Campbell River is a well kept secret as you’ll soon find out! Nature lovers, tree huggers, avid hikers, Campbell River is paradise in Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter! It’s worth staying a few days, take time to explore the region and breathe it all in!
Here’s our TOP 5 Attractions in Campbell River:
Elk Falls Suspension Bridge
This spectacular suspension bridge is well worth the trip to Campbell River. Hopefully you’re not too scared of heights as it hangs 64m above ground but if you are slightly anxious, do not worry as you can hang on to the safety rails. If you enjoyed the Capilano suspension bridge in North Vancouver, you’ll also enjoy this free suspension bridge and the enjoyable easy walk that precedes it. It’s around a kilometre from the John Hart Interpretive Centre where you’ll leave your car. To get there, take the Gold River Highway 28 for around 4 km.
Directions to the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge
Campbell River Museum
If you’re in Campbell River, you absolutely need to take time to go to the Museum, you’ll find a modern, well designed museum that takes you on a journey from First Nations culture to the logging industry history, you’ll learn about the coastal lifestyle of the first settlers. There’s also a section on commercial and sport fishing that made Campbell River famous. Finally, you’ll enjoy the museum shop that features authentic works of aboriginal art from Pacific Northwest coast native artists, including ceremonial masks, rattles, boxes, jewellery, feast dishes, baskets and coppers. They also carry an excellent selection of regional books and locally crafted gift items.
Open daily, 10AM-5PM in the Summer, Tues to Sunday 12pm – 5pm in Winter.
Directions to the Campbell River Museum
Discovery Pier
Campbell River’s Discovery Pier is one of its most popular attractions for fishing enthusiasts, especially in the summer months. The pier is wheelchair accessible and has a large parking lot so you’re almost sure to find a spot (free to park). It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers since the concession stand provides rod and tackle rentals. But there’s more! If you enjoy ice creams, you won’t be disappointed by the selection and the large cones you’ll get to your amazement. You can also enjoy their fish and chips and other snacks. It’s always nice to go for a stroll on the pier and enjoy the view or the occasional fish caught by a lucky angler. The pier is located at the South Entrance of Campbell River, next to the Maritime Heritage Centre.
Directions to the Campbell River Discovery Pier
Rotary Sea Walk
The Rotary Sea Walk is a popular place for locals, runners, bikers. For over 10km, you can enjoy the shoreline, don’t miss the friendly racoon made out of driftwood for a fun photo (not to far from the 50th parallel sign). You’ll also easily spot the big rock and probably wonder how it got there in the first place. If you’re lucky enough to find a chair, stop at the rustic FoggDukkers Coffee for a locally roasted cup of coffee and an unbeatable view.
On the sea walk, you can walk, bike, roller blade for an enjoyable stroll.
Whale Watching and Grizzly Bear Tours in Campbell River
Well, yes, we’re a little bit biased of course but if you come in the summer and have never been on a Whale Watching Tours, this is an experience you won’t regret. You have a lot of flexibility and can go for a very budget friendly 2 hour tour in a high speed zodiac, you’ll see a multitude of marine life including eagles, sea birds, sea lions, seals, dolphins, and even a humpback whale or orca that call this area home. You can also opt for a longer half day tour and cruise the Desolation Sound in search of the biggest and most exciting marine animals in the region.
>>
>>
If you want to see Grizzly Bears, Campbell River is the perfect basecamp. You have to come between August and October, you’re almost guaranteed to see grizzly bears when they feast on the spawning salmon in preparation for the long winter hibernation.
>>
