Outdoor Activities

Mount Arrowsmith

The hike up Mount Arrowsmith is worth the effort, offering superb views from its summit of the Strait of Georgia, Coast Mountain Range, Port Alberni and the mountains of Strathcona Provincial Park. Mount Arrowsmith also has a huge number of trails for avid mountain bikers.

Della Falls Trail

For those looking for a challenge! The Della Falls Trail leads hikers from the head of Great Central Lake to the base of the highest waterfall in Canada (440 metres high, 1443 feet), a cascade from Della Lake. This 16 km trail, by way of Drinkwater Creek, is a long hike taking about 7 hours one way, and suitable for intermediate level hikers. The trail was originally built by a trapper, Joe Drinkwater, who also started the Ark Resort. Della Falls is named after his wife.

The Log Train Trail

Loved by hikers and mountain bikers alike. The Log Train Trails is a 26-km linear trail that is suitable for all ages. The main portion of the Long Train Trail travels by the McLean Mill National Historic Site, which serves as a hub/connection for a network of additional trails/off-shoots.

Golfing

For those who prefer gently rolling greens head to the Alberni Valley Golf Club, an 18-hole, PGA course, nestled at the foot of the Beaufort Mountains. Bordered by towering trees and following the contours of Cherry Creek, the course is considered by many of its regulars to be a "small paradise."

Short on time or want a shorter course? Try 9-hole Hollies Executive Golf Course, located next to the Alberni Highway. Hollies is also a popular choice among new golfers and retirees.

Port Alberni is known as the Salmon Capital of the World -- and for good reasons. Anglers come to Port Alberni for salmon and Halibut. There are plenty of guided charters or boat rentals available for fishing expeditions of all durations. Go in June or July for Sockeye, August for Chinook and anytime in the spring or fall for Halibut.

The annual Labour Day weekend is Salmon Festival Weekend at Port Alberni, where anglers from around the world come and compete for tens of thousands of dollars in money and prize in our 4-day Salmon Fishing Derby.

During the Winter, anglers the world over head to the Stamp River system to experience some of the best Steelhead fishing in Western Canada. Professional guides and outfitters are always available to help locate the fish and keep fishers safe.

The Alberni Valley offers a wide range of activities. If you are wanting an adventure, here is the place to start.

Kayaking

Port Alberni is the gateway for kayaking trips into Barkley Sound via the MV Lady Rose. Scheduled service into the Broken Group Islands runs from June to September. Kayak/Canoe rentals are available on the waterfront along the Somass River and at the Harbour Quay.

For a slightly different water adventure on hot summer days, tube down the Stamp River. But make sure to have a vehicle parked downstream or it'll be a long walk back.

Diving

The Barkley Sound is world-renown for it's incredible diving conditions. In fact, the National Geographic Magazine recognized Vancouver Island as one of the best cold-water diving destinations in the world. People travel from around the world to explore famous wrecks in these waters. For more info, visit VI Dive School.

Geocaching

Geocaching (pronounced geo-cashing), is an adventure game/treasure hunt for owners of a GPS (Global positioning System) unit. Throughout the Alberni Valley there are hundreds of geocaches which are located in very interesting and scenic locations. Enjoy the fun of the hunt while taking in some of the many attractions and viewscapes the Valley has to offer. Further information can be obtained at www.geocaching.com