Attractions and Places To See around Area D (Nimpkish Valley/Cormorant Island) - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Area D (Nimpkish Valley/Cormorant Island) include a diverse range of natural and cultural sites. This region features the rich Indigenous heritage of Cormorant Island, home to Alert Bay, alongside the rugged wilderness and biodiversity of the Nimpkish Valley. Visitors can explore ancient forests, significant cultural centers, and abundant wildlife across these distinct areas. The landscape offers opportunities for both cultural immersion and outdoor adventure.
Best attractions and places to see around Area D…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Little Huson Caves
Highlight • Cave
The river flows through this cave. A remote place, the road / paths there are pretty badly signposted, but it's worth the effort. The cave is rarely visited (spring 2019) and you have nature to yourself.
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Telegraph Cove to Woss Gravel Road
Highlight • Trail
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Elk Creek Recreation Site
Highlight • Rest Area
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Bonanza Lake Campsite
Highlight • Rest Area
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Gravel Road Near Mohun Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tips from the Community
Nice to ride. Mostly flat and light gravel. Regularly smoothed out, so it was almost as good as new for us. The last 10km to the highway from Mohun Lake are a bit rougher and you have to drive around a lot of holes.
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A dream camping spot. The lake is clean and there are places with concrete squares for tents. Unfortunately not all of the places are in good condition. Very quiet and easy to get to.
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Great detour to avoid the highway. We recommend driving from Telegraph Cove to Woss. It's a very easy trip that way. The road is very easy to drive on and not really used. We didn't see any trucks. There are two camp spots with tables at Ida Lake and Bonanza Lake. Highly recommended. The road downhill to Woss is washed out now and then but it's OK.
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Great spot with a small stream. There is a gas station and food shop nearby with normal prices. You can easily take a longer break here. There is a bit of traffic in the morning due to logging trucks nearby.
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DREAMLIKE !!! The river flows through this cave. A remote place, the road / paths there are pretty badly signposted, but it's worth the effort. The cave is rarely visited (spring 2019) and you have nature to yourself.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What cultural and historical sites can I visit on Cormorant Island?
Cormorant Island, particularly Alert Bay, is rich in Indigenous culture. You can explore the U'mista Cultural Centre, which preserves the heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw people. Don't miss the magnificent 'Namgis Big House and the world's tallest totem pole. The island also features 23 other totem poles and the Alert Bay Library-Museum, offering insights into First Nation and pioneer history.
What outdoor activities are popular in the Nimpkish Valley?
The Nimpkish Valley is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, wildlife watching, and mountain biking. Nimpkish Lake is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and windsports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. During winter, Mount Cain offers skiing and snowboarding.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Area D?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. The Elk Creek Recreation Site is a great spot with a small stream for a longer break. On Cormorant Island, the Alert Bay Ecological Park (Gator Gardens) offers a boardwalk through a marsh environment, perfect for observing flora and fauna. The Bonanza Lake Campsite also provides a family-friendly camping experience.
What wildlife can I expect to see in the region?
The waterways around Cormorant Island are excellent for whale watching, with opportunities to spot resident Orcas, Humpback, and Minke whales. You might also see sea lions, porpoises, dolphins, eagles, seals, and mink. In the Nimpkish Valley, the Nimpkish River is important habitat for salmon and black bears, and eagles can often be spotted along the Lower Nimpkish River.
Where can I find hiking and biking trails on Cormorant Island?
Cormorant Island offers over 10.5 kilometers of hiking and biking trails to explore its diverse landscapes. Additionally, there are 15 km of woodland trails that are predator-free, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for walkers and cyclists.
What is the best time of year to visit Area D (Nimpkish Valley/Cormorant Island)?
The region offers different experiences depending on the season. Summer (July and August) is ideal for cultural events like traditional dances at the 'Namgis Big House and whale watching. Winter provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at Mount Cain in the Nimpkish Valley. Spring and fall offer pleasant conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Are there any unique geological features to explore?
Absolutely. The most unique geological feature is Little Huson Caves in the Nimpkish Valley, where a river flows through impressive limestone cave formations. This remote spot offers a truly unique natural experience.
Where can I take a break or find facilities while exploring the Nimpkish Valley?
The Elk Creek Recreation Site is a great spot with a small stream, perfect for a longer break. It also has a gas station and food shop nearby. If you're driving the Telegraph Cove to Woss Gravel Road, you'll find two camp spots with tables at Ida Lake and Bonanza Lake.
What are the transportation options to and around Cormorant Island?
Cormorant Island is easily accessible by ferry from Port McNeill. Once on the island, you can explore Alert Bay's attractions, such as the Oceanfront Boardwalk, cultural centers, and totem poles, on foot. There are also hiking and biking trails to explore the island's natural beauty.
Can I go camping in the Nimpkish Valley?
Yes, camping is a popular activity in the Nimpkish Valley. You can find camp spots at Ida Lake and Bonanza Lake Campsite, especially if you're traveling the Telegraph Cove to Woss Gravel Road. Woss Lake Provincial Park also offers pristine wilderness for camping.
What is there to do in the Nimpkish Valley during winter?
During winter, Mount Cain is the primary attraction in the Nimpkish Valley, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding with untouched snowfall and virtually no line-ups. Its high alpine meadows and forests are also suitable for snowshoeing and winter hiking.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Area D?
Visitors appreciate the unique blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure. The Little Huson Caves are often described as 'dreamlike' and a unique natural experience. The Telegraph Cove to Woss Gravel Road is enjoyed as a scenic and easy alternative to the highway, with pleasant camp spots. The Elk Creek Recreation Site is valued for its peaceful stream and convenient facilities.
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