North Vancouver Island Things to Do
Are you looking for a great Vancouver Island road trip idea? Explore the less travelled roads of Vancouver Island North to experience scenic and culturally rich towns.
Known locally as the Island Highway, Highway 19 is the main thoroughfare that connects the communities of Vancouver Island North with Nanaimo, plus many towns in between.
The route from Nanaimo to Port Hardy (the furthest north you can drive on the Island) is approximately 390 km.
So, while you can definitely do the trip in one day, it's always recommended to take it slow to enjoy all the sights.
Nanaimo to Campbell River or Victoria to Campbell River
We already have several articles that showcase the various activities to see and do in and around Nanaimo, the Parksville area, and the Comox Valley.
To avoid repeating ourselves too much, this article showcases the must-see highlights of a Vancouver Island road trip starting in Campbell River.
If you need some guidance on the top things to see before reaching Campbell River, here are some suggestions:
- 5-Day Vancouver Island Itinerary (covers Victoria to the West Coast)
- Victoria to Nanaimo
- Oceanside Route Road Trip (Parkville to Campbell River)
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Is North Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?
We often get this question when tourists plan an upcoming trip to Vancouver Island. And our answer is always, “Yes!”.
But, there's a catch, for you can't visit this area without having access to a vehicle. So, a rental car is a must! Once you have secured one, your options are limitless, and a trip to the island's north end is definitely encouraged!
The island's north end is the least developed area, which is why there is an abundance of wildlife.
On any given trip, expect to see black bears, deer, elk, and an overabundance of eagles. When on or near the water, you'll most likely see seals, sea lions, otters, and whales.
The lush and rugged rainforest provides many wonderful opportunities to hike and camp. And the villages dotted throughout the area provide amazing cultural experiences.
So, let's dive right in!
Vancouver Island North Must See's
Campbell River Area
Elk Falls Suspension Bridge
The thundering waterfall and suspension bridge over Elk Falls Canyon make this area in Campbell River a sought-after location.
Crossing the bridge provides access to an incredible view of the falls. For those who would rather not make the crossing, a viewing platform is located just before the bridge.
Elk Falls Provincial Park is only 3 km from the Elk Falls Day use area and is considered one of Vancouver Island’s best campground accommodations.
The Park has an extensive 6 km trail system, home to the only significant stand of old-growth Douglas fir north of MacMillan Provincial Park (Cathedral Grove).
Strathcona Park
Strathcona Park is your destination if you are looking for a place to unwind and get away from it all.
The quietness, fresh air, breathtaking views of lakes and mountains, and an overabundance of waterfalls will recharge your soul like no other place.
With no cell coverage, no WiFi, and the only amenity being pit toilets, you are quite literally leaving the rest of the world behind.
Strathcona Park is the oldest Provincial Park in BC, and with over 250,000 hectares to explore, it is also Vancouver Island’s largest.
The area provides you with an abundance of hiking and walking trails of varying difficulties and plenty of camping opportunities. Due to the size of this park, it is best enjoyed over a few days.
North Island Route
The stretch of Highway that extends past Campbell River is named the North Island Route.
This paved, double-lane highway section is particularly scenic, offering views of jagged mountain peaks, expansive forests and frequent wildlife sightings. The highway is well-maintained and motorhome-friendly.
Little Huson Caves
Located within the Regional District of Mount Waddington, Little Huson Caves offers us a small yet spectacular taste of the karst topography found on the island.
The park is centred around Atluck Creek Canyon, an area of breathtaking natural beauty. There are several amazing karst features to view and explore, as well as 15 known caves.
One of the best features of this park is that you don't have to go underground (unless you want to) to experience and view these natural phenomena.
Telegraph Cove
This postcard-ready boardwalk community is nestled at the northern end of Johnstone Strait.
From its preserved historic multicoloured buildings on stilts to the picture-perfect ocean views, Telegraph Cove remains an iconic eco-tourism destination on Vancouver Island.
During the summer, this snug little community bustles with travellers eager to view whales, catch fish, camp and kayak along the sheltered waters and secluded inlets.
With its many eco-tours, it's a village that offers a great selection of truly magnificent adventures and activities you can partake in.
A must-see and do is a guided trip to the Broughton Archipelago.
Port McNeill
Port McNeill is a proud forestry community. So it makes sense that while there, you can view the world's largest burls (there are two!).
The world’s second-largest burl (formerly the largest) was cut from the base of a 351-year-old Sitka Spruce tree in 1976. This burl weighs an estimated 22 tons and measures 13.7 meters in circumference.
At the time of its discovery, it was the largest burl. It was later displaced from its position by a discovery in 2005.
It's located in a not-so-blatant area in the town centre and protected by trees, bushes and a structure (in an abandoned parking lot).
Please note the signpost near the burl hasn’t been updated and still says “the world’s largest burl.”
The largest of the two burls was carved off a tall Sitka Spruce tree near Holberg in 2005. It is 6 meters tall and 6 meters in diameter and weighs an estimated 30 tons. This one is just outside of town, off SW Main Road (off Hwy 19 N).
Port McNeill is also a gateway to two fascinating northern islands (keep reading below).
Malcolm Island
Malcolm Island is where Orcas rub against the smooth pebbled beach, and humans go to create lasting memories.
While relatively small in size (24 km long and 3 km wide at its narrowest point) and with a population of only 684 (2016), Malcolm Island offers much to its visitors.
You will find breathtaking scenery, great outdoor experiences, ample wildlife viewing opportunities, and a fascinating history.
A 25-minute ferry ride from the Port McNeill harbour links to Malcolm Island. The Ferry service runs between Port McNeill, Sointula, and Alert Bay seven days a week.
It’s a bit of a convoluted schedule, so check the BC Ferries website for updates before you go.
Alert Bay (Cormorant Island)
Explore this working coastal town proudly celebrating its First Nations and Pioneer heritage. It has a steep history worth learning about.
From the world-renowned U’mista Cultural Centre to the world's tallest totem pole, Alert Bay is known internationally as a centre for First Nations Culture.
The pristine waterways surrounding Cormorant Island are some of the best places to find resident Orcas. The area is also known for Humpback, Minke, and Transient killer whales.
And if you ask me, it's a must-see stop on any Vancouver Island North road trip!
Cormorant Island, home of Alert Bay, is linked by a 35-minute ferry ride from Port McNeill and is on the same schedule mentioned above.
What is the most northern point of Vancouver Island?
Port Hardy marks the end of Highway 19 and is the northernmost town on Vancouver Island. It is a gateway to many outdoor activities, including fishing, world-class scuba diving, caving, kayaking, boating, hiking, and nature viewing.
Things to See and Do in Port Hardy
Top things to do in Port Hardy
- Stroll the miles of sand or build sandcastles on Storey's Beach.
- Walk along the beautiful boardwalk trail.
- Explore the tidal pools in Hardy Bay at low tide.
- Walk the seawall of Hardy Bay and read the interpretive signage along the way.
- If you have a boat, head to God's Pocket..
- Take a guided fish hatchery tour and view world-class exhibits and interactive displays.
- Dive at Bear Cove – a haven for marine life!
- Go on a guided fishing charter and try catching the ‘big one.'
- Indulge in candied smoked salmon made by famous locals, ‘Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish.'
- Head to the Port Hardy Museum for a history lesson.
- Hike to a plane crash.
- Storm watch at the Blow Hole at Thomas Point.
- Drive to Coal Harbour and/or Cape Scott
San Josef Bay and Cape Scott
Due to the many stunning images floating around social media, this incredible area of Vancouver Island North is becoming increasingly popular.
Cape Scott Provincial Park is a walk-in-only park. The one parking lot is only accessible via a very long drive down a rough logging road.
However, if you are up for the adventure, you will have access to pristine rainforests, majestic beaches and unspoiled nature.
Please note: If you have a rental car, and depending on their policies, driving this road may not be permittable. Please check in with the rental company before you go!
Need a Place to Stay while touring Vancouver Island North?
As mentioned above, Port Hardy is the gateway to many great activities and adventures for the northernmost areas of Vancouver Island.
It's also the perfect location to lay your head. Here are some great Port Hardy hotel recommendations:
If you'd rather rent a place of your own:
Vacation rentals in Vancouver Island North
I'm sure by now, you are overwhelmed with possibilities. There are so many places to see and things to do in northern Vancouver Island.
It's truly a unique area to visit and a much worthwhile road trip.
What are your favourite sights or things to do while visiting Vancouver Island North?
Let us know in the comments below.
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Other Vancouver Island Road Trip Ideas
Hi We’re coming to Port Alice at the end of September/beginning of October and would be really grateful if you have any useful nuggets of information that we could have. We’ve never been this far north on the island before and we’re really looking forward to seeing a different Vancouver Island. As I say any tips on what to do would be gratefully received. Many thanks :}
I am an Islander and still have much to explore. I also love !! the cover of Vancouver Is. North road trip . Can your tell me who the artist/photographer is. Thank you!
The North Island is a spectacular place to explore. As for the “cover”, I’m not sure which one you mean…but the large photo (at the bottom) was taken by me while at Little Huson Caves. The featured image you see when on the main page/category for the North Island, is a stock photo from Getty images – as I didn’t have the right photo for the job.
c
Thank you for writing the articles that you do! I have been a subscriber from the beginning & look forward to every new destination & highlight you present. With this latest feature being the North Island, I could hardly contain my excitement! Sadly though as a resident of Port McNeill, I was truly disappointed in how our beautiful little town was represented. Yes we are a logging community, but we are also so much more! For starters from Port McNeill you can go whale watching, diving, kayaking, fishing, boating, hiking as well as helicopter tours. A sea to sky experience is a reality here. We are also the gateway to the Broughton Archipelago, a boaters mecca, where people come from all over to enjoy the solitude & wildlife viewing opportunities our area provides! I truly hope you return to our area at some point and give us the opportunity we deserve!
Hi Cindy, thank you so much for being such a devoted reader of Vancouver Island View. I am so sorry you feel I misrepresented Port McNeill. I have to admit I haven’t spent much time in your beautiful area. From my point of view, Port Hardy and Port McNeill offer very similar experiences and excursions (but please correct me if I am wrong). So with hopes of not being too repetitive in the article, I focussed on the uniqueness of Port McNeill (that which Port Hardy doesn’t offer). I take your feedback to heart and only hope I get another chance to tour your area!