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Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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Port Alberni City http://www.portalberni.ca/
Port Alberni is an affordable waterfront community at the heart of the west coast of Vancouver Island. We offer access to wilderness so amazing, you will only realize it when
you're here. Port Alberni is a forested seaport rich with history. Located at the head of the 48 kilometre-long Alberni Inlet, it’s named after Captain Don Pedro de Alberni, a Spanish officer who commanded the fort at Nootka on Vancouver Island's west coast in the late 1700’s. The traditional territory of the Tseshaht and Hupacasath tribes of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth (Nootka) Nation, Port Alberni’s modern roots are founded in the mining and logging industries, which made the town one of the most affluent in Canada for many years.
Our surroundings are incredible, surging rivers filled with salmon and trout compete for attention with a rain forest of giant trees towering more than 61 m (200 ft) into the heavens. We invite you to view our wonderfully restored past and take the time to witness our proud heritage evident throughout our city. Port Alberni offers a deep sea port, beautiful waterfront quays, an airport, a new hospital, shopping mall, casino, and a well-developed array of recreational facilities with a vast supporting infrastructure often found in much larger cities allowing us host the 2009 World Under-17 Junior Hockey Tournament with great success.
With the increased popularity of Pacific Rim National Park, Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds, world class diving, kayaking tours, and the incredible sport-fishing available, more and more visitors are spending their vacations in Port Alberni allowing multiple day trips to a wide variety of West Coast locations.
A trip down Port Alberni’s wide 50’s era boulevards offers visitors a unique insight into the historic transition of a North American town: from rugged wilderness, to bustling industrial center, to environmentally conscious adventure playground. The story of Port Alberni is the story of human settlement in the New World, evolving every day with each new challenge, and each new success.
Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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Attractions
The Seven Wonders of The Alberni Valley http://www.albernivalleytourism.com/
There are so many things to do in the Alberni Valley that you may wonder how we limited our list to just seven Alberni Valley attractions. But most of all, we’re sure that you’ll wonder why you waited so long to come and experience them for yourself!
1.Cathedral Grove
As you drive into Alberni Valley, be sure to stop in MacMillan Provincial Park and visit the Cathedral Grove rainforest, where you’ll find ancient Western Red Cedars and towering, 800 year-old Douglas Fir trees. There is no better way to experience the full, haunting beauty of these primeval friends than to wander the quiet, deeply shaded trails at their base. Keep our eyes peeled for the many kinds of wildlife that live here in the old-growth forest; from woodpeckers, owls, insects, and reptiles, to deer, elk, black bear and cougar.
2.Alberni Pacific Railway and McLean Mill National Historic Site
From the harbourside in Port Alberni, climb aboard our 1929 Baldwin logging locomotive at the beautifully restored Canada Pacific Railway train station, and ride the rails to the McLean Mill, Canada’s only steam-powered sawmill, and a National Historic Site. This trip through town and forest was a daily commute for loggers and millworkers since the early 1900’s: imagine you’re on your way to a hard day’s work amongst the steam donkeys, graders, logging trucks, and lumber carriers, which you’ll see fully restored on site. While you’re there, sit down in the one-room schoolhouse, and take a
moment to think about the hard life in this camp at the “edge of the world.” http://www.alberniheritage.com/
Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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3. Bears from the Boardwalk
Vancouver Island is home to thousands of black bears, and while it’s exciting to take backcountry tours to experience wildlife in its natural habitat, it’s not always necessary to work that hard -- especially if you’re in Port Alberni! Our adventurous black bears like to play across the bay from the harbour side boardwalk, which provides a perfect vantage point for human admirers to catch the bears in action. Due to hibernation, bear watching is best from June to October.
4. Della Falls
The Alberni Valley is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. At 440m (1,450 feet), the breathtaking Della Falls cascade from Della Lake to greet hikers emerging from the old growth forest at their base. A 7-hour, 16 kilometre (one way) intermediate hike from the head of Great Central Lake along Drinkwater Creek, this trail was originally built by trapper Joe Drinkwater, who named the falls after his wife Della. Hikers will cross several suspension bridges, traveling past lakes and streams, through first and second growth forest, to reach this very special destination. http://www.britishcolumbia.com/trails/?id=13
5. Mars Water Bombers
These massive forest fighting planes were built by Howard Hughes in the 1940’s. They hold up to 27 tons of water and play an important role during forest fire season, when their thundering engines carry the valuable liquid cargo high above the burning forest. See them when they're not in action, at beautiful Sproat Lake, Alberni Valley, British Columbia. http://www.martinmars.com/
Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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6. The Log Train Trail
This 25 kilometre historic trail epitomizes the “work and play” nature of today’s Alberni Valley forests, and is a vibrant example of the cultural, natural and transportation heritage of British Columbia. Running along the base of the Beaufort Range and right into the city of Port Alberni, the trail follows the grade of the old Bainbridge Mill logging train, which enjoyed a heyday in the 1920’s (when John D. Rockefeller held timber rights in the Ash River Valley). The Bainbridge Mill was famous for the quality and size of the lumber it produced, with timbers up to 37 metres long being sent across the country to projects such as the Welland Canal. The logging railroad, including a 286 metre trestle over Rogers Creek, stopped operating in 1953. Today this historic trail is ideal for walking, bicycling, and horseback riding. Follow the footsteps of history through second growth forest, past rural, residential, and farming areas, McLean’s Mill, the site of Bainbridge Mill logging camp, and the Rogers Creek Ravine. http://www.acrd.bc.ca/cms.asp?wpID=151
7. The Whaling Sculpture
The Alberni Valley is home to two First Nations tribes, and the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Whaling Canoe sculpture, for years an iconic fixture in Victoria's Royal BC Museum.
Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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Undiscovered Gems The adventure and history of the Alberni Valley doesn’t stop at our Seven Wonders. Visitors with special interests will treasure these Alberni Valley attractions, too:
Stamp River Falls - RECENTLY NAMED THE 8TH WONDER OF THE ALBERNI VALLEY BY LOCAL RESIDENTS
Just 15 minutes outside of Port Alberni you’ll find Stamp River Falls, where 40 million Pacific salmon climb the ladders every year to reach the spawning beds. This thrilling natural phenomenon starts in late August with Sockeye, and continues into December with Coho and Chinook. At any time of year, the peaceful riverside park offers 2km of gentle walking and hiking trails through lush forests, always by lakes and streams. A viewpoint over the spawning ladders offers fantastic views of the river, and a day-use picnic area or overnight campground are available. http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/stamp_rv/
MV Francis Barkley
Spend a day of adventure riding the seas on the MV Francis Barkley. Visitors may ride along with her small crew as the Francis Barkley transports cargo, mail and up to 100 passengers on her day trips up the Alberni Inlet. The views from her decks are stunning, and you’ll enjoy participating in this historic maritime tradition. Don’t forget binoculars and cameras as you are sure to see grey and orca whales, black bears, eagles, sea otters, sea lions and seals from her bow. http://www.ladyrosemarine.com/
Petroglyphs
At Sproat Lake, water sports and lazy loafing fill the days with fun and harmony. But there’s a mystery too! Follow the shady trail at the eastern end of the lake, and you’ll discover some of the finest prehistoric petroyglyphs in British Columbia. Not much is known about the K’ak’awin petroglyph, but many believe it depicts ancient mystical monsters that once lived in the lake. What do you think? http://www.vancouverisland.com/Regions/towns/?townID=4091
Taste of Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast: Port Alberni
2010
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And more treasures...
• the biggest cave in Canada called “Blak T” which boasts a 1.5 mile navigable network underground
• the largest collection of Emily Carr art • the largest collection of First Nations basketwork in Canada • living history exhibits that tell how the now famous West Coast Trail had its beginnings
as a telegraph line and a life saving trail for shipwreck victims • 17,000 historic photographs • deep sea diving, underwater wrecks, and much more!
Catch A Big One!
Port Alberni, British Columbia is often referred to as “The Salmon Capital of the World”. All five species of Pacific salmon are found in the area, with Chinook, Coho and Sockeye the favourites with the sport fishers and epicureans. Returning to spawn in surrounding lakes and rivers, Sockeye arrive in June, Chinook in August/September and Coho are fished in August/ September/October. Besides having healthy runs, the advantage of sport fishing in Port Alberni is that you are always in the calm, protected waters of the Alberni Inlet and harbour. This is also a Steelheader’s paradise, with the amazing Stamp River system running right through town. There are plenty of professional guides, outfitters and lodges to set up your fishing trip of a lifetime.
On your way into the Valley, be sure to
stop in and visit MacMillan Provincial Park for
a quiet, idyllic walk through Cathedral Grove. This
natural wonder of the Alberni Valley will take your
breath away with its ancient western red cedars and
towering Douglas firs. As you stroll leisurely along,
trees as old as 800 years and up to 76 metres tall
spread their sheltering green canopy high above the
peaceful hush on the forest floor.
The Seven Wonders of the Alberni Valley Bears from the Boardwalk
Cathedral Grove
A lberni Pacific Railway and McLean Mill National Historic Site
Most people never get to see a black bear outside
the confines of their local zoo, but in Port Alberni,
especially in late summer and early fall, it can be an
everyday occurrence. Visitors watch with delight as
a mother bear catches a salmon and her cubs play
on the rocks beside her, directly across from the
harbourside boardwalk. It's the perfect vantage
point for nature admirers to
catch a glimpse of these
magnificent creatures in
their natural habitat.
www.albernivalleytourism.com
Undiscovered Gems
The attractions and adventures of the Alberni Valley
don't stop at the Seven Wonders. Visit Stamp
River Falls and marvel
at throngs of salmon as
they struggle to reach the
spawning beds. Spend a
day spotting marine life
from the deck of the MV
Lady Rose. Admire the
craftsmanship of First
Nations artifacts at the
community museum,
or the prehistoric petroglyphs at Sproat Lake. Then,
make your own incredible discoveries when you go
deep-sea diving among the underwater wrecks in the
Graveyard of the Pacific. Shift gears and stay awhile,
in the beautiful Alberni Valley!
EDMONTON
CALGARY
UCLUELET
TOFINO
For more information, stop by the Alberni Valley
Visitor’s Centre at 2533 Port Alberni Highway,
call 1-866-724-9177, or visit our website:
From the harbourside in Port Alberni, you can climb
aboard the steam-driven 1929 Baldwin locomotive at
the beautifully restored Canadian Pacific Railway train
station, then ride the rails Old-West style on your way
to the McLean Mill, Canada’s only steam-powered
sawmill, and a National Historic Site. While there,
walk in the footsteps of the early pioneers, and reflect
on what life might have been like in
this camp at the ‘edge of the world’.
ake the road less traveled… to Vancouver
Island’s beautiful and exciting Alberni Valley!
Just waiting for you to discover on your way to the
West Coast, and a quick hop from the highway, this
Pacific Northwest gem offers the best of all worlds
- scenery, wildlife, history, culture and recreation. For
families looking for fun things to do with the kids,
choosing the Alberni Valley will make all the difference
in your travel experience. Its wealth of unique and
authentic attractions offer the whole family daily
adventures that bring to life the proud heritage of
Canadian forestry and
First Nations
tradition.
T
M Mars Water Bombers
These massive planes were originally
built as long-range patrol bombers for WWII, but
in recent years, their thrilling fire-fighting missions
have become world-famous. One of these awe-
inspiring aeronautic giants can drop enough water,
foam, or gel to cover three or four acres at a time,
and can make a new drop every 15 minutes. Home
base? Sproat Lake, Alberni Valley!
The Log Train Trail The Whalers’ Canoe
The Alberni Valley is home to two Nuu
chah nulth First Nations, the Hupacasath and the
Tseshaht, both a vital part of our thriving community
and integral leaders in building a sustainable future
for British Columbians. Be sure not to miss the Nuu
chah nulth Whalers’ Canoe sculpture at Victoria
Quay, for years an iconic fixture in Victoria’s Royal
BC Museum.
This 25-kilometer historic trail epitomizes the
‘work and play’ nature of today’s Alberni Valley
forests. It follows the grade of the Alberni Pacific
Lumber Co. logging train of the 1920s, when John
D. Rockefeller held timber rights in the Ash River
Valley. Today, this gentle-sloping path gives cyclists
and hikers a scenic fresh-air tour of the valley. Pick
up a Trail Guide Book at the Visitor’s Info Centre in
Port Alberni.
Alberni Valley of the
Seven Wonders the
Discover
SPECIFICATIONS
Wingspan: 200 feet
Height: 48 feet
Length: 120 feet
Engines: 18-cylinder Wright
Cyclone 3350 cubic inch
Props: four 4-bladed Curtis
electric, 15'2" tip to tip
6 Della Falls
4
The Alberni Valley is home to the tallest waterfall
in North America. At 440 metres, the majestic and
stunning Della Falls cascade from Della Lake into
the dense, old-growth forest below. A seven-hour,
sixteen-kilometer intermediate trek over sand,
stone, and heart-pounding suspension bridge
takes you from rainforest to sub-alpine terrain,
rewarding you with a spectacular view of the falls
at journey’s end.
P o r t A l b e r n i • V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d • B C
Our Guests:· Experience Seekers· Are smart & curious· Value Time more than Money· Value the restorative power of nature· 40-70 years old primarily· we take ages 5 and up, we’re one of the few companies that takes kids· Post Secondary Education· Middle to High Income· Families are common July & August· Busy people who like details taken care of· 20% Doctors, 10% Academic· Spend additionanal vacation time in the Pacifi c Northwest - Seattle, Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Victoria, Tofi no
50% of our business is repeat and word of mouth
We are known for our professional guides, exceptional food, top-of-the-line gear and cus-tomer service. We work with the coastal com-munities that we do business in to maximize economic possibilities. We’re engaged in our local community.
We’ve hosted many writers and photographers over the years and have experience in facilitating theirneeds.
If you’d like to bounce some ideasaround... we’re only a phone callor email away.
Contact: Blake Johnson1.877.449-1230 toll free North [email protected]
Award Winning Guided Tours Since 1999
Sea Kayaking Hiking
Bicycling
Award Winning Guided Tours Since 1999
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Bicycling
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Hike Della Falls444m Canada’s Highest
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Custom Trips
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Batstar Adventure Tours was featured in these magazines. Read the articles at batstar.com.
6360 Springfield RoadPort Alberni, BC, V9Y 8L8
(250) 724-2050
Toll Free [email protected]
batstar.com
To help you with your
Familiarization (FAM) tour,
contact Blake. Batstar has lots
of expeience in helping
writers and photographers
achieve their objectives. Visit
the Batstar page at YouTube.
