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.

What’s New in 2026

• Know which bears you will actually meet. North Vancouver Island has a healthy black bear population and one of the densest cougar populations in North America, but there are no grizzly bears living on the island. The celebrated grizzly viewing trips that leave Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, Port Hardy and Campbell River travel by boat or floatplane across to the mainland inlets of the Great Bear Rainforest, and run mainly from late August to October with the salmon. On the trails themselves, carry bear spray, make noise, keep children close and give any wildlife a wide berth.
• Check the tide before any coastal walk. Several of the best routes here run along the shore or round headlands that are only passable at lower water. On the Dave Farrant Trail to Blinkhorn Point, the Blinkhorn Peninsula becomes an island altogether on a high tide, and the beaches at Raft Cove and San Josef Bay are far easier going at low water. Carry a tide table and plan the return leg around it.
• Getting to the trailhead is often the hard part. Many routes up here sit at the end of active or overgrown logging roads, several need a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle, and cell coverage disappears quickly once you leave Highway 19. The road to Woss Lookout is rough with steep drop-offs, Merry Widow Ridge needs a capable vehicle, and the Tex Lyon Trail is poorly maintained enough to warrant a GPS. Fill up in Port Hardy or Port McNeill and tell someone your plan.
• Expect rain, mud and a short dry window. This is one of the wettest corners of the country, and the west coast trails around Cape Scott and Raft Cove stay muddy even in good weather, so waterproof boots and gaiters earn their keep. June to October is the reliable season, with July through September the driest. Winter storms can leave blowdown across trails, so check conditions after a big blow before committing to a long drive.

The Best 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. July through September is the driest stretch, and it also coincides with the salmon runs, which makes late summer the best time for wildlife watching.

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. Black bears are widespread across the island and are often seen from the road and along salmon rivers in autumn. For grizzlies, boat and floatplane trips leave Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, Port Hardy and Campbell River and cross to the mainland inlets of the Great Bear Rainforest, since grizzly bears do not live on Vancouver Island itself. 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.

Are there grizzly bears on North Vancouver Island?

No. Vancouver Island has black bears, cougars and wolves, but no resident grizzly bears, and the occasional individual that swims across rarely stays. The grizzly viewing trips advertised from Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, Port Hardy and Campbell River all cross by boat or floatplane to the mainland inlets such as Knight Inlet, where the bears gather on the salmon from late August into October. On the trails, black bears and cougars are the animals to be prepared for.

How rough are the roads to the trailheads?

Rough enough to plan around. Beyond Highway 19, most access is on gravel logging roads that may be active during the working week, and some trailheads, including Woss Lookout and Merry Widow Ridge, want a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle. Yield to logging trucks, drive with headlights on, carry a spare tyre and expect no cell coverage. Fuel and supplies are limited north of Port McNeill, so fill up before you head out.

Plan Your Trip to North Vancouver Island

The north island is one corner of hiking in British Columbia and the wider hiking in Canada. Further down the island you will find hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park and hiking in Port Alberni. If you would rather have the planning handled, browse our Guided tours in North America.

Other Hiking Regions in British Columbia

• hiking in Victoria
• hiking in Whistler
• hiking in the Okanagan Valley
• hiking on the Sunshine Coast