Serene, sparsely populated and unexpectedly picturesque, the North Island is all about it and far away from the bustling city life. Located right along the scenic Pacific Northwest is the gorgeous Vancouver North Island and off its southwest is the charming mainland of British Columbia. Because the island has a temperate climate year-round, it is home to acres of lush wilderness with many wildlife habitats. Visitors can expect some magnificent sightseeing, a plenty of outdoor activity opportunities and enjoyable wildlife watching experience here. Plus, the scenic parks and beaches here offer an ample of hiking, surfing and fishing opportunities for guests of all ages. Whether you are here to take a scenic trail through the majestic wilderness or to enjoy the serene coastal waters on a kayaking trail, you will surely love the beauty of the pristine North Island regions.

Hiking

Exploring the remote North Island can be done brilliantly through a hiking tour. Step further beyond to discover the West Coast wilderness that offers remarkably verdant forest with huge trees, native flora and fauna. Discover the Island’s magnificent beauty through a self-paced tour or a guided tour. Outdoor touring options include hiking, wildlife sighting, caving and kayaking tours. You can take a challenging day hike at the Raft Cover Provincial Park or head to the beach area for a leisurely hike. The Cathedral Grove trail offers an enjoyable hiking experience through an old forest boasting giant trees. If interested, ask your tour operator for a fishing tour clubbed with your day time hiking too. After all, the abundant lakes and streams in North Island offer awesome fishing opportunity for all anglers.

Whale watching expeditions

The jagged Pacific coastal waters in North Island with warm currents make it favorable for giant marine mammals to breed and grow. Enjoy a whale watching tour in the eastern coast’s whale-rich waters while visiting this island. The most popular tours are at the Telegraph Cove, where you will find private and group tour options to watch those fascinating sea lions, Minke whales, killer whales and harbor seals. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars in particular. Guided tours for whale watching to Telegraph Cove often embark from Port Hardy, Port McNeill and the Alert Bay.

Wildlife and bear sighting

While whale watching always top everyone’s wish list, North Island bear sighting is also every visitor’s favorite. Guided boat tours with an estuary tour plus an overland excursion will give you an insight into the wildlife habitats of the Great Bear Rainforest. Watch those furry grizzlies in their natural habitats. The peak season for bear sighting is from May through October. Tours start from the Northern Vancouver Island ports to the mainland’s grizzly bear habitats.

Exploring aboriginal culture

The North Island area was once home to native Aborigines of Canada. Explore the Aboriginal history and culture while enjoying some outstanding recreational opportunities. Visit the Alert Bay to see the historic village and the First Nation and pioneer culture. This internationally renowned U’mista Cultural Centre features the world’s tallest totem pole and the Alert Bay Library and Museum featuring hundreds of exhibits and artifacts. Plus, the short hiking trail along the town’s harbor seawall will offer you some whale sighting opportunities.

Skiing

Although the warm Pacific Ocean currents give the island a mild climate, both Mount Washington and Mount Cain receive fantastic powder snow throughout the winter. That makes this region a wildly exciting snow resort especially for skiers. For years, this area is voted as one of the nation’s best ski hills in Canada. Expect to enjoy a low-key and family-friendly skiing holiday here from December to April.