Land Activities
Haida Gwaii has an incredible variety of hiking trails through old growth forests, to spectacular ocean viewpoints, and along the ocean. Trek to an impressive shipwreck, whale watching gazebo, or overnight cabin on the beach. In the forest, look for the many mushrooms that pickers gather year after year. Take a day to try out one of the two golf courses – one in Masset and the other in Sandspit. Bring a bike and explore backroads, or tour the islands on a multi-day trip.
Beachwalking for pleasure, in the winter or summer, is another great pastime here. Comb the sand for shells, uniquely shaped rocks, and seaweed. Storm watching in the winter and birdwatching in the spring or fall is fascinating.
Official and unofficial campgrounds around the island – for tenters, campers and RVs – are plentiful. Choose from free forestry sites, to minimum amenity community campgrounds to favourite spots in the middle of the forest or along the ocean.
Water Activities
Surf's up on Haida Gwaii. The water is cold, but surfers suited up in the appropriate gear can find year-round, clean swells, on the north, east, and west coasts.
Anglers are attracted to Haida Gwaii mostly for spring salmon, coho salmon, and halibut. Hop on a charter or stay at one of the many luxurious fishing lodges on remote islands in the area. Crabbing and catching prawns is part of the experience too. Throw some traps over the side of your boat, or place them on North Beach on Graham Island, and simply wait for the tide to roll in and out. Supper will be waiting.
Canoeists and kayakers will love wild Rennell Sound on the west coast, or the calm water in Masset Inlet, both located on Graham Island. More experienced boaters may want to explore Gwaii Haanas, a national reserve that encompasses the bottom half Haida Gwaii. The reserve is a magical spot full of wildlife, hundreds of islands, and an ancient First Nations village site. Check out the natural hot spring island for a soak.
Cultural Activities
Haida First Nations culture is powerful and embracing on Haida Gwaii. Visit a gallery and museum to learn about the history of the islands and its people, or attend a performance and watch artists at work in the newly built Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate.
For a comprehensive understanding of Haida Gwaii, its history and geography, join a cultural, interpretive or art tour of the islands and its communities. While touring the islands, make sure to stop in at shops, museums, galleries, and the various artists' studios, which are open to the public. Art is a huge part of the islands' character.
One of the simplest activities on Haida Gwaii is visiting local coffee shops. Soak up the atmosphere, chat with the friendly locals, and get the feel of the place. Or sip a coffee quietly while watching the ocean. Whales and other sea life are never too far away.
Driving Routes
Follow the Heritage Discovery Circle Route and explore vibrant Aboriginal culture and Gold Rush history on route to Queen Charlotte Islands/Haida Gwaii for wilderness fishing, hiking, and camping.
Where to Begin
Visitor Centres are located in Sandspit and Queen Charlotte. Official visitor guides are available at both, as are brochures for individual businesses. The visitor guide has an excellent map and tons of information.
The islands are busy in the summer between May and September, and much quieter in the winter. Note that many businesses reduce their hours or stop operating during the winter.
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