I guess just grab a solo spot, and keep a watch for another one. Or get solo spots from different trailheads, attend the orientation, and then just start in the same location. Solo spots 1 day apart work as well, more than 1 day if you are close enough for the orientation. The new system looks to be a pain, I normally wouldn't consider all these workarounds if it were easier to book properly. I do know last summer though spots opened up as dates approached

I'm sure they'll release them to someone who is waiting. However it means your chances of getting a walk on spot are reduced as there are no guarantees that there will be ANY free spaces on a given day. It's good for Parks Canada as it means they are generating near maximum revenue each day regardless of someone showing up or not

I'm not sure that starting from the wrong end would be allowed, as the permit might be direction-specific.

The Parks Canada website says that they free up spots for standby when people no-show.

While starting at the wrong end may work from the Banfield side. When we did they trail, they checked permits on the Gordon River ferry. I didn't find the booking process too onerous, it just needed some really advanced planning

In my case, both ferries just glanced to see that you had a permit, I don't think either looked close enough to read the actual directions. I just had a look at my permit and you'd have to look closely to identify the direction.

Just to see if this 'no stand by' policy is a recent thing..

I think the employee was confused. If they have no-shows for reserved spots, they allow standbys to take their place in the afternoon. You can't preregister for standby, but if you are present, I'd guess it goes by who was there first that day.

It's a bit conspicuous they didn't even bother to give a name..

I wonder who would have a definitive answer?

My understanding is that it is new this year

I just got off the phone with Parks Canada at 1 888 773 8888.

They informed me of the standby rule, which is as follows.

You can put your name on the standby list by showing up in person at the trailhead office. If you arrive before they open, wait at the door to be first. If they are already open, you can add your name on a first come, first served basis.

I wonder if this new PC policy allowing advance booking of all sites for the entire season is to facilitate tour companies who, like concert tickets re-sellers, are grabbing all they can for commercial use.

In my opion Doug, go do the North Coast Trail. I did it two summers ago with my dad and it was amazing. Plenty of varying terrain and still more rugged than the WCT. The NCT water taxi is great and the hostel there to stay the night before is amazing. I could not recommend this trail enough. To avoid knee deep mud do it in August and maybe you will luck out and get five days of full sun like we did. The trail is limited to 12 people a day, but as long as you book a couple months in advance you should be fine. Photos below.

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That might be part of it, but I think they increase their revenue when people can be guaranteed their group will get on, and they don't have to take a chance with standby.

Interesting.. Did you get a name?