Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii
Explore British Columbia's West Coast
Vancouver, B.C. to Queen Charlotte City, B.C.
Start on mainland B.C. in Vancouver and travel up Vancouver Island to Port Hardy. From Port Hardy travel by ship to Prince Rupert via the spectacular Inside Passage. From Prince Rupert it's another ferry trip to Haida Gwaii.
Cycling will be on paved roads.
We encourage participants to extend their stay on the islands and explore the region through local tour operators.
To learn more about the level of support on Cycle Canada's tours please visit Frequently Asked Questions
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To the top of Vancouver Island
Leaving Vancouver it's a cross-town ride to catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. The first day is a short warm up day and the terrain is gentle.
From Nanaimo head north to Port Hardy, at the north end of Vancouver Island.
Ferry trip through Inside Passage
From Port Hardy at the top of Vancouver Island it's a full day by ferry through the spectacular Inside Passage to northern British Columbia.
Haida Gwaii riders will have a day to explore Prince Rupert, time for relaxing or enjoying local activities.
From Prince Rupert we take a ferry sailing to Haida Gwaii.
Haida Gwaii
Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, the name was officially changed by the British Columbia Government in December 2009 as part of a historic reconcilliation agreement between the province and the Haida Nation. Haida Gwaii is often referred to as the Galapagos of the north.
After the ferry trip to the islands, you'll be head to Masset. Spend the night there and there can be an optional ride to see Tow Hill. Then ride to Port Clements, where there is a short ride or hike to the site of the Golden Spruce. For pre-ride research we recommend: The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness and Greed. Riders can visit the Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate on the day to Queen Charlotte City.
Extend your stay
We encourage riders to extend their stay on the islands. Riders can choose from one day to 4 day self guided or supported tours by land or sea. There are plenty of hiking opportunities as well so bring your hiking boots.
- Vancouver, B.C. to Queen Charlotte City, Haida Gwaii, B.C.
- Total days — 11
- Riding days — 8
- Rest day — 1
- Ferry trips — 2
- Total distance by bike 655 km ( 405 mi.)
- Daily average 82 km (51 mi.)
- We have a rest day in Prince Rupert
- Longest day — 103 km (63 mi.)
We recommend you obtain travel, medical and personal insurance.
Please read our policy statement for Cycle Canada events: Policies
You'll find information on other great cycling tours in Canada here: Cycle Canada Events.
Distances and Rating
Challenge Level: Two and a half Cogs (medium to high challenge)