Desolation Sound Paddle Route
Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

The Desolation Sound paddle route is located on the inside passage near central Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Desolation Sound Marine Park is one of the largest coastal marine parks in North America. It is a very popular long haul, multi-day adventure route attracting many to the area every year for kayaking and wilderness camping.

The closest Vancouver Island communities to Desolation Sound are Comox and Campbell River. Comox and Campbell River have marinas located within walking distance of stores and shops. The closest Gulf Islands are Quadra and Cortes islands. In the Sunshine Coast the marina in the community of Lund is closest to the sound.

Desolation Sound is a kayak paddle route filled with plenty of wilderness scenery. There are forested islands, swimming holes, rocky cliffs, cascading waterfalls, limestone bluffs, surging ocean channels, hidden coves, secluded bays, sandy beaches, First Nation pictographs and deep canyon walls. Wildlife sightings may include whales, black bears, sea lions and seals.

During the summer months kayak groups arrive every year to explore the wilderness marine park. Some arrive in their own kayaks embarking on their own self guided tours while others are part of a sightseeing kayak tour with guides, meals and arranged accommodations. Peak kayaking season runs from mid July to late August.

Desolation Sound includes many islands including Copeland Islands, West Redonda Island, East Redonda Island and Gifford Island. The right side of East Redonda Island is an ecological reserve. West Redonda Island has pictographs on Bishop Point in Waddington Channel.

Some of the more popular waterway routes include Waddington Channel, Homfray Channel, Lewis Channel, Pryce Channel and the tricky and beautiful Toba Inlet. The ocean waters in Toba Inlet are emerald green. It is a reaction to the mixing of sea water and glacier water. Make sure to boat 3 miles pass Snout Point when exploring in Toba Inlet and view the giant waterfall.

Kayaking Toba Inlet is a challenging paddle route for experienced kayakers. The tidal currents in the inlet get tricky and inlet is one big giant wind tunnel. The passage is lined with vertical cliffs with few protected bays creating dangerous paddle conditions with little space to hide from winds.

Happy Kayaking Eh !!

The EH TEAM.