advertise

The Sophia Range

Overview

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on the northern Nootka Island between Esperanza Inlet and Nuchatlitz Inlet. The Sophia Range, with an area of 150 km² (58 mi²), is located west of Tahsis Inlet, forming a peninsula. The Sophia Range was named by George H. Richards, after the fourth daughter of Captain Edward E. Langford, whose daughters were Victoria's belles.
Visiting the Sophia Range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The Sophia Range and the nearby Nuchatlitz Provincial Park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. At the nearby Nuchatlitz Provincial Park, opportunities for intertidal marines exist in many pools that can be found throughout the area. Pitch a random camp within the range and enjoy meandering the picturesque location. Have fun kayaking and enjoying the natural beauty through the peaceful area of Nuchatlitz Provincial Park and the islands nearby.


The Sophia Range Location

The Sophia Range is located on the north side of Nootka Island, west of Tahsis Inlet, between Nuchatlitz Inlet and Esperanza Inlet. The range has an area of 150 km2 (58 sq mi), forming a peninsula, and is made up of hills. Mountaineers would have a perfect time hiking through the treed hills around lakes and tarns packed with beautiful wildlife and birds.
The Nuchatlitz Provincial Park, placed at the northwestern tip of Nootka Island, west of the Sophia Range, is a paradise worthy of visiting, ornamented by beautiful wildlife and birds as sea otters, Marbled Murrelet. The Nuchatlitz Provincial Park is made up of reefs and islets where many intertidal pools offer opportunities to study lovely marine creatures.
The remote islands offer exposed coasts, quiet beaches, and several beautiful coves. Choose a spot that fits pitching a camp, whether within the range's area or Nuchatlitz Provincial Park, or have perfect time kayaking and meandering through the peaceful islands.
There are several opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts at the range and nearby areas, including wildlife viewing, fishing, paddling, and camping. The park protects a variety of flora and fauna within a vast range of marine and intertidal environments. Migrating Gray Whales add the significance of shorelines that are valuable for herring spawning.
Ewart Lake
and Crawfish Lake are located within 15 km (9.3 miles) south of the Sophia Range on Nootka Island, where you can camp on and stroll through the pleasant ambiance. Tahsis and Zeballos are the nearby villages about 20 km (12.4 miles) away.


How to Get to the Sophia Range by Car

Access to the Nootka Island, where the Sophia Range is located, is via Gold River village, Tahsis, and Zeballos. Whether by Air Nootka, MV Uchuck III, or Shorebird Expeditions Water Taxi, you can get there.

From Nanaimo:
Getting to Gold River from Nanaimo is via BC-19 N and Gold River Hwy/BC-28 W. It is a 242 km (150.3 miles) route that takes almost 2 hours and 44 minutes.
Take Third St to BC-19 N. After a 3.3 km (2 miles) drive, turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). Continue for 151 km (93.8 miles) and drive to Gold River Hwy/Muchalat Dr/BC-28 W in Gold River for 87.5 km (54.3 miles).

From Victoria:
Getting to Gold River from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19. It is a 352 km (218.7 miles) route that takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and drive for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Island Hwy/BC-19A N in Campbell River for 264 km (164 miles). Drive to Gold River Hwy/Muchalat Dr/BC-28 W in Gold River for 87.5 km (54.3 miles).


The Hike to Get to the Sophia Range

There is no designated hiking trail to reach the Sophia Range.


History of the Sophia Range

Nootka Island is home to the traditional territory of the people of Mowachaht-Muchalat and Nuu-chah-nulth. The Sophia Range was named by Captain George H. Richards, after Captain Edward E. Langford's fourth daughter, whose daughters were belles of Victoria in the 1850s.


Things to do around the Sophia Range Area

Visitors would experience a perfect journey by visiting the Sophia Range. Hike the picturesque area through the pleasant atmosphere of forested hills. Pitch a camp where it fits within the range and start your mountaineering more energetic. Enthusiasts have several outdoor opportunities to be entertained at Nuchatlitz Provincial Park. Among them are camping throughout the park, perfect paddling and meandering the peaceful environment of islands, freshwater fishing, or wildlife viewing. Also, chances for hunting in some portions of the park and cold water scuba diving and swimming exist at the Nuchatlitz Provincial Park.

List of Mountain Ranges Near the Sophia Range

Sophia Range

Sophia Range

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on Nootka Island. Visiting the range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The range and the nearby park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Genevieve Range

Genevieve Range

The Genevieve Range offers a fascinating tour within Nootka Island with spectacular sights for mountaineers. The range's area is a remote paradise for those seeking peace and seclusion. While ascending peaks, the range allows breath-taking sights of the ocean, enormous trees below your feet covering hills along with lakes and creeks dotted the area and plenty of wildlife.

The Sophia Range Activities

Fishing

The Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park area is one of the popular destinations for salt-water fishing. There are opportunities to catch coho, chum, Chinook, and pink salmon in the protected areas within the island groups. There are also chances for angling and eco-tourism at float lodges throughout Esperanza Inlet outside of the park. An appropriate license is required for anyone fishing in British Columba, Canada.

Kayaking and Canoeing

The area around the Sophia Range is a popular destination for paddling. Paddlers can put in their boats to the water from Little Espinosa Inlet and several points at Tahsis. Amongst the island groups, there are protected areas for experiencing excellent paddling. Be cautious of paddling dangers such as high winds, exposed rocks, and tidal currents.

Scuba Diving

Visitors would find the Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park and its nearby areas excellent for cold water Scuba Diving.

Swimming

Swimmers have chances to swim in the cold waters of Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park without any lifeguard on duty and designated areas.

Wildlife Viewing

At the Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park, visitors will have ample opportunities to see bountiful birds and marine life as seals, sea lions, grey whales, and sea otters. It is also an excellent place for studying intertidal creatures in a multitude of pools throughout the reefs and islets.

Hunting

Hunting is permitted in some portions of the Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park for specific species.

Camping

Mountaineers and visitors can pitch a camp anywhere that fits to have a perfect time strolling the Sophia Range area or through the Nuchtaltiz Provincial Park.

Climbing

Climbing the magnificent mountains within the Sophia Range would be fascinating. The Beautiful visa of mountains surrounding as well as trees covering hills packed with beautiful wildlife and birds is amazing.

What you Can Expect to Do Near the Sophia Range

Port Hardy Whale Watching

Port Hardy Whale Watching

Looking for a way through which you can make your adventure on Vancouver Island unforgettable? Do not forget to stop by Port hardy while you are in the northern parts of the island. There you will be able to sight magnificent killer whales, near which you should apply ample caution. However, observing them is better an oops than a what if.

Zeballos Kayaking and Canoeing

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

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.

Telegraph Cove Kayaking

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 Hardy Kayaking and Canoeing

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.

Nootka Island Surfing

Nootka Island Surfing

Get out of your comfort zone and get away from the bustles in towns; Nootka Island has a lot to offer to make your vacation count. A place of amazement and glory, the waters of the most oversized island located off Vancouver Island give you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for surfing. Nestled near Vancouver Island, Nootka Island features breathtaking scenery you can let your spirit feed on it.

Your Adventure Starts with Vancouver Island Tours

Salish Sea Duck Hunting Tour 2026

Wilderness Adventure on Gulf Islands BC
Group
Victoria
The Gulf Islands
from 4,500
4 days and 3 nights
Salish Sea Duck Hunting Tour 2026

Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Tour from Victoria to Tofino with Nanaimo
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,100
6 days and 5 nights
Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

Vancouver Island Wildlife watching Tour

Explore Whales, Bears & Coastal Rainforests
Group
Victoria
Tofino
from 750
3 nights and 4 days
Vancouver Island Wildlife watching  Tour

A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Your three Day Victoria Whale Watching Getaway on Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,138
3 days and 2 night
 A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

One-Day Chinook Salmon & Halibut Adventure Tour
Group
Victoria
Sooke
from 1,140
2 days and one night
Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Wildlife, Beaches & Coastal Adventure
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,813
7 days and 6 nights
Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Salish Sea Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 550
3 days and 2 nights
3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

5-Day Black Bear Tracking Adventure on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Nanaimo
from 1,135
5 days and 4 nights
Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

Fall Raccoon Hunting 2026

One-Day Guided Tour from Victoria BC
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 600
1 day
Fall Raccoon Hunting 2026

4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Pacific Rim & Clayoquot Sound Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Tofino
from 1,897
4 days and 3 nights
4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Explore Inner Harbour & Catch Inshore Fish
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,000
2 days and one night
Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Port Alberni Black Bear Hunting Tour 2026

A Thrilling Vancouver Island Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Port Alberni
from 3,500
5 days and 4 nights
Port Alberni Black Bear Hunting Tour 2026

5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Coastal Wonders & Wildlife Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 700
5 days and 4 nights
5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Gold River
Group
Campbell River
Gold River BC
from 1,400
1 day
Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fall Duck and Goose Hunting 2026 Tour

Port Hardy Adventure Tour on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Port Hardy
from 2,000
2 days and 1 night
Fall Duck and Goose Hunting 2026 Tour

7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Your 7-Day Wildlife Watching Escape
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,310
7 days and 6 nights
7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

The Sophia Range Outline

Specifications

Peaks and Heights

Climate

Timing

Get There



1. Be well-equipped for climate conditions and check the weather reports before heading out.
2. The temperatures are related to the Nootka Island and estimated on average.


What you Can Expect to See Near the Sophia Range

Sophia Range

Sophia Range

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on Nootka Island. Visiting the range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The range and the nearby park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Coral Cave

Coral Cave

If you desire to search for hidden parts of nature to discover exciting facts, Coral Cave is a suitable option. Before stepping into it, you need to have caving skills. The beauty of the cave is doubled by the stunning rainforest that surrounded the entrance. While you are inside, you may see the flooded parts of the cave. Let's get into it to find more and realize the time effect for thousands or millions of years.

Genevieve Range

Genevieve Range

The Genevieve Range offers a fascinating tour within Nootka Island with spectacular sights for mountaineers. The range's area is a remote paradise for those seeking peace and seclusion. While ascending peaks, the range allows breath-taking sights of the ocean, enormous trees below your feet covering hills along with lakes and creeks dotted the area and plenty of wildlife.

Planning for The Sophia Range

Suitability

Camping & Resort

Services

Tips

Packing




Share Your Experience With Visitors Of Vancouver Island