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North Vancouver Island

Hikes in North Vancouver Island

A wilderness unlike any other in Canada, North Vancouver Island is a rugged landscape that is filled with dramatic scenery and a diverse range of wildlife species that call this remote and relatively untouched region home. Sweeping to the northwest from Campbell River to the windy point of Cape Scott, this majestic land exemplifies the meaning of the word untamed.

Unlike other parts of the island where recreational activities like skiing and mountain biking are more popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts, North Vancouver Island and its fascinating flora, fauna, and geography is a popular destination for ecotourism. Whale watching along the jagged coast and bear-sighting in the area’s dense forests are prime examples of some of the wildlife excursions that are popular in the area. So whether you are looking for a guided tour to encounter the diverse wildlife of the region or simply to explore the backcountry on a multi-day trek through the wilderness, a journey to North Vancouver Island is sure to be a wild and unforgettable experience.

The 10 Most Amazing Hikes In North Vancouver Island

One of the more remote parts of an already remote island, North Vancouver Island offers a wealth of hiking opportunities that range from easily accessible walks along the coast to rugged backcountry treks through some pretty unforgiving terrain. Most of the communities along the coast will feature family-friendly trails, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of both the vast Pacific Ocean and the jagged, rocky shoreline in a fun and safe manner. For those looking to experience the true wilderness of the region, try heading out on a multi-day adventure along the Cape Scott and North Coast Trails to really lose yourself in the awe and mystique of the fascinating landscape. No matter your skill level, there are countless trails that are begging to be explored. Check out this list of 10 amazing North Vancouver Island hikes that we’ve put together:

  • Little Huson Caves: This short trail is a wonderful forested hike that will take you to a system of naturally-occuring karst caves that can be explored by adventurous hikers. Well-maintained trails make this a suitable hike for all ages and skill levels, just make sure to keep an eye on any children in and around the caves themselves.
  • Fort Rupert Trail: The Fort Rupert Trail is a moderate length hiking route that will take you through a beautiful stretch of West Coast temperate rainforest. While out on the trail, you can expect a nice variety of terrain that will see you through the lush and vibrant landscape of the rainforest.
  • Raft Cove Trail: This quick out-and-back hike in Raft Cove Provincial Park will take you down to a beach along the Pacific Ocean by means of a rainforest trail. There is a bit of rugged terrain along this route that could prove troublesome for less mobile hikers; however, the amazing views are more than an ample reward for the effort.
  • Marble River Trail: Showcasing the natural beauty of the forests within Marble River Provincial Park, this hike follows a fantastic riverside trail, providing some nice views of the water and the near-magical atmosphere created by the second-growth forests of the area.
  • San Josef Bay: This remote trail on the northwest tip of Vancouver Island will lead you to two stunning beaches in Cape Scott Provincial Park. While out on the trail, you will work your way through the forest to arrive at the white sandy beaches of San Josef Bay, a welcome sight after a good day of hiking.
  • Bere Point Trail: Hiking the Bere Point Trail on Malcolm Island is an amazing experience that will lead you through the thick cover of the temperate rainforest for some breathtaking views that stretch out towards the mainland. Gorgeous ancient trees and a vibrant green forest setting make this a special hike that is filled with a charming atmosphere that you won’t soon forget.
  • Kusam Klimb Trail: This lengthy hiking route near Sayward is a tough climb through the forest that will eventually see you loop around the summit of H’Kusam Mountain. Stunning views of Vancouver Island await on this challenging adventure with varied terrain.
  • Upana Caves Trail: Another super short trail leading to a series of underground caves, the Upana Caves Trail will lead you through a tranquil stretch of forest and provide the chance to explore the terrain below the surface of the island.
  • Microwave Tower Trail: Although it may not be the most scenic hike on this list, the Microwave Tower Trail is a great hike along a gravel service road that is very well-maintained, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers. While out on the trail, you will have some nice views of the surrounding forest and partial views of the nearby coastal landscape.
  • Dakota 576 Crash Site Trail: This trail is a great adventure that will take you from Bear Cove to the site of a 1944 RCAF plane crash. While rugged, the route isn’t very difficult and provides the chance to take in some beautiful landscape views, in addition to visiting a unique historical site.

When is the Best Time to Hike in North Vancouver Island?

Compared to other parts of the island, North Vancouver Island is less affected by the summer rush of tourists due to its remote nature. This means that the best time to explore this rugged land is in the June-October window, when trail conditions are at their best and the weather is mostly cooperative. While you will likely still see a bit of rain - especially along the west coast - it will be far less than one would experience during the shoulder seasons.

Other Outdoor Activities in North Vancouver Island

Outside of the region’s many hiking trails, popular outdoor activities in North Vancouver Island are generally centred around ecoadventure, with wildlife tours being a big draw for many tourists. The vast waters of the Pacific Ocean are perfectly suited for boat tours, where many people hope to catch a glimpse of the various species of whale that can be found here. On land, there are a number of tours that aim to bring people close to the habitats of both black and grizzly bears to provide a greater perspective of the life of these majestic animals in the wild. Fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are also popular water sports where people can enjoy the untapped wilderness of the island.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Vancouver Island

Do I need a car to visit North Vancouver Island?

Due to its rough and rugged landscape of countless mountain peaks, large rivers, and vast swathes of forest, North Vancouver Island is a fairly remote region that is best accessible by car. If you are visiting from the mainland, the best option to explore the island is to bring a vehicle across on the ferry.

What towns are in North Vancouver Island?

Although remote, there are a number of small communities that can be found dotted across the rugged landscape of North Vancouver Island, providing at least basic amenities for travellers in the area. These include Alert Bay, Coal Harbour, Holberg, Port Alice, Port Hardy, Port McNeill, Quatsino, Sointula, Telegraph Cove, Winter Harbour, Woss, Mount Cain & the Nimpkish Valley.

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North Vancouver Island

Little Huson Caves

Hiking to the Little Huson Caves is a short adventure that will take you through the forest to explore a series of naturally occurring karst caves in the rugged Vancouver Island landscape. This quick 0.5mi out-and-back hiking route is well-maintained and lets you get up close and personal with the caves, making it an ideal excursion for hikers of all skill levels, especially families with young children. For little required effort, this hidden gem of a trail is an amazing outdoor adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Very Easy
0.8 km
28 m
0.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Fort Rupert Trail

The Fort Rupert Trail is a 4.6mi out-and-back hiking route near Port Hardy on the northern tip of Vancouver Island that takes hikers through a beautiful stretch of West Coast temperate rainforest. Along the trail, you can expect a nice variety of terrain that includes gravel walkways, wooden boardwalks, and dirt trails through the lush rainforest. With dedicated trailheads at both ends of the route, hikers can choose which direction they would like to travel and where they would like to begin and end their hike.
Easy
3.9 km
135 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Raft Cove Trail

The Raft Cove Trail is a 2.2mi out-and-back hiking route in Raft Cove Provincial Park that will take you through a thick stretch of temperate rainforest to arrive at a scenic West Coast beach. Along the trail, hikers will experience some tough terrain that includes rocky and muddy trails, but also picturesque scenery along the coast. If you want to spend a few days in the area, make use of the tent pads down the beach towards the Mackjack River for a fun weekend of camping along the coast.
Moderate
3.5 km
155 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Dakota 576 Crash Site Trail

The Dakota 576 Crash Site Trail is a slightly overgrown but fun hiking route that will take you from Bear Cove to a memorial site for a 1944 RCAF plane crash. Along the trail, hikers will experience a variety of terrain types that include gravel pathways and muddy trails with fixed rope sections to help you traverse the unmaintained upper portion of the route. This trail is a bit rugged but not overly difficult, making it suitable for casual hikers or those with an interest in visiting historical sites.
Moderate
4.2 km
153 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Kusam Klimb Trail

The Kusam Klimb Trail is a 13.4mi lollipop hiking route near Sayward, BC that will take you uphill through the forest to loop around the summit of H’Kusam Mountain. Along the trail, hikers will experience a good variety of terrain types that include logging roads, thick stretches of forest, and rocky trails with sections of rope to aid in your climb. With amazing views that sweep across Vancouver Island, there is no reason to put off this long, challenging, but rewarding hike.
Hard
21.6 km
1,555 m
8-11.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Upana Caves Trail

The Upana Caves Trail is a quick 0.4mi lollipop hiking route west of Gold River, BC that will take you through a forest to a series of underground caves. While out on the trail, hikers will experience a peaceful forest setting along the flowing waters of the Upana River before descending a series of stairs to enter into the subterranean atmosphere of the caves. Remember to bring decent hiking footwear and a flashlight in order to get the most out of your adventure in the cool cave environment. Those with claustrophobia may prefer to skip this hike.
Easy
0.6 km
23 m
0.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Microwave Tower Trail

The Microwave Tower Trail is a 3.3mi out-and-back hiking route that climbs uphill along a gravel service road to reach a lookout point next to a radio tower. The trail consists of a well-maintained gravel road that is flanked by heavy forest on either side for the duration of the hike and offers some partial views of the surrounding coastal landscape from the summit. Due to the slight uphill climb and easy-going nature of the trail, this hiking route is suitable for hikers of most skill levels, although families with young children might struggle.
Easy
5.3 km
173 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Woss Lookout

The hike up to Woss Lookout is one of the best value hikes that you can find in northern Vancouver Island. This 0.9mi out-and-back hiking route will take you up a steep hill to an absolutely breathtaking viewpoint that offers a sightline over the Nimpkish River Valley and the surrounding mountain peaks. Make sure to attempt the drive in with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle, as the road is very rough with steep drop offs.
Easy
1.4 km
223 m
1h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Tex Lyon Trail

The Tex Lyon Trail is a 7.9mi out-and-back hiking route near Port Hardy, BC that will allow hikers to experience the natural beauty and rugged nature of the coastal landscapes of Vancouver Island. Along the route, you will have some amazing views looking out across the waters of Beaver Harbour, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife like eagles and amphibians. The trail itself is poorly maintained and overgrown, so make sure to bring a GPS to stay on the correct course.
Hard
12.7 km
484 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Dave Farrant Trail to Blinkhorn Point

The Dave Farrant Trail to Blinkhorn Point is a 47.8mi out-and-back hiking route that follows closely along the coast of Vancouver Island to provide views looking out over the Johnstone Strait. Hikers along the trail will experience the best of both worlds, as they can hike through a serene West Coast temperate rainforest setting and the beautiful but rugged landscape of the coast. Make sure to check the tides before you set out on your hike, as the Blinkhorn Peninsula becomes an island when the water level is high enough.
Hard
7.7 km
464 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Merry Widow Ridge

The Merry Widow Ridge Trail is a 4.3mi out-and-back hiking route on the northern end of Vancouver Island that allows you to explore the rugged mountain peaks that can be found in this part of the interior. Along the trail, hikers will climb uphill through the forest before transitioning to more exposed terrain along the rugged ridgeline for some amazing views of the surrounding peaks, including Merry Widow Mountain. The road into the trailhead is pretty rough, so make sure to use a vehicle capable of maneuvering the rugged terrain.
Moderate
6.9 km
519 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Marble River Trail

The Marble River Trail is a 4.0mi out-and-back hiking route within Marble River Provincial Park that showcases the stunning beauty of Vancouver Island’s forest landscape. Along the trail, hikers will follow closely alongside the rushing waters of the Marble River as they stroll through breathtaking second-growth forests that are the result of natural weather disturbances in the area. The well-spaced trees create an open yet vibrant atmosphere that is packed with natural beauty and is sure to make for a pleasant hiking experience.
Easy
6.4 km
202 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

San Josef Bay

The San Josef Bay hike follows an 5.4mi out-and-back route through Cape Scott Provincial Park that takes you to two scenic beaches along the coast of San Josef Bay. Along the trail, hikers will traverse a variety of terrain types that include gravel pathways through the forest and white sandy beaches. Although the route has a small amount of elevation gain, it is spread throughout the trail, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
Easy
8.7 km
201 m
2-3h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Bere Point Trail

The Bere Point Trail is a 6.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Sointula on Malcolm Island that travels along the coastline for amazing views across the water towards mainland British Columbia. Along the trail, hikers will make their way through a dense stretch of Pacific temperate rainforest that is filled with mammoth moss-covered trees, wooden staircases, and a vibrant green forest floor. This is an amazing hike through scenic but sometimes challenging terrain that can be difficult for some hikers to traverse due to steep trails and stairs.
Moderate
10.5 km
287 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
North Vancouver Island

Tod Mountain via Altitude Trail

Tod Mountain via Altitude Trail is a 6.0mi lollipop hiking route at the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort that will take you through forests and across ski runs to summit the forested peak of Tod Mountain. Along the trail, you will visit the charming shores of Tod Lake, before experiencing some amazing views of the surrounding area from atop the summit. Hikers will need to either utilize the chairlift to reach the trailhead or extend their journey by hiking up the mountainside. You will be required to purchase a hiking pass to utilize the trails in this area.
Moderate
9.7 km
375 m
2.5-4h

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