This 14-day North Vancouver Island route takes you deep into one of the wildest, most underrated, and most unforgettable regions of British Columbia. From Campbell River through Strathcona Park, Gold River, Tahsis, Woss, Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, Sointula, Port Alice, Side Bay, San Josef Bay, and out to Cape Scott — this journey gives you the best of the mountains, lakes, rainforest backroads, hidden campsites, rugged beaches, and remote communities that make the North Island so special.
You’ll find a mix of free Recreation Sites, paid sites, and small-town services scattered between long stretches of pure wilderness. I’ve built this route so you can take your time, explore deeply, and truly experience the heartbeat of the Island.
There are also two optional days on Sointula — a peaceful, friendly island full of art, beaches, history, and slow-living charm. You can easily add these as rest days or exploration days before continuing north.
I grew up on the North Island — these backroads, lakes, forests, and tiny coastal towns are a part of who I am. I’ve spent my life exploring nature, traveling through remote areas, and finding the hidden gems you won’t see on tourist maps.
This guide is more than directions — it’s my home, my heart, and the places I love most, shared with you so you can experience them too.
This route travels through the territories of many Indigenous Nations, including the Kwakwaka'wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and other First Nations communities whose land, culture, and stewardship continue to shape the North Island.
Please travel with respect, awareness, and care. Leave no trace, follow posted signage, and learn whenever possible.
Thank you for supporting local small businesses, respecting the land, and choosing to explore the North End of Vancouver Island. When you visit these communities, support local shops, share your experience, and tell your friends — it truly makes a difference up here.
And thank you for supporting me and my work. Creating this guide has been a passion project rooted in my love for nature, travel, and the place I call home.
This guide isn’t static — I’ll always be adding new routes, hidden spots, things to do, hikes, camp areas, and updates on road conditions or recreation sites.
And once you have this guide, every update is yours for free, forever.
I want this to be your go-to North Vancouver Island resource — whether you’re planning your first trip, returning for new adventures, or sharing it with fellow travelers. I recommend printing this route out; you never know what could happen. Paper copies may be old, but could save you.
Again, thank you for your support. I would love it if you would send me a short video or photo of your trip. That I could post on our socials.
Have fun,
Jenn
