PORT ALBERNI: A GEM WAITING TO BE UNCOVERED ON YOUR WAY TO TOFINO

The west coast of Vancouver Island is undeniably breathtaking. On route to Tofino, you pass through the often-overlooked hidden gem of Port Alberni.

Located on the inlet, this fishing community is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Nestled in the Alberni Valley, it’s surrounded by an incredibly diverse landscape of picturesque mountains, rushing waterfalls, pristine lakes and lush rainforests. It’s also a great location for wildlife viewing including black bears, sea lions, bald eagles and more.

Port Alberni is a place where you can enjoy the outdoors and hiking year-round. Summer offers sizzling heat reminiscent of the Okanagan and vibrant sunsets that paint the skies in the evenings. As the seasons transition to fall, an enchanting shift unfolds because of the valley’s topography. When the leaves on the trees change to golden hues, the mornings often greet you with ethereal fog and captivating cloud inversions.

Follow along to explore the Alberni Valley on our way to camp in Tofino. Here are some of the most scenic spots you don’t want to miss next time you travel through Port Alberni, including where to go for the renowned salmon run.

Cameron Lake

With its crystal-clear water and stunning mountain views, Cameron Lake is the perfect place for hiking, kayaking and other water activities. Situated conveniently off the highway, this scenic destination offers easy access for visitors looking to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Cathedral Grove

Located in MacMillan Provincial Park, Cathedral Grove is an ancient forest renowned for its ancient and towering fir, cedar and hemlock trees. This majestic canopy has some of the oldest and tallest trees in Canada, with the oldest being over 800 years old and the tallest at 250 feet.

Hole in the Wall

This unique waterfall is a must-see landmark and as the name suggests, it is a hole in a large rock formation with a creek running through it. It’s a magical scene with the cascading water and views of more of the surrounding forest through the opening. In the summer the water levels are lower so many visitors swim in the pools of water.

Stamp River and Falls

In the summer and fall, the annual salmon run is a breathtaking spectacle. Thousands of Chinook, Coho and Sockeye salmon migrate upstream through the river and falls to reach their spawning grounds. You can see them leaping as they navigate the currents. This draws fishers, wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Black bears can often be seen fishing in the waters during the salmon run.

Sprout Lake

Recently voted the best lake in British Columbia, Sproat Lake has something for everyone. The water is clean, deep and warm, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. You can also discover prehistoric petroglyphs at a site, known as K’ak’awin, where there are ancient carvings in the stone walls of the shores. These were etched by Indigenous people and are a reminder of the rich cultural history of the area.

Taylor River

Meandering through beautiful forests, this river offers a serene setting for hiking and nature exploration. The vibrant waters at the swimming hole look like a tropical destination and it’s especially inviting in the summer months when you want a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.