Nature & Wildlife

The Port Alberni region is a nature lover's paradise, particularly for wildlife viewing.

Stamp River Provincial Park

In late summer or early fall, head to the park's Stamp Falls. Watch as thousands of Pacific salmon circle in the pool below the falls before ascending fish ladders on their way to spawning beds. Just 20 minutes from Port Alberni, this provincial park is also a great place for family day trips or summer campouts. Take time to hike through the lush forest and river rapids of this wonderful park.

Robertson Creek Fish Hatchery

There are more fish to be viewed at the state-of-the-art Robertson Creek Fish Hatchery. It is the most successful hatchery on Vancouver Island, producing nearly 10 million chinook salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead smolts annually. This hatchery is only a 20 minute drive west of Port Alberni and is open 7 days a week.

Somass Estuary Project

Bird lovers will want to head to the Somass Estuary Project, located on the west side of the Somass River. Almost 160 species of birds can be found in this estuary, including the once endangered Trumpeter Swan that arrives in November and remains until March.

The Estuary teems with other wildlife including, Black Bears, Bald Eagles, Black-tailed Deer, Beavers, Mink, and Harbour Seals. Massive salmon runs attract Black Bears; photograph them from the grassy bank of Victoria Quay across the river from the sanctuary.