When it comes to traveling to Malcolm Island, you have a few options to choose from. One of the most popular options is to take a seaplane trip. This option is the fastest, most direct way to get to Sointula BC from mainland Canada or from the United States. On a seaplane flight, you can fly into Vancouver or Seattle on your choice of commercial or private flight. Then, hop a seaplane and ride directly to Malcolm Island.
If you’re short on time during your trip, it might be best to take a seaplane trip to make the most of your vacation. However, if you have a little extra time and want to extend your trip with more exploring, or if you’re planning to do some Sointula camping and need to bring more gear, a road trip might be the better choice.
You can opt to drive your personal vehicle from home, or rent a car at the airport after flying into Seattle or Vancouver. From there, you’ll hop on a couple of BC ferries. The first will take you from mainland Canada to Vancouver Island. Then, you’ll take BC Ferries Sointula to get from Vancouver Island to Sointula. This also means that you’ll have a chance to visit Vancouver Island.
While it might not hold a candle to Sointula’s remote charm, Vancouver Island is still packed full of activities, natural attractions, and more to explore. If you plan to road trip to Sointula during your visit, keep reading. We’re bringing you 5 things to do when you visit Vancouver Island.
1. Discovery Passage Aquarium
If you’re traveling with children or want to learn about some of the animals you might see during your visit, stop by the Discovery Passage Aquarium. This is a great choice at the beginning of your trip. That way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the aquatic species native to the region before you see them!
This hands-on aquarium offers educational opportunities for all ages. You can touch and feel a variety of sea creatures while learning about the diverse marine life that lives in and around Vancouver Island and the Inside Passage.
2. The Mount Washington Scenic Chairlift
Another must-see activity that’ll have you braving some lofty heights is the Mount Washington Scenic Chairlift. Climbing slowly to an elevation of 5,200 feet or 1,588 meters, the ride takes about 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see from Mt. Baker in Washington all the way to the Strait of Georgia. Once at the top, you are welcome to ride back down or hike the distance back to your car.
If you’re looking for something with a faster pace, there’s also a zip line on there that features a zip tour lasting 2 to 3 hours!
3. Elk Falls Provincial Park and Suspension Bridge
Elk Falls is a picturesque waterfall set in the lush green forests of Elk Falls Provincial Park. Surrounded by towering Douglas Fir trees, you can wander the park’s hiking trails, enjoy a picnic lunch, watch for wildlife, and more.
A visit to the park wouldn’t be complete without a walk across the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge. Swinging and swaying almost 200 feet, or 60 meters, above the Campbell River Canyon far below, it’s a wonderful photo opportunity that’s best left to those without a fear of heights.
4. Take a Bike Tour
Want to get your legs moving before you hop your final BC Ferries ride to Sointula BC? How about a bike ride?
Biking is a popular way to explore many parts of Vancouver Island. While you’ll find bike rentals in many of the towns you’ll pass through, booking a bike tour is a great way to experience the island with a guide and learn about what makes the region so special and unique.
5. Visit the Haig-Brown Heritage House
If you have an interest in conservation and environmentalism, a visit to the Haig-Brown Heritage House is a must.
Built in 1923, the home once housed Roderick Haig-Brown, a celebrated environmentalist and conservationist, and his wife, Ann. Roderick was a published, popular writer, and wrote 25 books and more than 200 articles during his lifetime. His work continues to inspire people to interact with and protect nature, and conserve the beautiful region he once called home.
The Haig-Brown House is both a bed and breakfast and a museum, where you can see the author’s large collection of books and learn about his life and work. During the winter months, the home is occupied by a Writer in Residence through a cooperative program with the Campbell River Museum.
Visit Vancouver Island During Your Sointula BC Adventure
There’s no bad way to get to Sointula BC! But if you opt not to take a seaplane ride, you’ll have the option to visit Vancouver Island on your way to Malcolm Island. From the Discovery Passage Aquarium to the Mount Washington Scenic Chairlift, there’s plenty to see and do during your visit.
Ready to start planning your next adventure in Sointula BC? Check out our planning resources to get started!