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Haida Gwaii is an archipelago off the north coast of British Columbia, separated from the mainland by Hecate Strait. It is the homeland of the Haida Nation, whose culture of carving, canoe building and monumental poles remains strong in the island communities today. Rainforest, long sandy beaches and remote inlets cover much of the land, and the islands' isolation has shaped distinctive wildlife and a slower rhythm of life.
The Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay, near Skidegate, is the best introduction, with carved poles facing the shore, canoes and exhibits on Haida history. Nearby Daajing Giids offers lodging and services. On Graham Island, the road north passes Tlell and Port Clements, a village tied to local stories including that of a rare white raven, before reaching Masset and the wild beaches of Naikoon Provincial Park. To the south, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve protects a roadless area reached by boat or floatplane. There, the village site of SGang Gwaay Llnagaay, with its standing mortuary and memorial poles, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Hotspring Island has natural thermal pools.
Haida Gwaii suits travelers willing to plan around ferry schedules and weather. Gwaii Haanas requires reservations and an orientation, and most visitors join licensed tour operators.
WiserMap travel guideHaida Gwaii British Columbia Haida Culture and RainforestPlan a trip to Haida Gwaii: Haida culture, Naikoon rainforest, Gwaii Haanas and SGang Gwaay, local seafood, where to stay, ferries and an itinerary.Read the guide
Cultural centre near Skidegate with a museum, totem poles facing the sea, canoes and carving sheds. It tells the history and living culture of the Haida Nation. Allow at least two hours, and check for guided tours and carving demonstrations.
Island community on Graham Island, formerly known as Queen Charlotte, with a harbour, shops and places to stay. It is a convenient base near the ferry terminal at Skidegate. Book accommodation early in summer, as options on the islands are limited.
Haida village on the southern shore of Graham Island near the ferry terminal from Prince Rupert. Totem poles stand in the village, and the Haida Heritage Centre is close by. It is a good place to start learning about Haida culture.
Village at the north end of Graham Island, next to the Haida village of Old Massett, home to many artists and carvers. It is the gateway to the northern beaches and Naikoon park. Visit galleries and studios, and ask before photographing poles or homes.
Small community on Moresby Island with the islands' main airport and a long sandy spit for beach walks. It is a common starting point for trips into Gwaii Haanas. A small ferry links it with Graham Island, so check the schedule.
Large park in northeastern Graham Island with long sand beaches, bogs and forest. Highlights include the wreck of the Pesuta and East Beach. Weather on the open coast can be wild, so bring rain gear and check tides before beach walks.
Basalt hill rising from the beach at the north end of Graham Island, with a boardwalk and stairs to a lookout over North Beach. Below it is the Blow Hole, where waves spout through the rocks at certain tides. It is part of Naikoon park.
Short forest trail near Port Clements leading to the Yakoun River, where a rare golden Sitka spruce, sacred to the Haida, once stood. The tree was cut down in 1997, but the old-growth forest is still impressive. The trail is easy and well marked.
Wetland sanctuary in Masset with trails and viewing towers, an important stop for migrating birds such as sandhill cranes and many shorebirds. It is one of the best birding spots on the islands. Spring and fall migrations are the best times.
Protected area covering the southern islands of the archipelago, jointly managed by the Haida Nation and Parks Canada. It has ancient village sites, rainforest and rich marine life. Visits need a reservation and orientation, and most people go with a licensed tour.
UNESCO World Heritage village site on a remote island in Gwaii Haanas, where weathered mortuary and memorial poles still stand among the trees. Haida Watchmen guide visitors. It can only be reached by boat or floatplane on organized trips.
Island in Gwaii Haanas known in Haida as Gandll K'in, with natural hot pools overlooking the sea. Haida Watchmen host visitors, and access is limited to protect the site. It is usually visited as part of a multi-day kayak or boat tour.
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