Alberni Valley Tourism
Newsletter
Search for:

Building Your Alberni Valley Bucket List, Part 2

Local Activities when Visiting the Alberni Valley on Vancouver Island

Here are some more favorite local activities to add to your “must do” list during your next visit to the Alberni Valley on Vancouver Island.

GETTING HERE: The Alberni Valley is located in central Vancouver Island, in between Nanaimo and Tofino. Get Directions

Numerous hiking trails to choose from in Port Alberni, offering spectacular views.

AMAZING NATURE HIKES

The Alberni Valley has hundreds of miles of hiking trails for every skill level. The Lookout Trail is a good one for all skill levels, not quite 4 km and with some challenging steep areas. Hikers are rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the Valley. Also a favourite among single-track mountain bikers!

You will find the trail access from behind Coombs Country Candy at the east entrance to the Alberni Valley.  Get more details on this trail and others at All Trails. 

 

Black bears feed on salmon on the shore of Somass River, visible from Harbor Quay in Port Alberni

WATCH THE BEARS FEED

This is one of the local activities we never get tired of. Black bears are frequently seen in the fall, foraging for salmon on the shores of the Somass River. There are great views from the Victoria Quay boardwalk, where you can safely view the bears as they come to feed during low tide. While they make a showing throughout the year, you’ll be sure to get a show when the salmon are running. and if we love it the 100th time, imagine see the bears from the boardwalk feeding during the salmon runs

Daytrip on the Frances Barkley, from Port Alberni to Ucluelet

DAY TRIP on the MV Frances Barkley

The quintessential day trip when in Port Alberni, experience the Alberni Inlet and west coast from aboard the Frances Barkley! This 12-hour round trip leaves Port Alberni at 8 am, with stops at Ucluelet and Broken Group Islands (Sechart Lodge) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. A great opportunity for wildlife viewing, passengers may see whales migrating or seals sunning themselves on the rocks. Bears on the beach, foraging for mussels, crabs and clams. Frolicking mink and otters on the shoreline. Various sea birds and always sightings of eagles. There is also a galley aboard ship offering a variety of menu items, beer and wine.

Please Note: Check out the Lady Rose Marine website for more information on trips, rates and availability forecasts.

 

Catch a big fish in Port Alberni on Vancouver Island

CATCH A BIG FISH

There are few places in the world that offer such a variety and great experience when it comes to fishing. Crowned the “Ultimate Fishing Town“ by the World Fishing Network, anglers of every level may try their luck. Fresh water options are extensive with many rivers and streams, and beautiful Sproat Lake. For salt water fishing, head out to the Alberni Inlet, there are also many fishing charters that can be reserved. An annual highlight is the Labour Day Weekend Salmon Fishing Derby.