Venture into the enchanting realm of Port Hardy, where we discover a unique boardwalk trail. While the west side of Vancouver Island boasts its share of these scenic pathways, this unexpected gem awaits at the island's northern tip.
Imagine strolling along long boardwalks, circling a secluded lake, and wandering through old and second-growth forests. This 3.8 km (one-way) point-to-point trail promises a simple yet captivating adventure.
Join me in exploring this unexpected delight as you walk the beautiful boardwalk trail in Port Hardy.
Quick Trail Facts
- Trail Features: Long boardwalks, secluded lake, old-growth forest, second-growth forest
- Length: This point-to-point trail is 3.8 km (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (moderate due to uneven terrain)
- Hazards: Boardwalks can be slippery when wet and are often uneven; Black bears frequent the area
- Suitability: Hiking and walking
- Bike Trails: No
Fort Rupert Trail – A Boardwalk Trail in Port Hardy
Known locally as the “Commuter Trail,” Fort Rupert Trail is a historic walk through Kwakiutl First Nations territory. Long ago, the Kwakiutl used this same route to travel between two villages. It now connects a small parking area near Storeys Beach on one end and, at the opposite end, another on Bear Cove Highway.
There is varied terrain along the way, including gravel-type surfaces, dirt trails, and long wooden boardwalks. As there are two starting points, you can choose which direction to travel and where you'd like your walk to begin and end. The trail is well-marked and provides km markings.
No matter where you start, walk to at least the mid-way point, where you'll find a beautiful little lake. The boardwalk along the lake is also in the best shape and most scenic. There are a few benches where you can sit and enjoy the view.
For a helpful trail map, check out Alltrails.
From Bear Cove Highway
We were thrilled to discover the Bear Cove Highway trailhead is within a 5-minute walk from the campground we were staying at. Wildwoods Campsite is a rustic yet quiet campground conveniently located in Port Hardy.
When you start your walk from the Bear Cove Highway access point, you begin with a steady climb up what looks like an old (and torn up) logging road. This portion of the terrain is a little difficult to walk on, so please watch your footing. If you are there during the summer, expect plenty of wildflowers.
The boardwalks start once you pass the 1 km mark, and things get a bit easier.
The Lake
Just after the 2 km mark, you come to a beautiful lake. The boardwalk along the lake is the most recently built, as it's in great shape and provides the most scenic views. It's worth stopping here to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.
Another small trail meanders along the lake with some unique and extremely narrow boardwalks. As you reach the lake, look for a trodden path on your right-hand side (if coming from the Bear Cove Highway trailhead). We turned around after only a few minutes on this alternate path, so I am unsure where this trail leads.
Storey's Beach (Beaver Harbour Park)
The other access point to this boardwalk trail in Port Hardy is on Beaver Harbour Road, which is only a short jaunt from beautiful Storey's Beach. When the tide is out, this beach offers an abundance of soft sand. The park offers picnic tables, benches, BBQ pits, a covered pavilion, and a lovely expansive lawn.
I suggest bringing a picnic with you on your hike and utilizing this beautiful area as a place to rest while on your journey. If starting at Bear Cove Highway, you'd walk to this park and beach during the middle of your journey. If starting on Beaver Harbour Road, you'll hike to Bear Cove Highway and back and then end at the park.
No matter which way you slice it, you won't regret spending some time here!
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Port Hardy, don't miss out on these other great places to explore:
Have you hiked the Fort Rupert Trail? Have you been to Storey's Beach? In the comment section below, let us know about your experience(s).
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