Hike Haida Gwaii

Tag: things to do in haida gwaii

  • Haida Gwaii’s Wooden Madonna – St. Mary’s Spring Trail

    Haida Gwaii’s Wooden Madonna – St. Mary’s Spring Trail

    • St. Mary’s Spring wood carving greets you at the trail head
    • The very green moss covered escarpments are quite the sights!
    • Up is the way to go on this trail
    • The trees can tell you how high you are at
    • At sunset
    • A closer look at St. Mary

    St. Mary’s Spring Trail Features
    The fresh water spring
    Escarpment trail

    ABOUT

    Unlike most places on Haida Gwaii, St. Mary’s Spring Trail is quite young in terms of its history. At the beginning of the 20th century, this area was known as “Duncan’s Well,” named after an early homesteader. 

    It is said that travellers used to stop and re-hydrate their horses at the small well. Beginning in the early 1920s, however, Annie Richardson took it upon herself to name the spring after one she’d known in England – St. Mary’s. The wooden carving that is most associated with this spot was carved a few decades later.

    Time has not been kind to Haida Gwaii’s wooden saint. Now, when you visit St. Mary along Highway 16, she looks a bit tired and weathered. Her cloak is starting to decay and both arms have rotted away. 

    It’s only time before old St. Mary is returned to the earth from which she sprang. It’s sad but, in a way, is reflective of Haida Gwaii: When poles are carved, or houses made, they’re fresh and vibrant.

    They give life; however, with the passage of time they, too, grow tired and eventually return to Mother Earth. Such a cycle is actually pretty beautiful if you think about it.

    Despite having seen better days, St. Mary’s Spring is still quite attractive. People will visit, lay gifts at Madonna’s feet and drink from the freshwater well nearby. Signage beside St. Mary suggests that those who “Drink of these waters [. . .] will always return to the islands.” It’s a pleasant contemporary legend, though we would note that it’s “drink at your own risk” because the water is untreated and there’s a written notice stating as such.

    You will also notice a trail to the left of St. Mary. This is the “St. Mary Spring escarpment trail,” so it is fairly steep (with an elevation gain of approximately 40 meters at its zenith), and goes towards Lawn Hill. The trail markers are scant and poorly done, but the trail itself is easy to follow. As you climb the escarpment, you will encounter dense forest, thick mosses (home to fairy slippers in Spring), ferns and plenty of deadfalls. 

    The trail is single-track and narrow. Parts of it are perilously close to the edge and one misstep could result in significant injury. An old blog write-up indicated nice views of Hecate Straight could be had from the trail but, while that might’ve been true at one time, it’s not the case any longer.

    Of course, the trail is not the primary attraction; it is the wooden carving. If you visit, we’d suggest posing for a photo beside St. Mary and then admiring the black basalt rock formations across the road.

    They hint at some old geologic activity! And, hey, you can also get some nice views of Hecate Strait 😉

    DIFFICULTY: Moderate
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 3 kilometres (return)
    TIME: 2 hours
    TYPE: Out-and-Back
    ELEVATION GAIN: 40 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

  • 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

  • Explore Kagan Bay via Tarundl Creek

    Explore Kagan Bay via Tarundl Creek

    • Tarundl Creek passing by the flat meadows (Jan 2023)
    • Mouth towards Kagan Bay (Jan 2023)
    • The trail head of the Tarundle Loops
    • The fern filled forest is part of the trail
    • The small trail path in the forest
    • The Flood Plains greet you after the forest parts
    • Tarundl Creek flood plains
    • Sunset on the flood plains
    • Tree along the creek
    • Tarundle Creek
      Tarundle Creek (Low Tide) Jan 2021
    • Dead falls and moss along the trail
    • Tarundle Creek calm in low tide
    • Coming out of the forest back into the Honna Road
    • The trail sign showing the trail terminates to Honna Road

    Tarundl Creek Trail Features
    Access to the Flood Plains
    Near Kagan Bay Recreation Site
    Three Trail loops to explore

    ABOUT

    Tarundl Creek is part of the bigger Kagan Bay Recreation Site. Located west of Daajing Giids (less than 10 minutes by car), and along the Honna Service road, the Kagan Bay Recreation Site offers a host of activities for all members of the family to enjoy. The site has everything whether you want to go fishing, kayaking, hiking, or camping. Indeed, the rugged recreation area, which has Sleeping Beauty as a backdrop, offers us a reprieve from the hurly-burly of daily life while concomitantly providing an opportunity to better appreciate nature.

    As you drive along the Honna Service road, you will come upon the Kagan Bay Day Use Area at about the 2 kilometre mark. The site features a picnic table, fire ring and beach access. At low tide, one could walk quite a distance onto the beach; however, we find it a little too “sinky” for our liking.

    For us, the big attraction of the day-use area is the Tarundl Creek Trail. Of the local village trails, this one is by far the easiest – but that’s not to suggest it’s stale by any means. Clocking in at 1.5 kilometres in length, the trail takes you through the lush rainforest and rich floodplain.

    In this respect, it allows one to see the unique interplay between forest and ocean and how those two systems depend upon one another. Indeed, it is little wonder higher education societies often use Tarundl as a learning ground in the Fall when salmon are spawning and the bears are gathering nutrients for winter: Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid.

    That said, the yellow markers along Tarundl Creek Trail can be challenging to find at times. As you start out on the trail, you will follow an old skid road, which will lead onto the floodplain. Once here, keep to the right and you will see the path returning to the forest (of course, at low tide, take some time to explore the plain – it’s lovely).

    Once back in the forest, you will see a Y on the trail. We recommend going to the LEFT for a richer and far more rewarding hike; otherwise, if you take the path on the right, your hike will end in short order – less than 10 minutes – and you’ll quickly find yourself back on the Honna Road.

    While the Village of Daajing Giids identifies the Tarundl Creek Trail as a loop trail, it is more appropriately described as an out-and-back route because the start and end points are completely different points; however, we suppose you could call this a “loop” if you follow the Honna Road back to
    the Kagan Bay Day Use Area.

    DIFFICULTY: Easy
    TOTAL DISTANCE: 1.5 kilometers (one-way)
    TIME: 30 minutes
    TYPE: Out-and-Back
    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

  • A Birdwatcher’s Delight – Stroll the Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail

    A Birdwatcher’s Delight – Stroll the Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail

    • Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail
      Part of the trail
    • Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail
      Sandhill cranes in the marsh grass
    • Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail
      One of the watching towers along the trail
    • Delkatla Nature Sanctuary Trail
      Spilling in from the Masset Inlet

    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

  • A Bird-Watching Destination – The Simpson Tower Trail

    A Bird-Watching Destination – The Simpson Tower Trail

    • One of the bird towers on the trail
    • The trailhead signage for Simpson Tower Trail
    • The crude map on the Simpson Tower Trail
    • A sneak preview to the Delkatla trail

    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