Explore Vancouver Island
Big Lonely Doug and Avatar Grove
🌲 Avatar Grove & Big Lonely Doug – The Giants of Port Renfrew
Step into nature’s cathedral at Avatar Grove, where towering ancient cedars twist skyward in a living masterpiece of moss, bark, and filtered sunlight. This incredible old-growth forest—home to the legendary “Canada’s Gnarliest Tree”—is a must-see stop for every adventurer exploring Vancouver Island’s wild heart. Just a short drive further along the Gordon River Main lies Big Lonely Doug, a solitary, awe-inspiring Douglas fir standing defiantly in a sea of stumps. One of the largest trees in Canada, Doug is both a breathtaking sight and a humbling reminder of the Island’s rugged past. Whether you’re wandering beneath the canopy or capturing that perfect photo, Avatar Grove and Big Lonely Doug promise a truly unforgettable off-road experience—equal parts wonder, reflection, and pure west coast magic.
Port Renfrew River Ride
🏔️ Port Renfrew to Cowichan Adventure Route – Rivers, Forests & Hidden Lakes
Buckle up and get ready to experience the real Vancouver Island backcountry! The route from Port Renfrew to Cowichan is a breathtaking mix of winding forest service roads, hidden river valleys, and postcard-perfect lakes. Follow the Gordon River inland, where crystal-clear water winds through old-growth forest, and keep your camera ready for sudden views of mossy canyons and towering cedars.
As you continue, the adventure deepens—Fairy Lake reflects the sky like glass (and don’t miss the famous tiny tree growing from the log!), while Harris Creek offers a quick stop at one of the most impressive roadside waterfalls on the Island. Make your way toward Big Lonely Doug and Avatar Grove, where ancient giants rise above the forest floor—living monuments to Vancouver Island’s wild spirit.
Heading east, the road opens into the Cowichan Valley, a sun-dappled mix of rivers, farms, and deep forest trails. Stop by Lake Cowichan for a swim, Gordon Bay Provincial Park for a picnic, or Honeymoon Bay for a quiet recharge before looping back toward the coast.
As you Drive West from Sooke, you won't want to miss these incredible places along the way!
🚙 Jordan River – The Heart of the Coastal Adventure Corridor
The laid-back surf town of Jordan River is the perfect launching point for your Vancouver Island off-road journey. With its sweeping ocean views, rugged logging roads, and chill coastal atmosphere, it’s a gathering place for adventurers, campers, and locals alike. Grab a coffee at the riverside café, check the waves, and then hit the trails heading toward Mystic, Sombrio, or the big trees of Port Renfrew. It’s the place where your Island adventure begins—rugged, real, and endlessly scenic.
🌅 Sandcut Beach – Where Forest Meets the Sea
At Sandcut Beach, the rainforest literally spills onto the shore. Just a short walk through towering cedars reveals a hidden gem—two small waterfalls dropping right from the sandstone cliffs onto the pebbly beach below. It’s a place for barefoot wanderers and sunset chasers, perfect for a picnic, a quick hike, or a scenic rest stop between off-road adventures. Bring a towel, a sense of curiosity, and your camera—Sandcut never disappoints.
🌊 Mystic Beach – Waterfalls, Sea Caves, and West Coast Magic
Tucked along the rugged Juan de Fuca Trail, Mystic Beach is a coastal dream come true. A short forest hike leads you to a stunning stretch of sand framed by towering cliffs, a hidden sea cave, and a cascading waterfall that tumbles straight onto the beach. Perfect for picnics, photos, or simply soaking up the ocean spray, Mystic Beach delivers that “untamed Island” vibe in the best possible way. Whether you’re on a day trip or exploring the coast by side-by-side, it’s a must-stop adventure that lives up to its name.
🏄 Sombrio Beach – The Surfer’s Paradise Meets Rainforest Vibe
Beloved by surfers, campers, and explorers alike, Sombrio Beach blends wild energy with easygoing charm. Hidden waterfalls, driftwood shelters, and endless waves set the stage for one of Vancouver Island’s most iconic coastal experiences. Wander through lush rainforest trails to the shore, listen to the crash of surf, and keep an eye out for the secret waterfall tucked behind the mossy canyon wall. It’s rugged, beautiful, and undeniably west coast.
🌿 Botanical Beach – Nature’s Tidepool Wonderland
At the end of the Juan de Fuca Trail, Botanical Beach invites you to explore one of the Island’s most fascinating natural wonders. During low tide, its sandstone tidepools reveal a kaleidoscope of marine life—starfish, anemones, urchins, and colorful seaweed, all thriving in shallow rock pools carved by centuries of surf. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves make this spot feel wild and alive, perfect for curious explorers and nature lovers. Bring sturdy shoes, respect the tide schedule, and prepare to be amazed.