The adventure and history of the Alberni Valley doesn’t stop at our Seven Wonders. Visitors with special interests will treasure these Alberni Valley attractions, too:

Stamp River Falls - RECENTLY NAMED THE 8TH WONDER OF THE ALBERNI VALLEY BY LOCAL RESIDENTS

Just 15 minutes outside of Port Alberni you’ll find Stamp River Falls, where 40 million Pacific salmon climb the ladders every year to reach the spawning beds. This thrilling natural phenomenon starts in late August with Sockeye, and continues into December with Coho and Chinook. At any time of year, the peaceful riverside park offers 2km of gentle walking and hiking trails through lush forests, always by lakes and streams. A viewpoint over the spawning ladders offers fantastic views of the river, and a day-use picnic area or overnight campground are available.

MV Francis Barkley

Spend a day of adventure riding the seas on the MV Francis Barkley. Visitors may ride along with her small crew as the Francis Barkley transports cargo, mail and up to 100 passengers on her day trips up the Alberni Inlet. The views from her decks are stunning, and you’ll enjoy participating in this historic maritime tradition. Don’t forget binoculars and cameras as you are sure to see grey and orca whales, black bears, eagles, sea otters, sea lions and seals from her bow.

Petroglyphs

At Sproat Lake, water sports and lazy loafing fill the days with fun and harmony. But there’s a mystery too! Follow the shady trail at the eastern end of the lake, and you’ll discover some of the finest prehistoric petroyglyphs in British Columbia. Not much is known about the K’ak’awin petroglyph, but many believe it depicts ancient mystical monsters that once lived in the lake. What do you think?

And more treasures...

• One of the longer caves in Canada called “Blak T” which boasts a 1.4 mile navigable network underground. If you find it, please use proper equipment and take proper precautions if you enter it. It is dangerous.
• the largest collection of Emily Carr art
• the largest collection of First Nations basketwork in Canada
• living history exhibits that tell how the now famous West Coast Trail had its beginnings as a telegraph line and a life saving trail for shipwreck victims
• 17,000 historic photographs
• deep sea diving, underwater wrecks, and much more!

Catch A Big One!

Port Alberni, British Columbia is often referred to as “The Salmon Capital of the World”. All five species of Pacific salmon are found in the area, with Chinook, Coho and Sockeye the favourites with the sport fishers and epicureans. Returning to spawn in surrounding lakes and rivers, Sockeye arrive in June, Chinook in August/September and Coho are fished in August/ September/October. Besides having healthy runs, the advantage of sport fishing in Port Alberni is that you are always in the calm, protected waters of the Alberni Inlet and harbour. This is also a Steelheader’s paradise, with the amazing Stamp River system running right through town. There are plenty of professional guides, outfitters and lodges to set up your fishing trip of a lifetime.