With mountains, temperate rainforest, rugged coastlines, picturesque communities, winding valleys, and endless trails Vancouver Island is a paradise for the intrepid adventurer, but it’s vital to be prepared for the varied conditions of the island’s many ecosystems and diverse terrain. “Know Before You Go” is a helpful resource of carefully crafted local travel considerations that are an essential part of planning your visit to Vancouver Island and Campbell River. They help visitors be adequately prepared, whether that be for rugged, remote locations, logging roads, surprise wildlife encounters, or shifting seasonal conditions.
Campbell River, at the edge of Vancouver Island’s rugged wilderness, offers access to mountains, rainforests, and coastal ecosystems—but conditions can shift quickly with the seasons. Travelers are urged to check weather and road updates and to prepare ahead and “Know Before You Go,” especially when venturing on remote logging roads to nearby parks like Strathcona or Elk Falls. Respecting Leave No Trace principles and being wildlife-aware ensures a safe and sustainable experience in this incredible region.
Shifting Conditions From the Mountains to the Sea
Vancouver Island is home to awe-inspiring ecosystems—from the beaches of Tofino to breathtaking alpine valleys and the southern edges of the Great Bear Rainforest near Campbell River—that are front and centre of why people want to travel here. At different times of the year, the changing seasons can cause drastic changes in the conditions experienced in these ecosystems.
This impacts what clothing, shoes, and extra gear you should pack, but also trail and road conditions. In the spring, due to snow melt, and in the rainier months, trails can be slippery and there is the risk of rising river levels and possible flooding. In the summer, wildfire season leads to fire bans and it’s important to travel with enough water or a water purification system on remote adventures, even if you think there is a water source as these can dry up in the hottest months.
“Know Before You Go” provides directions on how to stay up-to-date on weather alerts and how to prevent and report wildfires.
Check the Route Before You Go
Road conditions are also part of “Know Before You Go” and the easiest place to check these is Drive BC before you leave on a journey. Make sure to carry extra water and food in the car, as well as chains and a shovel in snowy conditions. Drive BC also helps with updates on any road works and detours.
Some of Vancouver Island’s best destinations, particularly to the west and north of Campbell River like San Josef Bay and Strathcona Provincial Park, are found at the end of rugged logging roads or in remote areas. Know how to change your tire, leave your trip plan with someone, download maps and directions ahead of time, and prepare to be out of range.
Help Keep Our Parks Pristine
A huge part of Vancouver Island’s charm is its vast landscapes. Some of these are protected for future generations by BC Parks, and also by Parks Canada in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve between Tofino and Ucluelet.
Before you enter a park, like Elk Falls Provinicial Park in Campbell River, take a look at the detailed information on the BC Parks website to educate yourself on any sensitive ecosystems, restricted areas, and any required fees or backcountry permits. Dogs are required to be on-leash in provincial parks and travellers should champion and abide by Leave No Trace principles.
Across Vancouver Island, it’s also vital to be wildlife aware. Bears, cougars, wolves, whales, and many more species, some rare or considered at-risk, call Vancouver Island home. Brush up on responsible wildlife viewing, wildlife safety, and legal guidelines to ensure you keep yourself safe and our wildlife thriving.
