Nestled just east of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, Beaver Harbour is a kayaker’s dream. This serene spot, once home to Fort Rupert built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1849, blends natural beauty with a fascinating past. The Hudson’s Bay Company came here after coal was discovered, but mining flopped, and the miners moved to Nanaimo. Today, a small community of Native and non-Native folks lives here, rooted in that history. With 177 cm (70 inches) of annual rain—twice what Nanaimo gets—most falls in winter, leaving summer perfect for paddling. If it’s too windy to kayak, try the 7-km (4.3-mi) Tex Lyon trail to Dillon Point, a fun hike with a picnic site at the end and Basket Eaters’ Cove halfway—named after a family’s tall tale of clams eating through their baskets!
Planning your hike on Vancouver Island's West Coast Trail (WCT) requires careful consideration of seasonal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Below is a detailed overview of the optimal times to visit, along with key factors to consider:
Month |
Weather Conditions |
Trail Accessibility |
Considerations |
---|---|---|---|
May
|
Cooler temperatures; moderate rainfall.
|
Kayaking accessible; potential for wind and storms.
|
Fewer kayakers; prepare for variable weather.
|
June
|
Mild temperatures; decreasing rainfall.
|
Good kayaking conditions; less wind.
|
Increasing number of kayakers; pleasant weather.
|
July
|
Warm temperatures; minimal rainfall.
|
Excellent kayaking conditions; calm waters.
|
Peak season; higher demand for camping spots.
|
August
|
Warm temperatures; minimal rainfall.
|
minimal rainfall. Excellent kayaking conditions; calm waters.
|
Peak season; higher demand for camping spots.
|
September
|
Cooling temperatures; increasing rainfall.
|
Kayaking still possible; potential for wind and storms.
|
Fewer kayakers; more solitude; prepare for wet conditions.
|