DELKATLA NATURE SANCTUARY TRAIL KEY FEATURES
• Delkatla
• Bird-watching
• Dog-walking
ABOUT
Described by the Village of Masset as “one of [its] main attractions,” the Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail was established in 1969 and is a 290-hectare intertidal wetland area that serves as a “critical migratory stopover for birds during spring and fall migration, an important wintering waterfowl area and home to many summer nesting species.” Since its establishment, some 50 years ago, over 140 species of bird have been observed here. We think the Nature Sanctuary is best appreciated as a two-part experience.
The first part of the Delkatla experience is the Nature Centre, which is located at Trumpeter Drive. Admission is a very reasonable $2. The Centre is a place of orientation: Here you can learn a good deal about the local flora and fauna by observing a number of detailed write-ups on flowers, plants, and muskeg. The Centre also features a few “stuffed” examples of birds from the area. It’s a small space, but it provides a wealth of information.
The second part of the Delkatla experience is the actual nature walk itself. The walk is approximately 5 kilometers in length and takes you on a mix of trails and roadside. Depending on your purpose, you may or may not find this segment of the experience somewhat dull because a fair length of the route is actually on roads. In fact, if you wanted, you could “cheat” and drive along a significant portion of the sanctuary without diluting one’s overall enjoyment – many of the viewing platforms are along the road, or just off it.
If beginning your hike at the Nature Sanctuary, walk north along Trumpeter Drive for approximately 700 meters until you hit Northwest Drive. From here, you leave the paved road and start walking northeast along a gravel dike road, bringing you deeper into the sanctuary and its unique wetland environment.
Of note for birders, a viewing tower can be found in this area. Keep a keen and watchful eye for lovely sandhill cranes, blue herons, Canada Geese, ravens, and seagulls.
Of historical note: This section of the route is also known as the “Stepping Stones Trail” because, once upon a time, the road you’re walking on was made up of stepping stones to help people cross the intertidal slough.
After hiking approximately 1.4 kilometers, you will come upon Masset Cemetery Road. From here, you can hike south along the road and connect up with the Simpson Tower Trail, which will bring you near the end of Cemetery Road. Or, you can walk roughly 750 meters north towards Masset Cemetery and its Beach Access Trail.
Assuming you chose to hike south along the Simpson Tower Trail – which also provides beautiful viewing opportunities of Delkatla Sanctuary – you’ll eventually come upon the end of Cemetery Road. From here, walk west along Tow Hill Road back towards Masset. Along the way, you’ll come upon another viewing tower. Read the information boards on site and then continue your walk back into Masset.
Indeed, from a hiking perspective, Delkatla and its network of trails make for a good family walk; however, those wishing to explore more of Haida Gwaii’s wild side might be a little underwhelmed. Birders, on the other hand, should enjoy this experience at all times of the year. It truly is a birdwatcher’s delight!
DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 5 kilometers
TIME: 1.5 hours
TYPE: Loop
ELEVATION GAIN: None