Simpson Tower Trail Features:
Delkatla
Bird-watching
Dog-walking
ABOUT
Every spring, millions of shorebirds leave their winter homes and fly north to nesting grounds in the Arctic region. A key migration route lies along the western edge of North America – the Pacific Flyway.
Birds making the long journey will typically stop for a brief sojourn on Haida Gwaii at the Delkatla Sanctuary. Here, the sanctuary’s marsh, ponds, and dense conifers provide an excellent place to rest and gather nourishment for the long journey onward. For us, it also makes for some excellent birding as well.
One important trail – as part of Delkatla – is the Simpson Tower Trail. The layout of this 1.7-kilometer (one way) the route is kind of interesting. Once you turn onto Cemetery Road, you will see the trailhead about a hundred or so meters in on your left, as signified by a marker.
The parking lot, however, is found at the trail’s northern terminus point, nearly 2 kilometers away. Nevertheless, the route is a pleasant and easy stroll since it basically runs parallel to the road. As you walk through the treed side of the sanctuary, take the time to listen for beautiful birdsong and appreciate some of the quirky artwork/signage along the way. As you hike, you may even catch a glimpse of the chatty Steller’s Jay or Hairy Woodpecker, both of which are endemic to Haida Gwaii.
At several spots along this route, the trail dips into the various meadows and ponds of Delkatla, giving birders easy access to parts of the sanctuary. If you began your hike at the trail’s northern terminus (parking lot), a short route there leads you to the Simpson viewing tower which, you guessed it, is where this trail gets its name.
Please note that while the trail is classified as “easy,” lack of maintenance has made parts of the trail kind of rough. You will encounter some deadfall along the route, but nothing major.
DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 3.4km (return)
TIME: Approximately 1 hour
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: None