52 THINGS TO DO ON THE NORTH ISLAND Gazette NORTH ISLAND
Quarterdeck Pub Breakfast, lunch & dinner 6:00am - 9:45am 11:00am - 10:00pm
Relaxed dining experience
6555 Hardy Bay Rd. Port Hardy 250-949-6922 2
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Welcome to our 52 Things To Do On The North Island guide! First off, there is just no way to include everything the fabulous North Island has to offer, at least not without producing a book so big it would need wheels. But we have strived to offer a selection of destinations and show that there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of the world. Those things we have touched on are intended to whet the appetite — to open the eyes of visitors and to spark ideas in the minds of residents. We hope that you’ll find some ideas for a family outing or a weekend away within these pages. Of course, with so much on offer, we couldn’t give every detail about these ideas. For more in-depth coverage check the Gazette’s summer Daytripping series, or for more information on a specific area or excursion contact the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitor Centre. A list of helpful contacts can be found on page 6 of this booklet. We’ve also included QR links to maps on page 15 so the tech savvy can see the area with one click. On page 29 we’ve included a list of some of the big summer events in our communities. With so much to see and do on the North Island we hope we can plant a seed with these ideas and steer visitors to some of our highlights and remind locals of some of the stunning destinations in our own back yard. Photos throughout courtesy of the North Island Gazette, J.R. Rardon, Sandy Grenier, A. O’Toole and Derek Kyostia. www.northislandgazette.com
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Islay Mist Sailing Charters Photo used under Creative Commons from Stefan Weihs
Welcome to Islay Mist Sailing Charters Set sail and experience the raw beauty of North Vancouver Island. Explore the Broughton Archipelago and enjoy pristine, breath taking scenery from the deck of S.V. Islay Mist. You’ll be sailing aboard the S.V. Islay Mist, a fully restored, 1971 Pearson 39. Warm, comfortable, and above all safe, Islay Mist is maintained to very high standards, and equipped with modern navigation equipment and safety gear.
Islay Mist
We also offer an Eco Tour Package
Skipper Jim MacDougall
A three day/two night package that includes: Sailboat passage to and from Sointula, Malcolm Island to Pierre’s Echo Bay Resort. A day with Nikki van Schyndel of Echo Bay EcoVentures for an ecological tour of the area where you will experience a gourmet wild lunch harvested by you, and cooked on a primiKvely lit fire‐by‐fricKon.
For Quotes and Bookings contact us at: Islay Mist Sailing Charters Box 266, Sointula, BC V0N 3E0 T: (250) 973‐6975 C: (250) 902‐8108 Email: info @ islaymistsailing.com website: www. islaymistsailing.com
Members in good standing with the Port McNeill and Port Hardy Chambers of Commerce and NIMMSA.
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Treasure hunt: For a great way to discover new spots on the North Island or to put a twist on a favourite hike try geocaching. In this real-world treasure hunt game players find hidden caches using GPS coordinates and a smartphone. It’s hard to think of a better place to play grown-up hide and seek than the beautiful North Island so why not give it a try and go explore! To get started, check out www. geocaching.com.
01.
Get hooked: With trout, halibut and all five varieties of Pacific
02. salmon in North Island waters, even a total beginner to angling
can reel in the catch of the day. During salmon runs rivers teem with fish as they return to their spawning grounds and fly fishermen can enjoy year-round opportunities. Knowledgable local guides offer charters for those who prefer deep sea angling. For the best spots, advice, licenses and gear contact one of the local guide companies.
Make a splash: The waters off the North Island boast some of the best cold-water scuba diving anywhere. God’s Pocket Marine Provincial Park draws divers from all over to the spectacular Browning Pass for the chance to see wolf eels, nudibranchs and the giant Pacific octopus. God’s Pocket is the most famous of many stellar dive sites in the region, so grab your dry suit and contact one of the many operators in the area!
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In the community Alert Bay U’mista Cultural Society 1 Front St. 250-974-5403 1-800-690-8222 www.umista.ca info@umista.ca Visitor Info Centre 116 Fir St. 250-974-5024 www.alertbay.ca info@alertbay.ca
Coal Harbour Joey’s museum/ Aircab Hangar 1, Coal Harbour Rd. 250-949-6371
Port Alice Village of Port Alice 1061 Marine Dr. 250-284-3391 www.portalice.ca info@portalice.ca
Visitor Info Centre 7250 Market St. 250-949-7622 www.ph-chamber.bc.ca phcc@cablerocket.com
Visitor Info Booth 165 1st St. 250-973-2001 www.sointulainfo.ca sointulainfo@recn.ca
Port McNeill
Telegraph Cove
Port McNeill Museum 351 Shelly Cres. 250-956-9898 www.portmcneill.net
Whale Interpretive Centre 250-928-3129 (mid-May to October) 250-928-3117 (October to mid-May) www.killerwhalecentre.org bones@killerwhalecentre.org (May - September) society@killerwhalecentre.org (September - May)
Visitor Info Centre 1594 Beach Dr 250-956-3131 www.portmcneill.net pmccc@island.net
Quatsino Quatsino museum W-100 Waggon Rd. 250-949-7960 www.quatsino.org quatsino.museum@recn.ca
Resort 1-800-200-4665 www.telegraphcoveresort.com tcrltd@island.net
Zeballos
Zeballos Heritage Museum 122 Maquinna Ave. Visitor Info Booth 250-761-4070 (July-August) Port Hardy 16 Sayward Rd. 250-761-4229 (September to Port Hardy Museum 250-282-0018 June) 7110 Market St. www.portofkelseybay.com www.zeballos.com 250-949-8143 sfs@saywardvalley.net adminzeb@recn.ca www.porthardymuseum.com info@porthardymuseum.com Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre www.thesalmoncentre.org 250-949-9022 6
Sayward
Sointula
Regional
Sointula museum 130 1st St. 250-973-6683 www.sointulamuseum.ca/
Vancouver Island North Tourism www.vancouverislandnorth.ca info@vancouverislandnorth.ca www.northislandgazette.com
Find a wreck: Just a 45 minute hike from the ferry terminal
04.in Port Hardy lies the husk of a Dakota 576 which crashed on
approach to the airport in 1944. Follow the trail from the base of the hill and get rewarded with stunning views of Hardy Bay at the peak before plunging through the woods along a marked trail to the crash site. A memorial cairn erected by the 101 Squadron stands by the body of the aircraft and tells its story. On a high: Boasting the finest west coast powder in winter and offering snowshoeing, snowboarding, backcountry and crosscountry skiing, Mount Cain Alpine Resort epitomizes stunning North Coast scenery. And, with summer hiking, fishing and lakes in incredible surroundings, the resort has year-round appeal.
05.
Infotainment: Take a tour of the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre and get hands-on with sea life. Featuring an interpretive gallery with aquaria, games, habitat display and more, the centre makes for a fun-filled, family-friendly visit. The site is a working hatchery and laboratory where visitors can see the life-cycle of salmon and learn how we can help safeguard their habitat for the future through interactive displays and games.
06.
07.
Heritage: The U’mista Cultural Centre on Cormorant Island houses significant Kwakwaka’wakw artifacts including the renowned Potlatch Collection — repatriated masks and
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ceremonial objects taken during the period when the potlatch was deemed illegal. Featuring an incredible collection of First Nations exhibits, an art gallery, gift shop and tours, pay the U’mista Cultural Centre a visit and get immersed in the heritage of the North Island. Going underground: The limestone geology of the the North Island makes for some of the deepest and longest cave systems in Canada, with many more waiting to be discovered and explored. A great first step into the world of spelunking is a visit to the Little Huson Caves. This network honeycombs for miles and is ideal for new cavers. Don’t forget a flashlight if you want to explore.
08.
Exotic flora: One hundred years ago, Norwegian settler Bernt Ronning established a garden near Holberg. Ronning then solicited seedlings from across the world and founded five acres of exotic flora. Ronnings plantings took root and continue to bloom to this day, the site restored to its former glory after being reclaimed by the surrounding rainforest for some years following Ronning’s death in 1963. Take a trip and explore this botanical wonderland.
09.
The Cove: Once a sawmill and cannery community, Telegraph Cove and its boardwalk oozes historical charm and makes regular appearances on Canada-wide lists of top destinations. Featuring friendly staff, great food, gorgeous surroundings, cozy cabins and the Whale Interpretive Centre, Telegraph Cove also offers the jumping off point for wildlife tours, kayaking and fishing charters. A must see.
10.
Go wild: Immerse yourself in the true wilderness of the North Island with a hike along the Tex Lyon trail. This full day trek starts at Storey’s Beach and traverses forest, rocky beach and bluffs overlooking panoramic views on its way to Dillon Point.
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Catch a wave: The west coast waves of Tofino are widely lauded by surf enthusiasts. But head a little further north on the coast and try the waves off spots like Grant Bay and enjoy those long rollers in relative isolation. Check in with knowledgable locals for gear and spot advice or go find that perfect wave yourself.
12.
Simple pleasures: We’re spoiled on the North Island and sometimes we forget just how stunning our local scenery is. Why not take the afternoon to remind yourself with a walk along Storey’s Beach? Easy access, a beautiful sandy oceanfront and views of the Coast Mountains — sometimes the simple pleasures are the best.
13.
Bearly believable: It’s called the Great Bear Rainforest for a good reason. Black bears are common on the Island but, rarely, an adventurous grizzly makes the swim across the channel in search of greener pastures. Luckily, we don’t have to go to such lengths to go the other way. Tour operators offer compete packages including transport, accommodation and meals so all you have to worry about is taking the perfect picture.
14.
Grizzly Bears of Knight Inlet
Tide Rip Grizzly Tours
Kinky and cubs alarmed at big male Abraham attacking.
Telegraph Cove, BC Toll free 1-866-528-7107 Local 250-928-3090 www.grizzlycanada.com www.northislandgazette.com
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90%
British ColumBia’s 1st Whale WatChing Company – Founded 1980
success rate!
Whale WatCh
telegraph CoVe
Join us on our daily, exciting 3.5 hour ocean adventures from telegraph Cove, the Whale Watching Capital of British Columbia! You’ll love our island, the magnificent mammals and bird species you’ll see and the friendly people you’ll meet. Visit the Whale interpretiVe Centre
take home a memorY from our gift shop
foR easy online booking visit
www.stubbs-island.com ReseRvations R Rvations oR R info infoRmation Rmation
1-800-665-3066
rated “excellent”
Stubbs Island Whale Watching is dedicated to ethical wildlife viewing, education and conservation.
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Knock on wood: Surrounded as we are by natural woodland, it’s not surprising that the forest throws up the occasional oddity. Some odder than others. Check out the burls in Port McNeill for proof. Billed as the world’s largest, one specimen from a Sitka Spruce weighs an estimated 30 tons, the other a hefty 22 tons.
15.
Fore play: Take a lazy afternoon to straighten out that drive or work on your short game at one of the North Island’s golf courses. With dinner, drinks, pro shops, club rentals and driving ranges at select courses, and a great round on offer at all four local courses, golf offers a great day out at the right price.
16.
The glades: Take a hike around the everglades-like surroundings of the Alert Bay Ecological Park. The area is a natural wetland, and a stroll along the boardwalk is a favourite of birdwatchers and photographers.
17.
Lake walk: Explore the lakes of Malcolm Island on the Mateoja Heritage Trail. At 3.5 km each way, this hike starts at 3rd Street and takes in Little, Duck and Big Lakes on the pioneer route to the Mateoja farm site. With picnic sites, bird watching and swimming stops on the way, why not take a historic hike across Malcolm Island?
18.
Spyhop spying: Stay on the North Island for long enough and you’ll see one or more of the species of whale that live in these waters as they venture in to our sheltered bays. If you want to all but guarantee a meeting with these graceful giants contact one of the many
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Sail with the Whales Eco Friendly Tours
Departures: Alert Bay & Alder Bay Resort
SEASMOKE WHALE WATCHING www.seasmokewhalewatching.com 250-974-5225 1-800-668-ORCA (6722) 12
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local tour operators who are well versed in delivering memorable and respectful encounters. Blaze a trail: Each year hundreds of mountain bikers descend on Port Alice for the Rumblefest weekend, the North Island’s premier bike event. The same organizers are responsible for a whole network of bike trails on the North Island, offering everything from the leisurely to the hardcore, so get out there and hit the trails...
20.
Easy rider:‌ or take a gentle spin and enjoy the scenic North Island. Take a day trip to Sayward Futures Society Alert Bay, rent a bike and Port of Kelsey Bay explore the island at your leisure. Or check your local community for We now offer local artisans work. Coffee and a small amount of rentals and recommended routes. A groceries available in the gift shop. great and inexpensive day out for Meet the artists weekends the whole family, get out, get fit and get riding!
21.
Step back: Take a trip to Old Quatsino. Accessible only by water taxi or float plane, the hamlet of Quatsino
22.
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16 Sayward Rd sfs@saywardvalley.net
We are not for profit society
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is a favourite jumping off point for kayakers, bird watchers and sports fishermen. Check out the Quatsino Museum, the one-room school house and St. Olaf’s Church, the oldest building still in use on the North Island or just take a load off and look out on beautiful Quatsino Sound. Marble River: Take the afternoon to explore the Marble River Trail. Lined with interpretive signs, the 4.2 km trail provides an educational stroll for hikers, river access for anglers, an off-thebeaten track route for bikers and wildlife aplenty. Salmon run the river in fall offering some great steelhead catches but be bear aware — you may not be the only one looking for dinner.
23.
Catch some carving: Fort Rupert is home to some of the most accomplished Café Guido & West Coast Community Craft Shop Kwakiutl artists and carvers anywhere. Check out the Copper Maker Gallery and see the incredible SHOP collection of works there and, if Local art is featured in West you’re lucky, watch the carvers at Coast Community work in the workshop downstairs. Craft Shop gallery
24.
SAVOUR
Great new books and funky giftware in the Book Nook
SIP
Indulge in espressos & sweet homemade scones at Café Guido
VISIT and STay awhIle! 7135 Market Street, Port Hardy Café & Books: 250.949.9808 Gallery: 250-949-2650 14
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View North Island community maps 1912-2012
ph Cove Teleglerbraating ce s 100 year
Historical Village of Telegraph Cove
Tide Rip Grizzly Adventures
Bunkhouse Staff Housing
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Whale Interpretive Centre
Gas Dock
Private Residence Stubbs Island Whale Watching
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Gikumi
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Killer Whale Cafe
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Cove Coffee Co. Coffee House Suite
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Sointula
The Heart of the North Island
Belveder
14
To Coal Harbour
30 minutes to Port McNeill
• 55 minutes to Telegraph
Cove
For further information on things to see and do in Port Hardy, contact the Visitor Information Centre, located at 7250 Market Street, telephone: (250) 949-7622. Map created by Jessica Garrick © May 2003 Published by North Island Gazette, Port Hardy, BC ©
The publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means or in any format except with written permission from North Island Gazette.
GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND
Port Hardy
Zeballos
Sayward www.northislandgazette.com
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Quatse Regional Park & Campground Port Hardy, BC
The campground is situated within a richly forested regional park containing trees hundreds of years old, with the wild flora and fauna found in old growth forests. All campsites are conveniently located close to firewood, washrooms, and a resident manager. The Quatse River Campground is operated by the Northern Vancouver Island Salmon Enhancement Association. Proceeds generated in the campground support Salmon Enhancement activities on Northern Vancouver Island. • • • • • • • • • • •
62 tenting or RV sites power (20 amp) and water hookups sani-dump free hot showers coin laundry firewood “by donation” hiking and fishing trails wheelchair accessible leashed pets welcome WIFI Internet reservations recommended
Your hosts: Ken and Debra Hine For more information and reservations: Tel: 250-949-2395 Toll Free: 1-866-949-2395 Email: quatsecampground@gmail.com We are located at 8400 Byng Road, Port Hardy, BC, next to the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre. www.quatsecampground.com www.facebook.com/quatsecampground
Come as guests…Leave as friends!
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! n i p a e L Come visit the Salmon Centre! Explore our unique habitat displays and get up close and personal with salmon. See salmon predators and prey and find out who’s eating who in the ecosystem. A visit to the Salmon Centre is a fun and educational experience for all ages. Find out what the staff at the Salmon Centre are doing to help maintain healthy salmon stocks.
The Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre is operated by the Northern Vancouver Island Salmon Enhancement Association. All proceeds support Salmon Enhancement activities on Northern Vancouver Island.
uatse Salmon Stewardship Centre Next to the Quatse River Campground, just minutes from the airport, ferry or downtown. 8400 Byng Road, Port Hardy Call 250-902-0336 or 250-949-9022 Open May through September, Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm
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Go rugged: Take the wellbeaten 5-6 hour hike to the unbeatable Nels Bight at Cape Scott Park. Set up camp here and explore the beaches or wander over to the lighthouse. Plan to stay a few days — once you get here you won’t want to leave.
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• Great Food • Family Room Available • Creative Daily Specials • 16 TV Screens for all your Sports Needs & Special Events • Karaoke every Wednesday
250-949-7811
8700 Hastings St. Port Hardy sportybar@icloud.com
www.thesporty.com Find us on Facebook 18
Rubbing rocks: Bere Point on Malcolm Island offers camping and whale watching the easy way. Head to the whale watching platform and — if you’re lucky — you may see passing orcas who occasionally come up on to the beach to rub on the rocks there. Stop off in nearby Sointula to stock up on drinking water as none is available in the campground and
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head to Bere Point where the whales come to rub! World beater: Head to Cormorant Island for another record holder in the area. Standing by the Big House is a totem that, at 173 ft, claims the title of the world’s tallest. When you’ve finished being awed by the monolith head to the ‘Namgis Burial Grounds for a stunning collection of memorial poles.
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Go paddling: What better way to see the gorgeous and rugged North Island than from a canoe or kayak? With a wealth of sheltered bays and staging areas to choose from and the chance of getting up close and personal with sea lions, orcas or whales, the North Island is stunning place to go paddling. Pack a lunch and go explore the coastline and islands of the Queen Charlotte Strait and get a true taste of what the North Island has to
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Glen Lyon
Restaurant & Lounge
offer. Local operators can help with gear, transport and seasoned advice. Flightseeing: Take in the majesty of the North Island in style with a helicopter or float plane tour. See the untouched wilderness, mountain peaks and islands or soak in the view en route to one of the fishing or wildlife resorts tucked away along the coast.
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Best View in Town Family friendly restaurant
• •
Fresh seasonal seafood Daytripping: Check the Gazette for our summer Daily & nightly “Daytripping” series specials where we get out and take in some of the North Island’s attractions. Get a first-hand account of our trips and get some ideas for local one6435 Hardy Bay Rd, Port Hardy day excursions.
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250-949-7135
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More s’mores: The North Island has an embarrassment of incredible camping spots. With spots ranging from the pristine and untouched to full-service RV sites, there’s something for everyone. Get out there and find your perfect spot — don’t forget the s’mores.
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Orca House
Bed & Breakfast 1-855-230-3726
info@orcahousebedandbreakfast.com www.orcahousebedandbreakfast.com 7640 Eagle Cres W Port Hardy
Hosts:
Hans & Vicki Janse Water features: Take in some of the incredible formations thrown up by the limestone geology on the Alice Lake Loop. The loop includes Orange Tabby b&b Eternal Fountain, Devil’s Bath, • Private entrance • Private bath • WiFi • Brand new kitchen & common area Vanishing River and Reappearing for vacation rental River. Spelunkers can duck behind Your hosts the waterfall at Eternal Fountain and James & Susan Emerson explore the tunnels or get muddy finding the underground lake at Devil’s Bath. 250.949.8510
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www.orangetabbybb.com CN Backpackers We Sell Sleep…
so most people here enjoy the peace & quiet. 1-855-673-3030 We speak English, French & Spanish 8740 Main Street Port Hardy P.O. Box 760 V0N 2P0
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Once Port Hardy’s Movie Theatre
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Go west: Take a trip to Winter Harbour and take a stroll along the boardwalk. A few minutes will take you to spectacular beaches where you can snap pictures of soaring eagles or frolicking sea otters. Or take a hike along the Botel Trail through oldgrowth forest.
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White sands: A little bit of a bumpy ride along logging roads pays dividends at glorious Grant Bay. A 5 minute walk from the trailhead takes you through the forest before the white sands
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and endless sky of Grant Bay burst through. A little slice of paradise, North Island style. A light hike: Take a low-intensity, family-friendly stroll to Pulteney Point Lighthouse. A leisurely 20 minute beach stroll on beautiful Malcolm Island will take you along the shore to one of the few remaining staffed lighthouses on the B.C. Coast. Or, grab some supplies in Sointula and turn the scenic stroll into a picnic afternoon.
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White water: The Nakwakto Rapids are home to the fastest navigable tidal channel in the world. Sitting in this channel is Tremble Island — so-called because it is said to shake with the force of the maelstrom of passing water. Yet another unique gem in our waters and well worth a visit. Experienced and knowledgable guides will take you on an adventure like no other on Earth.
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Malcolm Island: Start at Bere Point and follow the coast
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rises to lookout points that showcase the stunning Coast Mountains. The reward at the end is the beautiful sandy strand at Malcolm Point, or, if you don’t want the full hike, side trails lead down the shore, allowing hikers to create a scenic circle route.
Camp out: Take the family to Clint Beek Recreation site and camp out on the shores of Keogh Lake.
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At Water’s Edge Bed & Breakfast 2202 Beach Drive, Port McNeill 250-956-2912 www.atwatersedge.ca
Enjoy spectacular ocean & mountain views from 4 beachfront suites. Each with wifi, private entrance & private bathroom. Just steps from the beach & moments from the town centre and endless possibilities for adventure. All rooms are non-smoking, sorry no pets. Open year round.
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Port Hardy
Kick back in beautiful surroundings while the kids take a dip — all just 14 km from the highway.
& Gift Shop
Look back: Learn how the North Island has evolved over the centuries at your local museum. From the traditions of the First Nations to industrial influence, get steeped in our rich and varied history.
Museum Permanent exhibits of First Nations, European settlers, logging‌
First Nations jewelry Giftware Local interest books Changing Times in Holberg Temporary Exhibit April 20 to September 28, 2013.
7110 Market Street 250-949-8143
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Tough mudder: For the adventurous hikers, take on the challenge of the North Coast Trail. This, on average, 6-8 day expedition incorporates steep climbs, rope sections, fallen trees and more. While certainly not for the faint of heart, the hardy hikers will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience traversing the true, wild North Island.
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See stacks: Take the 45 minute hike from the trailhead to the renowned San Josef Bay. Take snaps of the rugged sea stacks or just relax on the beautiful white sands and breathe in the stunning surroundings that San Jo has to offer.
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On the wing: Head down to the water and see the bald eagles in action or the blue herons looking for food. The estuary in Sayward has a viewing platform where twitchers can get their fill of the varied bird species on the North Island. Alternatively take a stroll along the roundabout Kelley’s Trail by the river to the estuary.
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On the doorstep: Just minutes from Port Hardy, take a stroll around the Quatse Loop. A level gravel trail with boardwalk in parts, this easy loop is a favourite with locals, particularly dog walkers. A great spot for a sedate afternoon stroll.
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A brush with art: With so much natural beauty and such rich culture, it’s no surprise that the North Island is a breeding ground for artists. Take in the works of renowned and talented local artists and artisans at our local galleries.
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Black gold: Visit the site of the Suquash Mine, which brought the Hudson’s Bay Company to the North Island. The forest is rapidly claiming back the historical site, so why not take in the old machinery and derelict structures before they disappear?
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Wait for low Shephard’s Garden 46.Combing: tide and stroll the beaches Come enjoy a brief tour of the family garden in Nimpkish Heights, just near Port McNeill. Three and a half acres of perennials, annuals, shrubs and trees. Open daily: 10am - 5pm
searching for beach glass and other treasures. Get down and dirty digging for clams or roll up your pants legs and wade out in search of crabs.
Go for a dip: Head out in any direction and spend the day at one of the hundreds of lakes and rivers dotting the North Island. With so much choice, it’s easy to find the perfect spot to swim, canoe, fish or have a picnic.
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250-956-4709 South of Port McNeill, Hwy 19 Turn off Nimpkish Heights Road onto Nicholson Road, house #920 www.shephardsgarden.com 26
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Open wide: Check out the mammoth 20 foot jawbone of a blue whale in Coal Harbour. While you’re there, take in the stunning views, visit the museum, or take advantage of the fishing, kayaking and hiking options in this beautiful corner of the North Island.
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Untamed: Head out for a hike or pack up for a wild camping adventure at Raft Cove. Breathe in the Pacific spray on the beach as the pounding surf rolls in to the rugged coast at this untamed spot.
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Get involved: North Islanders love a party. With a slew of festivals, concerts and sporting events scheduled throughout the year, the
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Gate House Theatre Movies, Music, Live Plays in Port McNeill
Pre-release Movies Fridays 7pm Occasional Saturday Matinees 2:30 pm Last Tuesday 7pm of the month “Movie for Guys” Movies subject to availability. Check for details at 250-956-4141 or gatehouseca.org For special event rentals call 250-949-0160 #11-1705 Campbell Way, Port McNeill
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next celebration is always just around the corner so why not get out there and celebrate the beautiful North Island. Get pampered: Explore somewhere new or extend your visit at one of the local hotels, cabins or B&Bs. Relax and let friendly North Islanders take care of you or get away from it all and wake up to the sound of the ocean in a waterfront cabin.
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Ask a local: We can only scratch the surface of what the North Island has to offer here. Strike up a conversation with locals and find out what their ‘can’t miss’ North Island experience is. There’s something for everyone on the beautiful North Island, so talk to those that call it home for the best insights on what else we have to offer.
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SeaRose
Studio/Gallery/Garden
Seaside Retreat
Enjoy our 24-hr fly-in overnight stay. Fine dining from the garden and the sea. Local tour of wildlife and Billy’s Museum. Pottery & paintings for sale and on display. $150 per person per room $225 per couple per room (per day, not including airfare) (Gay-friendly) Located on Echo Bay on Gilford Island 250-974-8134 • searosestudio@hotmail.com www.yvonnemaximchuk.com
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Summer events June
July
Aug/Sept
June - September Tri-port Speedway, Port Hardy
July 1 Canada Day, Various communities
August 3-4 Craft fair and salmon derby, Telegraph Cove
June 7 Oceans Day, Port Hardy
July 6 Logger Sports, Port McNeill
August 4 Alert Bay 360, Alert Bay
June 13-18 VanIsle 360, Various communities
August 7 July 6 Cops for Cancer golf tourney, RCMP Musical Ride, Storey’s Beach Seven Hills
June 15-16 Family fishing day, Various communities
July 7 Art in the park, Sayward
August 10 Tri-Port Music Fest, Cluxewe campground
June 22 Farmer’s market, Hyde Creek
July 20 Aboriginal Day, Fort Rupert
August 17 Orca Fest, Port McNeill
June 22 Kusam Klimb, Sayward
July 19-21 Filomi Days, Port Hardy
August 23 Salmon Days, Sointula
June 22-23, Rumble on Runway, Port McNeill
July 20-21 Rumble on Runway, Port McNeill
Aug 24-25 Rumble on Runway, Port McNeill
June 23 Rumble Fest, Port Alice
July 26-27 Seafest, Alert Bay
September 29 Rivers Day, Quatse Hatchery
Please note: while we try to be as accurate as possible, dates can change due to weather and other unforeseen events. For the most up-to-date information on an event check the listings in the North Island Gazette. www.northislandgazette.com
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Unlike Anywhere You’ve Ever Stayed‌
~ Captivating Ocean Views ~ ~ Jacuzzi Baths ~ Free Wireless Internet ~ ~ Fireplaces ~ Satellite TV ~ ~ Kitchenettes ~
We specialize in Salt Water Fishing Adventures
1.877.949.7939
info@bearcovecottages.ca ~ www.bearcovecottages.ca 30
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Nakwakto Rapids Tours Port Hardy, BC
250-230-3574
WWW.NAKWAKTORAPIDSTOURS.C OM
Visit the rich traditional territories of the Gwa’sala & Nakwaxda’xw people on a unique Native Cultural Tour to Nakwakto Rapids, the world’s fastest navigable tidal rapids.
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U’mista Cultural Centre U’mista’s Potlatch Collection tells an epic story of resistance and resilience. The Centre opened in 1980 to house repatriated Kwakwaka'wakw ceremonial regalia that had been seized by government authorities in 1922. One of the most complete and important collections of its type in the world, U’mista’s Potlatch Collection is a source of great joy and pride for the Kwakwaka’wakw community.
Summer Programming 2013: Fun for Everyone Check our Facebook page for details: //www.facebook.com/Umista.Cultural.Society
Come join the celebration for National Aboriginal Day - June 21
Opening of temporary photography exhibition: “Rights and Wrongs: The Resilience of the World’s Indigenous People” plus parade, beach BBQ, games for children and families
Storytelling - July 5 to Aug. 31
Artists on Fridays (3:00 – 4:00) Artists talk about Chief and Master Carver Doug Cranmer in the K̕esu’ exhibition Elders on Saturdays (3:00 – 4:00) Elders share Kwakwaka’wakw culture from growing up on Village Island to traditional medicine
Fun at U’mista – July 3 to Aug. 31
Wed. 1:00 – 2:30 Sat. 10:30 – 12:00 Free, fun, drop-in cultural activities for children and youth: lahal, berry-picking, fishing, cedar-bark weaving and more Tʼsasała Dance Group – July/Aug. Thurs/Fri/Sat – 1:15 pm Be inspired by children performing traditional dance in our awe-inspiring, ceremonial Big House
We hope you come back! 2 days at U’mista for the price of 1
www.umista.org 250 974-5403 1-800-690-822
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