Much of the area is pristine, with high natural beauty and ecosystem values. You have an excellent opportunity to enjoy the attractions of the Somass River. Eye-catching views including crystal clear water, white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, gorgeous rustic-chic villas over the water, under the water or on the sand and enchanting, dazzling sunsets.
Along the west coast of Vancouver Island, the Somass River is one of the most protected winter feeding sites for waterfowl immigrating and wintering. Visitors to the area enjoy fabulous birding, beautiful views, evidence of historical tsunamis and First National Sites with artifacts that date back 4000 years.
Some other beauties in and around Somasss River are a Clutesi Haven Marina in the tidal area of Somass River, snowy morning along the Somass, and Black bears at low tide.
You can have a great experience watching popular black bears from a safe distance across the Somass River from spring to late fall, during August, September, and October.
You may want to enjoy the Alpine meadow, mountain top views, a peaceful place, rain forests, and waterfalls. Have the pleasure of discovering wildlife on the property like ravens, eagles, woodpeckers, squirrels, beaver, and deer. Along the private beach, you can find lawn games and a swimming spot. Catch Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and even kokanee, a landlocked sockeye salmon fish along the shore or by boat here.
The Somass River is located in Port Alberni, Vancouver Island. Its drainage basin is 1,412 sq km (545.1 sq miles). The basin consists of three central sub-basins; Sproat Lake, the Ash River, and Great Central Lake. The Somass River Estuary is located at the narrow 40 km (24.8 miles) long Albert inlet at the Albert Valley's south end.
The Stamp River and Sproat River connect and form the Somass River. It flows southeast and south into Alberni Inlet and the harbour of Port Alberni. It crosses Highway 4 in Tseshaht First Nation territory. Kilometres of this river's lower course is tidal.
The Victoria Quay, a popular waterfront park, picnic area, walkway and retail district, is on the Somass River. It is at the foot of Johnston Road (Hwy#4), home to the weekly Sunset Craft Market during the summer months. Victory Quay is a great place to view black bears across the river in the Somass.
From Victoria:
The fastest route from Victoria is via Trans-Canada Hwy/Bc-1 N (Be aware that this route has restricted usage or private roads). It is 196 km (121.7 miles) and takes about 2 hours and 33 minutes.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/Bc-1 N. After 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. Then, after 155 km (96.31 miles), follow Bc-4 W to your destination in Port Alberni. Drive 39.9 km (24.7 miles) more to reach the Somass River.
From Nanaimo:
The fastest route from Nanaimo to the Somass River is via Bc-19 N and Bc-4 W. It is 85.9 km (53.3 miles) and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Follow Bc-19 N and Bc-4W to Victoria Quay in Port Alberni. After 84 km (52.2 miles), continue on Victoria Quay to your destination. Drive 1.9 km (1.2 miles) to reach the Somass River.
"Somass Estuary Trail" is an easy level, out and back trail near Alberni-Clayoquot Regional, Vancouver Island. It has a 5.8 km (3.6 miles) length and 19 m (62.3 ft) elevation gain. There are scenic views on this road, and it is suitable for all levels. This trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching.
The name of Somass River comes from a Nuu-chah-nulth word meaning "washing."
People in this area are called Hupacasath. Hupacasath People have three tribes, the Muh-uulth-aht, Kleh-koot-aht and Cuu-ma-as-aht (Ahahswinis).
The Muh-uulth-aht People (means people from where there is a mountain with the face burnt off) live in a village in the Great Central Lake area around the Beaver Creek area of Stamp Falls. This place was and still is an excellent one for hunting deer, elk fowl, etc. Other activities, such as fishing and food gathering, are popular here.
The Cuu-ma-as-ath People live at Ahahswinis (means cleared in the middle), now called Port Alberni City to the Coleman Creek area down the Alberni Canal. Their village is in an area that is now located on the Somass River. This place was primarily used for fishing Salmon. People here have been doing many other activities such as hunting, gathering and potlatching.
The Kleh-koot-aht People reside around Kleh-koot (Sproat Lake, which means a long stretch of level land). Kleh-koot-aht's area is between Yaaqis (Prairie Farm) and Sproat Falls. Their village is on the Sproat River, an excellent place for fishing, smoking salmon, picking blackberries, hunting deer, and picnicking.
The Cuu-ma-as, Klehkoot and Muhuulaht people decided to merge before the European arrival to this territory. This decision was made because they were at war with the Coast Salish people, and joining these three tribes made them stronger. Now they are called Hupacasath.
You have a great chance to enjoy many activities in this place such as hiking, kayaking, canoeing, diving, fishing, stand-up paddling, golf, swimming, river tubing, surfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and kiteboarding. The good news for anglers is that the Chinook numbers will stay strong for the foreseeable future. Don't forget to take your license and read and understand the Freshwater Fishing Regulations before heading out. If you have never tried fishing and want to do that, borrow a rob and tackle for free.
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.
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.
The resemblance of Little Qualicum Falls Campground to paradise is something uncanny. One of the most beautiful parks with a spectacular Vancouver Island environment has a lot to offer campers worldwide. Great campsites enclosed by stunning scenery comprising ample facilities for the visitors. Not to mention that there is saturated with opportunities for adventure that no one can ignore.
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.
Sarita Falls is one of the pieces of music repeatedly playing by the earth. This beautiful set of falls is placed along the Sarita River in a rainforest space with fresh air, making a stunning atmosphere. There is a sign for the place, a white tree trunk that has fallen on the river, which can complete the picture. The area is also rich in wildlife, so get the most out of your visit.
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 Pelham Range is a paradise for mountaineers seeking an isolated area and seclusion. They can spend some days camping in peace on lakes or through the wilderness or paddling and fishing a whole day in the calm waters with a pleasant ambiance. Climbing the mountains would be fascinating, passing through hills covered with beautiful trees.
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.
Above Cameron Lake, at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Little Qualicum Falls is situated in the middle of a forest. It cascades into a small canyon, creating a magnificent pool, making another fall and pouring into the Qualicum River. The peaceful atmosphere is memorable, but it doesn't end here. The fantastic landscape and all the things you can do at the park make it a perfect destination for your vacation.
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.
It's time to meet an extraordinary lake that is not as tranquil as most of the lakes. Cameron Lake is famous for its huge winds, making it a desired place for windsurfers. The lake is an excellent family location suitable for fishing and swimming. It is a stunningly photogenic place with unique picnic areas surrounded by parks and lakes. So get the most out of your visit.
Going to Horne Lake, you would be fascinated by eye-catching spectacles and unbelievably crystal-clear water. New experiences are calling you! Explore the caves, stay at a clean campground and start adventures on your own or through guided tours. It is among the lakes that you can get water-front camping. The lake is calm and refreshing to ride a kayak.