Moresby Island: Wilderness Adventures in Haida Gwaii
This southern island in British Columbia’s Haida Gwaii offers remote hiking, wildlife viewing, and ancient Haida heritage within Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.
Why Visit Moresby Island
Moresby Island forms the core of southern Haida Gwaii and delivers some of Canada’s most intact temperate rainforest and coastal wilderness. Its rugged mountains, sheltered inlets, and old-growth stands shelter black bears, sea otters, and humpback whales, while Haida cultural sites remain protected under cooperative management with the Haida Nation.
Getting There
Most travellers reach Moresby by air, landing at Sandspit Airport (YZP) on the island’s northeast coast. Direct flights operate from Vancouver; connections via Prince Rupert or Haida Gwaii’s other airport on Graham Island are also common. From Sandspit, rental vehicles or pre-arranged shuttles serve trailheads and lodges. Visitors staying on Graham Island can take the short ferry crossing to Moresby’s Alliford Bay terminal. Access to the protected southern half of the island requires a permit and licensed tour operator.
Best Time to Visit
Late May through early September brings the mildest temperatures and longest daylight for kayaking and hiking. June and July offer peak wildflower displays and reliable whale sightings, while August and early September see fewer biting insects and calmer seas for open-water paddling. Winter visits are possible for storm watching but demand full self-sufficiency and weather awareness.
Things to See and Do
The island’s highlight is Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, which covers its southern two-thirds. Licensed operators lead multi-day kayak or boat tours to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of SG̱ang Gwaay (Ninstints), where standing mortuary poles overlook the sea. On the east coast, the secluded hot springs at Gandll K’in Gwaay.yaay provide a rare soak amid mossy forest. Inland, the Mount Moresby Trail climbs through ancient cedar to alpine meadows with sweeping views of Hecate Strait. Wildlife enthusiasts scan for orcas from Gray Bay and kayak among sea lions near Louise Island. Cultural tours with Haida guides explain traditional fishing weirs and village remains still visible along the shoreline.
Nearby Destinations
From Moresby it is a short ferry hop to Graham Island’s villages of Skidegate and Old Massett, known for their carving sheds and museums. Further exploration of the archipelago includes the wild beaches of Naikoon Provincial Park on Graham’s northeast coast.
Visitor tips
- Book Gwaii Haanas permits and tour operators several months ahead; independent travel south of the park boundary is not permitted.
- Expect frequent rain and pack layered waterproof clothing plus sturdy footwear for muddy trails year-round.
- Respect Haida cultural protocols: stay on marked paths, do not touch or remove artifacts, and follow guide instructions at village sites.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Moresby Island from mainland British Columbia?
Fly directly to Sandspit Airport from Vancouver or connect through Prince Rupert; a short ferry also links the island to Graham Islandu2019s Skidegate terminal.
Do I need a permit to visit southern Moresby Island?
Yes. Travel into Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve requires advance registration and travel with a licensed operator; day-use permits are available for certain northern zones.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Black bears, sea otters, humpback whales, and bald eagles are commonly sighted; orcas and Steller sea lions appear regularly along the east coast.
Is Moresby Island suitable for independent kayakers?
Only experienced paddlers with proper safety gear should attempt independent trips; most visitors join guided expeditions that supply equipment and local knowledge.
Are there hot springs on the island?
Yes. The Gandll Ku2019in Gwaay.yaay hot springs on the east coast are accessible by boat or kayak and are popular stops on guided tours.
