Haida Gwaii Adventure
Canada
Far-flung and isolated, the lush Haida Gwaii archipelago is steeped in superlatives, most stunning scenery, tastiest seafood, most accessible First Nations culture. Highway 16 runs the length of Graham Island from the Haida Heritage Centre to the white-sand wilderness at Rose Spit.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Skidegate Ferry Terminal
The BC Ferries arrival point from Prince Rupert. Arrange a hire car in advance; the islands have no rental car desks at the terminal itself.
- Haida Heritage Centre
The finest First Nations cultural centre in Canada. Eight monumental totem poles stand in the Carving Shed alongside a remarkable collection of Haida objects.
- Tlell
A hamlet on the Tlell River estuary at the edge of Naikoon Provincial Park. Wild driftwood beaches stretch north along the untouched Pacific shoreline.
- Port Clements
A small logging village on Masset Inlet. A forest trail leads to the Yakoun River through cathedral groves of old-growth Sitka spruce and red cedar.
- Old Masset
The living Haida village at the north end of Graham Island. Totem poles stand in front yards; working carvers can often be visited in their studios.
- Masset
The largest community on Haida Gwaii, with a harbour, a decommissioned military base, and the best provisioning stop before the drive to Rose Spit.
- Tow Hill
A dramatic basalt plug rising from Agate Beach, the last landmark before road's end. A short trail reaches the summit with views across Hecate Strait.
- Rose Spit
The road's end: a sweeping arc of white sand where the Pacific meets Hecate Strait. Eagles overhead, bears on the beach, and vast, complete solitude.
Where to Eat
- Haida House Dining RoomSeafood
Offers fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes in a cozy setting overlooking the Tlell River.
- Charters RestaurantCanadian
Serves hearty Canadian fare with a focus on local ingredients, situated in the heart of Masset.
- Ocean View RestaurantChinese
Features a variety of Chinese cuisine options with a scenic view of the ocean in Masset.
Things to Do
- Naikoon Provincial ParkNational Park
Explore vast beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife in this expansive park on Graham Island.
- Delkatla Wildlife SanctuaryWildlife Sanctuary
A haven for birdwatchers, this sanctuary in Masset hosts numerous migratory bird species.
- Balance RockScenic Viewpoint
A natural wonder near Skidegate, this precariously balanced boulder offers stunning photo opportunities.
Travel advisory
Reaching Haida Gwaii requires a BC Ferries crossing from Prince Rupert, and some secondary roads and access tracks to Haida heritage sites are unpaved. Fuel and services are limited outside Masset and Queen Charlotte; book ferry and accommodation well in advance, especially in summer.