Tag: daajing giids trails

Sleeping Beauty Trail – Hiking Kuu Jad TlldaGaaw K’yuu

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Sleeping Beauty Trail
    Mt. Raymond peak towering over the trail
  • Sleeping Beauty Trail
    Sleeping Beauty Trail bowl section below Mt. Raymond’s peak
  • Sleeping Beauty Trail
    South view – the larn on the bowl of Mt. Raymond with the view of the Mt. Slatechuck peak
  • Sleeping Beauty Trail
    Ace the good boy hiking the slopes!
  • Sleeping Beauty Trail
    Gnarly roots on narrow slope sections heading up

Sleeping Beauty Trail Features
Fantastic viewpoints
Challenging slope sections

ABOUT

The “Sleeping Beauty Trail” is one of Haida Gwaii’s most famous hikes, perhaps only next to the Tow
Hill/Blowhole and Golden Spruce trails. With its varied terrain and expansive views, “Sleeping Beauty”
should be on every visitor’s bucket list if they’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike.
Unfortunately, though, this trail can be a little confusing – at least insofar as finding it. How come?
In brief, there is no trail on Haida Gwaii called “Sleeping Beauty.” The name “Sleeping Beauty” actually
refers to Mount Slatechuck and Mount Raymond – known collectively as the “Sleeping Beauty Trails”
because, when viewed from the Village of Daajing Giids, the mountains resemble a woman’s face when
laying in repose. What trail, then, are people referring to when they say they’re going to hike Sleeping
Beauty?

Generally, the hike most people are referring to is the Tarundl Trail, which brings you to the summit of
Mount Raymond. Of course, if you didn’t know this then locating “Sleeping Beauty” could prove
somewhat challenging. And that confusion is merited because the signage for “Sleeping Beauty” can be
confusing. We will try our best to reduce this befuddlement.

LOCATING THE TRAILHEAD

To locate the Tarundl Trail / Sleeping Beauty trailhead, follow these steps:

  • Drive west through the Village of Daajing Giids along Oceanview Drive until you come upon the intersection to the village cemetery and Haydn Turner campground.
  • Turn RIGHT onto the Honna Forest Service Road. Continue driving west for approximately 3.8 kilometers and turn RIGHT 400 meters past the Kagan Bay Recreation Site (you should see a “Sleeping Beauty” sign at this point).
  • Drive north for approximately 1.3 kilometers. You should see another “Sleeping Beauty” marker to your LEFT, leading you up a fairly rough and narrow road. Culvert upgrades were completed in early August 2024. A high clearance vehicle is recommended, but standard size vehicles could make it if driving with caution.
  • Drive about 3.5 kilometers. You will pass the first “Sleeping Beauty Trails” sign (leads to the Slatechuck Mountain trailhead). Drive just over a kilometer further and you will arrive at a small pullout. You should see the “Sleeping Beauty Trails” marker here. Welcome to the Tarundl Trail!

HIKING THE TRAIL

The Tarundl Trail hike begins easy enough as you cross a small footbridge over Tarundl Creek. The
path is grassy, flat and a little muddy. After trekking approximately 100 meters, you will come upon
the “Tarundl Tr” marker, which points into a dense and fairly young forest. At this point, the Tarundl
wastes no time in gaining elevation – onward and upward!

The climb up is straightforward and exceptionally well-marked with yellow circles and reflective
orange squares. You begin by navigating some tree roots before coming upon a series of high steps.
In many instances, the dense trees along this section of the trail serve as useful handgrips. After
about twenty minutes, you’ll come upon a rough ladder designed to help you up a small, steep
section of the trail. From here, the trail continues to climb along a well-worn, albeit muddy, path. Be
prepared for a few rope sections and minor blowdown along the way.

We took a hydration and snack break just past the mid-way point, alongside some beautiful old
growth cedar trees. Continuing on, the climb up was relentless, but gradual. As you begin entering
the alpine, the forest starts thinning out and the trees become more gnarled and stunted. Peering
through the trees, you also begin to get nice views of Bearskin Bay and Slatechuck Mountain.
Once in the “final stretch,” as you approach the verdant bowl of Mount Raymond, the trail gets a
little more scrambly and harder to follow as the markers thin out. First, you must climb some narrow
stone steps. After that, keep an eye out for a rope section that snakes under a fallen tree. We
missed this during our ascent and ended up climbing up and over a gnarled tree – only noticing the
rope on the opposite side after the fact! From here, climb up a rock face to a very narrow section of
trail with only a small rope railing to guide you. Once you clear this, ascend a little further through
some gnarled trees and you’ll reach the bowl. Home to the tarn known as “View Lake,” this flat area
is a popular place for hikers wishing to camp under the starry night sky.

For those wishing to climb to the zenith of Mount Raymond, and the “nose” of Sleeping Beauty, you
will need to trek onwards an additional 15 minutes. The path to the summit is well worn, but very
steep. On a clear day, you can expect to see breathtaking views of Rennell Sound, Yakoun Lake,
Stanley Lake, Daajing Giids, and much of the Queen Charlotte mountain range. Those wishing to
complete a loop trail can walk along the ridge between Mount Raymond and connect to the
Slatechuck Mountain trail.

While most report the descent down Mount Raymond to be quicker than the climb, it can actually
be more challenging due to loose rocks, mud and the abundant tree roots. Take your time as a
wipeout is certainly more likely here! Once back at the trailhead and parking lot, take a celebratory
swig of water and enjoy a nice meal back in Daajing Giids!

Note: Cellular service is available for most of the hike, less at the trailhead.

DIFFICULTY: Hard
TOTAL DISTANCE: 5.3 kilometers (one-way)
TIME: 3 hours (one-way)
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: 644 meters

Yakoun Old Growth Sitka Spruce Grove

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Yakoun Old Growth Spruce Grove
    The 2009 title holder for biggest Sitka Spruce in BC
  • Yakoun Old Growth Spruce Grove
    Yakuon River inviting you to fish
  • Yakoun Old Growth Spruce Grove
    One of the trees in the grove dwarfing some hiking companions

Yakuon Old Growth Sitka Spruce Grove Features:
Yakuon River fishing spots
Old growth trees

ABOUT

Yakoun Old Growth Sitka Spruce Grove – this grove of beautiful old growth trees is situated along the Yakoun River, near the “30 mile” marker. Together these trees give a small glimpse of what was common place in Haida Gwaii’s forests before unfettered logging practices destroyed large areas of old growth on the archipelago.

Perhaps the most famous of the old growth trees in this area is the one known as the “Bellis Spruce,” which is named after Skil Q’uas Dick Bellis. A self-described “BSer,” Mr. Bellis spent most of his working life in the forest industry as a heavy duty mechanic. He was also a notable carver. Perhaps his most well-known piece is an eagle sculpture carved in 1993 in memory of his brother, Ted. The eagle sculpture sat at Jungle Beach, next to the Black Bear, carved by Ted, until it mysteriously vanished in 2001 (the aging Black Bear vanished in 2023). Thought to be lost forever, the sculpture was found in Prince George in 2009 and returned to the Bellis family. In his later years, Dick Bellis served as a guide for tourists visiting Haida Gwaii. Along with jaunts to Rennell Sound, Bellis often took his guests to the Yakoun River to view the giant Sitka Spruce, which he’d say was “the biggest tree they’ll ever see.” And he was probably right.

Estimated to be approximately 750 years old (BC Forest Services does not have an increment bore large enough for a more accurate age), with a circumference of 45 feet and a height of just over 68 metres, the “Bellis Spruce” puts everything into perspective and highlights, in microcosm, the essence of Haida Gwaii. The giant Sitka Spruce gained significant attention in 2009 when it was officially recognized as the largest Sitka Spruce in BC – a title it held for a couple of years. Unfortunately, the “Bellis Spruce” was declared dead in 2011; however, it is still standing and leaves those lucky enough to find it in awe.

LOCATING THE TRAILHEAD

There is no formal trailhead marker for this short trek into the Yakoun Old Growth Sitka Spruce Grove. If you wish to locate the Bellis Spruce and its surrounding grove of giants, you must drive approximately 30 kilometers outside of Daajing Giids along the QC Mainline logging road. At this point, the Yakoun River will be clearly visible on your RIGHT. Look for a suitable place to pull over, walk through the woods, and safely cross the Yakoun River. About a decade ago, a large log functioned as a natural “bridge,” but it has since washed away. As such, one should only try crossing the Yakoun when the river is low – typically during the late summer months.

HIKING THE TRAIL

As noted, this is not a formal trail of the Yakoun Old Growth Sitka Spruce Grove; however, you should see a vague path once you cross the river. It will lead you to an old de-activated road. The grove of old growth Spruce is facing the river. Take your time and explore these monumental trees. You will feel dwarfed in their presence, but this is forest therapy in the best sense of that term! Use caution as it is often difficult to see where you are stepping.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: Variable
TIME: 30 minutes
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: None

Tarundl Lookout Trail – Epic Views of the Tarundl Flats

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    The peak of the Tarundl Lookout
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    The descent is full of ferns and mossy trees
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    The mossy trees when you reach the peak
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    Bear Skin Bay view
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    The peak, with Sleeping Beauty in the background
  • Tarundl Lookout Trail
    The satisfying view of the Tarundl Flats

Tarundl Lookout Trail Features
– Views of Bear Skin Bay
-Challenging Rope Sections
-View of the Tarundl Flats

ABOUT

The Tarundl Lookout Trail, located west of Daajing Giids (less than 10-minutes by car), and along the Honna Service road, you will find the Kagan Bay Day Use Recreation Site at about the 2-kilometer mark. The site features a picnic table, fire ring and beach access. At low tide, one could walk quite a distance onto the beach. Here you will also find the Tarundl Creek network of trails (see our earlier write-up here). It is also at this site where you can park your vehicle to begin a moderate-level hike towards an attractive and compelling lookout.

TRAILHEAD

Unlike the more popular Tarundl Creek loop trail, the Tarundl Lookout Trail does not have formal trailhead signage; however, it is easy enough to find:

  • Park your vehicle at the Kagan Bay Day Use Site.
  • Walk directly across the Honna Forest Service Road from the Day Use Site.
  • You should see some candy cane-patterned tree tape, which signifies the start of the trail.

Welcome to the Tarundl Lookout Trail!

HIKING THE TRAIL

While the trail is fairly short at just over 1 kilometer in length, it is a steady uphill climb the entire way. The trail begins with a gentle slope, but this gets steeper further on. The route is a little rough, but is well marked with orange tree tape the entire way. Hiking through the ferns, young hemlock, and
occasional spruce, the terrain reminds us of the Jags Trail @ Spirit Lake. As you hike, use caution because the trail is also muddy and slippery in some areas.

Be prepared for six rope sections. Most of these are short, and designed to help you over minor obstacles, but the final two – just before you reach the zenith – are essential in helping you reach the viewpoint safely. Once at the top, follow the narrow trail to a couple of viewpoints of the Tarundl Flats
and bays down below. Please use caution while you are here as there are no ropes in place as a safety measure. After taking in the view, return the way you came!

DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 1.05 kilometers (one-way)
TIME: 40 minutes (one-way)
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: 126 meters

A Short Hike to Small Lake

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Small Lake
    Small Lake view from the top
  • Small Lake
    Aerial view facing towards Bear Skin Bay on the horizon
  • Small Lake
    Small Lake in eye level
  • Small Lake
    Some evidence of a past forest fire?
  • Small Lake
    Boggy environment for exploration around the lake

Small Lake Features:
Boggy explorations
Old Forest Fire Remnants
A most likely Elks’ destination

ABOUT

Small Lake came to our attention after perusing an early edition of Fern Henderson’s Trail Hikes and
Beach Walks. We got curious about this trail because it is not mentioned in the Haida Gwaii Trails
Strategy (2011), nor is it mentioned in the last edition of Fern Henderson’s text (2005). Thus, we made it
a point to explore this hike and see if the trail still existed since – we presumed – it probably was not
being maintained.

LOCATING THE TRAILHEAD

Getting to Small Lake can be a little tricky: Drive west of Daajing Giids along the Honna Forest Service Road. Follow the Honna FSR north, past the Sleeping Beauty trail signage. The road gets fairly steep, so make sure you are driving a truck or capable SUV. A small car will not be able to complete the drive.

After driving for approximately 9.23 kilometres, or 20 minutes, you should notice a fairly obvious pullout to your RIGHT. We came upon this quite by chance. As we were driving up the narrow road, we spied what looked like an old spur road and assumed that’s where we’d have to walk to find Small Lake. We drove a few feet further and saw the pullout – that’s when we saw the unmarked trailhead! Talk about a stroke of luck!

HIKING THE TRAIL

The trail to Small Lake is unmarked, but obvious, and takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is single- track and muddy, so one should use caution. The environment is one of young Sitka Spruce, some moss, huckleberry bushes, and other flora typical of a bog environment. Once you arrive at Small Lake, the grounds are soggy (bog), but dense with Labrador Tea and sundews. In early editions of Trail Hikes and Beach Walks, Fern Henderson notes that Small Lake is “an interpretive circle walk [. . .] through virgin forest.” The brochure she mentions is long gone, but it is still possible to walk a circle around the lake.

The trail around Small Lake has been completely overgrown, but it is possible to identify the odd white trail marker on dead cedars that are still standing. At the time we did our hike, we only walked about halfway around the lake before turning around due to torrential rains. Given the size of Small Lake, we would anticipate it would take no more than 35-40 minutes to complete the circle.

At the time Fern Henderson wrote her text (1978), she noted the lake was a popular place for swimming, fishing, berry-picking and picnicking. While one can certainly still do those things, it’s probably not a beehive of activity these days; however, it is obvious that somebody still uses Small Lake as a recreational site. When we visited, there was clear evidence of a recent campfire and a small boat nearby.

Of note: Elk appear to frequent the area. As we ambled about the lake, we spied numerous elk droppings along the boggy ground.

DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 190 meters (one-way)
TIME: 20 minutes (return)
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: Minimal

Dempsey Collinson Trail – Scaling Challenging Heights

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    Ridge parts of the trail
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    The “official” trail head signage
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    One of the flat sections of the trail
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    One of the evidence of Spring Board logging
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    Trail starting to scale up
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    Crabapple Creek touch point on the trail
  • Dempsey Collinson Trail
    Old Growth trees in all their standing glory

Dempsey Collinson Trail Features:
Historic logging practices
Salmon Habitat
Old Growth Trees & CMTs
Rope Sections

ABOUT

CONTEXT

Located just a few feet from the western Crabapple Creek trailhead entrance (near the old M&B site),
you’ll spy the “Dempsey Collinson Chief Sgiidagids Memorial Trail” signage. The marker is posted on a
large alder tree but, depending upon the time of year, it can be difficult to spot as branches may
obstruct it from view. Who was Chief Skidegate and why is there a trail named in his honour? This is not
the place for a detailed biography, but it is helpful to provide a brief overview for context:

Dempsey Collinson became Chief Skidegate on 23 March 1973. The event was historically significant
because he became the first Haida of the 20th century to renew the ancient tradition of proclaiming his
chieftainship through the potlatch ceremony. As Chief Skidegate, he played an integral and life-long role
in the community: He helped guide the Council of the Haida Nation at their Hereditary Chiefs table; he
worked for his community at the Band level as a Councillor and Chief Councillor; he helped save the
Haida Gwaii Watchmen Program via a generous personal monetary donation in the 1980s; and he
provided food for the community, always stating “when the tide is low, the table is set.”

When Chief Skidegate passed away in 2008, the tragic loss was even acknowledged in the BC Legislature by Premier Campbell. As such, it is little wonder that Dempsey should have a trail bearing his name. Throughout his life, in both thought and deed, he fought for and protected, Haida Gwaii.

THE VISION

In 2017, local trailblazers Mark Walsh and Remi Gauthier pitched “a plateau trail between Skidegate and [Daajing Giids]” to the municipality of Daajing Giids and even presented a rough outline of where the trail might go. As per their sketch, the route would begin at Skidegate’s Spirit Lake Trail; climb towards Slarkedus Lake and then swing west, run along the top of the plateau through delicate bog and muskeg.

It would eventually pass by Regier Lake before beginning a slow descent and passing along the Gore
Brook and Crabapple Creek trails before exiting along the beach, rounding Haydn Turner and going
towards Kagan Bay and the log sort. From here, said Walsh and Gauthier, you could connect up with the Sleeping Beauty and Slatechuck Mountain trails. If the route came to fruition, it would be an epic trail that would run north of 10 kilometres one-way.

The idea received a warm reception from the municipality and Skidegate; however, funding difficulties
have prevented the full trail from taking shape. Nevertheless, a “rough draft” for a west-end loop began
development in 2018 and finished in early 2020. It is this version of the trail covered here.

THE REALITY

As was noted above, the Dempsey Collinson Memorial Trail is located a few feet behind the western
Crabapple Creek trail marker, near the old M&B site. Just a few feet in, you will spy the rusted remains
of an old “diesel donkey” hidden behind some bushes to your RIGHT. After a couple of minutes, you’ll
come upon the first of many minor rope sections of the hike – this one bringing you down to Crabapple
Creek. Cross the creek and continue hiking north.

As you amble alongside Crabapple Creek, the trail is a bit overgrown thanks to an abundance of salmonberry bushes; however, after you clear them, the trail follows an old 1940s-era skid road and gently climbs. As you hike this section of the trail – crossing a Crabapple tributary along the way – you will spy more of Haida Gwaii’s early logging history: The skid road you’re hiking and many tree stumps, some showing clear evidence of springboard logging.

After climbing the slope and moving east, you begin to see the real treasures of the Dempsey Collinson
Memorial Trail: Significant groves of old-growth cedar which, for us, was reminiscent of the Old Growth
Alley Trail in Tlell. As you stand amongst this grove of ancient trees, you cannot help but feel small and
in awe. Look closely: Many of the ancient cedars here show evidence of bark-stripping by the Haida.

Continuing east towards the Gore Brook Trail, there is one major rope section to contend with but, once
you clear this hurdle, it’s a gradual descent down the ridge. You will eventually come upon scallop shells lining the trail. These were put in place by former school teacher and outdoor enthusiast, Kevin
Borserio.

These shells signify that you’ve completed the marked “Dempsey Collinson Memorial Trail” and entered the Gore Brook Trail. After completing Gore Brook, you can stop your hike here, at the cul-de-sac on Second Avenue, or enter the Crabapple Creek Trail and make the entire route a big loop trail.

Trail co-creator Mark Walsh has said that the marked route “shows the whole history of human
habitation on these islands.” That’s a lofty statement but, we think, holds true: As you hike this
moderately challenging route, you see ancient trees and landscapes; evidence of ancient Haida land use; early 20th-century logging practices; and contemporary outdoor recreation. The trail, while only a small part of the original vision, is still epic in its coverage.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 4.3km (one way);
6km, if including Gore Brook & Crabapple trail segments
TIME: 3hrs
TYPE: Loop (including Gore Brook & Crabapple trail segments)
ELEVATION GAIN: 260 meters

Charlie Hartie Trail Hike

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Charlie Hartie Trail
    2nd Avenue entrance marked by trail head of the Charlie Hartie Trail
  • Charlie Hartie Trail
    The trail goes up gradually and can be challenging
  • Charlie Hartie Trail
    Looking down at the lower trees of the trail
  • Charlie Hartie Trail
    Some forest parts have ferns and moss blankets

Charlie Hartie Features:
Monumental Cedars
CMT (Culturally Modified Tree)
Scout Lake access point

Note: This trail is also known as “Charlie Valley” and “Charlie Hardie South Lake Trail” (the latter referencing Scout Lake).

ABOUT

Charlie Hartie Trail, named after a nearby creek which itself was named after early residents of what
was then Queen Charlotte City, located at the top of 6TH street, just off 1ST Avenue (turn right).

According to a small information card available at the Daajing Giids Visitor Centre, this rough out-and-
the back trail takes approximately 2 hours to complete (return). It is important to note the red text used on the trailhead marker. The village uses this colour to denote moderate to hard trails while yellow is used to signify easy routes.

From the trailhead, the Charlie Hartie Trail starts off as a narrow path and gently slopes upward. About 15 minutes in, the trail widens and, as a result, gets a little easier to navigate. Please note that, at this point, the obvious path disappears as you continue your ascent; however, the trail is clearly marked with flagging tape and, curiously, clam shells, which have been placed in groups of three.

In this respect Charlie Hartie shares an affinity with the nearby Gore Brook Trail, which has been marked with scallop shells: Both demonstrate – through these markers – the complex interplay of forest and ocean on Haida Gwaii.

After about 30 or so minutes, the clam shells mostly disappear and blue flagging tape becomes the
primary trail marker. The trail begins climbing steeply by this point and the forest remains fairly dense
throughout; however, there are a few highlights along the way: A couple of massive trees that have long
since fallen over (makes for a great selfie!), an interesting “handrail system” designed to assist you up
one of the steeper sections (originally developed as a mountain biking obstacle), impressive cedars, and a culturally modified tree (CMT).

Following a challenging climb, you will eventually come across a fork in the trail and some signage. Curiously, this point marks the end of the “official” trail; or, at least, the hikeable portion of the Charlie Hartie Trail.

The LEFT pointing arrow – “Charlie Hardie” – will bring you to the trail’s namesake creek; however, it’s obvious this route hasn’t been used in a very long time. Significant amounts of blowdown, overgrowth, and lack of markers make navigating toward the creek an unrealistic option. In fact, the Village of Daajing Giids knowledge-holders familiar with this trail strongly advises hiking toward the creek for those reasons.

The RIGHT pointing arrow – “Scout Lake” – will eventually bring you to, well, Scout Lake! For more on
this connector route, see our entry at this link.

We should note, by way of conclusion, that this trail seems awkwardly named. Outside of the trail’s
starting point, you don’t actually follow the route’s namesake creek; rather, you follow “Templeton
Creek” for much of the trail’s length. Based on old maps we’ve seen, this trail may once have been a
loop, which took you along Charlie Hartie Creek but, again, overgrowth and lack of maintenance have all but eliminated a portion of this route.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 2km (return)
TIME: 2 hours
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: 140 meters

Daajing Giids Seawalk – An Educational Stroll

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Daajing Giids Seawalk
    The view when you walk towards the Visitor Center
  • Daajing Giids Seawalk
    The path to the Spirit Square
  • Daajing Giids Seawalk
    The old fly wheel – remnants of the Saw Mill in town
  • Daajing Giids Seawalk
    The heritage tour illustrated map by Judie Hilgemman in “Village of Queen Charlotte Heritage Walking Tour” written by Heather Ramsay

Daajing Giids Seawalk Features:
• Urban hike
• Early & Contemporary history

ABOUT

On its surface, the Daajing Giids Seawalk is an inspiring urban hike or stroll along the village’s bustling waterfront. At a deeper level, though, this one-kilometre walk takes you deep into the historic heart of Daajing Giids, highlighting key milestones that helped in its own coming-of-age story. That, for us, is the real beauty of the Seawalk and makes it a “must-do” for anyone visiting Haida Gwaii.

The Daajing Giids Seawalk begins at the Visitor Center, near the humpback sculpture by Lon Sharp. It is here, near the strategically placed picnic tables, that you’ll come across the first nugget of historical wisdom on this hike: A short information write-up explaining what brought settlers to what is now Daajing Giids. The Visitor Center also distributes copies of “Village of Queen Charlotte Heritage Walking Tour” written by Heather Ramsay at a reasonable cost. This booklet is rich with the early history of Daajing Giids previously known as Queen Charlotte.

There are a total of 8 such write-ups found throughout the community, all but three of which are found directly along the Seawalk route (the three stragglers can be found across from J&T Restaurant, beside Premier Creek and near the old hospital).

Once you’ve finished admiring the views at the Visitor Centre and Skidegate Inlet, follow the brick-coloured paving stones – which mark the early and late parts of the route – as they wind through Spirit Square. Completed in 2011, this small plaza area has become a cornerstone of the community for public events. The annual Christmas tree light-up is done here and live music is often played on the impressive bandstand. In many ways, Spirit Square could represent just how far Daajing Giids has come in its progressive journey: A communal space welcoming to everyone.

Moving past Spirit Square, the pathway takes you down to the nearby docks. You’ll have to cross the road to continue along the Daajing Giids Seawalk, which is again signified by the brick-coloured paving stones. At this point in your hike, you can observe the Fisherman’s Memorial and the bustling harbour down below.

Another historic write-up, appropriately detailing the importance of the fishing industry, can also be found here. Curiously, from here, the Seawalk is unmarked for about two-hundred meters or so: Walk up the road, past Northern Savings and Charlisle Clothiers, until you hit Wharf Street. Turn LEFT and follow Wharf Street for approximately 150 meters until you hit Oceanview Drive (the main road in town).

Once on Oceanview Drive, the Daajing Giids Seawalk formal markings return; however, the pathway is no longer denoted by paving stones for this stretch of the journey. Instead, the route is marked by a yellow “walking” figure painted on the side of the road.

While this section might prove to be “too urban” for some (since you’re literally walking alongside vehicle traffic), it nevertheless provides epic views of the inlet, harbour and seaplane docks. On the opposite side of the road, you’ll also spy the historic Premier Creek Lodge. Take a brief detour and cross the highway if you’d like to read a bit more history!

After hiking alongside the highway for just over 200 meters, you’ll spy the return of the brick-coloured paving stones at the landscaped garden adjoining the local ballfield. The route will take you around the ballfield, past the Community Hall and children’s park before concluding near the Vancouver Island Regional Library.

At the terminus point of your urban hike, you’ll spy the remnants of Daajing Giids’ old sawmill, which operated between 1909 and 1926. Stroll down the stairs onto the rocky beach for a closer look at the village’s early economy! A nearby write-up helps to provide more context.

Of note, just beyond the library, you’ll see a narrow roadway (Bay Street). This area was once
considered the heart of downtown as it was lined with many a business back in the day. Some classic structures still remain, hinting at days long gone by.

Indeed, the Daajing Giids Seawalk is an urban hike. There are plenty of beautiful photo-ops but, just as important, this immersive walk encourages us to learn along the way. Take your time here – you’ll be all the richer for it.

DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 1 kilometer
TIME: 30 minutes
TYPE: Point-to-Point
ELEVATION GAIN: None

Crab Trap Trail – Biking & Hiking Paradise

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Crab Trap Trail
    The wooden black sign showing Crab Trap Trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
    The trail is clearly created for biking, but hikers can use the platforms as well
  • Crab Trap Trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
    Some relaxing forest sceneries along the trail
  • Crab Trap Trail
    The big tire that leads to the M&B site – showing the trail is connected to Crabapple Trail

CRAB TRAP TRAIL FEATURES:
·       Historic logging practices
·       Mountain biking

ABOUT

The Crab Trap Trail is a relatively new route in the Village of Daajing Giids. Created by Instagram user “theloamripper” over a period of 1.5 years, the trail officially opened in June 2020 with the posting of the official trailhead marker. We’d observed the signage when we first hiked the Gore Brook Trail near the end of 2020 but didn’t get around to hiking this route until now – nearly 3 years later. Curiosity – and the need for “new” trails – got the better of us!

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD

Locating the signed trailhead for Crab Trap Trail can be a little tricky because, much like the Scout Lake Trail, the trailhead marker for Crab Trap is actually located along another route. If you’d like to hike the Crab Trap, follow these steps:

1) Drive to the end of 2nd Avenue and park in the cul-de-sac.

2) You will see the trailhead marker for the Crabapple Creek route. To your RIGHT you will observe an unmarked trail (an early exit for Gore Brook Trail). Hike up this path for 200 meters.

3) After hiking for a couple of minutes, you will see the black Crab Trap trailhead marker to your LEFT. You are now at Crab Trap Trail!

THE ROUTE

Notwithstanding the trailhead sign, Crab Trap Trail is unmarked but the path is plainly obvious. Right out of the gate, the trail splits; however, don’t let this alarm you. It does not matter which path you take on the “Y” – they merge into one trail literally one minute into your hike.

The path on the right is just a “shortcut” of sorts. A couple of minutes into your hike you’ll come across a bridge, which provides the first significant hint as to this trail’s primary purpose: Crab Trap Trail is promoted as a mountain biking route – something highlighted on both “theloamripper’s” Instagram page and the TrailForks website.

Indeed, evidence of this abounds: There are a couple of small jumps, including a “gap” jump; steep descents meant for bikers to get a bit of air time; and, there’s even a berm near the end of the route! Beyond the mountain biking structures in place, the obvious tire tracks in the mud also give it away!

While Crab Trap was designed to function as a mountain biking trail, it is also a wonderful hiking trail. Clocking in at a brisk 1.2 kilometres one-way, the route takes you through a beautiful forest of spruce, hemlock and lush ferns. 

At about the mid-way point, the trail drops steeply for a moment. This was likely done to benefit those on mountain bikes, but it can be a little tricky navigating on foot due to mud. Once down the steep embankment, however, you will see orange arrows and another trail – that’s because Crab Trap actually intersects the old Crabapple Trail route at this point. You can follow it if you like, but if you wish to finish the Crab Trap, continue your gradual descent down the unmarked but obvious trail.

Hike another 10 minutes and you’ll eventually link up to the main Crabapple Trail, as signified by the giant tire. At this juncture, the “Crab Trap Trail” – as marked on TrailForks – essentially turns into the Crabapple Trail. Follow the marked route to your RIGHT, pass by the Dempsey Collinson Memorial Trail and end your adventure at the old M&B site.

From here, you can do one of 3 things: 1) Turn around and go back the way you came; 2) Follow the primary Crabapple Creek Trail route (denoted by white markers) back to Second Avenue; or, 3) Walk back along the road.

DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 2.4 kilometers (return)
TIME: 75 minutes
TYPE: Out-and-Back
ELEVATION GAIN: 15 meters (approx.)

Stroll Along Crabapple Creek Trail

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • Crabapple Creek Trail
    One of the pond by the Crabapple Creek Trail
  • Some parts of the Crabapple Creek
  • Crabapple Creek Trail
    More Crabapple Creek
  • Crabapple Creek Trail
    The other trailhead sign

CRABAPPLE CREEK TRAIL FEATURES:
  ·    Evidence of early logging
·       Fish-bearing creek

ABOUT

Crabapple Creek Trail is another of the Daajing Giids’ “community trails.” It is approximately 1 kilometre in length (one-way) and is, in our view, one of the easiest of the local trails, only behind the Tarundl loops at Kagan Bay. Unlike a lot of trails on Haida Gwaii, Crabapple Creek is clearly denoted with formal trailhead markers and is, therefore, easy to find.

You may access the Crabapple Creek trail in two locations: 1) The west end of 2nd Avenue at the cul-de-sac; and, 2) At the old M&B site, near the start of the road to Rennell Sound.

As with most of the Daajing Giids community trails, the topography meanders between a mix of flat ground, occasional side hills and muddy sections all while passing through beautiful forest. For us, a key highlight of this trail included the lovely views one gets off the inlet about mid-way through the hike.

Peering through the trees at the landscape below – a mix of the natural and industrial – helps to provide one with a “refreshed” perspective of this place. Indeed, you could almost say it offers a space for deep contemplation thanks to the unintentional proximity to logging as represented by the old M&B structures at the trail’s eastern terminus point.

Of course, if philosophy isn’t really your thing, you can still enjoy this lovely short trail. The trees, lush ferns, fungus and angry squirrels give it much character. Sadly, though, you won’t actually encounter any crabapple trees on this hike. 

In the village’s literature, Crabapple Creek is described as a loop trail, but this is incorrect. The trail is properly described as a “point-to-point” route because the start and end points are at least a kilometre apart. Thus, one may prefer to simply go back the way you came rather than, say, exit at the M&B site and walk along the road all the way back to 2nd Avenue.

Nevertheless, we found Crabapple Creek a most enjoyable trail to hike. It’s shorter than the nearby Gore Brook, but it’s also less strenuous. In addition, the unique juxtaposition of logging with the natural world makes for some fun discussion.

The total hike time was a quick 15 minutes one-way along the marked primary route, which is denoted by white diamonds.

Please note that Crabapple Creek offers two hiking routes. If you start your trek at 2nd Avenue, you will come to a fork in the trail about a minute in. Going LEFT will take you along the formally marked and maintained route promoted by the village; however, if you choose to go RIGHT, you will be treated to a longer hike – and one that actually takes you along Crabapple Creek for much of the route.

There’s a little more in terms of elevation gain, but the lovely cascade of the creek + small waterfall make it worth the added effort. We suspect this was the original trail – you can still see the odd “red arrow” markers along the way. This route, while longer, still connects to the main trail at the “big tire.” The total hike time for this alternate hike is about 45 minutes one-way.

Be advised that the Crabapple Creek Trail connects and links with other trails in the area, including the still-being-developed Dempsey Collinson Memorial Trail, Gore Brook Trail, and the informal Backyard Trail system.

DIFFICULTY: Easy
TOTAL DISTANCE: 2 kilometres (return, depending on the route taken)
TIME: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours (return)
TYPE: Point-to-Point
ELEVATION GAIN: 40 meters

Gore Brook Trail: A Moderate Rainforest Hike

Posted on by Robert Williams
  • The lighting of the afternoon setting sun creates a magical forest scenery
  • One of the plank “bridges” on the muddy parts of the trail
  • The Gore Brook on the trail
  • Gore Brook Trail waterfalls
    20 minutes into the Gore Brook Trail, you can find this waterfall
  • The dense trees in the trail plays good light to relax on the trail
  • Winter scene in the trail
  • At some point in the trail, carefully placed sea shell markers can be observed
  • Gore Brook spilling into the Daajing Giids ocean waters
  • Illuminated parts of the forest
  • In summer, most of the trail looks “greener”

GORE BROOK TRAIL FEATURES:
• Forest therapy
• School project

ABOUT

The Gore Brook Trail is one of 5 “community trails” in the Village of Daajing Giids. Unlike most trails on Haida Gwaii, Gore Brook actually has formal trailhead signage and is, therefore, easy to find. It has two main entry points: The first is at the top of 8th Street (north of the high school).

Once you reach the top of 8th, turn right and you should see the trailhead marker adjacent to a small side road. The second point of entry is on the 2nd avenue (above the municipal office), along the Village’s western end.

In terms of the community trails, Gore Brook is one of the better ones. First, it brings you marvellous examples of old-growth and second-growth forests. Second, the lush flora of the trail – and especially the vibrant mosses, ferns and other plant life – really highlights the fact that you’re hiking through a dynamic rainforest ecosystem unlike any other in the world. Third, if you enter Gore Brook at the 2nd Avenue entrance, you can gain quick access to a nice little waterfall – dubbed the Gore Brook Falls – approximately 20 minutes in. Fourth, the trail also provides hints of one of Haida Gwaii’s major historic industries: Logging. At a few points along the trail, those with a keen eye will notice some evidence of springboard logging.

While the trail is only about 1.6 kilometres long, it takes roughly an hour and a half to complete the full point-to-point route. The trail is quite rough and muddy in a lot of places. Additionally, there’s a significant amount of deadfall along the trail + root systems and a couple of creek crossings. As such, we’d strongly recommend the use of good boots so as to avoid getting your feet wet or muddy.

The trail is denoted in quite a unique way: With scallop shells! Follow them and you shouldn’t get lost. It’s kind of like following the breadcrumbs through the forest. But if following scallop shells isn’t your thing, don’t worry – white “diamond” markers also denote the main route.

Finally, it should be noted that Gore Brook connects with, and intersects, the village’s informal
“backyard” trail system. These are a series of rough trails that are usually sans markers and can lead you astray if you’re not paying attention.

With Gore Brook, we don’t think getting lost is much of a problem since it’s pretty easy to follow the scallop shells and white markers. If entering Gore Brook from 2nd Avenue, however, you will come upon a fork in the trail system approximately 15 minutes into your hike.

If you continue to the RIGHT, you’ll stay on Gore Brook (and eventually come upon Gore Brook Falls). If you go LEFT, you’ll follow a backyard trail – which does have markers in this case – and will eventually exit onto the cul de sac at the end of Second Avenue, connecting with both Crabapple Creek Trail and the Crab Trap Trail.

While somewhat difficult, the Gore Brook Trail is a rewarding hike. The old growth, burls, abundant ferns, dynamic creek, and vibrant green mosses provide inspiration and energy. The local high school students, who played a key role in developing this trail in the late 1990s, did an excellent job.

In the current day, students – from high school and post-secondary – will occasionally use this trail for ecosystem interpretive work. As such, Gore Brook is as much a recreational hiking trail as it is a valuable learning opportunity.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 1.6km
TIME: 1.5 hours
TYPE: Point-to-Point
ELEVATION GAIN: 176 meters