vancouver island atv tours

Offroad 4×4 & ATV Tours on Vancouver Island

The range of outdoor adventure to be found on Vancouver Island in British Columbia attracts explorers from around the world. While many of the recreational activities in BC can be enjoyed on your own, or in private groups, many are best enjoyed under the care and guidance of experienced tour operators. Casual visitors to British Columbia are seldom able to venture into the backroads and experience the real wilderness – that’s where 4×4 offroad All Terrain Vehicle tour operators play a valuable role, offering full-day or half-day ATV Quad trips.

Don’t be deceived by the cozy but thin veneer of civilization that has been thrown up around the wilderness. Those who do not respect the neighbouring wilds often face uncompromising consequences. With proper preparation and a confident spirit you can negotiate your way in and around the landscape, emerging with untarnishable memories of your encounter with the natural world. Fortunately, most travellers don’t have to resort to extremes in order to get an inside look at these fantastic features.

Pacific Rim On the west coast of Vancouver Island, exciting backroad adventures are offered out of Tofino and Ucluelet in the comfort and safety of 4 x 4 vehicles. Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged west coast with an offroad trip up Mt. Ozzard, from where the view stretches from Barkley Sound and the Broken Islands Group, across Long Beach and beyond that past Tofino to Clayoquot Sound. After leaving Mt. Ozzard, take a short walk along the beautiful nature Trails at Kennedy Lake and view the huge old-growth cedar trees.

Offroading along the shoreline of Barkley Sound east of Ucluelet is a great wildlife experience. Eagles gather to feed on herring spawn, waterfowl gather along the shores to rest during their spring migration. In late summer, bears linger near the salmon bearing Thornton Creek.

The gravel road hugs Tofino Inlet providing breathtaking views of Clayoquot Sound. Watch for bears along the shoreline, and birds and waterfowl along the beaches and mudflats of the estuaries feeding the sound. After leaving the Inlet the road climbs high into the mountains, with Tofino Creek as a companion.

Huge rock formations evidence a landscape shaped by the girth of glacial ice that until quite recently covered the entire landmass. So strong was the force exerted by this miles-thick crush that, as it retreated, it cast a ragged impression in the bedrock.

Central Island Explore the beautiful and challenging off-roads of South and Central Vancouver Island. From weekend adventures, to challenging 6-day safaris, weekend 4×4 schools, and corporate weekend challenges. Fun-filled and intense weekends are for all comers, designed for anyone wishing to learn safe operation of 4×4 vehicles in the wilderness. Go offroad in the wilderness areas surrounding Shawnigan Lake and north to Cowichan Lake.

The weekend 4×4 schools include qualified instruction on safety, winching, vehicle recovery and the philosophy of treading lightly in the wilderness.

New Regulations for Off-roaders British Columbia announced new regulations for offroad vehicles in 2011, including safety and environmental regulations, and requirements regarding licensing and registration.

Only a licence will be required for crossing highways at designated areas, rather than the operations permit previously required. The designated crossings will help connect trails across the province. Off-road vehicle users are also required to have a one-time registration permit.

The changes will apply to all-terrain vehicles, quads, off-highway motorcycles and utility vehicles, as well as snowmobiles. By fall 2012, all of BC’s new requirements should be in effect, including required helmet use, spark arrestors to avoid forest fires, and new mufflers to control noise.

Responsible off-road riders welcome the new regulations in BC, particularly the registration and display of plates, as it may help to identify off-road users who damage the environment. A portion of the registration and licensing fees will go back to the associations to build trails.

The new policy regulations were implemented by ICBC in consultation with the Quad Riders Association of B.C. and the Private Forest Landowners Association.

A Vancouver Island ATV tour you won’t soon forget

The Campbell River ATV Club has a 400-kilometre circle tour that should bring more ORV visitors to Vancouver Island's north

by Kirsten Armleder — June 28, 2017

With miles upon miles of Crown land, the northern region of Vancouver Island is ideal for off-road riders. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

Imagine spending your entire summer vacation on an ATV, exploring sandy beaches, coastal inlets and the temperate rainforest of northern Vancouver Island. Riding from town to town, you see abundant wildlife, meet new people and learn about the fascinating culture of this remote region.

That is the vision of Mike Coulter, president of the Campbell River ATV Club (CRATV). And he’s one step closer to seeing it become reality.

“We just got access to Gold River,” said Coulter, “so now we can ride from Campbell River to Gold River and then go north to Sayward and back to Campbell River.”

It’s a 400-kilometre circle tour that follows forest service roads (FSR) and existing trails. Of course, ATVers need more than one tank of fuel and places to stay if they want to ride it. Before, that was a problem. But now, with new designated access in Tahsis and Gold River and off-road vehicle (ORV) operating permits available in Sayward, ATVers can ride into town on specific routes to access fuel, food and lodging. Campbell River also granted support to let riders stage from the Shell gas station on Willis Road—which has specified access to the FSR network. 

According to Coulter, there was some hesitation at first, but the club worked with the regional district, RCMP, tourism association and community council groups to come up with a plan that would be beneficial for all. With that in mind, he asks that riders be on their best behaviour and stay on the designated routes when riding into each community. 

Off-road vehicle tourism

The northern region of Vancouver Island relies heavily on industries like forestry and mining. In recent years, small towns have been struggling economically. Driving tourism, and more specifically ORV tourism, here will generate some much-needed business.

“The businesspeople are all excited in both communities,” said Coulter, who later added, “We are hoping to start a tourist movement on the North Island by making it a destination for off-road vehicle tourism.”

This is the side of Vancouver Island that few get to experience. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

The loop is not yet signed and it’s a little rugged in areas, but it’s already becoming an attraction.

“I’ve had enquiries from as far away as Paris, France,” said Coulter. “They wanted to know if they could rent machines.”

Other communities, too, want in on the trail.

“I just got an invite to do a presentation in front of the Port Hardy council so that we can advise them on what kind of access they could provide for us to get riders to come there,” said Coulter.

This isn’t the first time the CRATV has been successful in lobbying government for increased ORV access. In the spring of 2016, the club celebrated the grand opening of its Pye Mountain Recreation Site. Located 35 kilometres north of Campbell River, this designated ORV campsite is the first of its kind on Vancouver Island. Picnic tables, firepits, a loading ramp and access to the club’s trail system are available. This project took about three years to go from concept to completion, and according to Coulter, there’s more in store.

“We’re developing it into our main staging area,” he said.

Although it’s geared towards ATVers, the Pye Mountain Rec Site is open to everyone, and the trails are multi-use. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

With 110 members, the CRATV is a very active group of ATV and SxS owners. Coulter has been president for about three years, but he’s been through several ORVs in his lifetime. What he enjoys most about riding is the freedom.

He said, “When you’re out in the middle of nowhere, travelling down a trail, it’s just a sense of youth—being free.”

That’s an experience worth sharing. 

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Explore Off Road: The Top 10 ATV & Overlanding Adventures on Vancouver Island

Scenic ocean vistas, towering cliffs and mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forest are the main features of any trail on Vancouver Island, and those who make the effort to get into the backcountry are rewarded with untouched wilderness, secluded swimming holes, and several attractions and viewpoints that would be nearly impossible to reach on foot. This is where the Vancouver Island ATV, OHV, and all-terrain vehicle overlanding scene comes into play. From ATV trails that climb deep into mountainous scenery with plenty of interesting attractions along the way to multi-day overlanding trips and rustic wilderness camping spots, a motorized vehicle can get you into backcountry areas with epic scenery and plenty of solitude.

Below, we list some of the most popular and unique ATV and overlanding routes on Vancouver Island. This is just a small portion of the thousands of kilometres of motorized trails, logging roads, and deactivated roads that can be used to reach incredible destinations. For a complete and comprehensive list of ATV and overlanding routes in this stunning region, be sure to check out the brand-new, 10 th Edition of the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook .

1. Overlanding: Port Hardy – Holberg Loop

The most northerly overland route on Vancouver Island, this 100 km (62 mi) route features spectacular scenery and direct access to the popular Cape Scott Provincial Park and its windswept, rugged beaches, coastal and forested hiking trails, and great backcountry camping opportunities. This route also visits the communities of Port Hardy, Coal Harbour, and Holberg. From Port Hardy, head south on Coal Harbour Road, picking up Wanokana Main, Clesklagh Main, and NE Main to Holberg. Once you have finished exploring around Holberg, the route follows Holberg Road back to Port Hardy.

2. ATV: North Island 1,000 Loop

Also used as an overlander route on some of the wider sections, this 1,000 km (620 mi) route was developed by the Campbell River ATV Club and leads riders through the north portion of Vancouver Island. A great route for adventurers that want to explore as much of this region as possible, this route begins in Campbell River and primarily follows gravel logging roads leading through the communities of Gold River, Tahsis, Zeballos, Woss, Port Alice, Coal Harbour, Holberg, Port Hardy, Port McNeill, and Sayward. There are plenty of optional side trips, and riders should bring enough fuel to last 200 km at a time, bring camping supplies, and a GPS. For more information, visit northisland1000.com .

3. Overlanding: Gordon River Main

Stretching from Lake Cowichan to Port Renfrew, the Gordon River Main is a popular overlanding route. While the route can be done as an out-and-back trip, it is also possible to make a loop using a paved section of the Pacific Marine Scenic Highway, for a total distance of 150 km (93 mi). Starting and ending in Lake Cowichan, this route features fairly well-maintained gravel roads, massive trees, and secluded swimming holes. Along the way, take a short detour on Edinburgh Main to check out Lonely Doug, the second largest Douglas fir tree in North America, stop at Avator Grove, which is found on either side of the Gordon River Main at the 5 km mark, and be sure to check out Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake, both of which have forestry recreation camping.

4. ATV: Tansky ORV Area

The largest official riding area for OHVs and dirt bikes on Vancouver Island, this exhilarating OHV area features around 50 km (30 mi) of mostly intermediate to technical cross-country trails. Logging roads also snake out of the area in all directions, allowing for longer rides of up to 100 km (60 mi). Elevations gains are up to 500 metres (1,640 ft), and the main trails have rocky creek crossings and entrances. To access this area, take the Jordan River North Main from Highway 14, west of Sooke, where you will find the parking area a short distance up the road. A popular route branches west along the N 500 Road and leads along the scenic Jordan Ridge for a 25 km (15 mi) trip.

5. ATV: Oyster River Trails

Stretching out in either direction of Highway 19 from York Road near Campbell River, this maze of trails is made up mostly of old logging roads, leading to several unique destinations. Explore caves, old abandoned mines, and the Oyster Bowl, which is a great swimming and fishing spot, along these scenic trails. One popular route heads west off Highway 19 down the Eden Main Road or the Oyster River Main, while another follows the Piggott Main and the Rossiter Main, offering around 60 km (37 mi) of great riding, with elevation gains of up to 1,100 metres (3,610 ft).

6. Overlanding: Comox to Great Central Lake Route

Featuring stunning scenery, this route makes its way past Comox Lake and south to Great Central Lake. Accessed by the Comox Lake Mainline, this 80 km (50 mi) one-way route features elevation gains of up to 300 metres (985 ft), great camping on the shores of Great Central Lake, and wonderful island scenery. Side routes include the Toma Main and the Cruickshank Main. Please note that there is active logging in this area, and you may encounter logging trucks.

7. ATV: Whiskey Creek Motorized Rec Trails

Containing around 30 km (19 mi) of beginner to intermediate, single-track trails, this is a great spot for riders to test their skills. The trails feature minimal elevation gain and a lot of tight corners, with a fun gravel pit located in the centre of the trails. Accessed off Melrose Road near Highway 19, trails continue to be added to this area yearly, and there is even a kid’s track at the staging area.

8. ATV: Mount Bolduc Route

Branching off the Harris-Gordon Cross Forest Service Road and following a creek for most of its distance, this 10 km (6.2 mi) route climbs approximately 700 metres (2,300 ft) to the site of a 1944 plane crash near the summit of Mount Bolduc. The plane, a Lockheed Ventura, carried six RCAF airmen, all of whom unfortunately perished in the crash and were buried at the site, which is marked as a war grave. The turn-off for this route is about 2 km (1.2 mi) along the Harris-Gordon Cross Forest Service Road.

9. Overlander: Port Alice to Coast Route

Featuring stunning coastal views on several parts of the route, this route leaves from the Victoria Lake Recreation Site near Port Alice, creating a 108 km (67 mi) loop with 640 metres (2,100 ft) of elevation gain that follows the Cayuse Main and Klaskish Road to the coast of the Klaskino Inlet. From the inlet, the route follows Kaskino Main and B Main before reaching the coast again near the mouth of Klootchlimmis Creek. The loop then picks up East Main, K Main, the K500 Road, and Teeta Main to get back to the start of the route. Side trips include a 24 km (15 mi) ride to Side Bay via Le Mare Main and an 8 km (5 mi) return ride to the community of Mahatta River.

10. ATV: Cruikshank Canyon Riding Area

Stretching from Comox Lake to Circlet Lake in Strathcona Park, this route starts at a staging area on the Comox Lake Main, near where it crosses the Cruickshank River. From here, the route follows the Cruickshank Main for 3 km (1.8 mi) and then the East Cruickshank Main for 12 km (7.5 mi) before accessing a trail network of around 40 km (25 mi) that climbs up the canyon walls and along the surrounding ridges. Riders will gain about 1,000 metres (3,280 ft) of elevation gain to the top of the canyon, which provides beautiful views.

Ready to start exploring motorized trails, ATV routes, and overlanding routes on Vancouver Island? Check out the brand-new 10 th Edition of the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook , which is available in both print and digital formats. For all this information and more right at your fingertips, try out our Backroad Maps App or Web Map , which can be downloaded straight to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. And, be sure you tag us on social media at @backroadmaps or #BRMBLIFE on all your favourite Vancouver Island ATV and overlanding adventure photos!

The Vancouver Island Grand Loop is the definitive overland adventure motorcycle route circumnavigating Vancouver Island. The VIGL stitches together the best roads Vancouver Island has to offer, including widely popular local favourites and many unique hidden gems. Preference has been given to avoid the main highways in favour of back roads featuring scenic vistas and challenging roads.

The route is approximately 1,700km long, about 50% paved, 50% dirt/gravel. Depending on your pace, it will take 5-8 days to complete. It's recommended to ride an adventure motorcycle due to the amount of dirt/gravel roads.

The entire route has been made available through an interactive Google Map of the route . You can download .kmz files for each stage of the route as well. You can also download the .gpx file of the route.

If you have any feedback on road conditions, recommended side-trips branching off from the main route, or would like to report a road closure or detour, please contact me .

Please Note: The Vancouver Island Grand Loop maps and stage descriptions are intended to be an overview of the route rather than turn-by-turn instructions. In addition to Google Maps as a method of navigation, it’s recommended to have an accurate GPS, a copy of the Backroads Mapbook, a personal locator beacon and to know how to use them. As with any remote travel on Vancouver Island, conditions can change dramatically from blistering sun to complete downpour in as little as 10 minutes and may render parts of the VIGL as unpassable. Many of the northern stages contain evidence of wildlife (bears, cougars, wolves, etc) and appropriate precautions should be taken.

Please take care and be ready to turn back if the situation becomes unsafe.

If you would like to donate toward maintaining the Vancouver Island Grand Loop, I've set up a PayPal donation link below. I really appreciate your support.

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Vancouver Island Off-roading

Vancouver island off-road, atv, 4x4, dirt biking guide, vancouver island, british columbia, canada.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia self-guided and guided off-road adventures including atvs, dirt bikes, jeeps or 4x4 trucks. There are endless kilometres of active and deactivated railway tracks, gravel roads, trails and mining roads leading into the deep backcountry on Vancouver Island, BC in British Columbia, Canada.

Vancouver Island Off-road Adventure Tips

• Tours provide a guide who knows the land and the best routes.
• Prepare! Research your route for floods, wash out bridges, logging operations, fallen trees, wind storms and weather forecasts.
• Make sure to leave no trace behind. Pack out what you pack in.
• Do not, and we mean do not, vary off the trails or roads and destroy the ecological sensitive areas in our backcountry.
• Always wear a helmet and do a safety check prior to leaving including gas, water, emergency kits and so forth.
• Be prepared for roads not matching your maps as they change frequently on Vancouver Island. Gates are erected. Signs are missing. Be ready for a back up plan.
• Leave a trip plan with someone you know with your departure and expected arrival date.

Featured Vancouver Island Off-road Destinations

Some of the prime off-roading adventure destinations on Vancouver Island includes Mount Prevost (Duncan), Nanaimo Lakes Road Area (Nanaimo), Horne Lake/Bowser (Port Alberni), Kennedy Lake (Tofino & Ucluelet), and the logging roads near Zeballos, Holberg, Lake Cowichan, Sooke and Campbell River.

Explore off-roads on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

To plan and research your adventure with a Vancouver Island off-road tour company please visit any of our communities on this website. In each Vancouver Island community is an "Attraction" category which lists participating off roading outfitters or for a quick find use our website search feature.

Under the "Parks, Trails and Places" category in each community there are information pages detailing trails and roads which permit off roading including ATV and dirt biking.

eh! Book an ATV Tour on Vancouver Island today.

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THE 10 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, British Columbia

4wd, atv & off-road tours in vancouver island.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
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• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
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• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

2. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

3. The Ultimate Group Package Tour of Victoria

4. Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike with Private Guide

5. Private Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip

6. Waterfalls, Cathedral Grove Rainforest, and Coombs Adventure with Hiking

7. STUNNING San Josef Bay Tour in Cape Scott Provincial Park

8. Discover Sooke to Port Renfrew Scenic Tour of Vancouver Islands

9. Ucluelet Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint

10. Vancouver Island Tour, The Wilderness Explorer to Nahmint Valley

11. Tofino Private Tour: Coastal Excursion to Rainforest Waterfall

12. Christmas in Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

13. One Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

What travelers are saying.

• Victoria Whale Watch Tour
• Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal
• Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour
• Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria
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ALL BOOKINGS ARE 20% OFF - FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Vancouver Island

Is our adventure.

Nobody knows the wild like we do. Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun, family friendly, thrilling adventure through forested trails to see breathtaking sights.

ASH LUCKETT

Owner / tour guide.

I love to explore new places: from camel trekking in the mountains of Kenya, paragliding in Turkey, hitchhiking the Australian coast to  dirt-biking through the jungles of Cambodia — if there was adventure to be had, I had it.

Returning home to Canada, I’ve found my greatest adventure — the breathtaking  forests, lakes, rivers and mountains of British Columbia.

Now it’s my turn to bring you the newest, most exciting way to explore and experience the amazing beauty of North Vancouver Island.  Join me and my team as we take you on the off-road adventure of a lifetime.

Up close and personal: ATVs are the best way to get into the wild. Surround yourself with beautiful forests, stunning lakes, rivers, and beautiful vistas featuring snow-capped mountains. Who knows – from the safety of your enclosed vehicle, you might even see a black bear, cougar, bald eagle, or one of the many other creatures of the forest.

Keep In Touch

THE 10 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, Canada

4wd, atv & off-road tours in vancouver island.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Surfside Adventure Tours
• Craigdarroch Castle
• Government House
• The Butchart Gardens
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

2. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

3. The Ultimate Group Package Tour of Victoria

4. Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike with Private Guide

5. Private Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip

6. Waterfalls, Cathedral Grove Rainforest, and Coombs Adventure with Hiking

7. STUNNING San Josef Bay Tour in Cape Scott Provincial Park

8. Discover Sooke to Port Renfrew Scenic Tour of Vancouver Islands

9. Ucluelet Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint

10. Vancouver Island Tour, The Wilderness Explorer to Nahmint Valley

11. Tofino Private Tour: Coastal Excursion to Rainforest Waterfall

12. Christmas in Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

13. One Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

What travellers are saying.

• Victoria Whale Watch Tour
• Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal
• Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour
• Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria
• Ucluelet Harbour Tour
• Port Renfrew Outback Tours
• West Coast Edge Adventures
• Explore Vancouver Island
• FarOut Wilderness
• North Island Overland

• Things To do
• Restaurants
• The 7 Best 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, Canada

Top Things to do in Vancouver Island

Top hotels in vancouver island.

• 1. Abigail's Hotel
• 2. The Oswego Hotel
• 3. Hotel Grand Pacific
• 4. Abigail's Hotel
• 5. Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites
• 6. Oak Bay Beach Hotel
• 7. The Oswego Hotel
• 8. Magnolia Hotel And Spa
• 9. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria
• 10. Coast Bastion Hotel
• Republic of Macedonia

The 7 Best 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, Canada

Discover the best top things to do in Vancouver Island, Canada including West Coast Edge ATV Adventures, FarOut Wilderness, Ukeebackcountry, Explore Vancouver Island, Dirt and Gravel Motorcycle Adventures, Port Renfrew Outback Tours, Ukee Back Country. Restaurants in Vancouver Island

1. West Coast Edge ATV Adventures

Overall ratings.

5.0 based on 143 reviews

Experience the West Coast like never before with West Coast Edge ATV Adventures. We offer guided ATV Tours on the West Coast of Vancouver Island in the Alberni Valley, Tofino & Ucluelet. The thrill of touring by All Terrain Vehicle is the best way to see the Islands amazing backcountry. Pacific Ocean, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and mountain top viewpoints combined for a once in a lifetime experience for many! It has been said that we offer some of the best terrain in the world to ride and wildlife viewing opportunities are often. We have a tour for everybody so don't miss out.

2. FarOut Wilderness

5.0 based on 7 reviews

We are an outdoor adventure travel company specializing in overland vehicle rentals and tailor-made itineraries in British Columbia. We use our local knowledge and experience to transform your ideas into an authentic and unique adventure. Our self-drive itineraries allow you to explore off the beaten track at your own pace.

3. Ukeebackcountry

5.0 based on 1 reviews

We offer paddle board tours with an experienced bronze Canadian champion and outback treks to all the special places Ucluelet has to offer.

4. Explore Vancouver Island

5.0 based on 37 reviews

Explore Vancouver Island is a tour company based in Central Vancouver Island. We collaborate with like-minded locals to offer unforgettable experiences. There is a certain feeling people get when they arrive on Vancouver Island, we like to call that “Island Time”. You will have the option to choose your own adventure and experience for yourself why Vancouver Island is such a tourism destination!

5. Dirt and Gravel Motorcycle Adventures

ON-ROAD AND OFF-ROAD MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURES AND TOURS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of British Columbia on a premium guided adventure motorcycle tour.

6. Port Renfrew Outback Tours

Experience the majestic beauty that Port Renfrew offers with a tour of the Outback. Enjoy the comforts of the Jeep on a trip to Avatar Grove and Lonely Doug to name a few. Very knowledgeable guides can take you into the great Outback to enjoy lakes and rivers for swimming. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon floating around one of the lakes in a inflatable kayak while taking in the beautiful scenery.

7. Ukee Back Country

5.0 based on 3 reviews

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northisland1000.com

North Vancouver Island's 1000 km Back Roads Loop

Explore Northern Vancouver Island on the back roads

The north island 1000.

Experience Vancouver Island North as you never have before with the ultimate back roads adventure.

Check out Trips Reports for new videos from riders like you!

First Group Ride: June 2020

Check out the video in the Trip Reports button above for some highlights from our first ride of the North Island 1000 route. The weather was perfect and the company was even better. What better way to kick off the riding season than with a multiday tour of the scenic backroads of the North Island!

The North Island 1000 route plan available on Avenza!

Thanks to Frances Walsh who sent a GPX file based on the basic route from the turn by turn directions. It doesn’t show any of the optional side trips, but gives a good overall base for your ride. You can download the file below. Thanks to everyone who is riding the route and sharing their experiences, we love to see it!

Now Available: Route Logo Decals

Order yours today and show your support for the North Island 1000! Proceeds help with signage and website costs. Click the button below and fill out the form,  letting us know what sizes etc. you want, then pick them up when you pass through Campbell River, or we can mail them to you ($5 processing fee). Thanks for your support!

Small (3 inch): $2              Medium (4 inch): $4        Large (5 inch): $6                                                

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Alternative route to gold river: "khyber pass".

Khyber Pass is a more difficult route that connects Campbell River to Gold River. This route would not be suitable for loaded dual sport bikes.

About the Route

Trip Reports and Videos

Pictures and videos from the latest adventures to inspire your trip!

Plan your Trip

Take the adventure of a lifetime on the back roads of Vancouver Island.

The Communities

Journey through 11 Northern Vancouver Island communities.

Over 1000km of back country gravel roads to be explored.

Ride it Your Way

Whether you ride, cycle or walk, this trail does it all.

ATV Adventures - WCE

TOFINO Virgin Falls ATV Tour - West Coast Edge Guided ATV Adventure Tours to the Virgin Falls. This custom tour is suitable for all ages and levels of experience. Drive along the Tofino Inlet on rugged logging roads with amazing views. Upon arrival you can hear the rush of the waterfall, and a short walk opens into one of the Island's most rare gems, Virgin Falls. Here you can enjoy the serenity of nature at its finest, whether you choose to just sit back and enjoy the sound of the waterfall cascading down the mountain or go for a swim in the pristine pool that surrounds the falls. Please Inquire for availability and custom pricing based on group size and length of tour. Virgin Falls meeting location: We will meet our guests at the Pacific Rim Visitors Centre at the Tofino / Ucluelet Junction. (See Map) Book Your Tofino ATV Adventure today. ----------------- PORT ALBERNI ATV Tours Guided ATV Tours in the Alberni Valley On Your Way to Tofino. Include West Coast Edge ATV Adventures in your next visit to Vancouver Island. Our lead guides are experienced and certified to the highest standards in the operation and safety of ATV's. First Aid, and local knowledge are just a few of our other top qualifications. West Coast Edge run top the line equipment that is safe and easy to operate. We have a Polaris Rzr 4 seat Side by SIde as well as a Polaris Rzr 2 seat Side by side. All of our units come equipped with power steering, and are automatic drives with independent suspension, making them very comfortable and easy to operate. All units are maintained by qualified dealers to ensure no issues arise while you are on the trails. All guests will be provided with mandatory safety equipment (DOT approved helmets, safety glasses, and gloves) Port Alberni meeting location: We will meet our guests at the Alberni Valley Visitors Centre. (2533 Port Alberni Hwy) *We offer overnight tours with accommodations at our remote wilderness lodge at Henderson Lake. ----- West Coast Edge ATV Adventures husband and wife team, Blain & Patricia Pouliot are Alberni Valley originals. We have been exploring the valley and surrounding area together for more than a decade. The memories we have made with family, friends & guests will last a lifetime. West Coast Edge is Vancouver Islands only ATV tour company. Let our qualified guides take you on the adventure of a lifetime! We pride ourselves in customer service and in offering the ultimate Island experience. Every tour is customized to our guests experience, comfort level and desires. We will do our best to accommodate everyone! What does an ATV tour look like? Stunning, brilliant & amazing just to give you an idea! Our guides offer you a short but effective safety & equipment orientation prior to heading out on tour. Can we drive the machines? Yes, absolutely! That is half the fun. Drivers are required to possess a valid driver's license and be a minimum of 16 years of age. What if we do not want to drive? No problem. West Coast Edge can provide a driver so you can sit back, relax and soak up the scenery as a passenger in our 4 seater side by sides. Our tours are suitable for almost everyone , from couples of all ages, to families, friends and larger groups. Interested in getting off the grid? Feel the culture & experience the privacy of our Remote Wilderness Accommodations at Henderson Lake. Our 6 bedroom lakefront cottage with full amenities offers you an extraordinary get away from the everyday! West Coast Edge operates year round to offer you more! Each season brings new adventure & experiences to our backcountry. Spring, summer, fall and winter offer all of the changing colors and weather of the seasons. From the Islands amazing vegetation sprouting in the spring, to the wildlife foraging the under brush in the summer, with brilliant waterways in the form of lakes, waterfalls, rivers and streams mirroring their surroundings. The vibrant colors of fall arrive as the salmon runs return. Winters are mild in temperature but moist in relentless deluge. This is Island life! The Heart of Vancouver Island, Alberni Valley, BC, is where we call home. This place offers some of the most scenic and exciting terrain in the world! From rugged mountain tops to deep valleys with pristine lakes & rivers, the Alberni Valley truly is an outdoor paradise! You work hard for your vacations and we pledge to work hard for you. When you make your next trip to Vancouver Island, make it to the Alberni Valley and book your custom trip with West Coast Edge ATV Adventures. You will be glad that you did! Experience the Island like never before!

S ee the backcountry of British Columbia from the seat of an All Terrain Vehicle, commonly known as an ATV. ATV's allow access to places where few people go. Infact, these sure-footed machines can take you places that even horses fear to tread!

Through BC there are ATV tour operators with experienced and local guides ready to take you into their wilderness region.

ATV tours take you over trails and backroads into BC's pristine backcountry to enjoy breathtaking vistas of majestic green forests, crystal clear streams and lakes; open meadows and snow capped mountains. This is your opportunity to see BC's wildlife and waterfowl in their natural habitat. Be sure to take your camera, as there are photo ops around every bend.

Before any tour gets underway, your top-notch guide will make sure you are familiar with your machine, as safety is of utmost importance. These measures help assure you of a ride that is safe, comfortable and fun.

Experienced guides lead the way making frequent stop and setting a pace conducive to all riders.

For an unforgettable and different BC adventure experience - book an ATV tour:

Tofino ATV Tours

Adventure tours & things to do in tofino bc, tofino atv tours.

This is a full day ATV tour to the Virgin Falls in Tofino BC. Explore the backcountry of Tofino on a Quad or side by side (ATV).   ATV tours are suitable for all ages. You will ride on unmaintained roads through the rugged and temperate west coast rainforest. Enjoy breath taking views of the Tofino Inlet. This tour can also offer great opportunities to view wildlife in their natural habitat !

Virgin Falls. Here you can enjoy the serenity of nature at its finest, whether you choose to just sit back and enjoy the sound of the waterfall cascading down the mountain or go for a swim in the pristine pool that surrounds the falls.  

Tofino Quad tours - virgin falls

West coast edge tours tofino virgin falls.

Visit the Virgin Falls by Quad. Exciting ATV Adventure Tour to this 53 meter waterfall in the backcountry of Tofino.

We will meet our guests at the Pacific Rim Visitors Centre at the Tofino / Ucluelet Junction. # 2791 Pacific Rim Hwy

778-421-3343   Toll Free: 1-855-666-3343

[email protected]

westcoastedge.ca

TOFINO TOURS

Hot springs.

Take a day trip to Hot Springs Cove by boat or float plane.

Stand up Paddle Boarding Tours on the Tofino inlet or SUP Surf the Pacific waves.

kayaking  tours

Clayoquot Sound is a world famous Kayaking destination.

Tofino fishing

Tofino Fishing Charters for half, full or multiple day fishing trips.

Whale Watching

Tofino is the place on Vancouver Island to go on a Whale Watching Adventure. See Gray Whales, Orcas and Humpbacks.

Hike the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island or climb Lone Cone Mountain.

THE 10 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver, British Columbia

4wd, atv & off-road tours in vancouver.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Equipment Hire
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Stanley Park
• Vanlimo Limousine Service/ DBA Canaccord Limousine Service
• Lions Gate Bridge
• Granville Island
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Taste of the Valley Private Wine Tour

2. Private Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip

3. Lighthouse Park Hiking / Horseshoe Bay Discovery Tour

4. 6 Hours Private tour of city of Vancouver & North Vancouver

5. 4 Hours Private tour of City of Vancouver.

6. Mesmerizing Nature Walk in Lynn Canyon Park

7. Vancouver's Finest Private Sightseeing Tour

8. Stawamus Chief Hike & Local Brewery Tasting

9. Private Guided Photogenic City Tour in Greater Vancouver

10. YVR - Vancouver's Airport <=> Whistler( Private Transfer Sightseeing Tour)

11. Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain Private Tour.

12. Vancouver City Private Tour

13. Full Day Private Tour of Vancouver BC Canada from Seattle

14. Canadian Rockies Summer Private Tour

15. Premium Fraser Valley and White Rock Wine Private Tour

16. Okanagan 2 Days Wine Tasting & Cherry Picking Tour

17. Full-Day Private Fraser Valley Wine Tour from Vancouver

18. Private Tour: Whistler Day Trip from Vancouver

19. Rocky Mountains Jasper and Banff Tour 5 day

20. Transfer from Vancouver Downtown to Whistler

21. Vancouver Outdoors - Levette lake Kayaking (Squamish)

What travellers are saying.

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Live the Adventure!

Vancouver Island

Explore beyond victoria and tofino through the mysterious, lesser-known regions of the island, discover vancouver island.

On Vancouver Island, life is slower and more peaceful than on the Mainland.

A multi-day tour of Vancouver Island is an excellent opportunity to see some of the West Coast’s most amazing animals, such as black bears, eagles, and whales on a wildlife watching tour. Victoria is the perfect blend of old colonial charm and a modern, small city, home of the renowned Butchart Gardens . Tofino is a true force of nature with its beautiful national parks, sandy beaches, untamed coastline, and variety of outdoor activities including surfing, storm watching, and kayaking.

Explore the rest of our British Columbia trips !

TOFINO & UCLUELET PACIFIC RIM

ROCKIES & PACIFIC RIM PREMIUM

COASTAL BC INSIDE PASSAGE & ROCKIES

VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

PARKSVILLE GETAWAY

VICTORIA GETAWAY

Day Trips with Discover Vancouver Tours

Best guided day tours by local experts to discover Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria and the Malahat

Young & Wild Tours with West Trek

Affordable tours to iconic destinations for solo travellers, international students & young at heart adventurers

TOFINO STORM WATCHING

Explore the rest of our day tours.

636 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2

Tel: (604) 689-8128 Toll Free: 1-855-689-8128 Email: hello@discovercanadatours.com

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