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home > kayak trips > hotsprings and the path less traveled Hotsprings and the Path Less TraveledThis tour is perfect for paddlers with limited time who wish to explore the unique treasures of Gwaii Haanas. This 5 day tour brings guests through the northern waters surrounding Hot Springs Island. Benefiting from the use of two base camps allows guests to enjoy walks in the old growth forests, relaxing soak in the natural thermal pools, and visits to old homesteads. This tour is scheduled around low tides allowing for excellent inter tidal viewing. The area supports an abundance of wildlife including the always entertaining Humpback Whales and the occasional pod of Killer Whales. This area is known for its spectacular sunsets, framed by the San Christoval Mountains. A visit to the village and totem poles of Skedans, is one of the highlights of this tour. The energy of the Totem Poles which were abandoned over 120 years ago can be felt as they display the crests and stories of the past. Experience for yourself why the National Geographic Society ranked Gwaii Haanas the #1 National Park in North America.
Other tours: Hotsprings to the Totems of the Pacific | Totems of the Pacific Itinerary
Day 1Your tour starts when my friends from Moresby Explorers pick you up at your accommodations in Sandspit. Sandspit is home to the local airport. Moresby Explorers will entertain you with stories and show you coastal attractions while transporting you by zodiac to a remote island 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, the tides and the general interests of the group. Paddling that afternoon will allow guests to get familiar with our mixed fleet of single and double sea kayaks. Day 2 to 4From our base camps, day paddles to the Bischops, Murchinson, Farraday, Ramsey or the Tar and Conglomerate Islands offer a fun and diverse shoreline of beaches, sea caves, and hidden coves to discover. Many opportunities to explore old homesteads, view inter tidal wonders, collect water from natural springs, or enjoy intimate experiences with wildlife are all part of this tour. The area is a known for Great Blue Heron nesting sites and home to many seal hall outs. The surrounding area is rich with history and Haida Myths. A day paddle along the southern shore of Llyle Island provides walks in old growth forests where ancient Haida once collected their cedar bark.
The water corridor between Murchinson and Farraday Islands provides some the most amazing inter tidal viewing in Gwaii Haanas. It is here we float through the small details of the area that add the color of the day. A short paddle to Hot Springs Islands is always present from either of our base camps. Enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the hot springs while overlooking the San Christoval Mountains in the distance, is sure to please everyone. Day 5Our final morning can be a relaxing paddle or a return to the hot springs. Our friends at Moresby Explorers will arrive early afternoon to transport guest back to Sandspit. Depending on the weather forecast a stop to the village of Skedans can be made. Here the crests of standing totem poles tell stories of their past. If the forecast is not in our favor a visit to Tanu Village can be made. Once a village of 450 residents, today a few moss covered totem poles and house pits remain. It is also the resting place of known Haida artist Bill Reid. 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. |
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