Ready to get out of a rut and into the great wilderness? A trip to the rugged British Columbia coastline or a trek to the San Juan Islands may be just what you’ve been looking for. You’ll have a chance to get to the wild side — watch storms, seabirds, and animals.
It’s also a fantastic way to find solace, stress relief, and step away from day-to-day issues. If you have the chance to get into the wilderness, you’ll feel the rewards of making the effort. Here are a few ideas to help inspire your heart and passion for adventure.
Storm Watching
Watching storms is a way to see awe-inspiring natural beauty. Many people report that storm watching in Tofino is like being at the edge of the world. This tiny town on the West Coast of Vancouver Island is known for dramatic storms. Whether you get there by car, air, seaplane, or boat, you will see right away why this unique winter destination is so appealing.
The season starts in November and runs to March, amid ten to fifteen winter storms and 16.5 feet of annual rainfall. Be prepared and bring your best outdoor gear. Pack your high boots, sturdy rain jackets, expedition-level warm clothes—and get ready for some spectacular storms!
Fish Watching
Fish watching in the Pacific Northwest is an entirely different source of inspiration. In the Northwest, fishing, fishing boats, and fish are part of the landscape. You’ll notice the power and presence of the fish everywhere you look. In many towns, you’ll see active fishing boats from dawn to dusk.
Being near open water opens your mind and awareness about the vitality of fish. It’s easy to understand the power of eating fish and taking fish oil supplements. Fish is one of the few items that is highly recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA). Eating fish is associated with decreasing the risk of heart disease.
The AHA recommendations are to eat a variety of fish at least 2 times a week. Focus especially on fish with omega-3 oils, such as salmon, herring, and trout. You can always talk with your physician about taking EPA and DHA, types of omega-3 fatty acids.
Your doctor can advise you of the best ways to get the nutritional support you need, by consuming wild fish as well as taking fish oil in capsules. However, if you are dining out in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find loads of choices for deliciously prepared fish such as wild-caught salmon and halibut.
Bird Watching
British Columbia is known for being one of the best birding locations in the world. In a single year, up to 200 species can be sighted including Bald eagles and Blue Herons. Expect your day to include seeing Bald eagles before breakfast, at lunch, and many times throughout the day.
Many people like to take bird-watching trips by boat to see seabirds and shorebirds that are not easily visible on land. If you are in Tofino and decide to go on a birdwatching tour, look for local boats with experienced tour guides to show you around the area.
You are likely to find a boat that goes near the Cleland Island Ecological Reserve, a British Columbia Park, just fourteen kilometers west of Tofino. The park protects the breeding populations of many species of seabirds. It has one of the largest populations of Tufted Puffin colonies, from May to September.
Whale Watching
Tofino is the place to get out on the water and enjoy the awesome opportunity to see whales. From March to late November, 20,000 Gray Whales swim past the shores. The whales make an annual migration between Baja Peninsula to the Bering Strait by Alaska. Some of these stunning mammals stay local and can be seen during the summer as well.
In addition to Gray Whales, Tofino is a remarkable spot to see Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, and Orcas. Humpback Whales show up in this area from June to September. Killer Whales tend to be unpredictable. You are also likely to see sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions while you’re out on a whale-watching boat trip.
Bear Watching
Black Bears hibernate in the winter, but when the spring comes, they come out of hibernation. Black Bears like to explore the coastline, foraging for food such as rock crabs and fish.
Naturally, a boat will stay at a safe distance so you and your family can watch in safety. You’ll also likely see local wildlife such as Seals, Harbor Porpoises, and River Otters. If you look up, you’ll be treated to some views of Bald Eagles, Herons, and sea birds.
Mood Watching
If you’re looking to get out of your normal routine and get a taste of the wild, heading to the outer banks of Vancouver Island is a smart move. You won’t be thinking about your To-Do list, trash day, or little issues that have been getting on your nerves.
The West Coast of Vancouver Island is alive with energy and vitality in every season. In the colder months, you’ll grab your gear and boots and head out to see waves crashing and wild storms brewing. Once you’re back inside, put up your feet and enjoy the toasty warmth of the fire and a hot cup of your favorite beverage.
