Broughton Archipelago Logging Circuit

The Broughton Archipelago Logging Circuit weaves through the traditional territory of the ‘Namgis First Nation along Vancouver Island’s rugged northern coast, connecting Telegraph Cove to the isolated settlement of Alert Bay via a maze of active industrial roads. This 90-kilometer route passes massive old-growth cedar stumps, crosses salmon-spawning creeks on one-lane logging bridges, and offers glimpses of the Inside Passage through breaks in the coastal temperate rainforest. The highlight is Nimpkish Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect towering mountains while industrial equipment works the surrounding hillsides.

Standard pickup trucks handle most sections during dry weather, but muddy conditions from October through April can trap vehicles for hours. Watch for loaded logging trucks on weekdays—pull over at designated spots and monitor radio channel 19 for traffic updates. Fuel availability is limited to Port McNeill, so plan accordingly. The coastal scenery includes orca and grizzly bear viewing opportunities, excellent salmon fishing in season, and access to remote hot springs reachable only by boat or floatplane from roadside lakes.