Vancouver Island Kayaking

Vancouver Island Mountain Biking

Vancouver Island hides a mountain biking paradise few outsiders expect – from coastal forests to alpine plateaus, its trail network offers thrills for every rider. Locals whisper about an adrenaline-fueled secret line hidden among the cedars that even seasoned riders hesitate to reveal. (We’ll save that juicy trail for later – keep pedaling!) What we can tell you now is this: the Island has 1,000+ km of singletrack, from buttery flow trails to gnarly double-black chutes . Each riding area on “the Island” has its own vibe – one valley’s jumps and berms, another’s rugged rock gardens – so the big adventure is knowing where to go. Read on for a region-by-region guide to the key trails, first-hand rider advice on what makes them special, plus safety and stewardship tips to make your trip safe and fun.

Where to Ride: Vancouver Island’s Regions

North Island (Campbell River & Mt. Washington): In the north, Campbell River is your gateway. The Snowden Demonstration Forest near town boasts over 100 km of trails through lush coastal rainforest . Think smooth, flowy singletrack one moment and technical slabby drops the next. One seasoned rider notes that Snowden’s mossy trails are best enjoyed on a hardtail with a dropper post– though full-suspension enduro bikes cruise these lines too. Nearby Beaver Lodge Lands offers family-friendly loops and gentle climbs, while deeper into Strathcona Park the Forbidden Plateau (Mt. Washington) region delivers high-alpine dh classics: steep shuttle runs dropping to the ocean. (The Pt. at Nymph Falls doubles as a scenic bike-swim spot.)
Caution: Forbidden Plateau is largely unsanctioned and has active logging, so watch for truck traffic and trail warnings . In fact, riders should always obey posted closures and stay on open trails.

Comox Valley / Cumberland: Nestled west of Campbell River, the Comox Valley (Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland) is often called the “unofficial epicentre of Island riding” . From downtown Cumberland you can pedal straight onto 226 km of legendary singletrack . The trails here run the gamut: Blue Collar and New Vanilla are fast, bermed flow trails; Thirsty Beaver has wood features; Queso Grande is a long technical climb-and-descent . Jump enthusiasts flock to Six Pack (a freeride park with gap jumps), while up in the hills you’ll find steep rocky chutes. A rider praises Cumberland’s clear signage and trail maps – it’s surprisingly easy to navigate solo and find your way to trails. Difficulty: Comox/Cumberland has something for everyone, but shines for intermediate-to-expert riders. Of 226 trails, most are green/intermediate (102) or difficult (93), with a few black-diamond lines (14 extra-difficult) . For after-ride brews and gear, Cumberland village and nearby Courtenay have bike shops and cafes right on the trail grid, so you can wash your bike (there’s even a bike wash at the Mt. Tzouhalem trailhead!) and grab a local beer within minutes of finishing.

Nanaimo / Mt. Benson & Central Island: Just south of Courtenay, the Nanaimo area is another hub. It boasts 393 trails ranging from beginner cruises to advanced jumps . Flow-seekers head for Westwood Lake’s Finer China trail – a wide, swoopy singletrack through dry forests – or the Stevie Smith bike park (pump tracks and freeride features on Mt. Benson) . Mt. Benson also offers steep black trails like Sexy Flanders. Farther inland, the Cowichan Valley (near Duncan) has 170 trails on Mount Prevost, Tzouhalem, Maple Mountain and Cobble Hill . Mount Prevost is known for double-black pro lines, so only attempt it if you’re fearless . By contrast, Cobble Hill has gentler beginner-to-intermediate trails (perfect for learning) . Don’t miss Mt. Tzouhalem’s Double D downhill – a stoked local says it’s a must-ride drop. Cowichan’s trails reward the uphill grunt with rocky descents and bay views; afterward grab some local craft cider or tour the vineyards!

Greater Victoria / Langford & Capital Region: The south end around Victoria is built-up but the riding is still great. Langford’s parks (Jubilee and Mt. Finlayson) are a gravity-lover’s playground: you’ll find jumps, steep berms and a famous bike park named for Jordie Lunn . Dozens of downhill runs snake off these hills. Victoria proper has Hartland MTB Park on the Galloping Goose (a dense network of tech XC trails) and the new Bear Mountain trails on Mt. Doug Road. If you’re after the island’s hardest lines, Bear Mountain’s Beer Run (single-black, steep rock rolls) and No Malarkey are legendary – definitely pad up for these!. (Local tip: these trails were built by a community effort and are kept up via volunteer trail days.) Both Langford and Victoria are year-round rideable – snow is rare here – but plan for mud after heavy rains. Seasonal campgrounds and ferries make it easy to explore the whole south Island on a multi-day road/mountain trip.

Parksville/Qualicum & Sooke (Mid-Island Coasts): On the east-central coast, Parksville/Qualicum Beach is known for the Hammerfest trail network. Here green cruisers sit alongside double-black jump lines: one tourism page says Parksville offers “big adventure… from mellow greens to double-black jump lines”. Climbing rewards you with ocean vistas over the Strait of Georgia; descending takes you through ferny second-growth woods. Nearby Mt. Arrowsmith (Parksville) has more cross-country and gravity trails under development. On the west coast, Sooke surprises many visitors. With the Pacific at your back and coastal rainforests around, it rarely snows in winter, so riders enjoy year-round loops . Trails here (like Harbourview) are loamy and rooty; locals describe Sooke’s “craggy, lush west coast” vibe . Harbourview in particular is a famous intermediate cruise used to introduce beginners to Island riding . Beyond that, expect tight singletrack and some steep climbs. Both Parksville and Sooke have tight-knit volunteer clubs (e.g. SnowMAD in Qualicum, Sooke Saddle Club) – keep an eye out for community workdays if you visit!

Rider Tips & Safety on Island Trails

Know the Trail & Conditions: Plan your route using maps or apps (Trailforks, Google Maps) and heed local warnings . Many remote trails have poor cell coverage, so download offline maps. Check weather: Island winters are wet, making rooty trails slippery. If trails are too muddy or waterlogged, skip them – riding on soft ground causes erosion . (Riders often joke that in some regions, “trails close when muddy” to prevent damage.) If it’s very wet, try a gravel path or downhill park instead.
Gear Up Right: A quality mountain bike is a must. For flow and XC terrain, a hardtail or short-travel trail bike can soar, but for rocky descents and big drops, full-suspension (120–150 mm+ travel) with good tires is safer. One guide even recommends a hardtail with a dropper post for Campbell River’s Snowden forest – the dropper helps on those rocky climbs. Always carry essentials: helmet (and knee pads on technical rides), repair kit (multi-tool, pump, spare tube), first-aid, food and water. The Island has many streams and lakes, but packing enough water is wise on longer rides. In summer, sunscreen and bug spray are also must-haves.
Helmets & Safety: Wear a helmet at all times . Consider gloves and glasses too. If you attempt very steep or jump trails (like Bear Mountain’s black runs), full-face helmets and body armor are smart. Ride within your skill level – for instance, locals say Bear Mountain’s Beer Run “will have you stop and look at each feature” on your first lap . On downhill-only trails, heed signage and yield uphill riders.
Trail Etiquette: Vancouver Island trails see hikers, bikers, and horses. Follow the golden rules: Stay on marked trails, don’t take shortcuts, and pack out all trash . Never cut switchbacks or ride around obstacles – that widens trails and destroys habitat. When encountering others, use courtesy: bikers yield to hikers and horses, unless signs say bike-only . Always let uphill riders go first and announce yourself when passing. If you meet a horse, dismount and communicate calmly (horses are easily spooked) . Be especially careful on blind corners and narrow singletrack. Remember, one littering or trespass incident can close a trail for everyone – leave no trace.
Wildlife: Black bears and cougars inhabit Island forests . They’re usually shy, but it’s wise to stay alert. Making noise on remote trails can deter surprises. Carry bear spray on backcountry rides and know how to use it (don’t keep it deep in your pack). If you see wildlife, give it space and do not feed or approach. Trail closures sometimes occur during cougar/habitat management events – obey them.

Trail Stewardship & Support

Mountain bikers on Vancouver Island are a community, and riders often give back. Clubs and volunteers build and maintain most trails here. Actionable tips from riders:
Volunteer or Donate: Join a local trail association or club (e.g. Cumberland’s UROC, Cowichan Trails, SnowMAD, Sooke Saddle Club). Many groups run work parties to fix drainage, build jumps or re-open eroded sections. Donating via Trailforks’ Trail Karma or directly to clubs is encouraged. One MountainBikingBC PSA notes that “thousands of hours” of volunteer effort keep our trails open . If you love a trail, volunteer to help – even a few hours a year makes a difference.
Respect Volunteer Labor: Remember that favorite berm or feature likely took massive effort by unpaid builders. If you notice damage (fallen trees, washed-out sections), report it on Trailforks or to the club so they can fix it. And honor trail closures – riding a closed trail can undermine trust with land managers.
Leave it Better: Packing out trash is a given, but some riders take it further: wiping down benches after rain, or even shoveling leaves from drainage dips to prevent washouts. These small acts show pride and encourage others. Avoid riding muddy trails (or go gentle) to prevent washboarding. As one rider put it, if trails are muddy, “help maintain or rebuild, like some British builders” – not kill the trail with erosion . Encourage Others: Tell your friends about Island trails, but also remind them of proper etiquette. Post positive trip reports – the tourism and club websites value testimonials. Supporting local bike shops and shuttle services helps the mountain biking economy, which in turn raises lobby power for more trail access.
By following these tips and giving back a little, each rider helps ensure Vancouver Island’s trails stay open and epic for everyone.

Vancouver Island may not wear “mountain biking capital” on its sleeve, but the trails speak for themselves. From the dense cedar jungles of Campbell River to the bench-cut jumps of Cumberland, from ocean-view climbs in Parksville to wild west-coast loops in Sooke, the adventure never stops. Gear up smartly (helmet, repair kit, hydration), ride respectfully (yield, don’t litter, avoid mud), and soak in the unique Island scenery. Then head home to tell the tale – or better yet, share a photo with #MTBBC to inspire others. Every ride on these trails is a story waiting to unfold. Get out there, support the trail crews, and leave the Island better than you found it. The next secret turn is just a pedal-stroke away – go find it.

Kayaking Common Questions and Answers

What is the meaning of kayaking?

Where did kayaking originate?

What is the purpose of kayaking?

Where is kayaking most popular on Vancouver Island?

Where can I learn to kayak on Vancouver Island?

Can kayaking be dangerous on Vancouver Island?

Is kayaking with kids safe?

Is kayaking safe when pregnant?

What is the best time for kayaking on Vancouver Island?

What equipment do you need for kayaking?

Is it OK to kayak in the rain?

Vanislander / Activities / Kayaking

Ucluelet Kayaking

Imagine gliding across the serene waters of Ucluelet Inlet, enveloped by dense forests, with eagles soaring overhead and sea lions playfully breaking the surface nearby. Welcome to kayaking in Ucluelet—a breathtaking adventure on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast that blends tranquility with wild beauty. Whether you’re new to paddling or a seasoned kayaker, this inlet offers an unforgettable escape into nature, complete with historic sites and abundant wildlife.

This guide is your roadmap to the perfect Ucluelet Inlet kayaking trip. From the best launch points and scenic highlights to safety tips and local insights, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore hidden coves, spot bears along the shore, and paddle through a landscape steeped in coastal charm—your next adventure awaits!

pender islands kayaking

Ready to paddle through paradise? The Pender Islands, nestled in British Columbia’s Gulf Islands, offer calm bays, rugged coastlines, and a rich history that make them a kayaker’s dream destination. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the gentle waters of Port Browning or an experienced paddler taking on a full circumnavigation of North or South Pender, this guide has you covered. Dive into the best launch sites, camping options, essential safety tips, and even a glimpse into the islands’ fascinating past. Ready to plan your kayaking trip to Pender Islands? Let’s get started!

Kayaking Denman and Hornby Islands

Ready to paddle through paradise? Denman and Hornby Islands, nestled in British Columbia’s Gulf Islands, are kayaking hotspots bursting with natural beauty and artistic vibes. From white sand beaches and old-growth forests to wildlife like eagles and seals, these islands offer unforgettable adventures for novice and seasoned paddlers alike. Whether you’re exploring Sandy Island’s bird-filled shores or gliding past Tribune Bay’s warm waters, this guide has everything you need to plan your kayaking trip. Read on for detailed routes, launch sites, camping options, and insider tips to make your visit to Denman and Hornby Islands a splash!

Beaver Harbour (Fort Rupert) kayaking

Discover the hidden gem of Beaver Harbour, a kayaking paradise just east of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island. With its calm waters, stunning islands, and rich history dating back to Fort Rupert’s founding in 1849, this destination offers an unforgettable paddling adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned kayaker, Beaver Harbour’s scenic routes, wildlife encounters, and cultural stories await. Plan your trip with this ultimate guide to kayaking in Beaver Harbour, complete with routes, safety tips, and local insights.

Cortes Island Kayaking

Cortes Island is a unique paddling destination that offers a mix of sheltered bays, dynamic open water, scenic coastal views, and rich natural history. This guide covers every detail—from geographic location and access routes to specific paddling conditions, safety tips, and local highlights—so you can plan your Cortes Island kayaking adventure with confidence.

Quadra Island Kayaking

Quadra Island sits at the very edge of the Strait of Georgia where the large expanse of water ends and the Discovery Islands begin. Known for its dramatic tidal currents, sheltered inlets, diverse camping opportunities, and rich historical context, Quadra Island is a paddler’s paradise. This guide provides every detail—from the island’s history and geography to in-depth descriptions of its individual kayaking regions—so that both novice and advanced paddlers can plan an unforgettable expedition.

Marble River Canyon Kayaking

Marble River Canyon is one of Vancouver Island’s hidden treasures for kayakers—a rugged waterway defined by dramatic rock formations, secluded caves, and serene still waters. Nestled on the east side of the island near Quatsino and Coal Harbour, this canyon offers an unforgettable mix of white-water thrills, scenic tranquility, and rich natural history. In this guide, every detail—from access routes to on-water challenges—is laid out to help you plan a safe and exhilarating adventure.

Nuchatlitz and Esperanza lnlets Kayaking

Nestled on the rugged northwest coast of Vancouver Island, Kyuquot Sound is a hidden gem for adventurous kayakers seeking an unforgettable escape into nature. This remote and pristine destination, part of the traditional territory of the Kyuquot/Cheklesahht First Nation, offers a rare blend of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and deep cultural heritage. Paddle through secluded coves, navigate ancient forests, and immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythm of waves lapping against your kayak. As you explore this British Columbia wilderness, you’ll encounter playful sea otters, majestic whales, and soaring eagles, all while breathing in the scent of cedar and salt air. Kyuquot Sound isn’t just a kayaking destination—it’s a journey into one of Vancouver Island’s most untouched landscapes, where every stroke of the paddle connects you to the land’s rich history and vibrant ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, Kyuquot Sound promises a remote kayaking adventure that’s as awe-inspiring as it is respectful of the environment and local communities.

Kayaking in Kyuquot Sound

ucked away on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island, Kyuquot Sound beckons kayaking adventurers with its promise of solitude and stunning natural beauty. This remote coastal paradise, reachable by a picturesque drive from Campbell River or a water taxi ride, unfolds as a labyrinth of serene channels, rugged headlands, and dense, emerald forests. For paddlers, it’s a rare opportunity to glide through one of British Columbia’s most pristine and unspoiled wilderness areas.

Clayoquot Sound Kayaking

Welcoming kayakers from everywhere, Clayoquot Sound is a wild network of offshore islands, including alpine valleys, forests, rivers, lakes, and laidback beach towns. Rocky oceanfront coastlines with endangered and rare species living there have made this place a popular destination for paddlers who are not only satisfied by paddling and seek to experience other adventures.

Nitinat Triangle Kayaking and Canoeing

Nitinat Triangle provides an excellent opportunity for those fearless paddlers that lets them set their adventure-thirsty souls on fire. Schedule your trip to Nitinat Triangle when you have 4 or 5 days free. The triangle features campsite facilities and magnetic vies of the land.

Broken Group Islands Kayaking and Canoeing

Broken Group Islands is one of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve's three main recreational components, which offers paddlers undeniable opportunities to spend time on the water. While you are camping in the wilderness, you may be given the pleasure of watching lagoons, sandbars, blowholes, arches and secluded anchorages.

Barkley Sound Kayaking

Those who are planning to engage in the adventure of paddling in Barkley Sound would better schedule their visit for July-August and reserve their seats beforehand. During cold months do not forget to bring rain gear. Besides kayaking, other activities are available in Barkley's good area to be fed on by your souls.

Shawnigan Lake Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are a paddling enthusiast and happen to visit Vancouver Island during summer times, put Shawnigan Lake on top of your list. The lake is enclosed with fabulous parks in which you are provided with tons of recreational activities. Lakeside cabins, several beaches and a spectacular shoreline make Shawnigan Lake a fantastic hot spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Pacheedaht Beach Kayaking

If you want to make every moment on Vancouver Island worthwhile, remember to plan for a kayaking adventure on the waters next to Pacheedaht Beach. The San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve is the habitat for a variety of wildlife worthy of visiting. In addition to paddling, visitors can enjoy themselves doing other outdoor activities in the region.

Port Renfrew Kayaking

Although Port Renfrew is primarily used for forestry and fishing, it is ideal for kayaking. The mountainous range, oceanic weather, and Mediterranean rainfall patterns make Port Renfrew one of the best locations for family holidays and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for kayaking. One of the merits of kayaking in these waters is the opportunity to see wildlife and birdlife on board.

Sooke Kayaking

You would get lost among the reasons why you should visit Sooke. As an ocean-side village, Sooke is full of natural beauties in which you can enjoy several outdoor activities. Waters that feature Sooke are idealistic for paddling enthusiasts to kayak. Most importantly, Sooke is the starting point of the exciting journey of the West Coast Trail.

Jordan River Kayaking

For those who seek sea paddling, the Jordan River might be a potential destination to satisfy their desires for kayaking. Another merit of visiting Jordan River is that it is surrounded by some recreational sites which guarantee your stay to be adventurous. Camping areas around the Jordan River facilitate a long kayaking experience.

Sidney Kayaking

Views of Olympic and Cascade Mountain ranges, besides appealing sea excursions, make Sidney a paradise for tourists and suitable for kayaking. Sidney's moderate Mediterranean climate with relatively low rainfall is the reason behind its popularity among paddling enthusiasts. Also, recreational sites around Sidney have made it an ideal place to make beautiful memories while exploring the incredible opportunities provided for you.

Victoria Kayaking and Canoeing

Victoria offers endless kayaking and canoeing opportunities, whether you have the expertise or not. It is the gateway to world-class paddling in which various wildlife and birdlife exist. But the adventure doesn't stop there; you can do any activity you imagine, and consequently, Victoria is the paradise of paddles for those who enjoy having more exciting excursions besides kayaking and canoeing.

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are trying to get away from your lethal daily routine and your adventure flow has been stopped, why don't you plan a trip to the only multi-functional port city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo? An assemblage of several distinguished bodies of water has made Nanaimo one of the best paddling locations in the world. You are provided with tons of other activities on both land and the sea.

Ladysmith Kayaking

Exceptional opportunities to explore the water while enjoying the scenic view of a city with a hundred years of history and culture preserved within the realms of Ladysmith. as an ideal kayaking destination, Ladysmith has several offerings to make your stay even more joyful. So, pack your bags and hit the road to this beautiful old city.

Zeballos Kayaking and Canoeing

Although the city is known for its gold mining, Zeballos is a fantastic destination for paddling activities. Great hiking trail within the rainforest in which various wildlife is observable. Kayakers and canoeing followers may have the chance to explore a place with several underground caves and spelunking places. Not to mention that other outdoor activities can add to your joy in Zeballos.

Fair Harbour Kayaking

Give rewards to yourself for working hard all week and plan to visit Fair Harbour to kill kayaking opportunities. Fair Harbour is an oceanic kayaking zone with all the necessary equipment to surf the water. Besides, you can find great recreational locations around and check all the activities on your to-do list.

Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park Kayaking and Canoeing

To be a storyteller of paddling adventures, do not leave out Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park. This stunning historical park leaves you speechless about its undeniable opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Bligh Island Marine Provincial Park is known for its coastal forests and marine ecosystems, in which you are provided with several unique outdoor activities.

Nootka Sound Kayaking and Canoeing

If paddling is frightening for you, make it normal while you are in Nootka Sound. It s worthy of mentioning that while paddling in the waters of Nootka Sound, you are given the pleasure of observing the birth point of BC, Yuquot. Nootka Sound is known as the paradise of the paddlers, and its island provides an extraordinary situation in which an astonishing adventure is waiting to be embraced.

Gold River Kayaking and Canoeing

Gold River is an excellent destination for paddling by all means. There are ample reasons which can trigger you to go kayaking and canoeing in this river. Its crystal clear water allows you sea the beauties lied underneath the surface. Besides, kayakers and canoeists can have fun doing other activities along with paddling in the water.

Telegraph Cove Kayaking

As another significant paradise for paddling, kayaker and canoeists can lose themselves enjoying every single moment while they are on board. Besides the great adventure of surfing the water, paddlers can do other water activities and make their stay even more memorable. So, if you are a paddling freak, don't forget to prioritize Telegraph Cove.

Port McNeill Kayaking and Canoeing

Let your spirits feed on the adventure provided for you in Port McNeill. One of the best places for paddlers, Port McNeill, has a sheltered harbour and fabulous waterways suitable for kayaking and canoeing. This place is the gateway to real adventure in which you can experience every kind of vigorous activity both on land and at sea.

Port Hardy Kayaking and Canoeing

Looking for a place to make your kayaking adventure a safer experience? Check out Port Hardy and its protected waters and embrace the undeniable opportunities for a journey on board. Kayakers and canoers may have the chance to explore spectacular sightseeing and strange fishing spots and campsites.