Quadra Island, part of British Columbia’s Discovery Islands, is just a quick ferry ride from Campbell River on Vancouver Island. For anyone road-tripping through Vancouver Island, it’s a destination worth considering.
As locals who often look for new camping and overlanding spots, Quadra has been on our radar for its mix of outdoor adventure and quiet, scenic charm. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when planning a trip.
Getting There: From Vancouver Island to Quadra
Most visitors will arrive by road and ferry:
From Nanaimo or Victoria: Drive north to Campbell River.
From Campbell River: Catch the BC Ferry to Quadra Island. The trip takes only about 10 minutes.
It’s a short crossing, but once you land, you’re in a different world, smaller, quieter, and surrounded by rugged scenery.
Beaches and Parks
One of Quadra’s biggest draws is its coastal beauty.
Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park: A narrow, two-kilometre spit lined with driftwood and rocky beaches. Ideal for walking, beachcombing, picnics, or simply soaking up the views.
Heriot Bay: A small harbour community with cafes, a post office, and a marina atmosphere, worth a stop before heading deeper into the island.
Main Lake Provincial Park: A chain of six lakes connected by wetlands. This is where you’ll find excellent backcountry camping, canoeing, and kayaking.
Lakes and Water Activities
Quadra is dotted with freshwater lakes that are great for low-key adventures:
Morte Lake: Popular for hiking, swimming, and paddleboarding.
Beaver, Village Bay, and Stramberg Lakes: Quieter alternatives for anyone seeking solitude.
Kayaking and canoeing are common across the island, with rentals available locally. The calm waters make it beginner-friendly while still scenic enough for seasoned paddlers.
Hiking and Climbing
If you’re into trails and climbing, Quadra is an underrated gem.
Chinese Mountains Trail: A relatively short hike with rewarding views over the island and Discovery Passage.
Morte Lake Trail: A longer but moderate trail looping around the lake, excellent for a half-day outing.
For climbers, Quadra has become a sport climbing hub in BC:
Over 250 bolted routes on volcanic andesite rock.
Mostly single-pitch climbs with a mix of grades, plus some bouldering opportunities.
South-facing crags make it climbable most of the year.
Food, Culture, and Local Stops
Quadra isn’t just wilderness; it has pockets of culture and comfort.
SouthEnd Farm Winery: A small vineyard producing wines with grapes grown right on the island. The tasting room is a cozy stop after a day outdoors.
Local eateries: From casual fish and chips in Campbell River before the ferry to small cafes on Quadra, you won’t go hungry.
Community vibe: Art galleries, seasonal farmers’ markets, and small shops reflect the island’s creative, laid-back character.
What You Won’t Find on Quadra Island
Quadra is not about luxury resorts or city-style entertainment. Here’s what you shouldn’t expect:
No nightlife: The evenings are quiet, perfect for stargazing, but not for bar-hopping.
Limited services: You’ll find basic groceries, fuel, and restaurants, but don’t expect big-box stores.
No towering alpine peaks: Trails are beautiful but not extreme. This is more about relaxed exploration than high-altitude expeditions.
And honestly, that’s the point. You come to Quadra to unplug, slow down, and enjoy nature without distractions.
Quadra Island offers a mix of peaceful scenery, outdoor recreation, and local charm, all just a short ferry ride from Campbell River. It’s an excellent option for campers, hikers, and anyone looking to explore beyond Vancouver Island’s main routes.
As Vancouver Island locals, we can say Quadra is one of those places that rewards curiosity: the more you explore, the more you discover.
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