Great Central Lake, one of the Vancouver Island hidden gems, is a popular destination on hot summer days. It is the time in which most of the water activities such as swimming and fishing are available. Great Central Lake is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it. Aside from the fantastic scenery and recreation the lake offers, you can visit several well-known spots nearby. Among them are Sproat Lake, Sproat Lake Provincial Park, Della Falls, the Stamp River (known for Stillhead Salmon fishing), Stamp River Provincial Park, and Alberni Valley.
We can not offer any place better than Great Central Lake for those in love with camping and hiking. Although it is not easily accessible for cars, the area provides excellent trails to hike and fabulous campgrounds. Despite the inaccessibility of the roads, about 70 locals living on the floating houses near the shores.
Great Central Lake is the third largest and the second deepest lake on Vancouver Island. It is located in the Pacific Rim, north of Sproat Lake and northwest of Port Alberni. The Stamp River is one of the primary outflows of this lake, providing you with tons of activities only 34.7 km (21.5 miles) away. The lake is surrounded by secondary-growth forests, which offer the visitors great hiking trails. Low mountains around the lake give climbing opportunities for those looking for moderate heights.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Great Central Lake from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N and BC-4 W. It is 124 km (77 miles) which takes about two hours and 48 minutes.
Follow BC-19 N and BC-4 W to Central Lake Rd in Alberni-Clayoquot D for 94 km (58.4 miles). Continue on Central Lake Rd to your destination in Fanny Bay. After 29.6 km (18.3 miles), you will reach the lake.
From Victoria:
The fastest route from Victoria to Great Central Lake is Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N. It is 234 km (145.4 miles) which takes about four hours and 15 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo G. Take exit 60 from BC-19 N and drive 155 km (96.3 miles). Continue on BC-4 W to your destination in Fanny Bay for 77.6 km (48.2 miles) more to reach the lake.
1. Great Central Lookout is a 4.5 km (2.7 miles) moderate out and back trail with an elevation gain of 161 m (528.2 feet). It is near Alberni-Clayoquot Regional, mainly used for hiking. While hiking, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the lake and breath in the fresh air.
2. Della Falls is a 29.5 km (18.3 miles) out and back trail with an 1117 m (3664.6 feet) elevation gain near Alberni-Clayoquot C. This difficult trail is suitable for doing activities such as hiking, backpacking, and camping, where you are provided with an excellent view of the lake. The peak months to do so are July to September. Dogs can enjoy being with you, but keep them on leash. Note that you have to take water taxies to reach this trail.
The lake was called "Central Lake" based on Vancouver Island's Exploring Expedition route plan in 1864. Another map of British Columbia was the first map to refer to this lake as "Great Lake" in 1871. Finally, the name was officially submitted in 1948.
Great Central Lake, nestled between mountains and surrounded by secondary forests, provides you with numerous recreational activities in summer and winter. Aside from the lake area, other nearby places, such as the Stamp River, give you and your family pleasant memories. Enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. In its excellent campgrounds, fill your time with plenty of activities and observe the rare nature around the lake.
Great Central Lake is a popular destination near Port Alberni for hot summer days. As it is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it, there is a reflection on the water, making a scenic view. Photography, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are suggested while you are in the area. So go on the adventures and pour your heart into them.
Are you looking for a socially distanced escape? Sproat Lake is a lovely place to relax and do water-based activities. Despite its size and depth, the water is relatively warm, adding to its value as a destination lake to relax in the sun by the warm lake. May and April are good for steelhead, with April to June being incredibly productive for rainbow trout.
According to your level of proficiency or your preference, the depths for diving vary from shallow to deep in China Creek. Comprising a wall dive with an incredible view of Port Alberni and amazing marine creatures underneath the water surface multiplies the beauty of this diving experience.
Do not save money only to pay the bill. Spend it on the adventure and see how awesome it feels. The warm waters of Sproat Lake absorb many visitors from all around the world, those fans of water activities in particular. Sproat Lake wakeboarding and waterskiing facilities increase the attractiveness of the lake.
At the head of Vancouver Island's longest inlet, you are given a lifetime opportunity to have the pleasure of China Creek kiteboarding. You would better hop on a board to feel the water upon your feet and let excitement flow within your blood. Besides, a magnificent fishing opportunity awaits you in the Salmon Capital of the world. Also, ample amenities are provided for you, which can add up to the comfort of your stay.
Great Central Lake is a popular destination near Port Alberni for hot summer days. As it is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it, there is a reflection on the water, making a scenic view. Photography, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are suggested while you are in the area. So go on the adventures and pour your heart into them.
Port Alberni is a deep-sea port and a city on Vancouver Island. Port Alberni is known as the salmon capital of the world, heaven for anglers. The city with a moderate climate is famous for its breathtaking scenery. The area is surrounded by mountains, freshwater lakes and streams that will carve into your memory. There are several chances for outdoor and indoor activities.
With a stunning coastline, Maquinna Marine Provincial Park is a remarkable wilderness area. It has spectacular scenery, a pristine environment and a gorgeous boardwalk. Taking a walk through its old-growth rainforest leads you to Tofino Hot Springs Cove. Wilderness camping, coastal hiking, sea kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing are among what you can expect at the park.
Sproat Lake Provincial Park, with lots of mature fir trees and relatively mature cedar trees, is majestic. The park features a beautiful shore of Sproat Lake, one of the large lakes on Central Vancouver Island which overlooks Mount Anderson. The lake with warm and crystal-clear water is suitable for water activities. There are lots of spaces for camping and sunbathing and a trail for hiking and biking.
The Somass River is placed in an area with pristine nature and high ecosystem values. Being near the crystal clear water with white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, gorgeous rustic-chic villas, and enchanting, dazzling sunsets can make your day. Have a great experience watching black bears from spring to late fall. Enjoy the Alpine meadow, mountain top views, rain forests, and waterfalls.
If you're looking for something positive in your day, choose to be beside a waterfall. Start a magical experience toward an unknown or the less known place like No Name Falls. The seven drops of No Name Falls cascade down on large boulders and rocks, creating a spectacular view that lets your soul and spirit fly into the mystery. Enjoy a hike in this quiet and peaceful area.
Are you looking for a socially distanced escape? Sproat Lake is a lovely place to relax and do water-based activities. Despite its size and depth, the water is relatively warm, adding to its value as a destination lake to relax in the sun by the warm lake. May and April are good for steelhead, with April to June being incredibly productive for rainbow trout.
Ease your mind and calm your soul with the stream of the waterfall. Vancouver Island is a haven of natural wonders, and Hole in the Wall (Port Alberni) is a crown jewel of all the attractions. The water passes through a hole and descends on what appears to be stairs makes it mysterious, and the scenery with trees around creates this magical beauty of nature, an excellent place for photography.
If you're a land and water adventurer and you struggle with boring vacations, then you need the pleasure of relaxing in hot water and let nature touch your soul. Get better results with Tofino Hot Springs Cove, a natural geothermal hot spring with an ocean view. Enjoy watching wildlife species and an old-growth forest. Do water activities by taking the Tofino Hot Springs Cove path.