. A park order prohibits approaching, remaining near or viewing these animals within 100 metres unless fully inside a vehicle, with a maximum penalty of $25,000.What Gemini said
“Gives a shorter distance such as 30 m”
Beach Walk short-stay pass
The rule
Parks Canada sells a cheaper short-stay Beach Walk pass for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve at $7.75 per adult, $6.75 per senior and $15.50 per family/group. It is valid for a maximum of four hours and only at the Long Beach, Kwisitis, Incinerator and Wickaninnish parking lots.What Claude said
“Says the Beach Walk pass is valid anywhere in the park”
West Coast Trail season and booking
The rule
The West Coast Trail unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is open and reservable from May 1 to September 30 each year; it is not open to hikers in October. Reservations for the 2026 season opened February 5, 2026 at 8 AM PT through the Parks Canada Reservation Service. The trail is 75 km and is not near Tofino; it runs from Pachena Bay to Gordon River.What ChatGPT said
“Says the trail can be hiked year-round”
Surfrider cleanups are drop-in for visitors
The rule
Surfrider Foundation Pacific Rim, a volunteer-run chapter, posts its beach cleanups on its events page and tells anyone who wants to attend to sign the waiver and just show up rather than fill in a volunteer form. Its 2026 calendar includes remote boat-based cleanups in Clayoquot Sound, sand dune restoration days with Parks Canada, and the summer Washed Up Wednesdays cleans. Tourism Tofino also lists citizen-science options such as Redd Fish Restoration Society sea star surveys and the Pacific Treefrog Chorus Project.What ChatGPT said
“Lists only Washed Up Wednesdays and nothing outside July-August”
Park pass needed when stopped
The rule
A valid national park entry pass must be displayed in your vehicle whenever you stop in the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Tourism Tofino states that day and annual passes include parking.What ChatGPT said
“Says a District of Tofino parking payment covers national park lots”
Accessible beach entrances
The rule
The Hellesen Drive entrance to tinwis (Mackenzie Beach) has accessible parking, washrooms, an entrance ramp and a Mobi-mat onto the sand from the May long weekend until the Thanksgiving long weekend in October. Cox Bay has a boardwalk and concrete ramp between Long Beach Lodge Resort and Cox Bay Resort, and MacKenzie Beach Road has an accessible wooden boardwalk to the beach.What Gemini said
“Says all Tofino beaches have accessible access or that none do”
Which AI assistant gets Tofino wrong most
Claude is the most reliable messenger for Tofino today; the others leave more out or get more wrong.
The four shares add to 100%. Ranges in brackets are 95% confidence intervals; where two AI assistants' ranges overlap, the difference may not be real.
| AI assistant | Score | Told right | Told something vague | Told wrong | Told nothing | Told without asking | Your own voice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claude simulated-claude | 73 | 68% (72 to 76) | 13% | 1% | 18% | 69% | 50% |
| ChatGPT simulated-chatgpt | 69 | 66% (70 to 74) | 10% | 3% | 21% | 66% | 46% |
| Perplexity simulated-perplexity | 68 | 65% (68 to 72) | 10% | 2% | 22% | 62% | 43% |
| Gemini simulated-gemini | 67 | 64% (67 to 71) | 11% | 3% | 22% | 64% | 39% |
Results by stewardship outcome
Each verified fact serves one or more stewardship outcomes. This is the view for a board: it reads the way a destination plan is written.
| Outcome | Fact checks | Told right | Told something vague | Told wrong | Told nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome everyone | 252 | 60% | 10% | 3% | 27% |
| Spread visits in place and time | 2,604 | 64% | 10% | 2% | 23% |
| Keep people safe | 1,120 | 65% | 10% | 2% | 23% |
| Lighten the footprint | 2,072 | 65% | 11% | 2% | 22% |
| Protect nature | 2,408 | 67% | 11% | 2% | 19% |
| Respect culture | 700 | 68% | 13% | 2% | 17% |
| Support residents and local business | 2,324 | 68% | 12% | 3% | 17% |
Guidance reaches travelers who ask for it, and misses travelers who do not
The gap is 18 points, and it is where most visitors are.
| Question type | Fact checks | Told right | Told something vague | Told wrong | Told nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asked directly | 2,044 | 76% | 13% | 5% | 6% |
| Cultural | 364 | 72% | 16% | 2% | 10% |
| Not asked (trip planning) | 4,676 | 61% | 10% | 1% | 28% |
| Destination not named | 392 | 63% | 7% | 1% | 29% |
By kind of fact
| Category | Fact checks | Told right | Told something vague | Told wrong | Told nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | 252 | 60% | 10% | 3% | 27% |
| Dispersal | 700 | 60% | 10% | 2% | 27% |
| Timing | 224 | 62% | 10% | 1% | 27% |
| Safety | 952 | 64% | 10% | 3% | 24% |
| Environment | 812 | 65% | 11% | 2% | 22% |
| Access | 1,568 | 66% | 11% | 2% | 21% |
| Local economy | 140 | 68% | 10% | 2% | 20% |
| Community | 84 | 67% | 13% | 2% | 18% |
| Conduct | 1,064 | 68% | 11% | 2% | 18% |
| Fee | 616 | 68% | 13% | 3% | 17% |
| Pledge | 560 | 68% | 14% | 3% | 15% |
| Reservation | 252 | 70% | 11% | 4% | 15% |
| Lodging | 168 | 71% | 13% | 2% | 14% |
| Closure | 84 | 77% | 7% | 0% | 15% |
Which sites the AI assistants cite about Tofino
The largest outside voice describing Tofino to AI assistants is blogs and everything else, at 16% of citations. Your own sites and your land managers together are 44%.
This is who the AI assistants cite when they answer about Tofino. It is not a measure of where travelers get ideas in general: social media and video still drive demand and crowding; the AI assistants simply cite them rarely today. Expect this table to shift as the AI assistants change what they read, so it is worth tracking over time.
| Kind of source | Citations | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Land managers and First Nations | 3,765 | 34% |
| Blogs and everything else | 1,811 | 16% |
| News and travel media | 1,278 | 12% |
| Booking and review sites | 1,214 | 11% |
| Destination's own sites | 1,148 | 10% |
| Wikipedia and reference | 615 | 6% |
| Video | 611 | 6% |
| Forums and social | 604 | 5% |
Most-cited websites
| Website | Kind | Citations | Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| nomadicmatt.com | Blogs and everything else | 658 | 6.0% |
| lonelyplanet.com | News and travel media | 650 | 5.9% |
| cntraveler.com | News and travel media | 628 | 5.7% |
| en.wikipedia.org | Wikipedia and reference | 615 | 5.6% |
| tripadvisor.com | Booking and review sites | 612 | 5.5% |
| youtube.com | Video | 611 | 5.5% |
| reddit.com | Forums and social | 604 | 5.5% |
| expedia.com | Booking and review sites | 602 | 5.4% |
| thebrokebackpacker.com | Blogs and everything else | 594 | 5.4% |
| earthtrekkers.com | Blogs and everything else | 559 | 5.1% |
| tla-o-qui-aht.org | Land managers and First Nations | 415 | 3.8% |
| mhssahousaht.ca | Land managers and First Nations | 397 | 3.6% |
| tourismtofino.com | Destination's own sites | 395 | 3.6% |
| talktofino.ca | Destination's own sites | 385 | 3.5% |
| coastsmart.ca | Land managers and First Nations | 384 | 3.5% |
Your own voice is spread across 13 websites (tla-o-qui-aht.org 415, mhssahousaht.ca 397, tourismtofino.com 395, talktofino.ca 385, coastsmart.ca 384, clayoquotbiosphere.org 375, parks.canada.ca 373, dfo-mpo.gc.ca 371, bcferries.com 370, tofino.ca 368, tribalparks.com 365, drivebc.ca 364, bcparks.ca 351). Pooled, they account for 44% of citations, which is why the first table ranks you higher than any single site in the second.
On questions that did not name Tofino, it was mentioned in 73% of 336 answers.
Answers that could get someone hurt
Some facts are marked safety-critical in the fact sheet because a wrong answer could injure someone. They are scored like every other fact; this section quotes the wrong answers so they can be acted on first.
26 answers gave wrong information on a safety-critical fact, across 16 fact-and-assistant pairs. One example is quoted for each.
No lifeguards on any beach Gemini4 answers
Truth: There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised.
Asked: Are there lifeguards at Long Beach or Cox Bay?
Wrong: Says Long Beach has lifeguards or Surf Guards in summer
No lifeguards on any beach ChatGPT3 answers
Truth: There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised.
Asked: best surf towns in canada for beginners
Wrong: Advises swimming near the lifeguard tower
Stay 100 m from predators Perplexity3 answers
Truth: In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve visitors must stay at least 100 metres from wolves, bears and cougars. A park order prohibits approaching, remaining near or viewing these animals within 100 metres unless fully inside a vehicle, with a maximum penalty of $25,000.
Asked: Are there a lot of bears around Tofino? Should I be worried staying in a cabin?
Wrong: Encourages approaching or photographing wolves on the beach
Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit ChatGPT2 answers
Truth: Parks Canada has had a 'Wolves in Area' warning in effect for the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve since September 18, 2025, until further notice. Visitors are told to leave pets at home, keep children close, carry accessible bear spray and not hike alone.
Asked: Can I take my dog to Wickaninnish Beach?
Wrong: Does not mention wolves at all
Stay 100 m from predators Gemini2 answers
Truth: In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve visitors must stay at least 100 metres from wolves, bears and cougars. A park order prohibits approaching, remaining near or viewing these animals within 100 metres unless fully inside a vehicle, with a maximum penalty of $25,000.
Asked: where can I see wolves or bears near Tofino
Wrong: Gives a shorter distance such as 30 m
Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit Gemini2 answers
Truth: Parks Canada has had a 'Wolves in Area' warning in effect for the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve since September 18, 2025, until further notice. Visitors are told to leave pets at home, keep children close, carry accessible bear spray and not hike alone.
Asked: tent camping near Tofino in August, what do we need to bring and know
Wrong: Says wolves are rarely seen and pose no concern
No lifeguards on any beach Claude
Truth: There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised.
Asked: Are there lifeguards at Long Beach or Cox Bay?
Wrong: Advises swimming near the lifeguard tower
No lifeguards on any beach Perplexity
Truth: There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised.
Asked: Are there lifeguards at Long Beach or Cox Bay?
Wrong: Says Long Beach has lifeguards or Surf Guards in summer
Storm watching hazards Claude
Truth: During fall and winter storms, large waves can sweep over beaches and rocks without warning, and drift logs can float, roll and crush people. Official guidance is to stay off drift logs when the tide or swell is high, stay on trails and off the rocks, and check tide tables and the swell forecast first.
Asked: Give me a storm watching itinerary for Tofino in November
Wrong: Does not mention any safety precautions for storm watching
Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit Perplexity
Truth: Parks Canada has had a 'Wolves in Area' warning in effect for the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve since September 18, 2025, until further notice. Visitors are told to leave pets at home, keep children close, carry accessible bear spray and not hike alone.
Asked: Best short hikes near Tofino
Wrong: Says wolves are rarely seen and pose no concern
Cultural facts: what is scored, what is held, and how review works
A machine should not decide what is true about a Nation. Facts about Indigenous peoples, protocols, names and places are handled at two levels. Where the Nation's own publication is the source, the fact is scored like any other and flagged. Where the only source is a tourism board or agency page, the fact is graded and shown here, but kept out of every score until the Nation's own source or confirmation exists.
Scored and flagged · 9 facts with a Nation-published source
| Fact | Fact checks | Told right | Told something vague | Told wrong | Told nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs Cove fees | 140 | 69% | 12% | 1% | 17% |
| Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee | 224 | 68% | 12% | 2% | 18% |
| Hot Springs Cove hours and season | 84 | 75% | 13% | 0% | 12% |
| Wild Side Trail fee | 56 | 80% | 11% | 4% | 5% |
| No dogs on Wild Side Trail | 56 | 63% | 16% | 2% | 20% |
| The ʔiisaak Pledge | 252 | 68% | 13% | 2% | 17% |
| Paved path and accessible park viewpoints | 112 | 56% | 10% | 3% | 31% |
| 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan | 56 | 64% | 11% | 2% | 23% |
| Where the 1% Responsible Visitor Fee goes | 56 | 70% | 5% | 0% | 25% |
Held until confirmed · 4 facts
These are not in any score. Each one is unlocked by either a source the Nation itself has published, or the Nation's confirmation of the wording through the channel you already use with them. A tourism board's say-so does not unlock it.
| Fact | Current source | Checks | Stated as published | Contradicted | Left out | What the AI assistants said |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Tourism Tofino's Tribal Parks page, written in collaboration with Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, says there are four declared Tribal Parks in Tla-o-qui-aht territory: Wanačas Hiłḥuuʔis (Meares Island), Tranquil Tribal Park, Ha`uukmin (Kennedy Lake Watershed) and Esowista Tribal Park. The first, Wanačas Hiłḥuuʔis (Meares Island and its waterways), was declared on April 21, 1984. The Big Tree Trail is on Meares Island within this Tribal Park. | tourismtofino.com needs Nation source or confirmation | 252 | 172 | 6 | 50 | ChatGPT (incorrect): “Describes the area as untouched wilderness with no mention of Tla-o-qui-aht stewardship” ChatGPT (incorrect): “Describes the area as untouched wilderness with no mention of Tla-o-qui-aht stewardship” ChatGPT (correct): “Tourism Tofino's Tribal Parks page, written in collaboration with Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, says there are four declared Tribal Parks in Tla-o-qui-aht territory: Wanačas Hiłḥuuʔis (Meares Island), T” |
| Big Tree Trail access Tourism Tofino states that the Big Tree Trail is within the Meares Island Tribal Park, a short water taxi or kayak trip from Tofino Harbour. One water taxi operator says trail fees are not included in its fare; no trail fee amount is published on the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks or Tourism Tofino pages that were opened. | tofinowatertaxi.com, tourismtofino.com needs Nation source or confirmation | 112 | 81 | 1 | 22 | Perplexity (incorrect): “Describes the trail with no mention of the Tribal Park” ChatGPT (correct): “Tourism Tofino states that the Big Tree Trail is within the Meares Island Tribal Park, a short water taxi or kayak trip from Tofino Harbour. One water taxi operator says trail fees are not included in” |
| Tla-o-qui-aht territory Tourism Tofino states that Tofino (Načiks) is situated within the Hahuulthi (territory) of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. It also acknowledges the Ahousaht First Nation and states that Hot Springs Cove is in Ahousaht Hahuulthi (territory). | tourismtofino.com needs Nation source or confirmation | 168 | 128 | 4 | 22 | ChatGPT (incorrect): “Speaks of First Nations only in the past tense” Gemini (incorrect): “Speaks of First Nations only in the past tense” ChatGPT (correct): “Tourism Tofino states that Tofino (Načiks) is situated within the Hahuulthi (territory) of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. It also acknowledges the Ahousaht First Nation and states that Hot Springs Co” |
| Tla-o-qui-aht villages are residential Tourism Tofino says Tla-o-qui-aht citizens live in the village sites of Opitsaht, Esowista and Ty-Histanis as well as in Tofino. The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust's West Coast NEST pages describe these as primarily residential communities with very few services for visitors, no banks, stores or ATMs, and say Opitsaht on Meares Island is reachable only by boat, has no visitor accommodation, and that groups wanting to camp must get permission by special arrangement. | tourismtofino.com, westcoastnest.org needs Nation source or confirmation | 28 | 23 | 0 | 2 | ChatGPT (correct): “Tourism Tofino says Tla-o-qui-aht citizens live in the village sites of Opitsaht, Esowista and Ty-Histanis as well as in Tofino. The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust's West Coast NEST pages describe these as” |
How the review works
- Before you saw this report, we read every cultural fact against its source to check it restates what the Nation or its partners published, and attributes rather than asserts.
- You route, you do not approve. If you would like, we prepare the cultural fact list for the Nation or Nations you work with, and you share it through the relationship you already have, with no deadline attached. We never contact a Nation unannounced on your behalf.
- A held fact joins the score when a Nation-published source is found or the Nation confirms the wording. The report records who confirmed it and when.
- Fixes that touch cultural facts are proposed, not executed, until the Nation has seen the wording that would go on your pages. Nothing cultural appears in a public index or case study before then.
What was checked, and how it fits together
Every question lists the facts a good answer should contain. Every fact belongs to one category and serves one or more stewardship outcomes. Appendix C shows that each category was tested both by direct questions and by open trip-planning questions.
Appendix A · The 67 facts checked (63 scored, 4 held for cultural review)
Access · 13 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Park pass needed when stopped A valid national park entry pass must be displayed in your vehicle whenever you stop in the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Tourism Tofino states that day and annual passes include parking. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/heures-hours | 3 direct 3 open | 59% | 15% | 5% | 21% |
| Paid parking at Tofino beaches The District of Tofino charges for parking at Tonquin Beach, tinwis (formerly Mackenzie Beach), Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay. Beach pay parking is enforced daily from 8 AM to 11 PM all year, at $3 per hour or $15 per day. tofino.ca/parking | 1 direct 9 open | 65% | 10% | 1% | 24% |
| Downtown Tofino pay parking Downtown Tofino has pay parking daily from 9 AM to 6 PM between May 1 and October 31. Personal vehicles pay $3 per hour and RVs pay $6 per hour. tofino.ca/parking | 1 direct 2 open | 63% | 12% | 4% | 21% |
| Free summer shuttle dates The Tofino Free Shuttle ran daily from June 29 to September 7, 2026, between 9 AM and 7 PM, linking downtown Tofino with the Tofino Visitor Centre near Cox Bay. It is a summer-only service and is not running in fall, winter or spring. tofino.ca/tofino-free-shuttle-returns-june-29-2026/ | 2 direct 5 open | 64% | 10% | 5% | 22% |
| Winter tires on Highway 4 Anyone driving to Tofino between October 1 and March 31 must have winter tires or carry chains. The BC government's South Coast winter tire map designates Highway 4 to Tofino as an October 1 to March 31 winter tire/chain route. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/getting-here/ | 0 direct 5 open | 57% | 8% | 1% | 34% |
| Ferry from Horseshoe Bay needs booking Vehicles travelling on BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo) must be booked and paid for in advance; drive-up fares are no longer available. The rule began October 15, 2025 and applies in that direction only. Bookings are recommended but not required for the return from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay. www.bcferries.com/hsb-travel | 1 direct 2 open | 60% | 13% | 2% | 25% |
| Highway 4 planned closures Highway 4, the highway to Tofino, has periodic full planned closures near Cameron Lake. The most recent was Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 9 AM to 3 PM between Chalet Road and the Alberni Summit. The District of Tofino directs travellers to DriveBC for the latest travel information. tofino.ca/highway-4-closure-wednesday-september-23-2026/ | 1 direct 3 open | 69% | 7% | 0% | 24% |
| Hot Springs Cove hours and seasoncultural The park at Hot Springs Cove is open to the general public from dawn until dusk, but permitted commercial operators may only bring guests between 11 AM and 5 PM. During the core operating season, March 15 to October 15, an Ahousaht Watchman is present at the main park entrance. mhssahousaht.ca/hot-springs-maquinna-park/ | 2 direct 1 open | 75% | 13% | 0% | 12% |
| Where big RVs and trailers may park In Tofino, RVs, motorhomes and campers over 20 feet long may park only in designated pay areas, and are not allowed in the Municipal Office lots. Overnight parking for vehicles with trailers (for example a boat or kayak trailer) is permitted in non-pay zones such as Industrial Way if posted signage is followed, but this is parking only; sleeping in any vehicle anywhere in the District remains prohibited. tofino.ca/parking | 1 direct 2 open | 69% | 13% | 2% | 15% |
| Scheduled bus from Nanaimo and Victoria The scheduled coach into Tofino is the Tofino Express Bus run by IslandLink (Island Express Bus Inc.) on the Nanaimo - Port Alberni - Ucluelet - Tofino corridor, with connections from Victoria. Tourism Tofino describes it as running 3 to 6 times a week from several communities and ferry terminals. Wilson's Tofino Bus and Vancouver Island Connector, the operator most older articles name, state they are currently not operating. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/getting-here/ | 2 direct 1 open | 86% | 6% | 0% | 8% |
| Tofino-Ucluelet public bus BC Transit's West Coast Transit Route 1 Tofino/Ucluelet runs seven days a week linking Tofino, Ty-Histanis, Esowista, the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre, Ucluelet and hitacu, with stops at the Tofino Visitor Centre. An adult single ride is $5 and a DayPASS is $10; children 12 and under ride free. Since January 4, 2026 the schedule includes extra midday trips and late buses leaving Ucluelet at 9:20 PM and Tofino at 10:25 PM. www.bctransit.com/west-coast/fares | 2 direct 2 open | 73% | 9% | 2% | 16% |
| Flights to Tofino from Vancouver Pacific Coastal Airlines flies daily scheduled flights between Vancouver's South Terminal (YVR) and Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ). Harbour Air runs seasonal floatplanes into Tofino Harbour roughly April through October, and in winter 2025-26 added wheeled flights YVR South Terminal to YAZ four days a week from October 27, 2025 to March 29, 2026. tofinoairport.com/carriers | 2 direct 1 open | 75% | 12% | 1% | 12% |
| EV charging in Tofino Tourism Tofino says there are multiple EV charging stations in the region, including two Level 2 ports at the Tofino Visitor Centre at 1426 Pacific Rim Highway near Cox Bay, and points drivers to PlugShare for other locations. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/getting-around/ | 1 direct 1 open | 63% | 14% | 2% | 21% |
Accessibility · 3 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free beach wheelchair loan Two beach wheelchairs with large balloon tires can be borrowed at no cost from the Tofino Visitor Centre, by reservation, for a maximum of 3 days with a $250 refundable deposit. The Visitor Centre itself has accessible and gender-neutral washrooms. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/accessibility/ | 1 direct 1 open | 68% | 11% | 0% | 21% |
| Accessible beach entrances The Hellesen Drive entrance to tinwis (Mackenzie Beach) has accessible parking, washrooms, an entrance ramp and a Mobi-mat onto the sand from the May long weekend until the Thanksgiving long weekend in October. Cox Bay has a boardwalk and concrete ramp between Long Beach Lodge Resort and Cox Bay Resort, and MacKenzie Beach Road has an accessible wooden boardwalk to the beach. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/accessibility/ | 1 direct 2 open | 58% | 11% | 5% | 26% |
| Paved path and accessible park viewpointscultural The ʔapsčiik t̓ašii multi-use path is a paved pathway from Tofino to Ucluelet with flat sections and rolling hills, including two larger hills at the south end of Long Beach and just north of Wick Road. In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve the viewing decks at Radar Hill and at Kwisitis Visitor Centre are accessible, Kwisitis loans companion-operated all-terrain wheelchairs, and Long Beach, Wickaninnish and Green Point have accessible washrooms. The Broken Group Islands and West Coast Trail units are rugged and not barrier-free. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/accessibility/ | 1 direct 3 open | 56% | 10% | 3% | 31% |
Closure · 1 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schooner Cove Trail closed The Schooner Cove Trail in the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is closed until further notice under a Parks Canada area closure. Entering a closed area carries a maximum penalty of $25,000. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/bulletins/F1A487A7-AA72-4C9A-8115- | 2 direct 1 open | 77% | 7% | 0% | 15% |
Community · 1 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM Under the District of Tofino's Public Property Use Regulation Bylaw, loud or unnecessary noise that disturbs others is not permitted between 10 PM and 7 AM, including excessive noise from vehicles, amplified music and instruments. Noise complaints go to the Bylaw Department (250-725-3229 ext. 706) or the on-duty officer (250-266-1674). tofino.ca/public-services/safety/bylaw-enforcement/noise/ | 1 direct 2 open | 67% | 13% | 2% | 18% |
Conduct · 10 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No sleeping in vehicles Overnight camping in any vehicle is prohibited everywhere in the District of Tofino at all times. The District states there is no free camping in Tofino, and camping in RVs, trailers, cars and tents is not permitted in parking lots, on beaches or on streets. tofino.ca/parking | 3 direct 4 open | 70% | 8% | 3% | 19% |
| Beach fires in Tofino Within the District of Tofino, beach fires are only allowed on tinwis (Mackenzie Beach) and Chesterman Beach, between 8 AM and 10 PM. Fires must be in a clean-burning or raised fire appliance no larger than 0.6 metres high by 0.6 metres across, and burning driftwood is prohibited. tofino.ca/beach-responsibly-this-summer-and-canada-day/ | 3 direct 2 open | 67% | 14% | 2% | 16% |
| No alcohol on beaches Alcohol is not permitted on public property in Tofino, including the beaches, at any time. tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/ | 1 direct 2 open | 75% | 10% | 2% | 13% |
| Dogs must be leashed everywhere There are no off-leash parks, beaches or areas in Tofino. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners who do not comply can be fined. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/dog-friendly-tofino/ | 1 direct 2 open | 70% | 11% | 2% | 17% |
| Drones restricted in Tofino Drone use in the District of Tofino is restricted by law because of the town's proximity to the Tofino Harbour Water Aerodrome and the Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ). tofino.ca/our-community/parks-natural-spaces/ | 1 direct 1 open | 66% | 11% | 4% | 20% |
| Drones banned in national park In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, no one may use, install or deploy a remote device (such as a drone) to record photos, video or sound on land or water unless permitted by the Superintendent. The maximum penalty is $25,000. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/bulletins/D3ED0268-41A5-4448-9220- | 1 direct 1 open | 68% | 14% | 2% | 16% |
| Dog ban on southern park beaches Since a Parks Canada order issued February 10, 2026, dogs are prohibited at all times on coastal areas and trails between Green Point Rocks and Willowbrae Trail in the Long Beach Unit. This includes Wickaninnish Beach, Florencia Bay, Halfmoon Bay Trail and Combers Beach. Elsewhere in the Long Beach Unit where dogs are allowed they must be leashed. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/bulletins/415AA62C-21AD-4A65-AF20- | 3 direct 3 open | 67% | 11% | 2% | 20% |
| Beach fires in national park In the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, beach fires are allowed only at Florencia Beach, Wickaninnish Beach and Radar Beaches. Fires are not allowed on Long Beach between the bottom of Schooner Trail and Sandhill Creek on Combers Beach. Fires must be under 1 metre wide and high and at least 3 metres from drift logs and vegetation. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/feu-fire | 2 direct 1 open | 61% | 14% | 2% | 23% |
| Marine mammal viewing distance Boats and people must keep at least 100 metres from whales, dolphins and porpoises, and 200 metres from killer whales in BC and the Pacific. Tourism Tofino describes the 100 m distance as 10 bus lengths and says to keep dogs far away from marine mammals on shore. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/nature/faune-wildlife | 1 direct 4 open | 69% | 9% | 3% | 19% |
| No dogs on Wild Side Trailcultural Dogs are not permitted on the Wildside Trail on Flores Island because of the high number of wolf sightings. Hikers are told to always carry bear spray, stick together and use the metal food caches. mhssahousaht.ca/wildside-trail/ | 1 direct 1 open | 63% | 16% | 2% | 20% |
Dispersal · 5 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall promoted as quieter Tourism Tofino actively promotes fall as a quieter time to visit, with less traffic, less waiting, a slower pace and lower accommodation rates than summer. It also warns that many businesses schedule closures after the busy summer months. tourismtofino.com/news-stories/fall-in-tofino/ | 1 direct 4 open | 65% | 7% | 3% | 25% |
| Plan asks for off-peak visits Tofino's 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan sets out a seasonality aim of inviting respectful visitors to return outside the busy summer months, and a low-impact travel aim that includes encouraging longer stays, focusing on nearby travel markets, and promoting active and public transportation. tourismtofino.com/site/assets/files/5748/tofino_destination_stewardshi | 0 direct 4 open | 56% | 10% | 1% | 33% |
| Parking congestion signal The District of Tofino states that parking congestion at Tofino's beaches and downtown core has in the past negatively impacted the experience of both visitors and residents, and that all parking is first-come, first-served. Tourism Tofino says parking in summer can be limited and advises arriving at your chosen beach early because lots fill up in peak periods. tofino.ca/parking | 1 direct 5 open | 60% | 11% | 1% | 29% |
| Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest Tourism Tofino says mid-week or non-holiday weekends are the quietest times for a relaxing escape, and highly recommends restaurant reservations, or arriving early if walking in, because tables fill up. tourismtofino.com/news-stories/your-fall-itinerary/ | 1 direct 7 open | 58% | 12% | 3% | 27% |
| Plan names visitor pressure, sets no cap Tofino's 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan states that the area's growing popularity and a lack of awareness of traditional protocols place numerous pressures on area residents and biodiversity, and describes a desired future where tourism works in balance with the community's limits. The plan sets no numeric visitor cap. tourismtofino.com/site/assets/files/5748/tofino_destination_stewardshi | 1 direct 1 open | 64% | 11% | 4% | 21% |
Environment · 6 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water conservation stages Tofino has a three-stage water conservation system because drier and busier summers strain its water supply. In 2026, Stage 1 took effect May 12 and was lifted September 1; there are currently no water restrictions. Visitors are asked to keep showers to 4 minutes or less. tofino.ca/our-community/make-every-drop-count/ | 3 direct 5 open | 63% | 16% | 1% | 20% |
| Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage Tofino is a designated Bear Smart Community and has a Wildlife Attractant Bylaw (No. 1317) adopted by council on April 23, 2024, that requires garbage and other attractants to be secured. Tourism Tofino asks visitors not to leave food out at any time and to take their garbage with them, including biodegradable food waste. tofino.ca/district-of-tofino-designated-a-bear-smart-community/ | 2 direct 6 open | 61% | 10% | 3% | 27% |
| Park food storage rulessafety-critical In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve all food, garbage and scented items, including empty coolers, pet food, toiletries and cookware, must be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or food locker, never in a tent or tent trailer. Parks Canada also says never to approach or search for wolves, bears or cougars for photography. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/nature/faune-wildlife | 1 direct 2 open | 75% | 5% | 2% | 18% |
| Wickaninnish dunes are rare and fragile The sand dunes at Wickaninnish Beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are a rare ecosystem that covers less than 1% of British Columbia and has shrunk by 56% across coastal BC. They are threatened by invasive European and American beachgrass, and Parks Canada runs restoration work including volunteer beachgrass pulls. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/nature/restauration-restoration/du | 0 direct 2 open | 68% | 14% | 0% | 18% |
| Leave nature in place Tourism Tofino asks visitors to admire nature but leave it in its place and not take anything from the beaches or forests, to pack out all personal items, food and garbage, to stay on trails to avoid disturbing the forest floor, and to walk carefully in the intertidal zone to avoid stepping on marine life such as barnacles. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/responsible-recreation/ | 1 direct 3 open | 70% | 12% | 1% | 18% |
| Water asks for guests and RVs The District of Tofino asks visitors to reuse towels and linens during their stay (saving up to 50 litres of water a day), and asks RV travellers to fill their water tanks and empty waste tanks before arriving in the area. Under Stage 2 water conservation, outdoor watering of lawns and gardens is prohibited; under Stage 3, indoor water use is restricted to drinking and sanitation. tofino.ca/our-community/make-every-drop-count/ | 0 direct 4 open | 65% | 7% | 4% | 24% |
Fee · 5 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National park daily admission Daily admission to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is $12.25 per adult, $10.75 per senior, $24.50 per family/group, and free for youth 17 and under. Regular fees have applied again since September 8, 2026, after a period of free admission under the Canada Strong Pass ended on September 7. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/tarifs-fees | 2 direct 2 open | 58% | 15% | 4% | 22% |
| Beach Walk short-stay pass Parks Canada sells a cheaper short-stay Beach Walk pass for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve at $7.75 per adult, $6.75 per senior and $15.50 per family/group. It is valid for a maximum of four hours and only at the Long Beach, Kwisitis, Incinerator and Wickaninnish parking lots. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/tarifs-fees | 2 direct 1 open | 67% | 14% | 6% | 13% |
| Tribal Parks Allies 1% feecultural Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Allies are certified businesses and organizations in Tofino that have agreed to collect a 1% Responsible Visitor Fee on behalf of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. Visitors are encouraged to look for the Tribal Parks Allies symbol and support allied businesses. www.tribalparks.com/support-allied-businesses | 4 direct 4 open | 68% | 12% | 2% | 18% |
| Hot Springs Cove feescultural The Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (Ahousaht) states that BC Parks charges a $3 per person day-use fee for Nism̓aakqin (Maquinna Marine) Park, and that an additional $15 per person, per visit, is collected for the Mux̣šiƛa Hot Springs by the guide operator or the on-duty Ahousaht Stewardship Guardian. Its fee schedule lists the hot springs amount as an add-on to the general Ahousaht Stewardship Fee of $15 per person per day, and it advises visitors on tours to ask whether the stewardship fee is already included in the tour price. mhssahousaht.ca/hot-springs-maquinna-park/ | 3 direct 2 open | 69% | 12% | 1% | 17% |
| Wild Side Trail feecultural The Wildside Trail on Flores Island, which starts in the Ahousaht community, is 11 km long and has an access fee of $15 per person per day. Permits are available at the Ahous Fuel Stop, the MHSS office in Tofino, or online. Ahousaht is about 30 minutes by water taxi from Tofino. mhssahousaht.ca/wildside-trail/ | 1 direct 1 open | 80% | 11% | 4% | 5% |
Local economy · 2 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Only licensed operators in the national park Only operators licensed by Pacific Rim National Park Reserve may run guided activities inside the park, including day hikes, kayaking, marine wildlife viewing, surf lessons and backcountry guiding. A Parks Canada business licence (valid April 1 to March 31) is required for every business, guide or vendor operating in the park, and visitors can check whether a company is licensed by calling 250-726-3500 or emailing pacrim.info@pc.gc.ca. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/exploitants-operators | 1 direct 2 open | 67% | 13% | 4% | 17% |
| Where the 1% Responsible Visitor Fee goescultural Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks says it has renamed the Allies' 1% Ecosystem Service Fee the Responsible Visitor Fee, that participating businesses collect it from guests and direct it back to stewardship of the territory, and that it funds the Tribal Parks Guardians and regional services such as clean drinking water, hospital services, social programs, safety and emergency response, and infrastructure like sewage treatment and parking. Tofino businesses apply to Tribal Parks to become Certified Allies. www.tribalparks.com/blog/what-is-the-responsible-visitor-fee---and-why | 0 direct 2 open | 70% | 5% | 0% | 25% |
Lodging · 2 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term rental licence rules Short-term rentals in Tofino need a District business licence, a Permanent Resident must live at the premises, and rentals are limited to a maximum of 3 guest bedrooms and no more than 6 overnight guests at one time including children. Hosts must give guests the Good Neighbour Guide and water conservation information. The Mayor's statement says the community faces significant housing challenges. tofino.ca/business-development/short-term-rental-regulations/ | 3 direct 1 open | 71% | 13% | 3% | 13% |
| Provincial principal-residence rule does not apply The District of Tofino asked the Province to opt it out of BC's short-term rental principal residence requirement and the Province approved the request effective November 1, 2025; the Province's own list now shows Tofino as exempt. Tofino's local bylaw still requires a Permanent Resident to live at any licensed short-term rental (see tofino-fact-046), so the provincial exemption does not mean investor-owned whole-home rentals are legal. tofino.ca/?p=10853 | 1 direct 1 open | 70% | 13% | 2% | 16% |
Pledge · 5 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The ʔiisaak Pledgecultural Visitors to Tofino are asked to take the ʔiisaak Pledge, written in collaboration with Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks. It sets out four commitments: be respectful of Natural Law; speak truthfully, act honourably and learn the history of this place and its People; be generous and helpful; and leave healthy habitats undisturbed for future generations. tourismtofino.com/about-tofino/iisaak-pledge/ | 4 direct 5 open | 68% | 13% | 2% | 17% |
| 2025 Destination Stewardship Plancultural Tofino's Destination Stewardship Plan, titled 'ʔiisaak: n̓ačiqs | Tofino stands for respect', states that it was created by Tourism Tofino and the District of Tofino with support from Destination Think, in collaboration with Tofino-area residents. Tofino council carried a motion on November 4, 2025 to adopt it as the District's tourism master plan. Its goal is that by 2030 every visitor, resident and business will take the ʔiisaak Pledge. tourismtofino.com/site/assets/files/5748/tofino_dsp_-_plan_on_a_page.p | 1 direct 1 open | 64% | 11% | 2% | 23% |
| Washed Up Wednesdays beach cleans Tourism Tofino hosts a free, drop-in weekly beach clean-up called Washed Up Wednesdays every Wednesday in July and August, rotating between beaches such as Chesterman, tinwis (Mackenzie), Cox Bay and Long Beach. Gloves and buckets are provided and no registration is needed. The Tofino Visitor Centre also has a marine debris recycling station for visitors who run their own clean-up. tourismtofino.com/events-festivals/washed-up-wednesdays-beach-clean/ | 2 direct 1 open | 75% | 12% | 2% | 11% |
| Plan asks visitors to give back locally Tofino's 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan lists giving-back initiatives including encouraging voluntourism and citizen science, funding or collecting donations at businesses for community programs, and promoting locally owned businesses. Its visitor-education section says leaving a light footprint also means supporting local entrepreneurs. tourismtofino.com/site/assets/files/5748/tofino_destination_stewardshi | 3 direct 1 open | 68% | 18% | 4% | 10% |
| Surfrider cleanups are drop-in for visitors Surfrider Foundation Pacific Rim, a volunteer-run chapter, posts its beach cleanups on its events page and tells anyone who wants to attend to sign the waiver and just show up rather than fill in a volunteer form. Its 2026 calendar includes remote boat-based cleanups in Clayoquot Sound, sand dune restoration days with Parks Canada, and the summer Washed Up Wednesdays cleans. Tourism Tofino also lists citizen-science options such as Redd Fish Restoration Society sea star surveys and the Pacific Treefrog Chorus Project. pacificrim.surfrider.ca/volunteer | 1 direct 1 open | 64% | 14% | 5% | 16% |
Reservation · 2 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast Trail season and booking The West Coast Trail unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is open and reservable from May 1 to September 30 each year; it is not open to hikers in October. Reservations for the 2026 season opened February 5, 2026 at 8 AM PT through the Parks Canada Reservation Service. The trail is 75 km and is not near Tofino; it runs from Pachena Bay to Gordon River. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/SCO-WCT | 1 direct 1 open | 73% | 11% | 5% | 11% |
| Green Point Campground booking Green Point Campground, the only campground in the Long Beach area of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, is open from May 1 to mid-October (October 12 in 2026) and is booked through the Parks Canada Reservation Service. Reservations for 2026 opened at 8 AM PT on January 29, 2026. Tourism Tofino advises booking camping early. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/camping | 2 direct 5 open | 69% | 11% | 3% | 17% |
Safety · 6 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay 100 m from predatorssafety-critical In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve visitors must stay at least 100 metres from wolves, bears and cougars. A park order prohibits approaching, remaining near or viewing these animals within 100 metres unless fully inside a vehicle, with a maximum penalty of $25,000. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/nature/faune-wildlife | 2 direct 1 open | 67% | 11% | 7% | 15% |
| Wolf warning in Long Beach Unitsafety-critical Parks Canada has had a 'Wolves in Area' warning in effect for the Long Beach Unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve since September 18, 2025, until further notice. Visitors are told to leave pets at home, keep children close, carry accessible bear spray and not hike alone. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/bulletins/745610D9-0BA0-4921-B360- | 2 direct 6 open | 65% | 11% | 3% | 21% |
| No lifeguards on any beachsafety-critical There are no lifeguards or surf guards on any beach in Tofino or in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. All beaches are unsupervised. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/surf | 2 direct 8 open | 62% | 10% | 3% | 25% |
| Cold water all yearsafety-critical Ocean water around Tofino stays between about 7°C and 14°C all year, even in summer. Parks Canada tells surfers to wear a wetsuit at all times and warns that maximum survival time in water this cold is two to three hours. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/securite-safety/risques-hazards | 1 direct 6 open | 63% | 11% | 1% | 26% |
| Rip current responsesafety-critical Rip currents are present at Tofino-area beaches. CoastSmart advises that if caught in one you stay calm, never swim directly against it, keep hold of your board or flotation, and swim parallel to the beach until out of the current before heading in. coastsmart.ca/hazards/rip-currents/ | 0 direct 2 open | 70% | 7% | 2% | 21% |
| Storm watching hazardssafety-critical During fall and winter storms, large waves can sweep over beaches and rocks without warning, and drift logs can float, roll and crush people. Official guidance is to stay off drift logs when the tide or swell is high, stay on trails and off the rocks, and check tide tables and the swell forecast first. coastsmart.ca/activities/storm-watching/ | 0 direct 4 open | 61% | 10% | 1% | 29% |
Timing · 2 facts
| Fact and source | Asked in | Right | Vague | Wrong | Nothing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons Tourism Tofino describes fall as a slower season and winter as storm-watching season with quieter days, and tells visitors that the force of nature is on full display in the fall and winter months and to plan a visit for winter. Its consumer pages do not name specific storm-season months or recommend a trip length. tourismtofino.com/about-tofino/seasons/ | 0 direct 6 open | 58% | 10% | 1% | 31% |
| Green Point 7-night maximum At Green Point Campground in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve the maximum stay is 7 consecutive nights for drive-in, walk-in, oTENTik and group sites. parks.canada.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/camping | 1 direct 1 open | 71% | 13% | 2% | 14% |
Held until confirmed · 4 cultural facts, not in any score
| Fact and source | Asked in |
|---|---|
| Tla-o-qui-aht territory Tourism Tofino states that Tofino (Načiks) is situated within the Hahuulthi (territory) of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. It also acknowledges the Ahousaht First Nation and states that Hot Springs Cove is in Ahousaht Hahuulthi (territory). tourismtofino.com/about-tofino/ | 4 direct 2 open |
| Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Tourism Tofino's Tribal Parks page, written in collaboration with Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, says there are four declared Tribal Parks in Tla-o-qui-aht territory: Wanačas Hiłḥuuʔis (Meares Island), Tranquil Tribal Park, Ha`uukmin (Kennedy Lake Watershed) and Esowista Tribal Park. The first, Wanačas Hiłḥuuʔis (Meares Island and its waterways), was declared on April 21, 1984. The Big Tree Trail is on Meares Island within this Tribal Park. tourismtofino.com/about-tofino/tla-o-qui-aht-tribal-parks/ | 3 direct 6 open |
| Big Tree Trail access Tourism Tofino states that the Big Tree Trail is within the Meares Island Tribal Park, a short water taxi or kayak trip from Tofino Harbour. One water taxi operator says trail fees are not included in its fare; no trail fee amount is published on the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks or Tourism Tofino pages that were opened. tourismtofino.com/activity/hiking-nature-trails/ | 1 direct 3 open |
| Tla-o-qui-aht villages are residential Tourism Tofino says Tla-o-qui-aht citizens live in the village sites of Opitsaht, Esowista and Ty-Histanis as well as in Tofino. The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust's West Coast NEST pages describe these as primarily residential communities with very few services for visitors, no banks, stores or ATMs, and say Opitsaht on Meares Island is reachable only by boat, has no visitor accommodation, and that groups wanting to camp must get permission by special arrangement. tourismtofino.com/about-tofino/past-present/ | 1 direct 0 open |
Appendix B · The 98 questions asked, and the facts each one checks
Each was put to every AI assistant 7 times. A direct question asks about a rule; an open question does not, and tests whether guidance is volunteered.
| Question | Type | Asked | Facts checked |
|---|---|---|---|
| best surf towns in canada for beginners | Destination not named | open | No lifeguards on any beach; Cold water all year |
| Where should I go on Vancouver Island for a week in summer? | Destination not named | open | none (visibility only) |
| best places for storm watching in BC | Destination not named | open | Storm watching hazards |
| small coastal towns in British Columbia worth visiting | Destination not named | open | none (visibility only) |
| where can I see old growth rainforest and whales on the same trip in Canada | Destination not named | open | Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; Marine mammal viewing distance |
| Tofino or Ucluelet, which is better to stay in? | Destination not named | open | Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Fall promoted as quieter |
| best hot springs you can only get to by boat in BC | Destination not named | open | Hot Springs Cove fees |
| Indigenous-led tourism experiences on Vancouver Island | Destination not named | open | Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee |
| Is Tofino worth the drive from Victoria? | Destination not named | open | Highway 4 planned closures |
| best beaches in Canada | Destination not named | open | none (visibility only) |
| romantic winter getaway west coast canada | Destination not named | open | Storm watching hazards; Winter tires on Highway 4 |
| where are the best places to go whale watching in british columbia | Destination not named | open | Marine mammal viewing distance |
| Do I need a park pass to park at Long Beach near Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | National park daily admission; Park pass needed when stopped; Beach Walk short-stay pass |
| how much is parking at Chesterman Beach | Asked directly | direct | Paid parking at Tofino beaches |
| Is parking free in downtown Tofino in October? | Asked directly | direct | Downtown Tofino pay parking |
| Can I sleep in my van in Tofino overnight? | Asked directly | direct | No sleeping in vehicles |
| Does Tofino have a free shuttle bus and is it running right now? | Asked directly | direct | Free summer shuttle dates |
| are beach fires allowed in tofino | Asked directly | direct | Beach fires in Tofino; Beach fires in national park |
| Can you drink alcohol on the beach in Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | No alcohol on beaches |
| Are there any off leash dog beaches in Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | Dogs must be leashed everywhere; Dog ban on southern park beaches |
| Can I take my dog to Wickaninnish Beach? | Asked directly | direct | Dog ban on southern park beaches; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit |
| Am I allowed to fly a drone in Tofino or at Long Beach? | Asked directly | direct | Drones restricted in Tofino; Drones banned in national park |
| Are there lifeguards at Long Beach or Cox Bay? | Asked directly | direct | No lifeguards on any beach |
| Is the Schooner Cove trail open? | Asked directly | direct | Schooner Cove Trail closed |
| Do I have to reserve the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo if I'm driving to Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | Ferry from Horseshoe Bay needs booking |
| How much are the fees to visit Hot Springs Cove? | Asked directly | direct | Hot Springs Cove fees; Hot Springs Cove hours and season |
| Is there a fee for the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island and can I bring my dog? | Asked directly | direct | Wild Side Trail fee; No dogs on Wild Side Trail |
| When do West Coast Trail reservations open and when is the trail open? | Asked directly | direct | West Coast Trail season and booking |
| Are there water restrictions in Tofino right now? | Asked directly | direct | Water conservation stages |
| how far do you have to stay from whales and orcas in a boat near Tofino | Asked directly | direct | Marine mammal viewing distance |
| Plan me a 3-day trip to Tofino in August | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Free summer shuttle dates; No lifeguards on any beach; Water conservation stages; The ʔiisaak Pledge; National park daily admission; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Leave nature in place; Parking congestion signal; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| I'm going to Tofino in July with two kids and a dog. What should we do? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Dogs must be leashed everywhere; Dog ban on southern park beaches; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit; No lifeguards on any beach; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Leave nature in place |
| What's the best beach in Tofino to watch the sunset with a bottle of wine and a bonfire? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Beach fires in national park; Beach fires in Tofino; No alcohol on beaches |
| cheap ways to do Tofino, we have a campervan | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Where big RVs and trailers may park; No sleeping in vehicles; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Green Point Campground booking; Water asks for guests and RVs; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage |
| Best places to get drone shots around Tofino? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Drones restricted in Tofino; Drones banned in national park |
| I want to learn to surf in Tofino. Where should I go and what do I need? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Only licensed operators in the national park; No lifeguards on any beach; Cold water all year; Rip current response |
| where can I see wolves or bears near Tofino | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Stay 100 m from predators; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit |
| Give me a storm watching itinerary for Tofino in November | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons; Storm watching hazards; Winter tires on Highway 4; Highway 4 planned closures; Fall promoted as quieter |
| We're driving from Vancouver to Tofino in January, how should we plan the trip? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Flights to Tofino from Vancouver; Winter tires on Highway 4; Ferry from Horseshoe Bay needs booking; Highway 4 planned closures |
| What's a good day trip from Tofino by boat? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Only licensed operators in the national park; Hot Springs Cove fees; Hot Springs Cove hours and season; Big Tree Trail access; Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; Marine mammal viewing distance |
| Is Tofino good to visit in October? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons; Fall promoted as quieter; Plan asks for off-peak visits; Downtown Tofino pay parking; Free summer shuttle dates; Winter tires on Highway 4; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| Best short hikes near Tofino | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Schooner Cove Trail closed; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit; Park pass needed when stopped; Big Tree Trail access; Paved path and accessible park viewpoints |
| How do I get around Tofino without a car? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Tofino-Ucluelet public bus; Free summer shuttle dates; Plan asks for off-peak visits; Paved path and accessible park viewpoints; Parking congestion signal |
| I want to kayak with whales in Tofino, how close can we get? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Marine mammal viewing distance; Cold water all year |
| Tofino on a long weekend in summer, is it going to be a nightmare to find parking? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Downtown Tofino pay parking; Free summer shuttle dates; Park pass needed when stopped; Parking congestion signal; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| We want to take our dog for a long beach walk near Tofino, where's best? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Dogs must be leashed everywhere; Dog ban on southern park beaches; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit |
| romantic things to do in Tofino for our anniversary | Not asked (trip planning) | open | No alcohol on beaches; Beach fires in Tofino; The ʔiisaak Pledge; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee |
| What should I pack for a week in Tofino in summer? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Cold water all year; Water conservation stages; Water asks for guests and RVs; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage |
| Can I swim in the ocean at Tofino or is it just for surfers? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | No lifeguards on any beach; Cold water all year; Rip current response |
| Where can I camp near Tofino last minute? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Green Point 7-night maximum; No sleeping in vehicles; Green Point Campground booking; Park food storage rules |
| What should I know about the First Nations in Tofino? | Cultural | direct | Tla-o-qui-aht territory; Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; The ʔiisaak Pledge; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee |
| Whose land is Tofino on? | Cultural | direct | Tla-o-qui-aht territory |
| What is the iisaak pledge in Tofino? | Cultural | direct | The ʔiisaak Pledge; 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan |
| What are Tribal Parks and can tourists visit them? | Cultural | direct | Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; Big Tree Trail access; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee |
| How can I support the local First Nation when I visit Tofino? | Cultural | direct | Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee; The ʔiisaak Pledge; Hot Springs Cove fees |
| I'd like to hike the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island, what's the deal with it? | Cultural | open | Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; Big Tree Trail access |
| Tell me about the history of Tofino | Cultural | open | Tla-o-qui-aht territory; Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks |
| Is Hot Springs Cove on Indigenous land? Anything I should do differently there? | Cultural | direct | Tla-o-qui-aht territory; Hot Springs Cove fees; Hot Springs Cove hours and season |
| why is there a 1% fee on my bill in Tofino | Cultural | open | Where the 1% Responsible Visitor Fee goes; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee |
| Is Tofino a wilderness area? I want somewhere totally untouched | Cultural | open | Tla-o-qui-aht territory; Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks; The ʔiisaak Pledge |
| Plan me a week in Tofino in July, we'll have a rental car | Not asked (trip planning) | open | EV charging in Tofino; Water conservation stages; Water asks for guests and RVs; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Parking congestion signal; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Free summer shuttle dates; The ʔiisaak Pledge |
| Are there any beach cleanups or volunteer things a visitor can join in Tofino in the summer? | Asked directly | direct | Surfrider cleanups are drop-in for visitors; Washed Up Wednesdays beach cleans; Plan asks visitors to give back locally |
| We're a family of 7 looking for an Airbnb in Tofino for a week, what should we know? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Provincial principal-residence rule does not apply; Short-term rental licence rules; Quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM; Water conservation stages |
| Is Tofino wheelchair accessible? I mean the beaches, trails and washrooms, not just hotels | Asked directly | direct | Free beach wheelchair loan; Accessible beach entrances; Paved path and accessible park viewpoints |
| tent camping near Tofino in August, what do we need to bring and know | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Park food storage rules; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Green Point Campground booking; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit |
| When is the best time to go to Tofino if I want to avoid the crowds? | Asked directly | direct | Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest; Fall promoted as quieter; Parking congestion signal; Plan names visitor pressure, sets no cap |
| What's the best beach in Tofino for tide pools and collecting shells with little kids? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Wickaninnish dunes are rare and fragile; Leave nature in place; No lifeguards on any beach; Wickaninnish dunes are rare and fragile |
| Can I take a water taxi over to Opitsaht to see the village? | Cultural | direct | Tla-o-qui-aht villages are residential; Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks |
| Driving our RV to Tofino in July, where do we park it and fill up water? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Where big RVs and trailers may park; Water asks for guests and RVs; No sleeping in vehicles; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Green Point Campground booking |
| Are there a lot of bears around Tofino? Should I be worried staying in a cabin? | Asked directly | direct | Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Park food storage rules; Stay 100 m from predators |
| quieter alternatives to the busy spots on Vancouver Island's west coast? | Destination not named | open | Fall promoted as quieter; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| Are there any rules, permits or reservations I should know about for visiting Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | National park daily admission; Park pass needed when stopped; Beach fires in Tofino; Dog ban on southern park beaches; Water conservation stages; Green Point Campground booking |
| Can I do Tofino in a weekend from Seattle? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Scheduled bus from Nanaimo and Victoria; Plan names visitor pressure, sets no cap; Ferry from Horseshoe Bay needs booking; Plan asks for off-peak visits; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| Is anything closed in Tofino right now? | Asked directly | direct | Schooner Cove Trail closed; Highway 4 planned closures |
| I only have one day in Tofino, what should I do? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Park pass needed when stopped; Beach Walk short-stay pass; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Parking congestion signal |
| How can I visit Tofino respectfully and responsibly? | Not asked (trip planning) | direct | The ʔiisaak Pledge; Tla-o-qui-aht territory; Leave nature in place; Water conservation stages; Bear Smart town, secure food and garbage; Plan asks visitors to give back locally |
| How can I support local businesses and the community when I visit Tofino? | Not asked (trip planning) | direct | Only licensed operators in the national park; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee; Plan asks visitors to give back locally; Washed Up Wednesdays beach cleans |
| Planning a beach trip to Tofino with my mum who uses a wheelchair, where should we go? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Free beach wheelchair loan; Accessible beach entrances; Paved path and accessible park viewpoints |
| Are there quiet hours or noise rules for rentals in Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | Quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM; Short-term rental licence rules |
| Are Airbnbs legal in Tofino and how do I know mine is licensed? | Asked directly | direct | Short-term rental licence rules |
| We're staying a week in Tofino in July. Anything locals wish visitors knew? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Surfrider cleanups are drop-in for visitors; Where the 1% Responsible Visitor Fee goes; Washed Up Wednesdays beach cleans; The ʔiisaak Pledge; 2025 Destination Stewardship Plan; Water conservation stages; Quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM; Plan asks visitors to give back locally |
| Is there a cheaper park pass if I'm only stopping at the beach for an hour near Tofino? | Asked directly | direct | Beach Walk short-stay pass; Park pass needed when stopped |
| Best multi-day hikes near Tofino? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Wild Side Trail fee; No dogs on Wild Side Trail; West Coast Trail season and booking; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit |
| is tofino expensive | Not asked (trip planning) | open | National park daily admission; Paid parking at Tofino beaches; Tribal Parks Allies 1% fee; Tofino-Ucluelet public bus |
| is tofino safe | Asked directly | direct | No lifeguards on any beach; Cold water all year; Wolf warning in Long Beach Unit; Stay 100 m from predators |
| can you fly to tofino from vancouver | Asked directly | direct | Flights to Tofino from Vancouver |
| can you surf in tofino in november | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Cold water all year; No lifeguards on any beach; Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons |
| how to get to tofino from vancouver without a car | Asked directly | direct | Scheduled bus from Nanaimo and Victoria; Flights to Tofino from Vancouver; Tofino-Ucluelet public bus |
| how many days needed in tofino | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons; Plan asks for off-peak visits; Mid-week and non-holiday weekends quietest |
| tofino airbnb rules | Asked directly | direct | Short-term rental licence rules; Provincial principal-residence rule does not apply |
| tofino bus schedule 2026 | Asked directly | direct | Tofino-Ucluelet public bus; Free summer shuttle dates; Scheduled bus from Nanaimo and Victoria |
| tofino ev charging | Asked directly | direct | EV charging in Tofino |
| does it snow in tofino bc | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Winter tires on Highway 4; Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons |
| tofino camping provincial park | Asked directly | direct | Green Point Campground booking; Green Point 7-night maximum; No sleeping in vehicles |
| Tenting in December? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Green Point Campground booking; Storm watching hazards; No sleeping in vehicles; Fall and winter are the quiet, storm seasons |
| Do fire bans locally vary? | Asked directly | direct | Beach fires in Tofino; Beach fires in national park |
| Overnight Parking for Paddle Trip | Asked directly | direct | Where big RVs and trailers may park; No sleeping in vehicles |
| Which is the best beach? | Not asked (trip planning) | open | Dog ban on southern park beaches; No lifeguards on any beach; Wickaninnish dunes are rare and fragile; Accessible beach entrances |
Appendix C · Coverage: how questions ladder up to facts and categories
For each category of fact: how many facts were checked, which stewardship outcomes they serve, and how many direct and open questions tested them. Every category with facts was tested both ways.
| Category | Facts | Outcomes served | Direct questions | Open questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access | 13 | Spread visits, Lighten the footprint | 15 | 19 |
| Accessibility | 3 | Welcome everyone | 1 | 4 |
| Closure | 1 | Protect nature, Keep people safe | 2 | 1 |
| Community | 1 | Residents and local business | 1 | 2 |
| Conduct | 10 | Protect nature, Residents and local business | 12 | 15 |
| Dispersal | 5 | Spread visits | 1 | 11 |
| Environment | 6 | Protect nature, Lighten the footprint | 4 | 12 |
| Fee | 5 | Residents and local business, Respect culture | 10 | 9 |
| Local economy | 2 | Residents and local business, Keep people safe, Respect culture | 1 | 4 |
| Lodging | 2 | Residents and local business | 3 | 1 |
| Pledge | 5 | Respect culture, Protect nature, Residents and local business | 6 | 5 |
| Reservation | 2 | Spread visits | 3 | 6 |
| Safety | 6 | Keep people safe | 4 | 19 |
| Timing | 2 | Spread visits, Lighten the footprint | 1 | 7 |
How the numbers were produced and how to read them
- The four verdicts. Every time an AI assistant answers a question, each fact a good answer should contain gets one verdict: told right (stated fully and correctly), vague (touched but too thin to act on), wrong (contradicted), or nothing (never mentioned). The four shares always add to 100%.
- The Stewardship Signal Score is 100 × (right + half of vague − wrong), never below zero. Bands: 70 and above strong, 50 to 69 moderate, 30 to 49 weak, below 30 critical. Cultural facts with a Nation-published source are scored and flagged; cultural facts without one are held out until confirmed.
- Repetitions. AI assistants answer differently every time, so each question was asked 7 times per AI assistant, and every figure is a rate across those answers, not a single answer. Overall figures carry a margin of about ±1.1 points; per-assistant figures about ±2.3. For a repeat audit of the same size, a change smaller than about 1.6 points is noise.
- The answer key. Answers were graded against 67 verified facts, each traced to a published source (Appendix A), using the 98 questions in Appendix B. Grader: heuristic (test mode only).
- How answers were collected. Through each AI company's developer connection to the same models the public apps use, with web search on. A signed-in person can see small differences from personalisation and memory; research on this finds the run-to-run variation between answers is larger than that gap, which is why each question is asked many times.