Pacific · British Columbia
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
A co-managed Haida homeland of moss, sea otters and ancient totems.
Province
British Columbia
Established
1988
Size
1,474 km²
Coordinates
52.45°, -131.55°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
Reached only by boat or float plane, Gwaii Haanas is co-managed with the Haida Nation and protects rainforest, intertidal reefs and the cedar-pole village of SG̱ang Gwaay (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). A trip here is logistically committed and unforgettable.
Why visit
- SG̱ang Gwaay UNESCO Haida village
- Hot Spring Island (back from a 2012 earthquake)
- Sea otter and humpback encounters
- Old-growth Sitka spruce and red cedar
Things to do
Plan your days.
Multi-day guided sea kayak expedition
kayaking
Mothership cruise + Zodiac landings
boating
Haida Watchmen interpretive visits
interpretive
Hot Spring Island soak
interpretive
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Boat-in wilderness sites only — orientation required before launch
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: cool, fewer bugs.
- Summer
- July–August: peak weather; book outfitters early.
- Fall
- September: salmon, calmer ocean some weeks.
- Winter
- Closed to visitors.
- Peak
- July through August.
- Shoulder
- June or early September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Throughout — sea otters in nearly every cove.
Common species
Bald eagle · Sitka black-tailed deer · Sea otter
Signature species
Humpback whale · Orca · Steller sea lion
Wildlife safety
Marine weather is unpredictable; book through licensed operators.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Skidegate
- Sandspit
- Queen Charlotte / Daajing Giids
Nearby attractions
- Naikoon Provincial Park
- Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
7 day
Mothership expedition
Six nights aboard a small ship with daily Zodiac landings.
photography
Cedar and otter week
Bring a long lens and a rain shell.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.
Can I camp in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve?+
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve does not operate traditional drive-in campgrounds. Backcountry camping or stays in nearby communities are the standard options.
Do I need reservations to visit Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve?+
Yes — campsite reservations are required during peak season and open via the Parks Canada Reservation Service in mid-winter.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve family friendly?+
Our family score is 5/10. Better suited to teens and adults — expect remote conditions and limited services.
When is the best time to visit Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve?+
July and August. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include sea otters, humpback whales, orcas and bald eagles. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
RV access is limited or unavailable; this park is best explored by tent, backcountry travel or day trips from nearby communities.
How many days should I spend here?+
Seven days minimum given the travel commitment.
Nearby parks
