Northern Vancouver Island

This region is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. The North Coast Trail in Cape Scott Provincial Park offers rugged, multi-day hikes with jaw-dropping views of remote beaches, coastal rainforests, and dramatic headlands. For paddlers, the waters around Port Hardy and Port McNeill provide opportunities to kayak through quiet bays and coves, often accompanied by sightings of orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and dolphins. The area is also a prime destination for sport fishing, with salmon and halibut drawing anglers from across the globe.

The region is deeply rooted in its Indigenous heritage, with the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation playing a central role in its cultural and historical identity. Visitors can experience this rich culture through tours, art galleries, and interpretive centers, such as the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, which showcases traditional art, totem poles, and the history of the Potlatch ceremonies.

Northern Vancouver Island is home to a network of small, welcoming communities, each with its own unique character. Port Hardy, the region’s largest town, serves as a gateway to the wilderness, offering amenities and adventure tour operators. Port McNeill is a hub for eco-tourism and a jumping-off point to the Broughton Archipelago, a maze of islands perfect for kayaking and marine exploration. Telegraph Cove, a quaint village on stilts, is one of the most picturesque locations in the region and a world-renowned destination for whale watching.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find no shortage of incredible encounters in this region. From grizzly bear tours in the Great Bear Rainforest to birdwatching and marine wildlife tours, the region offers opportunities to experience nature at its most raw and captivating.

Northern Vancouver Island offers a sense of escape and discovery, ideal for those who seek solitude, adventure, and a deeper connection to the natural world. With its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and abundant wildlife, this region is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the wild heart of Vancouver Island.