This remote B.C. village was once the world’s largest floating camp

Holberg, B.C. is considered the “North’s North,” and the tiny village has quite the story to tell. Situated on the most westerly end of the Holberg Inlet, Holberg was once the world’s largest floating camp, used by forestry workers in the area. Today, its rich ecological history, stunning rainforest, and access to fantastic hiking opportunities make it a must-visit if you’re in the area.

Famed hiking trails

Accessed via a 50 km gravel logging road from Port Hardy, the village is the last stop for backpackers embarking on the famed Cape Scott and North Coast Trails. Known across the globe for their unparalleled views and untouched wilderness, this is every hiker’s dream starting (or ending) point.

Looking for another meandering trail to wander? The Nahwitti River Trail winds up through towering old growth SItka Spruce to the Nahwitti River, and it only takes 45 minutes each way. The trail leads to the east end of Nahwitti Lake, with plenty of scenic vistas to commemorate in a photo along the way.

Exotic garden

While Holberg has an extensive logging history, it also bears a notable expansive garden called Ronning’s Garden, created in 1910 by Bernt Ronning. The incredible exotic garden is famous for its fascinating plants brought over by Ronning from his travels around the world.

According to Vancouver Island North Tourism, the stunning, five-acre property is now maintained by a tiny but mighty group of volunteers. Visitors who roam the garden will find an amazing collection of bamboos, rhododendrons, Japanese maples, and an array of old and new monkey puzzle trees – including the tallest recorded in North America!

‘The Shoe Tree’

During your visit, keep an eye out for local legend, ‘The Shoe Tree’ on the eastern end of Kains Lake. The old cedar snag got its name when resident Tracey Anonson tossed up a pair of shoes into the tree in 1989.

“The tree now bears hundreds of shoes, sneakers, sandals and boots left by passing travellers,” says Vancouver Island North Tourism on Instagram.

Holberg 

How to get there: Take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver to Nanaimo, then drive four hours to Port Hardy via BC-19 N, continuing on a gravel logging road stretching 50 km to Holberg via Holberg Rd. and NE 60 Rd.