Mini Travel Guide: Haida Gwaii, for Yes and Yes!
Hello – I’m Allison and I currently live on Haida Gwaii. I’ve lived and worked here for over a year, so I’m still discovering the ins and outs of these islands that have been luring me on weekly adventures. I’ve fallen in love with these islands, and if you decide to come here, I bet you will too!
PLACES TO GO ON HAIDA GWAII
Haida Gwaii has just under 5,000 people that inhabit eight different communities. One of the last places to be touched by the tourist industry, Haida Gwaii is a hidden gem made for the self-guided traveler.
With one paved road, Hwy 16, running from south to north, it’s hard to miss the stops along the way. But don’t stick to the pavement, there’s much more to be discovered down a hiking trail, a beach or an old logging road.
THE SOUTH END: SKIDEGATE & QUEEN CHARLOTTE
In the south, there are two main communities: Skidegate and Queen Charlotte, each community with its own charm. On a bike ride from one community to the other, you’ll often see pods of whales traveling through in the spring and summer.
In Skidegate you’ll find Haida carver signs hidden throughout the village, inviting you in for a visit. In Queen Charlotte, you’ll find backpackers, long-time locals, and sailors down at the docks or on the balcony of Queen B’s Cafe. Protected in Skidegate Inlet, there’s a scenic view from almost every vantage point.
THE NORTH END: TOW HILL
Once you make your way north you’ll find the village of Old Massett, New Masset, and Tow Hill. Tow Hill is where you can walk the beach for miles, and say hello to Alaska!
If you’re here in the winter, this is the place to storm watch, to be blown by the wind and feel the rain on your cheeks. When the tide is out, keep your head down to look for agates and glass balls that float in from Japan. Check out the blowhole for one of nature’s spectacles and walk through forests covered in blankets of moss and ferns.
TO THE WEST: RENNELL SOUND
Rennell Sound is down a logging road. You’ll find unexplored coastline and you might just feel like you’re at the edge of the world. It’s a great place to spend a day beach combing, free diving and gathering around a fire with friends.
GWAII HAANAS
Most tourists come to Haida Gwaii to visit Gwaii Haanas National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site – and for good reason!
Throughout Gwaii Haanas you’ll find ancient Haida village sites with historic carved poles. To book a Gwaii Haanas orientation, check-in with the local Parks Canada field unit. If you’re interested in booking a trip check-out, Moresby Explorers, Green Coast Kayaking, or Haida Style.
THINGS TO EAT ON HAIDA GWAII
Housed in the Haida Heritage Centre at Ḵay Llnagaay in Skidegate, the Kay Bistro is THE place to eat. Often made with local ingredients, Edi creates mouth-watering burgers, tacos, salads, and soups. After a night out at Howler’s Pub or a Skidegate dance, a deep-fried chicken burger always hits the spot. Keep your eyes out for Edi’s food trailer at Spirit Square, one of Haida Gwaii’s first food trucks that launched in the spring of 2016. This guy can cook!
WILD FOOD HARVESTING
In almost every season you can wild food harvest. Nettles in the ditch, thimble/salmon/black/raspberries along the road, sea asparagus in the tidal zone, crabs within the inlet, and salmon off the coast! Ask a local what’s in season to know where and what to pick.
If you’re looking for authentic local food, make a reservation with Chef Roberta Olsen at Keenawii’s Kitchen. A multi-coursed meal can consist of dried seaweed, roe on kelp, octopus, salmon, or halibut. Prepared and gathered by Roberta herself or with the help of locals, you’ll be sure to get a taste of traditional Haida cuisine.
Open for lunch Tuesday – Saturday, this place was my favorite lunch stop when I worked in the north. It’s also the only vegetarian restaurant on the island, acting as a bit of a community hub. Spend one lunch hour here and you’ll know what’s going on in the community! Barb serves up a selection of hefty crepes with chipotle or lemon sauce. Depending on the day there’s also a delicious selection of soup, salad or a glory bowl.
PLACES TO STAY ON HAIDA GWAII
BRING A TENT
The best places to stay on Haida Gwaii are in a tent, there are tons of camping options along beaches, protected coves, or deep in forests. There are a few designated camping sites in each community, or you can find a pullout on a beach to set up for the night. Just be respectful of the environment – leaving it the way you found it.
THE B&BS
All have their own character with sea glass, quilts, and trinkets that reflect the personality of their owners. Check out Mike & Dorothy’s, North Beach Cabins and Cacillia’s B&B.
Related: Airbnb is always an affordable option and if you’ve never used it before, here’s a $40 credit towards your first booking!
Where the Sangan river mouth meets the ocean, this is my favorite place to have a staycation. This beautifully designed tree house in Tow Hill this is a little oasis is perfect for a romantic getaway. Circle windows, a fire pole and a big bear claw tub – you can cozy up and hide away here for a few days.
CULTURAL TIPS FOR TRAVELING HAIDA GWAII
The people of Haida Gwaii, both Haida & non-Haida, really value the natural environment. It shapes their livelihoods and spirituality. It’s the very reason why many people live there. You’ll see signs such as “United Against Enbridge”, “Stop the Bear Hunt” or “No LNG” on almost every other lawn. So be sure to respect the air, land, forests, and seas.
Everyone has a story so pull up a chair and listen. There is a rich political, cultural and resource development history, so you’ll definitely learn something.
It’s a small town feel on these big islands so be prepared to wave to everyone you pass by on the road. The locals are welcoming, generous, and interested in knowing more about the visitors. (And because it’s a small town feel, they’ll definitely know you’re a visitor.)
GETTING AROUND HAIDA GWAII
FERRY
To get here, you can travel by BC Ferries from Prince Rupert to Skidegate landing on an 8-hour ferry. In the summer the ferry can fill up – so be sure to book ahead, especially if you want a cabin for the overnight sail.
FLY
Air Canada flies daily to the Sandspit airport located on Moresby Island. From there, Eagle Transit, rental cars or hitchhiking could get you to Alliford bay ferry landing. From there, you’re a short ferry ride to Skidegate landing, which is on the main island, Graham Island. Alternatively, you can fly right into Masset with Pacific Coastal.
Once you’re here, hitchhiking is still one of the primary ways to get from North to South. There’s even a large thumbs-up statue in Masset where you can wait for a pick-up. If you’re on a tight schedule, there are a few rental car options at the Sandspit airport. Call ahead to make arrangements.
Recommended Reading: The Golden Spruce by John Vaillant