|
|
|
home > kayak trips > fall bears & salmon Fall Bears & SalmonKayakers will experience the return of the pink salmon, a species that migrates to the Queen Charlotte Islands every two years. The salmon migrate upstream to spawn and become part of the food web for species such as: Sea Lions, Seals, Bald Eagles, Black Bears and the occasional pod of Killer Whales, making wildlife viewing an unforgettable experience. This tour will focus on the many estuaries, and watersheds along the San Christoval Mountains. Navigating the northern waters of Gwaii Haanas National Park during this time of year allow for a true wilderness experience, when very few visitors are present in the park. A relaxing soak in the natural pools at Hot Springs Island, or a walk through an old growth forest are just some of the highlights of tour. Another stop is a visit to Tanu, the resting place of Haida Artist Bill Ried, always a calming experience. While paddling north, the tour will end with the Totem Poles of Skedans Village. Here ancient poles tell the stories of the past.
Other tours: Hotsprings to the Totems of the Pacific | Hotsprings and the Path Less Traveled ItineraryDay 1Your tour starts with my friends from Moresby Explorers picking you up at your accommodations in Sandspit, the location of the islands main air port. They will entertain you with stories and show you coastal attractions while transporting you by zodiac to a remote location in Gwaii Haanas. At this point we will establish a campsite near Hot Springs Island. Our goal is to travel safely in accordance with the weather, tides, and general interest of the group. Paddling to the natural springs for a soak that evening will allow guests to get familiar with our mixed fleet of single and double sea kayaks. Day 2 to 9The next day we will enjoy exploring the many islands and islets surrounding our camp seeing old home stead's, seal hall outs, blue heron colonies, and superb inter tidal. Breaking camp will allow guests to travel through the Bishops Islands, towards Darwin Sound. Here our new camp will be back dropped by the San Christoval Mountains. Darwin Sound allows the opportunity to explore the many estuaries and water sheds. Here we will see the migrating salmon occur, and hopefully a bear in the distance. A hike to an alpine lake, or discovering one of the many waterfalls in the area, is also an option for a days outing. This area is rich in Haida Myths and past communities to explore!
Next we establish camp in close proximity to the village of Tanu. A once flourishing village, its calm environment is the resting place of Haida Artist, Bill Ried. Here walks in old growth forests displays tree scares where ancient Haida had once stripped bark or culled trees for everyday items. Continuing our journey north, guest will paddle past the fjord like topography of Porter and Hemming Head. Once across, camp is set up near Vertical Point. The uplift of the limestone formations along this shoreline here gives its name and a west coast feel. Not far from this camp is the ecological reserve of Limestone Island, where in the summer months biologists research the ever changing coastal ecosystems in the area. A relaxing walk on one of the many flagged trails on Limestone Island allows guests the opportunity to experience this natural sanctuary. A short day paddle from our camp will bring us to Skedans Village. Perched on a rocky bluff this community was visited by Canadian Artist, Emily Carr. Ancient Totem Poles can be seen from the water as we approach the village's beach.
On our final evening, we leave our ocean view camp site for Rose Harbour where we will have dinner with Homesteader, and Friend Susan Wier. Here a warm deserving shower and most importantly delicious local cuisine await us! Day 10On our final day we are picked up by Zodiac and transported back to Moresby Camp where we make our way back to the comforts of Sandspit. Please note, that mother nature has the final word on tour itineraries and the above is just a general overview.
2008 Tour Schedule
All prices are in Canadian dollars and include parks fees. |
DON'T MISS OUT
More links: Why Ocean Sound?
|
© Ocean Sound Kayaking Co. 2008 |