North Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Discover the natural, cultural, and adventurous wonders of North Vancouver Island in Canada. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to North Vancouver Island

North Vancouver Island is a remote and rugged region located in British Columbia, Canada. Known for its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions, North Vancouver Island is a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Spanning over 300 miles, North Vancouver Island is home to numerous parks, forests, and reserves. Some of its most prominent attractions include Strathcona Provincial Park, Cape Scott Provincial Park, and the Mount Cain Alpine Park. Other must-see attractions on the island include wildlife sanctuaries, historic towns, and cultural museums.

Whether you want to go hiking and biking in the mountains or explore the local culture and cuisine, North Vancouver Island has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in North Vancouver Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. U’Mista Cultural Centre - This museum showcases the history and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people, with exhibits on art, clothing, music, and more.
  2. Alert Bay - This picturesque town is home to many heritage sites, including the ‘Namgis Burial Grounds and the Big House.
  3. Port Hardy Museum - Here you’ll find a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of North Vancouver Island’s logging and whaling industries.

Natural Attractions of North Vancouver Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Strathcona Provincial Park - Surrounded by mountains, Strathcona Provincial Park is a mecca for hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Here you’ll find everything from alpine meadows to glaciers, waterfalls, and rivers.
  2. Telegraph Cove - This historic fishing village is a popular spot for whale watching tours and ocean kayaking.
  3. Cape Scott Provincial Park - Known for its rugged coastline and old-growth rainforest, Cape Scott Provincial Park is a great place to hike and explore.
  4. Mount Cain Alpine Park - This remote park is perfect for experienced skiers and snowboarders who want to hit the slopes and experience some of the best powder in British Columbia.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Vancouver Island

  1. West Coast Trail - A challenging but rewarding hike, the West Coast Trail is a 75km trail that runs through some of North Vancouver Island’s most beautiful scenery, including rainforests, beaches, and waterfalls.
  2. Mount Cain Alpine Park - This park offers some of the best alpine trails in the region, with challenging hikes for experienced hikers and snowshoers.
  3. Elk River Trail - This scenic trail is perfect for hikers and bikers who want to explore the wilderness of Strathcona Provincial Park.

Best Things to Do in North Vancouver Island: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale Watching - North Vancouver Island is one of the best places in Canada to see killer whales, humpback whales, and other marine mammals in their natural habitat. Various tours operate from Telegraph Cove and other towns.
  2. Kayaking - Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, North Vancouver Island has many fantastic waterways to explore, including the Johnstone Strait, Nimpkish River Delta, and the Broughton Archipelago.
  3. Fishing - The island is home to some of the best salmon, halibut, and shellfish fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. Guided fishing tours and charters are available from various towns.
  4. Camping - With so many parks, forests, and campgrounds to choose from, North Vancouver Island is a great place to pitch a tent and get back to nature.
  5. Skiing and Snowboarding - North Vancouver Island’s Mount Cain Alpine Park offers some of the best powder skiing in British Columbia.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Vancouver Island

Day 1-2: Explore the forests and lakes of Strathcona Provincial Park, and hike the Elk River Trail. Day 3-4: Visit the remote Mount Cain Alpine Park for some winter sports or backcountry skiing. Day 5-6: Visit Alert Bay and the U’mista Cultural Centre to learn about the indigenous history and culture of the region. Day 7: Take a whale watching tour from Telegraph Cove and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Food and Drink Scene of North Vancouver Island

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fresh seafood - North Vancouver Island’s waters are home to some of the most succulent oysters, clams, and salmon in Canada.
  2. Elk or bison burgers - These hearty and delicious burgers are made with locally sourced meats and are a popular staple in many North Vancouver Island restaurants.
  3. BC craft beer - North Vancouver Island has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing award-winning brews.

Local Beverages

  1. Wines - Vancouver Island’s mild climate and fertile soil make it the perfect place to grow grapes, and local wineries here produce some of the best wines in Canada.
  2. Ciders - North Vancouver Island is home to some of the best artisanal cideries in the region, offering a variety of apple and pear ciders.

Where to Stay in North Vancouver Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Telegraph Cove Resort - This charming resort located on the tip of North Vancouver Island offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxury suites.
  2. The North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel - Located in Port Hardy, this popular hostel offers affordable dorm rooms and private rooms for hikers and backpackers.
  3. Kwa’lilas Hotel - This indigenous-owned hotel is located in Port Hardy and offers modern and comfortable rooms, cultural workshops, and fine dining experiences.

What to Buy in North Vancouver Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Indigenous Art - From totem poles and carvings to jewelry and paintings, North Vancouver Island is home to many talented indigenous artists and artisans.
  2. Seafood - North Vancouver Island’s fresh seafood is some of the best in Canada, and you can take home locally caught salmon, halibut, and crab to enjoy later.
  3. BC Wine - North Vancouver Island’s mild climate and fertile soils make it the perfect place to grow grapes, and many local wineries offer tastings and bottles to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of North Vancouver Island

North Vancouver Island is home to many indigenous communities, and visitors are encouraged to respect their traditional customs and practices, including their art, music, and language. Other local customs include protecting the environment by practicing “leave no trace” camping and hiking, and respecting wildlife and their habitats.

Best Time to Visit North Vancouver Island

The best time to visit North Vancouver Island is during the summer months (May-September) when the weather is warm, and the days are long. This is also the best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking. Visitors who enjoy skiing and winter sports should plan their trip for the winter months (December-March) when the snow is plentiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Vancouver Island

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  3. Accompany a knowledgeable guide if hiking, camping, or kayaking.

Don’t:

  1. Leave any litter or debris behind.
  2. Disturb wildlife or their habitats.
  3. Ignore safety warnings and advisories.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Vancouver Island

North Vancouver Island is generally a safe destination, but visitors should be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing and gear, follow safety guidelines, and accompany a knowledgeable guide when venturing into remote areas.

Health in North Vancouver Island

Visitors are advised to bring any necessary medications with them, as medical facilities on the island can be limited. Visitors should also take precautions against insect bites and exposure to the sun.

Getting to North Vancouver Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Vancouver Island

The closest major airport to North Vancouver Island is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which offers daily flights to several regional airports in British Columbia.

Bus Stations Near North Vancouver Island

Greyhound Bus Lines operates regular bus services between Vancouver and several towns on North Vancouver Island, including Port Hardy and Campbell River.

Other Options

There are several passenger ferry services that operate between Vancouver and North Vancouver Island, including BC Ferries and the Queen of Cumberland Ferry.

How to Get Around in North Vancouver Island

The best way to get around North Vancouver Island is by car, as public transportation can be limited. Visitors who do not have access to a car can rent one from several rental agencies, or book a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from North Vancouver Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Tofino and Ucluelet - Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino and Ucluelet are known for their stunning beaches, surfing opportunities, and laid-back vibes.
  2. Vancouver - A bustling metropolis located on the mainland, Vancouver features world-class museums, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
  3. Victoria - Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is a charming city known for its historic architecture, gardens, and seafood restaurants.

Conclusion

North Vancouver Island is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan their trip and discover the many attractions and activities that this stunning region has to offer.

A Kwakwaka'wakw big house near Alert Bay A Kwakwaka'wakw big house near Alert Bay A section of the Cape Scott Trail A section of the Cape Scott Trail


    Cape Scott Provincial Park
    Telegraph Cove