Spring in Vancouver Island North is defined by the bright hues of the forest coming alive after winter—filled with lush ferns and the new buds of wild berry bushes—and an increase in wildlife sightings as they match nature’s energy and become more active. Spring is one of the best times to explore the outdoors by bike or on a hike, as there are fewer crowds to contend with, yet all the breathtaking scenery and vibrancy of the season to enjoy. Dwell a little longer in each community and get to know our residents as they pause before the busy season in locally-owned eateries, accommodations, and stores.
What beaches should I visit in spring?
Revel in beaches with fewer people yet vibrant with the energetic uplift of spring. New buds line trails that weave through lush forest toward sweeping sand beaches. Although more abundant in the summer and fall, wildlife like bears begin to emerge from winter hibernation, and whales, seals, sea otters, and other marine wildlife swim offshore.
Grab a morning coffee in Port Hardy at Cafe Guido & Co and hear recent insights from locals on road and trail conditions. The Book Nook is also a fantastic place to source books by local authors about the area, as well as mapbooks. Hit the logging roads west, and enjoy a pause in Holberg for any last-minute supplies before choosing between Grant Bay or San Josef Bay as your destination.
These two are some of the best beaches for spring, as the trails to them tend to be less muddy, have boardwalk sections, and are less rugged and rooty than Raft Cove or longer routes in Cape Scott Provincial Park. If you do choose something more challenging, make sure you’re prepared for sudden changes in conditions in remote areas.
Admire spectacular sea stacks, golden sand, look for the splash of whales offshore, and marvel at the endless, unobstructed stretch of open water all the way to the horizon. Closer to Port Hardy, Storey’s Beach is an accessible, expansive sandy beach with majestic mountain views. Spring is one of our favourite times to enjoy this scene, as the peaks usually still have snow on them, before the summer heat melts it.
Be enthralled by unique rock formations
Spring is the perfect time to savour some of the most popular North Island activities and locations before the summer uptick in visitation. Explore some of our intriguing karst formations and caves carved out by pristine water. Take the Alice Lake Loop Tour and enjoy the serenity of shoulder season at Devil’s Bath (a flooded sinkhole), the Vanishing River, the Eternal Fountain waterfall, and more.
In the Nimpkish Valley near Woss, spend moments of contemplation perched on the rocks around Little Huson Caves. The trails to each aren’t that long, but it’s best to wear sturdy footwear at this time of year and be particularly mindful of slippery rocks and muddy, steep sections.
Another option for exploring the area is by bike. Vancouver Island North has several incredible gravel bike routes. Pre-planning and preparedness are vital, particularly in the shoulder season. The coveted Tree to Sea bikepacking Loop is a 1000km route, but you can easily drop into the northern section that takes riders between Port Alice and Cape Scott on quiet backroads. Meanwhile, the Jeune Landing Loop is a shorter, 140km route that showcases the scenery and gravel roads connecting Port Alice and Port McNeill. There’s so much breathtaking scenery in the North Island waiting to be discovered beyond the main roads, and plenty of unique ways to immerse yourself in it.
Where are the best places for spring birdwatching in north Vancouver Island?
Beyond marine mammals like orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and seals, spring is one of the best times of the year to go birdwatching in Vancouver Island North.
Shorebirds wade near the tideline, while seabirds paddle and soar close to beaches. River walks and estuaries are perfect for lingering in stillness and enjoying the colours of spring foliage. Visit the Quatse River Park for a tranquil forest walk beside the river, before taking a wander in the Quatse Estuary Wildlife Management Area trails. Listen for the bright songs of forest birds, look for marsh birds hidden away, and if you pause awhile, you might spot some hatchlings.
On the road to Port Alice, Marble River Provincial Park is filled with towering cedar trees, springtime wildflowers carpeting the floor, and the likes of Kingfishers and hummingbirds whipping along the water. Near Port McNeill, the Cluxewe estuary draws wildlife enthusiasts to waterfowl and birds perched atop reeds, and down to the ocean edge where eagles soar overhead. A short ferry away, Sointula is another part of Vancouver Island North showcased in the BC Bird Trail.
Port town eateries with patios
All that adventuring is bound to conjure some hunger. Pack warm layers for when the coastal breeze picks up, and you’ll be ready to make the most of the patios and seasonal eateries that start to reopen as the sun shines. Whether you’re seeking a local brewery, like Devils’ Bath Brewing Co. in Port Hardy, a food truck with picnic tables and a waterfront view like Patagón, or a picturesque perch for your morning coffee like Foggy Mountain Coffee Co. in Port Alice, there’s a spot for all to enjoy the sounds and sights of spring accompanied by a tasty, locally-sourced dish.
