A visit to Haida Gwaii’s rain-soaked forests and ancient sites will captivate nature and culture seekers. The misty islands that were never ceded to the Canadian government shelter Haida traditions, plus 6,800 flora and fauna species.
Photo © iStock/GROGL
Off Canada’s northwest coast, Haida
Embrace the Haida belief that all living things are connected by walking among monumental or mortuary poles (never called totems), or attending a community potlatch (a ceremonial feast).
To make the most of your time, here are the top experiences to try for yourself.
- Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site
- Hike the Tow Hill Trail
- Spirit Lake Trail
- Cycling Trails
- Haida Heritage Center
- Wildlife Viewing
- Getting There & Around
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site
Accessible only by boat or float plane, take a guided day-trip to walk among fallen longhouses and to meet a watchmen guardian. Stop at Gandll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotsprings Island) for a dip in a hot springs pool revered for healing.
If you have more time, head to SGang Gwaay to walk among history and ancient mortuary poles which lean over the beach on Anthony Island. Keep your eyes peeled for whales on the journey back.
Hike the Tow Hill Trail
In Naikoon Provincial Park you’ll find Tow Hill trail, which is an easy 1.36mi (2.2km) hike to three viewing platforms. On a clear
Spirit Lake Trail
There are no hiking trails in Gwaii Haanas (except short paths near watchmen sites), so, do your hiking on the northern islands. A popular choice is Spirit Lake Trail, which is near Skidegate Village. Take a guided hike to learn about trees used in Haida baskets or carvings.
Cycling Trails
If you want paved cycling trails, you can explore the 93mi (150km) of highway in just a few days.
Willing to tackle gravel roads? A network of logging roads – some no longer used for active logging – offer longer distances and backcountry camping.
Haida Heritage Center
If you’re looking for things to do, head to Kay Llnagaay’s popular aboriginal tourism attraction. It offers historical displays, the Kay bistro where you can rub shoulders with locals, and see interpretative talks.
Be sure to stop off at the carving shed, where a new pole may be underway.
Wildlife Viewing
Drop by the Village of Queen Charlotte’s Visitor Centre and look for eagles feasting on salmon innards left by fishermen.
Getting There & Around
BC Ferries sails several times weekly from Prince Rupert. Fares from
There are daily flights from Vancouver to Masset with Pacific Coastal Airlines or from Prince Rupert with Inland Air. Air Canada flies daily from Vancouver to Sandspit International Airport (YZP). Fares from
The ferry between Moresby and Graham Islands runs several times daily. If arriving in Sandspit, book the airport shuttle to reach Village of Queen Charlotte or Skidegate (there is no taxi).
Want to know more about Canada? Check out our podcast. We discuss when a traveler becomes a snack; the perils of wilderness adventure, a culinary tour of the provinces for foodies, and we speak to World Nomads photography scholarship mentor Richard I'Anson.
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