The village of Gold River is located on the western-most shores of Vancouver Island on the traditional territories of the Mowachaht-Muchalat First Nation of the Nuchatlaht People. There are fifteen Indigenous First Nations who call this region home.
Once a hub of pulp-and-paper production, Gold River is now an ecotourism paradise with a wonderland of wild experiences for every level of adventurer. Explore this area by foot, mountain bike, kayak, boat, or float plane for an authentic west coast experience in the heart of nature.
Day to Day
Creature Comforts
There are a limited number of lodgings in Gold River, so we highly recommend booking ahead. Choose from cozy B&Bs, cabins, cottages, lodges, a motor inn, campgrounds, and chalets. Some accommodation providers offer all-inclusive packages including transportation for anglers and adventurers alike. Inquire directly before you go to find the perfect fit!
Day One
Fresh Start
Start your day on the right foot with Uptown Cappuccino in the Pacific Tide Mall. This fan favourite serves an all day breakfast plus fresh-baked muffins, scones, and cinnamon buns. Ice cream and milkshakes are available during warmer months. Expect small-town charm and warm service.
Adventure Is Out There!
No trip to Gold River is complete without a visit to the Upana Caves. There are five caves to explore, a waterfall, and a platform with a view of the Resurgence Cave entrance. It is advisable to bring two sources of light, mind your step, and watch your head on low cave ceilings. Allow at least an hour.
Directions: Head west on the Tree to Sea Drive to Tahsis. Turn onto the unpaved Head Bay Forest Service Road for 14.5 kms. Turn right on to Branch H-27 and park on the right just before the bridge. The trailhead is on the other side of the bridge. Approximately 25 minutes one way.
Shop Local
Island Clayworks is the lovechild of Neil and Anita Lawrence who met in art school. Neil was born and raised in Gold River, and returned with his family in the early 2000s to build their pottery studio and gallery. Between the two of them, their art is an expression of nature and west coast scenery, making it a perfect souvenir to commemorate your travels.
Get Ready For Tomorrow
Exploring is thirsty work! The Ridge Roadhouse Pub is a relaxed neighbourhood eatery with great food and live entertainment. Enjoy Wing Night every Wednesday and Classic Rock Bingo plus Karaoke on Friday nights. Swap stories of your day over your evening meal while you rub elbows with the locals. Try your hand at a game of pool, or grab a seat on the patio when the weather is cooperating.
Day Two
Local Secret
Have you ever heard of “munchers”? This beloved creation of the Three7Five Cafe is a crunchy potato ball filled with cheese and green onion. They’re so popular that the cafe keeps its patrons updated on their supply with their social media posts. Add a hot espresso drink or a scoop of ice cream to your order, then round it all off with a bag of donuts from the “Nibbles” menu. You are on holiday after all!
Living History
The Marine Vessel Uchuck III is a coastal freighter which carries foot passengers and kayakers who are interested in exploring remote areas of Kyuquot and Nootka Sound. Get West Adventure Cruises offers day trips to both Friendly Cove and Nootka Sound. Both options leave in the morning and return in the early evening. Thinking of staying in town a bit longer? There are also multiple-day cruises available. Have a look at their website for more information.
Day Three
Cast Your Line
As Gold River is known far and wide for its first class fishing, you can’t leave town without casting a line! Team up with Air Nootka for a customized experience: select one of the lovely fishing lodges in the region or try your luck in a lake high up on a glacier. If angling is not for you, we recommend the Historical Mail Route two hour tour which drops off necessities to secluded coastal communities such as Kyuquot and Zeballos. Along the way, your knowledgeable local pilot will share stories about the history of Nootka Sound.
West Coast Cuisine
Before you head east to Campbell River, set your sites on Sea & Field Bistro. Their menu offers both up-scale entrees and approachable appetizers. Enjoy west coast classics crafted with local produce, foraged goods, and culinary mastery. Their fresh daily features are not to be missed!
Additional Resources
DRIVE
Gold River is located just over an hour east of Campbell River on the paved and maintained Highway 28.
FLY
Air Nootka offers service from Campbell River to Gold River, with a host of tantalizing tour packages!
HELI
49 North Helicopters provides customizable charters and tours including service to Gold River.
Did You Know?
The village of Gold River is located on the western-most shores of Vancouver Island. The population of 1300 people resides on the traditional territories of the Mowachaht Muchalat First Nation of the Nuchatlaht People. There are fifteen Indigenous First Nations who call this coastline home.
Nuchatlaht means “all along the mountains and sea”. The Nuchatlaht People’s core values are:
Hisukʔis cawaak Everything is one
ʔiisaak Respect with caring
ʔuuʔaaluk Taking care of
Fun Fact!
Gold River was the first town in Canada to have all underground wiring!
Highlighted Local Providers
Critter Cove
Both land and water-based accommodations including cottages, cabins, a lodge, and suites.
Gold River Municipal Campground
Twenty forested sites on the edge of the river. Non-potable water and pit toilets are available.
Gold River Chalet
Centrally located with comfortable rooms and an all-star rating from previous guests.
Gold River Rentals
A locally-run property management company featuring short-term and long-term accommodations.
Lodge at Gold River
All-inclusive luxury in a river-front wilderness setting with round trip transportation from Campbell River.
Muchalat Lake Campground
Forty campsites with fire pits, picnic tables, and pit toilets plus boat launch and swimming area.
Ridgeview Motor Inn
Gold River’s only motor inn, this property is under new ownership and all rooms have been renovated.
