Ready for another rejuvenating experience out in nature? Gibson Marine Park is a sheltered area in the Matilda Inlet of Flores Island that you’ll definitely want to put on your map this winter. In addition to great hiking & camping opportunities year-round, the park offers visitors the chance to relax in natural warm springs connected by historic trails and sandy beaches.
Known across the globe as a kayaking haven, Flores Island is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, beachcombing at Whitesand Cove, and kayaking.
The warm springs at Gibson Marine Park are contained in an open concrete tank, located on the shores of the Matilda Inlet – so if you need a place to unwind after a day of adventuring, you know where to go.
According to BC Parks, the springs are considered to be of great therapeutic value, and the trails connecting them once provided access to a life-saving telegraph line and an old homestead.
Ahousaht Wildside Heritage Trail
Situated immediately south of the Nuu-chah-nulth community of Ahousaht, the park also gives visitors access to the famed “Walk the Wild Side Trail,” a 32-km marine trail beginning in Ahousaht village of Maaqutusiis at Flores Island Park. The route extends 10 km to Cow Bay, following a series of beach trails.
Note that some sections of the trail may be muddy and slippery this time of year, according to BC Parks.
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Also situated in the Clayoquot Sound is the scenic Big Tree Trail at Wanachus-Hilthuuis (Meares Island) Tribal Park, which takes visitors on a journey through 3 km of ancient forests.
So there you have it, BC! Your next island adventure awaits, and you don’t have to wait for the warmer months to experience it.
Gibson Marine Park
Where: Alberni-Clayoquot, BC
Information on Gibson Marine Park is from BC Parks and is accurate as of publication date.
