West Coast · Nootka
Nuchatlitz Park
About this Park
Nuchatlitz Park encompasses the very northwest tip of Nootka Island and a large number of small island groups. This picturesque area is perfect for exploring by kayak and paddlers can enjoy meandering through these peaceful islands, pulling out at random locations to camp as they see fit. A wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts exists, including boating, sport fishing, camping and wildlife viewing within the park and its surrounding area.
Location notes
The park is located approximately 18 km southwest of Zeballos, on the west coast of Vancouver Island between Nuchatlitz and Esperanza inlets. Access is by boat or float plane only. Boaters can reference marine chart #3676 and #3662 for more information about this area. The closest communities are Zeballos, Tahsis, Gold River and Nootka Island.
Activities
- 9749:Canoeing Sea canoeing and kayaking is very popular in this area. Little Espinosa Inlet on Vancouver Island (located on the road to Fair Harbour from Zeballos) is the nearest put in point for kayakers. Other locations are available from Tahsis. A number of commercial kayak operators offer tours to this area. Paddling features include protected waters amongst the island groups, however there are some exposed west coast paddling dangers on the west side of the park, such as high winds, tidal currents and exposed rocks.
- 9749:Swimming There is no designated swimming area at this park.
- 9749:Fishing This area is one of the more popular saltwater sports fishing destinations on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The protected waters among the island groups are home to Chinook, Coho, chum and pink salmon and a variety of rockfish. Float lodges are located outside of the park throughout Esperanza Inlet and offer fishing and eco tourism opportunities.
- 9749:Wildlife viewing There is no viewing platform but this park offers ample opportunities for visitors to see a variety of marine life, including gray whales, seals, sea lions and sea otters, as well as numerous birds. Nuchatlitz Park is also an excellent place to study intertidal life, as many tide pools can be found throughout the maze of islets and reefs that make up the park.
- 9749:Pets on leash Pets and domestic animals must be under control at all times. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. This area is not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with wolves and bears. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
- 9749:Scuba diving This area offers excellent cold water scuba diving opportunities.
- 9749:Hunting The discharge and carrying of firearms is permitted in this park for the purposes of hunting during open season. Please consult the BC Government Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis for more information. Contact BC Parks at parkinfo@gov.bc.ca with any specific questions.
Location
49.81019, -126.95785 · Nootka