Hike Haida Gwaii

Tag: haida gwaii beach trails

  • Easy Stroll – Spit Walk Trail

    Easy Stroll – Spit Walk Trail

    • Spit Walk Trail
      A bit of washed up dead heads
    • Spit Walk Trail
      Sunny day you can see a longer spit jutting out to sea
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
      Different marine life washed up on the “Sand Spit”
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
      The background – Graham Island
    • Spit Walk Trail
      Most of the Spit Walk Trail is on grass lands
    • Spit Walk Trail
    • Spit Walk Trail
      The grass land parts of the trail
    • Spit Walk Trail

    SPIT WALK TRAIL FEATURES:
    Access to Sand Spit
    Running & Biking
    Family-friendly

    ABOUT

    The “Spit Walk Trail” is something of a surprise on at least two fronts. First, we were flabbergasted to learn of this trail’s existence. Despite spending a significant amount of time on Haida Gwaii, we’d never once heard of this trail. It was only after reading a brief write-up from Ocean Sound Kayaking and spying the
    route on a detailed map of Haida Gwaii by BRMB that our veil of ignorance was lifted. Second, the Spit Walk surprised in that it was basically hiding in plain sight.

    On the one hand, it is kind of surprising we didn’t know of this trail given that it’s basically a 5-kilometre loop around the perimeter of Sandspit Airport (BRMB erroneously says 10KM); thus, it’s hardly a brief walk easily missed. 

    On the other hand, we could argue it’s not terribly surprising because, like most trails on Haida Gwaii, no explicit trailhead signage exists. It seems like you just have to “know” about it. Then again, Ocean Sound Kayaking – the only piece of literature we’ve seen on this trail – does say it’s a “locals trail,” indicating those who live here certainly know about it.

    The Spit Walk can be accessed at two major points – along Tacan Road or Beach Road. If you want to do this hike, we’d recommend starting at Beach Road adjacent to Lon Sharp’s “Spirit of Sandspit” (giant salmon) sculpture because there’s parking available at the site of the former government wharf. 

    If you choose to start at Tacan Road, you’ll have a hard time with parking unless you park in the nearby SuperValu lot. So, for the sake of argument, let’s assume you’re starting from the “Spirit of Sandspit.”

    From here, just walk along the perimeter fence of Sandspit Airport (YZP). The trail is wide, flat and clearly visible. It may seem a bit daunting going straight on such flat land for lengths at a time, but there are benches strewn about to allow for some rest. 

    Just note that because this trail is largely exposed to the elements, it is not advisable to hike or jog this route during high winds.

    In addition, if you wish to break up the monotony, there are a few little side paths that provide access to the rocky beach. If you’re visiting at low tide, we’d strongly recommend detouring off the Spit Walk and enjoying the Sand Spit (Sandspit’s namesake). 

    There’s just something peaceful about being able to walk so far out from the mainland and using the ocean’s calm to clear one’s head. Not to mention, “the Spit” is home to some of the best clam-digging on Haida Gwaii! Just make sure, if you do hike out to the actual “Spit,” you do so at a low or receding tide so as not to get caught by the incoming tide. 

    If you exclude an excursion to the beach, the physical landscape of the Spit Walk is largely grassy and flat. Daisies, Buttercups and Yarrow abound. However, given the flatness of the route, it’s easy to see why many a local enjoys running or biking along this loop – makes for some good exercise.

    As you finish this easy walk and emerge onto Tacan Road, the only thing to watch out for is vehicle traffic since this part of the “trail” as you walk along the side of an active road until you loop back to Beach Road. Besides that, there really is nothing to be wary of on the trail except for the odd low-flying aircraft (haha), winds and angry squirrels in the bushes.

    Overall, the Spit Walk is an enjoyable excursion suitable for the whole family. Along with the added benefit of some nice exercise, it affords us the opportunity to explore a little more of Sandspit. All of that said, this trail certainly isn’t for everybody. If you’re an adventure seeker or want to spend time in the forest, the Spit Walk may be a little boring or even one-note. If, however, you want to inhale that fresh sea air, then you’ll enjoy this easy hike!

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 5 kilometers
    TIME: 2 hours
    TYPE: Loop
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • Tow Hill and Blow Hole Trails – An Essential Experience

    Tow Hill and Blow Hole Trails – An Essential Experience

    • Tow Hill and the beginnings of Agate Beach (Jan 2023)
    • Tow Hill
      Tow Hill and Blow Hole trails (Apr 2022)
    • Blow Hole
      Blow Hole wave drama effects (Apr 2022)
    • Tow Hill
      The boardwalk in Tow Hill makes it a manageable accent to the cliffs (Jan 2023)
    • Two Hill
      Surfer’s dream waves up North (Jan 2023)

    TOW HILL & BLOW HOLE TRAIL FEATURES
    Haida legend
    Basalt rock formations
    Unobstructed views

    ABOUT

    Probably the most quintessential and well-known of Naikoon Provincial Park’s attractions, the Tow Hill and Blow Hole Trails hiking routes are easy and family-friendly, thanks to boardwalks that go their entire length. At the trailhead, which is approximately 26 kilometres east of Masset, you’ll be greeted by two small Haida totems, both of whom sit on either side of a large infographic. This interpretive panel helps set the context for the hike you’re about to embark on.

    It enunciates important cultural, historic and environmental information. Notably, and keeping in line with the “accessible” theme, the information board includes colour contrasts and braille. The images can also be “read” with your fingertips.

    From the trailhead, hike a little over 200 meters along the wide, hard-packed dirt path. Along the way, you’ll come upon another important feature: A four-track solar-panelled talking sign: Hear a traditional Haida welcome, a Haida song, and the legend of the “Big Spider.”

    Indeed, this network of trails – perhaps more than any other on Haida Gwaii – does much to entrench you in this space and this place; that is, Haida territory.

    Once you hit the beautifully constructed boardwalk – a partnership between Parks and Old Massett Village Council – you have two options: A hike up to the Tow Hill viewing area (just over 900 meters) or a hike towards the beach and blow hole (just over 700 meters). Each trail, from this point, takes approximately 30 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively.

    Tow Hill Trail

    Steeped in Haida lore, Tow Hill, or Taaw Tldáaw, is a magnificent volcanic plug formed from eruptions of molten lava some 2 million years ago. Jutting out of the ocean, it is, unquestionably, the most distinguishing geographic feature of Naikoon Provincial Park. Standing at nearby Agate Beach, or North Beach, it dwarfs you with its size; in fact, you can even see it off in the distance while hiking White Creek or enjoying the epic Tl’ellan to Old Massett beach route. Because of its prominence in literature and advertising, Taaw Tldáaw is an iconic image and is synonymous with Haida Gwaii.

    Besides its awe-inspiring natural beauty, and deep connection to Haida lore, Taaw Tldáaw and the surrounding area also make for some of Haida Gwaii’s best hiking. Once you reach the boardwalk, go LEFT to continue hiking toward Tow Hill’s zenith.

    As noted, the hike is easy, but the incline does increase the higher you go. Along the way, you’ll cross over some minor boggy sections and luxuriantly green moss-covered trees. Take your time to fully appreciate the natural and supernatural beauty of Haida Gwaii as it surrounds and enchants you with its lush rainforest, light mist and heavy cultural traditions.

    At about the mid-way point, you come upon the first viewing platform. From here, you can look out onto North Beach, towards Rose Spit – another place steeped in Haida tradition. Once you reach the summit of Taaw Tldáaw, take a moment to breathe in the fresh sea air. From your perch, some 125 meters high, you can see Agate Beach below; the expanses of Naikoon Provincial Park; Dixon Entrance; and, on a clear day, even the shores of Alaska.

    Be warned, though, that it is generally quite windy at the top of Tow Hill – something clearly in evidence by the wind-swept trees just outside the viewing platform! Once you’ve had your fill, descend the trail until you come upon a connector to the Blow Hole.

    Blow Hole Trail

    For our purposes, let’s assume you’re starting your hike from the Tow Hill/Blow Hole trailhead. Again, walk about 200 meters alongside the Hiellen River to the boardwalk. This time, go RIGHT towards the Blowhole. The hike is short – about 15 minutes – and provides some nice ground-level views of the Hiellen River, Christian White’s monumental pole, and North Beach. Lush mosses and a fairly dense forest greets you opposite Oceanside.

    Once you reach the end of the short Blow Hole Trail, you’ll find detailed information boards on the origins of “Tow” and how he separated from his brother “Towustain.” The Haida history we’re privy to at this site – combined with nearby Rose Spit and Hiellen – enriches the overall experience and improves our appreciation of this mystical place. In this regard, Tow Hill and the surrounding area are a definite “must-visit” on Haida Gwaii.

    Descending the stairs from the boardwalk, you’re treated to a magical space: A coastline covered in lava rock formations, imposing rock cliffs and intense wave action, battering the shoreline. On a rising tide, you will see the “blow hole” in action – a truly special sight! A word of caution: We advise that you steer clear of the rock’s edge on stormy days. The waves are larger and stronger and it is not uncommon for the odd rogue wave to hit this area.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 2 kilometers return (Tow Hill); 1.8 kilometers return (Blow Hole)
    TIME: 1.5 hours
    ELEVATION GAIN: 125 meters

  • Hydro Pole 97 Trail – Easy Beach Access to Naikoon Provincial Park

    Hydro Pole 97 Trail – Easy Beach Access to Naikoon Provincial Park

    • The Hydro Pole 97 dunes allows a view of Tow Hill (Mar 2021)
    • The view of some of the North Beach (March 2021)
    • The obvious foot path leads you to the dunes then (April 2022)
    • The impressive dunes a couple years back (March 2021)

    HYDRO POLE 97 TRAIL FEATURES
    Sand dunes
    Access to North Beach

    ABOUT

    The Hydro Pole 97 Trail Beach Access is pretty self-explanatory. It is one of many such trails in and around Naikoon Provincial Park that provides beach access; however, this one seems to receive special treatment, at least insofar as being mentioned in a couple of publications: The Haida Gwaii Trails Strategy (2011) and Backroad Mapbooks (available at the Daajing Giids Visitor Centre).

    While we find this rather curious, it is nevertheless a nice, albeit very short, trail. The trail does not have formal trailhead signage, but it is easy enough to find. As you’re driving along Tow Hill Road, just keep an eye out for Hydro Pole 97. If you’re driving north from Masset, the pole will be on your LEFT. The unmarked trailhead will be obvious and almost immediately beside the hydro pole.

    If you wish to access the trail, you’ll have to park along the side of the road. While not formally maintained, this short trail is in good shape. The first part of the route takes you through a mix of young spruce and alder trees before entering the sand dune environment.

    Once you hit the sandy dunes, you’ll notice some old fence posts – remnants of an earlier time. Please tread lightly along the dunes as these are very fragile environments home to unique flora.

    Because the Hydro Pole 97 trail is so short (approximately 235 meters one-way), it is not used primarily as a hiking trail; rather, as the name implies, people use it more for the easy access it provides to the south beach.

    The beach is often windy but, during low tides, you have miles upon miles of compact grey sand at your disposal. Once here, you can relax, and enjoy the sun and roar of the waves; or, you can use this as a jumping-off point to partake in the epic 50km Tl’lellan to Old Massett beach hiking route.

    Having visited this short route numerous times, we’ve been impressed with how quickly the landscape changes from year to year. The erosion at the sand dunes has been quite pronounced over the last few years. It is inching ever closer to the tree line!

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 470 meters (return)
    TIME: 5 minutes
    TYPE: Out-and-Back
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • Naikoon Canoe Trail Along Tow Hill Road

    Naikoon Canoe Trail Along Tow Hill Road

    • The Haida canoe at Tow Hill against the sunset in Tow Hill
    • The sunset plays a dramatic background on the set up
    • The pathway from the pull out is guided by sea shells
    • The “bleachers” perfect for wedding guests on this meaningful sites

    NAIKOON CANOE TRAIL FEATURES
    Haida Canoe
    Agate Beach Views
    Venue Amenities

    ABOUT

    The “Naikoon Canoe Trail” is very short at just 140 meters one-way. It is also unmarked, but well worth the effort to find. Having seen and witnessed many blank or old Haida Canoes over the last few years, we were both keen and curious to locate this one after having seen it in some tourist photos.

    “Where was it?” we pondered. Indeed, we knew the canoe was in Naikoon Provincial Park – and not too far from Tow Hill – because existing pictures made that plainly obvious. We initially thought we’d have to walk west to the end of Agate Beach but, as we discovered during a long day of hiking, that wasn’t necessary.

    After hiking the Tow Hill/Blow Hole loop and Four Corners Trail, we began returning to Masset. As we drove past Agate Beach, we spied a small pullout on the right-hand side of the road (if COMING from Masset, the pull-out will be on your left, approximately 450 meters AFTER the road to Yakan Point). There’s enough room here for two vehicles to fit rather snuggly.

    Once parked, you’ll see a small ramp and a short trail lined with clam shells. This is the trail to the “Naikoon Canoe.” It’s an easy walk, suitable for all ages, and only takes about two minutes to complete. At the trail’s terminus point, you’ll see a beautiful set-up: A number of pews and an archway, with the ancient Haida Canoe resting behind them.

    The space has obviously been established for important celebrations like weddings, and it is picture-perfect! Imagine tying the knot on a clear day: An old Haida Canoe mere feet away and Tow Hill functioning as an epic backdrop. The trickster Raven chuckles in the background or a majestic eagle flying overhead.

    The short trail obviously isn’t used for recreational hiking, but it serves an essential functional purpose. And, hey, if you’re not coming here to get married, at least you can take in a stunning photo and some history without travelling too far off the beaten path.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 280 meters (return)
    TIME: Less than 10 minutes
    TYPE: Out-and-Back
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • An Iconic Trek – Pesuta Shipwreck

    An Iconic Trek – Pesuta Shipwreck

    • Pesuta Shipwrek – the trail is a mix of beach walks, river side, and forested parts
    • The root system on the trail is a good massage to your soles (April 2021)
    • The Geiki Creek Bridge (April 2021)
    • The mouth of the Tllel River spilling to the ocean (May 2021)
    • The shipwreck has been slowly being buried in the beach (Aug 2021)

    Pesuta Shipwreck Trail Features
    Shipwreck
    East Beach access
     Sand dunes

    ABOUT

    When travelling to Haida Gwaii, one will inevitably come across images of the Pesuta Shipwreck: It’s featured in tourist publications, there are beautiful pictures of it on BC Ferries, and countless bloggers have written about it online. 

    It’s become a symbol of the Islands similar to Balance Rock or the fallen Golden Spruce. Because of that, tourists seek it out and ensure it is part of an itinerary.

    What is it about the Pesuta that draws so many? The story/context isn’t all that exciting. Basically, the Pezuta was built as a wood-hulled steam freighter during World War I and, after the war, she was sent to Seattle for “liquidation.” 

    In 1927, the Pezuta was converted into a 264-foot log barge capable of carrying an impressive 800,000 feet of logs. In December of 1928, the tugboat towing Pezuta struggled against a powerful storm in Hecate Strait; the big barge broke free and ran aground on East Beach, near the mouth of the Tlell River.

    After nearly 100 years, just the bow remains to jut out from the sand; however, what’s left is extremely photogenic and eye-catching on a number of levels.

    By the way, did you notice what we did there? Pezuta vs. Pesuta? At some point after the ship had run aground, the name got misspelled as “Pesuta” and that’s what ended up sticking. History can be funny at times.

    The Pesuta Shipwreck Trail is probably the third-most-popular hiking trail on Haida Gwaii, only behind Tow Hill and the Blowhole. At 6 kilometres one-way (the posted signage at the trailhead says 5 km, but this doesn’t seem right), we’d suggest making this hike a nice day trip so as to truly enjoy the forest, river, beach and remnants of Pesuta.

    When we hiked the route, it took about 2 hours and 35 minutes, one-way – and that was moving at a fairly leisurely pace. The trail is good for all skill levels because the route is mostly flat, with very little elevation gain.

    To access the Pesuta Shipwreck Trail, simply visit the Tlell River Day Use area adjacent to the Tlell River Bridge. Here, you’ll see a few picnic tables and signage indicating the route. There’s also a pit toilet available.

    We should also note that this site represents the start of the multi-day East Beach Trail hiking adventure. One day, when the Pesuta has completely gone back to nature, the “Pesuta Shipwreck Trail” will cease and only the East Beach Trail will remain.

    The hike out to Pesuta is pretty straightforward. After passing the pit toilet, the trail splits in two – one path leads down to the river while the other heads up into the forest. Some have suggested taking the “tree portion” one-way and the “beach/river trail back,” but this is not advised because the riverbank near the Day Use area is mostly slippery silt for at least 1.5 kilometres. Trust us when we say it’s not fun to walk on!

    Instead, follow the East Beach Trail signage (forest). The first 2 kilometres take you through a beautiful old-growth forest of Sitka Spruce, Cedar and lush, green moss.

    During Spring, it is possible to observe Fairy Slippers in the moss. Indeed, this portion of the trail is well-marked and easy to navigate. For most of it, you walk along a ridge high above the Tlell River before briefly moving inland to cross Geikie creek. 

    We’d only advise using a bit of caution when walking along the ridge because the many tree roots do have the potential to trip you up! After clearing the forest, you spend the remaining 4 kilometres walking alongside the Tlell River until it empties into the Pacific Ocean.

    From here, the Pesuta is visible in the distance, just a few hundred meters further up East Beach. On a clear day, this portion of the hike can be quite beautiful, especially as you walk past abandoned cabins and massive sand dunes. At the same time, it’s surprisingly hard on the feet!

    Once you reach the Pesuta, it’s not uncommon to spend a fair amount of time here. We visited the wreck for a good hour, examining it and taking photos before making our way back to the trailhead (we lacked the stamina to walk the remaining 80+km up East Beach!).

    The wreckage has a ghostly beauty to it: A visual memorial of humankind’s technology pitted against Mother Nature. The ship has sat here for nearly a century, getting beaten by waves and wind, and yet it’s still here – for now.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 12 kilometers (return)
    TIME: 5 hours
    TYPE: Out-and-Back
    ELEVATION GAIN: Minimal

  • Walk to Remi’s Cabin – Kwuna Point Trail

    • The back side of the cabin
    • Cabin windows view
    • The little lovely details makes this cabin memorable
    • Across the back of Remi’s cabin is the Smuggler’s Cove
    • Well-built Remi’s cabin
    • Remi’s cabin with the red door
    • The front of the cabin is a secluded beach cove
    • Rock formation
    • Fern young growth forest leads to the beach
    • Ferns, ferns, ferns!
    • Some sections require some ropes
    • The trail also opens to the rocky beach facing Graham Island
    • The trails skirts around the beach
    • The Alliford Bay section where the Kwuna Point Trail begins
    • The trail head has a commemorative tribute

    Kwuna Point Trail Features:
    Remi’s Cabin
    Private Beach Cove
    Rocky beach facing Graham Island

    ABOUT

    Kwuna Point Trail is located on Moresby Island at Alliford Bay. To find it, assuming you’re driving off the Kwuna ferry, turn LEFT onto Kwuna Point Road and drive to the end of the road. You will see a small parking lot and dock – park here. 

    Like most trails on Haida Gwaii, Kwuna Point does not have formal trailhead signage; however, it is clearly signified by the Stranraer 935 Memorial.

    The trail is essentially a loop and takes you around Kwuna Point before exiting back onto Kwuna Point Road, approximately 300 meters from the parking lot. Trail markers are sporadically placed throughout, but the trail is easy enough to follow, so there’s practically no chance of getting disoriented. 

    Above all else, what we appreciated about this short hike was the varied terrain you pass through: Lush ferns, thick moss, rocky beach and young forest of cedar and Sitka spruce. If you pass through this trail in late May or early June you’ll also get to spy many a lovely fairy slipper. While Kwuna Point Trail is mostly flat, there are a few steep sections – two of which have ropes to assist – so good footwear is recommended.

    Not far from the trail’s end point, a short side trail also leads to a small cabin – built by a grandfather for his grandson. This cabin is nestled in a protected beach cove that faces Graham Island. In low tide, the beach is a safe place to do some beach combing. You can enter and visit the cabin (there is a guestbook), but please leave it as you found it. 

    From the cabin, look across to nearby Smuggler’s Cove! We can imagine this is also a good spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and with a wet suite swimming in the summertime.

    TOTAL DISTANCE: 900 meters
    TIME: 1 hour
    TYPE: Loop
    ELEVATION GAIN: Minimal

  • Gray Bay: A True Wilderness Beach

    Gray Bay: A True Wilderness Beach

    • Gray Bay – its beach boasting the grey fine sands on the coastline
    • The seascape views are indescribable
    • Gray Bay beach in low tide reflects the blue skies on the water reflection
    • Endless beach at Gray Bay with the camping grounds along the shoreline
    • The other side of the beach shoreline
    • In low tide, you can walk on these small sand spits on the beach
    • The logging road sign leading up to the camping ground of Gray Bay
    • The deep forests opposite the beach cradle the camping grounds

    Gray Bay Features
    Fine gray sands
    RV camping grounds
    Mountain views

    ABOUT

    The Gray Bay Recreation Site is located within the Kunxalas Conservancy and is a true wilderness beach area. To access Gray Bay, you must travel approximately 25 kilometres from Sandspit: First, along Copper Bay Road; second, along the Copper Bay Mainline; third, along Spur 20; and, finally, Gray Bay Road.

    Please note that once you depart the paved Copper Bay Road you will be driving along active logging roads, so proper precautions should be taken. Nevertheless, the drive out to Gray Bay is well worth the effort.

    As you drive along the Copper Bay Mainline, you’ll eventually come upon the seasonal Copper Bay village, which is used by the Haida between April and May during the annual sockeye salmon run.

    The area features a mix of old and modern cabins, which are inhabited during the all-too-short fishing season. If you happen to visit during this time, the Copper River becomes a proverbial beehive of activity as the Haida gather their traditional food to roast on an open fire, smoke (fish) and prepare gilgii (dried fish).

    In many respects, this short period of time highlights, only too clearly, important cultural traditions and demonstrates how they’ve continued to thrive over thousands of years.

    After you leave Copper Bay, the logging road gets significantly rougher – lots of deep potholes – and so progress could be slow depending upon the vehicle type. Keep an eye out for posted signage indicating the direction towards Kunxalas and the Gray Bay Recreation Site.

    Once you reach the recreation area, you’ll observe there are 20 campsites (available on a first come-first serve basis). All are fairly spacious and offer easy access to Gray Bay beach. Picnic tables, fire pits and outhouses are also available; however, there is no potable water on-site and there is no internet service.

    In this respect, Gray Bay, because of its remoteness and limited amenities, allows you a golden opportunity to connect with nature and experience Haida Gwaii at its best. Instead of watching YouTube or texting with friends, get in tune with nature, and enjoy the supernatural forest and its interconnectivity with the nearby Pacific Ocean.

    Besides camping, the major attraction at the Gray Bay Recreation area is, obviously, Gray Bay Beach. This crescent-shaped 3km stretch of pebbly beach and compact sand is an absolute delight and is, in our opinion, one of the best beaches on Haida Gwaii.

    At low tide, one could seemingly walk for miles along the unique “wavy” gray sand, admire the delicate sea life in nearby tidal pools, beach comb, ride an ATV, kayak or enjoy a nice dip in the ocean. If hiking is more your thing, the 12km (one-way) Cumshewa Head Trail can be found at the south end of Gray Bay. Please note, though, that a lack of maintenance has resulted in this trail becoming very overgrown in recent years.

    If nothing else, do observe how Gray Bay is a microcosm of the ancient Haida philosophy that everything is connected to everything else: The ocean, taan (black bear) and forest all depend on one another. And we depend on them. If you have the time, the Secret Cove Trail is just nearby this recreation site.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 3km (one-way)
    TIME: Approximately 40 minutes
    TYPE: Beach walk
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • Welcome to the Jungle Beach!

    Welcome to the Jungle Beach!

    • Low tide waves at Jungle Beach
    • Grassy parts leading up to the beach
    • The silky beach makes a good beach walk
    • The Jungle Beach camp grounds
    • The man-made beach crow’s nest can have a nice vista view
    • Low tide view of Jungle Beach

    Jungle Beach Features
    Beach access
    Picnic & Swimming
    Family-friendly

    ABOUT

    Located approximately 20 kilometers north of Skidegate, Jungle Beach is a popular swimming destination for locals and tourists alike. Its ease of access – just off the highway – concomitant with the roughly 2 kilometers of sandy beach makes for an appealing day out.

    The beach is clearly marked with posted signage, so it’s difficult to miss. Secondary beach parking is indicated by a carved black bear, which has definitely seen better days. In the last ten years, its arms have rotted away and, well, we wouldn’t be surprised if it’s fallen over in the next five. In any event, an outhouse is also available here. Jungle Beach is accessible via a short path.

    Primary parking at Jungle Beach is located at the next pullout, just a few feet north of the black bear. Here, you’ll spy a covered shelter – perfect for picnicking – and a “fort” right near the entrance to the beach.

    The fort, which has been in place for just over 20 years, is made primarily of driftwood and beach rock and features a unique spiral staircase. Once at its zenith, enjoy great views of the beach and horizon beyond! Many an imaginative child has likened this fort to a ship at sail in the sea!

    At low tide, you could seemingly walk for miles along Jungle Beach before hitting the ocean for a cool swim. The beach, with its silky smooth sand, is perfect for a little outdoor therapy: Stroll with a loved one, explore the tidal pools, or take out the croquet balls and enjoy a game with the family! As the day winds down, relax on the beach and listen to the waves lapping at the shore.

    But, you may be wondering, why “Jungle Beach”? Apparently, an early owner of the Premier Hotel bestowed the “Jungle Beach” name upon this place. How’d that come about?

    The generally accepted story is that each winter, Haida Gwaii’s vicious storms cast such a mass of logs upon the beach’s entrance that it reminded folks of a “jungle.” A more recent theory – and one that sounds far more appealing – is that the dark waters of Jungle Creek and the forest immediately behind Jungle Beach serve as inspiration for the name.

    Indeed, if you take a walk in the forest directly across the road from the carved black bear (start of the Drain Lake Trail), you’ll see what we mean!

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: The beach is approximately 2km in length
    TIME: 40 minutes
    TYPE: Beach walk
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • A Rich Beach – Kagan Bay Beach Trail

    A Rich Beach – Kagan Bay Beach Trail

    • The camp sites – Kagan Bay Beach Trail
    • Pebbles and rocks on the beach makes a beach walk interesting
    • Top view of the beach trail
    • Mists over calm waters
    • The other side of the beach trail going towards the “Beach Access”

    Kagan Bay Beach Trail
    Oysters on the shore
    Camping grounds with fire pits
    Water activities

    ABOUT

    Located west of Daajing Giids, and approximately 3 kilometres along the Honna Forest Service road, is the Kagan Bay Beach Trail. The Kagan Bay Beach recreational site offers six user-maintained campsites, all of which face the beach.

    Each site features a picnic table and fire ring (perfect for roasting hotdogs or marshmallows!), and there is a single – very basic – outhouse meant to service all 6 sites.

    At low tide, it’s not uncommon to see Great Blue Herons on the pebbly beach, or locals harvesting luscious bivalves like oysters and clams. The area is ideal for kayakers and those looking to get out into nature, but not too far into the wild. Right across the beach on any of the campsites, there was a supposed oyster farm that used to operate in the area. It has now since been discontinued, but the chances of anyone finding oysters are not uncommon.

    Of interest to hikers and beachcombers, the Haida Gwaii Trails Strategy identifies this area as the informal “Kagan Bay Beach Trail.” This rough, unmaintained route basically follows the shoreline and acts primarily as a link to the six campsites.

    In that regard, we wouldn’t really call it a recreational trail – it’s more functional – but one could walk beyond the campsites and explore more of the rugged coastal terrain if they so wished. In fact, on a low tide, if you’re feeling really adventurous, it is possible to hike around the point (the official “end” of the Kagan Beach Trail) for another 770 meters and link up to Tarundl.

    We should note that the Kagan Bay Recreation Area basically ends at the Kagan Log Sort. When you arrive at this part of the road, you will see a sign indicating the route for “Public Beach Access.” It is not advisable to drive beyond the Sort without a 4×4 vehicle.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE : 2.7 kilometres (return)
    TIME: 1 hour
    TYPE: Out and back
    ELEVATION GAIN: None

  • Scenic Stroll – Haydn Turner Beach Trail

    Scenic Stroll – Haydn Turner Beach Trail

    • The Haydn Turner Beach trail shale rock formation makes for some picturesque terrain
    • The trail head entrance going into the beach trail
    • The other side of the beach trail looping back to the camp grounds
    • One of the many spider trails along the beach
    • Magical misty day makes the trail mystical
    • On the beach trail
    • The other entrance of the trail loop – near the campgrounds
    • A bit of forest walk
    • The Crabapple Creek spilling into the sea
    • Interesting tree roots in the loop
    • The road towards the camping grounds

    HAYDN TURNER BEACH TRAIL
    Views of Daajing Giids
    Municipal Cemetery
    Beach combing

    Note: If camping in the area, please respect your surroundings and place garbage in the appropriate receptacle and extinguish all campfires!

    ABOUT

    The Haydn Turner Beach Trail is located at the end of Oceanview Drive, towards the western end of Daajing Giids. Once at the terminus of Oceanview Drive, you’ll spy Haydn Turner campground signage at the head of a narrow road.

    Following this road will bring you into the campground and, at its end, the village cemetery. The beach trail is accessible at a few points here – all of which are clearly denoted with “BEACH TRAIL” markers.

    While the trail is designed to be a major feature of Haydn Turner Campground and its guests, this easy stroll along the pebbly beach is typically enjoyed by locals as well. It’s not unusual to see people walking their dogs here.

    A mix of course sand and black shale rock, the Haydn Turner Beach Trail packs a varied terrain in its short 1 kilometer. On the one hand, you’re treated to beautiful views of nearby Sleeping Beauty Mountain; on the other hand, Bearskin Bay and Skidegate Inlet beckon and call.

    When the tide is low, the sandy beach is visible; however, we would not advise walking down here because the sand is very “sinky” and could get you in some trouble rather quickly. Instead, if you must venture beyond the rocky shore, do so on a kayak as this place represents a popular jumping-off point for those keen to get onto the water.

    Haydn Turner, as a campground, features 8 sheltered RV sites and 2 walk-in tent sites, the latter of which hug the pebbly shores. Picnic tables, fire pits, and a couple of pit toilets are also available. We should note that the campsite basically sits at the doorstep of Daajing Giids cemetery while the beach trail loops around it (with a couple of small “spider trails” hugging the woods).

    Some may find this unsettling while still others might find a sense of peace and calm – especially if you happen to be walking the beach during a misty afternoon.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 1 Kilometer
    TIME: 20 Minutes
    TYPE: Loop
    ELEVATION GAIN: None