Set at the heart of Vancouver Island’s natural wild-west playground, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is named for Clayoquot Sound, a vast, 62-mile (100km) wide inlet of the Pacific Ocean. A UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, the sound is made up of a series of remote inlets, private bays and small islands surrounded by pristine, old-growth conifer forest. An ancient landscape carved by the ocean, the west coast of Vancouver Island is richly biodiverse and plays host to thousands of species of flora and fauna. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is set at the doorstep of this precious wilderness and is rewarded with direct and exclusive access to one of nature’s great amphitheatres.
Vancouver Island Seasons
The temperate rainforests that dominate the landscape and ecosystem at Clayoquot Sound also drive the weather systems. While the region generally receives good rains that sustain its forests, in summertime the conditions are warm and quite dry, ideal for marine sports and outdoor activities, making summer and shoulder months an ideal time to visit.
Season Average daytime temp Average overnight temp
Spring (May)
Getting there
The easiest and quickest way to travel to Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is to fly to Vancouver, British Columbia and connect with a scenic 45-minute seaplane flight directly to the resort dock on Clayoquot Sound. Boat and helicopter transfers are also available.
What to bring
9-14°C (48-57°F)
(41-50°F) Summer (June–August)
(59-66°F)
(52-55°F) Fall (September)
(55-62°F) 6-10°C (43-50°F)
Operating Season: Clayoquot is open seasonally and welcomes guests during the warmer months from May to September each year.
Experiences
Get set for a choose-your-own-adventure style escape on Vancouver Island where the landscape and wildlife combine in an enchanting adventure. A personalised itinerary of guided experiences offers fun-filled days choreographed by passionate guides. You can canyon down a glacier-fed waterfall channel, zoom around the sound on a marine expedition to spot the west coast’s wildlife superstars and embark on a paddle-powered exploration
For adventure seekers there’s archery, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing and hiking while a menu of helicopter experiences takes the adventure sky-high. Sip sparkling wine atop a mountain, capture a bird’s eye view of a glacier, explore remote sea caves or kick back at a private lake deep in the wilderness.
Step away from the busyness of the everyday at Clayoquot’s grown up summer camp into a place of rarefied calm and of positive, reinvigorating energy. Replenish your wellbeing and relax in the Healing Grounds Spa, greet the day with a sunrise yoga class or an exhilarating glacial plunge or opt for a spot of forest bathing or sound healing
Reflecting the adventurous nature of the Pacific Northwest wilderness, dress is relaxed at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge. Solid walking shoes, comfortable clothes, layers for warmth, and a rain jacket are recommended. A hat and sunscreen are every day essentials. The lodge provides a range of outdoors clothing and equipment from water bottles, protective jackets and hiking poles to riding boots, gloves and wet weather gear. Read our FAQ for more information.
Signature Experiences
» Aquatic Adventures
» Hiking Expeditions
Optional Experiences
Private Touring
Healing Grounds Spa
Wellbeing Experiences
Bespoke Heli Experiences
» Alpine Heli Experiences
» Coastal Heli Experiences
Choose your pace
At Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, guided experiences range from a leisurely rainforest walk or scenic marine tour through to river canyoning or a challenging hike and plenty in between. Consult the activity level guide below to find what’s right for you - there’s something for everyone.
Level Terrain Key
Light Short distances with limited inclines, obstacles or steps.
Beginner Medium distances less than 3kms over uneven terrain with slight gradients and small obstacles to step over.
Intermediate Medium distances less than 10km over irregular terrain including water crossings and natural obstacles to navigate.
Advanced Distances up to 15kms with major natural obstacles, steep inclines, river crossings and rope assisted routes.
Private Touring
Many travellers value the option of private touring, ensuring an exclusive encounter with family and friends. All signature and optional experiences may be undertaken on a private basis. Bookings are subject to availability and required in advance.
Duration Tariff for 1-4 guests
Half day
Full day
Please note Signature and optional experiences are led by expert guides on a shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times. Bespoke heli experiences are operated on a private basis. Enquire with the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge team for bookings and further information.
How to book
Please call +1 250 266 0397 from 9am-5pm (PST) daily or email the Clayoquot team.
CAD$500
CAD$1,000
Signature Experiences
Experience Vancouver Island's must-see sights on the lodge's signature tours. These guided excursions are included in the tariff and are provided on an intimate shared basis with fellow guests at scheduled times.
Aquatic Adventures
Clayoquot Sound is a wonderful playground for marine activities where guests can explore the changing intertidal waterways and try their hand at a range of paddling adventures.
Sights of the Sound
Encounter Clayoquot Sound’s picture book wildlife on a marine safari. Cruise up to 40 nautical miles scouring the coastline for chance encounters with black bears foraging on the shore, venture into open seas to spot whales, porpoises and sea lions and gaze at bald eagles soaring high in the sky.
Watersports
Set off on a guided paddle-powered adventure through the thriving waterways that snake through the vibrant landscapes and rich wildlife habitats of the upper Bedwell Sound. Choose from Clayoquot’s fleet of canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards with something for the first timer or seasoned professional.
Canyoning
Hop on an e-bike and ride across riverbeds and climb hills to reach the mouth of the deep canyon. Jump into a natural pool and paddle upstream as the river courses through the valley. Feel the power of the whitewater as you scramble over boulders, swim and float along the glacial-fed Bedwell River. Canyoning has it all!
Operation is determined by river water levels.
Tariff
Tariff Included Duration 3 hours
Tariff
Hiking Expeditions
World-class hiking opportunities are plentiful at Clayoquot. Choose from leisurely routes to fullday adventures and cover a diverse range of terrain.
River Trail Hike
Follow the banks of the Bedwell River as your guide shares stories about the local flora, the cycle of the seasons and the natural harmony of the forest ecosystem. On return, take the Salmon Spawning Trail for insights about ongoing salmon habitat restoration projects. The leisurely hike may also be enjoyed on a self-guided basis.
Ursus Valley Hike
Tackle the 12km trail and look up in wonder at towering, 400-year-old forests of cedar and western hemlock. Marvel at plunging valleys and crystal-clear streams, pause for a picnic and if you’re game, a swim! Complete the adventure with the River Run heli pickup to zoom over the treetops back to base (additional charges apply).
Penny Falls Trail Hike
Spike your adrenalin with an e-bike ride or UTV transfer up the valley, then follow the curves and contours of Penny Creek under your own steam. Featuring steep, rocky sections with ropes for assistance, your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views, a waterfall and a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear pool along the way.
Optional Experiences
Tariff Included Duration 2.5 hours
Level Beginner
Tariff Included
Duration 4-6 hours
Level
Tariff Included Duration 4 hours Level Advanced
An additional selection of activities is on offer to tailor an even more personalised itinerary of Clayoquot experiences. These activities are included in the tariff and offered on an intimate shared basis with fellow guests.
Archery
Take aim and discover the thrill of archery while learning the fundamentals of how to shoot a recurve bow. Feel the focus as you hone your skills at the practice range then set your sights and steady your nerve for the real test on the faux ‘hunting trail,’ searching for targets hidden throughout the forest.
Tariff Included on request
Duration 2.5 hours
Level Beginner ⚪⚪⚪⚪
West Coast Fishing
Set off on a guided fishing expedition in Clayoquot Sound onboard a fully equipped fishing boat. Armed with local tips from the captain, cast off for halibut, wild lingcod, salmon and more and trawl the prawn traps - each catch offers a new thrill or discovery. Every fishing adventure is tailored to the tides and the season. *Tariff includes one fishing experience; additional outings available for CAD $750.
Rock Climbing
Clayoquot’s dedicated rock-climbing wall is set into a 15-metre high natural rockface overlooking the stunning Bedwell Inlet (grade 5.5-5.9). Test your skill and focus with seven different climber ropes combining to create multiple routes. With expert guidance and your adrenalin pumping, you’ll reach the summit in no time.
Horseback Riding
Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl and learn the basics of 'western riding' guided by Clayoquot’s equine team. Saddle up with provided helmets and boots and set off for an unforgettable journey through the valley, riding through oldgrowth forest and Jurassic-era fern gardens. Horseback riding is available for guests 12 years and over. Younger guests can meet the herd and get to know them by name.
Healing Grounds Spa
Set along the ocean foreshore of Clayoquot Sound and among the cool reserves of new and old growth forest, the secluded Healing Grounds Spa promises guests a physical and spiritual sanctuary. The spa features two treatment rooms, a waterfront massage tent, a yoga and meditation room, cedar hot tubs, a sauna and tranquil outdoor lounge space for relaxing and drinking in the view.
Spa experiences
Relax in the restorative warmth of the sauna or ease into deep cedar hot tubs for a perfect postadventure tonic. A generous menu of signature massages and treatments includes hot stone massage, energy work and toning facial and body treatments.
Tariff Included on request
Tariff
on request
Tariff
Included on request Duration 3.5 hours
How to book
Reservations are recommended in advance. Browse the Healing Grounds Spa menu and submit your booking online, view a printable menu email or call the lodge on +1 250 266 0397 Additional charges apply.
Tariff
See spa menu for full treatment and price details.
Wellbeing Experiences
Wellbeing is woven into every aspect of a stay at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, from gentle yoga and forest walks to cold water plunges and an overarching sense of connectedness with pure nature and with the ones we love the most.
Glacial Plunge
Reconnect with nature and plunge into the invigorating waters of the Bedwell River at sunrise. Guided through restorative mindfulness practices, you'll flow through each step and push past comfort to reap the many benefits. Commemorate time and place with a transformative experience you’ll not soon forget.
Sunrise Yoga
Welcome in the day with an intimate sunrise yoga flow offered in the studio or on the openair waterfront deck. Whether you’re a novice or a practiced guru, find your pace and develop your balance, strength and flexibility while connecting your breath and body.
Tariff Included Duration 1 hour Level
Beginner
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Tariff Included Duration 1 hour Level
Beginner
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Bespoke Heli Experiences
Bespoke heli experience rates valid May 22 – September 21, 2025
All rates quoted in Canadian Dollars; additional charges and taxes not included.
To make a stay truly unforgettable, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers a menu of helicopter experiences designed to suit every interest and from hiking the alpine backcountry to sky-high sunset drinks.
Alpine Heli Experiences
From valley low to mountain high, gain a new perspective and discover the remote beauty of Vancouver Island with an unforgettable aerial tour.
Alpine Scenic
Discover Vancouver Island’s remarkable beauty and lift off for an exhilarating heli flight from valley low to mountain high, soaring over the Mount Mariner Glacier with views across Strathcona Provincial Park. Free as a bird, gain an aerial perspective of the island's awesome wilderness, best enjoyed at sunset.
Sip to Sky
Lift off for an exhilarating ‘sea to sky’ heli flight before landing on top of Ursus Mountain. Enjoy a luxury picnic of sparkling wine and charcuterie, take an alpine swim, explore the lake by SUP or simply gaze at the breathtaking views - all at 4,000 ft above sea level. Perfect to make every occasion extraordinary.
River Run
Zoom away on a scenic heli adventure, flying through valleys and over mountains on the return journey of the Ursus Valley Hike. Swap walking shoes for wings and hop in a heli for an exhilarating flight following the course of the Bedwell River before landing at the lodge.
How to book
Please call +1 250 266 0397 from 9am-5pm (PST) daily or email the Clayoquot team.
Tariff
CAD$650 per person (min 2 guests)
Duration 30 minutes
Level
Light
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Tariff
CAD$990 per person (min 2 guests)
Duration 2.5 hours
Level
Beginner
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Tariff
CAD$500 per person (min 2 guests)
Duration 15 minutes
Level
Beginner
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Lake Day
Be whisked away by heli to a private lake deep in the wilderness. Enjoy the ultimate picnic spread, plus hiking, aquatic sports, ball games and music for the perfect vibe. Ideal for a family or friends travelling together, make it your own special day by tailoring activities to choice. Tariff 1-4
day (up to 6 hours)
Heli Hiking
Choose-your-own heli adventure and explore Vancouver Island's mountaintops. Hike the scenic ridge of Mt Velella, walk the Abco Mountain moonscape or claim the ‘King of the Mountain’ title on Ursus Peak. Savour lunch skyhigh with breathtaking 360° views. Chance snow hiking and glacial dips early in the season.
Heli Fly Fishing
Cast on for an unforgettable day of fishing, touring some of the world’s most remote and protected rivers and lakes. The hook of this adventure is specialty guide Mike Archer - his local knowledge of the alpine lakes accessible only by heli where large trout are abundant, is unparalleled.
Operates seasonally from late May - July 13 and August 17September 22, 2025. Reservation essential in advance. Tariff
Coastal Heli Experiences
Gather your loved ones and set out on the dream of a lifetime – an exclusive, unforgettable aerial experience at the world's edge.
Coastal Scenic
Take to the air by heli to explore Vancouver Island’s ruggedly beautiful ocean coastlines. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot bald eagles soaring in the skies alongside you or whales, porpoises and sea lions cruising the oceans below.
Island Picnic
Take off on a heli adventure to enjoy some remote ‘island time.’ Land on the coast, get your toes into the sand and explore the small, wild islands dotted around the ocean. Enjoy a gourmet picnic and keep watch for a glimpse of wildlife ‘doing their thing’; black bears foraging and otters, seals and whales playing in the sea.
day (4 hours)
Duration Full day (up to 6 hours) Level Intermediate
Tariff
CAD$650 per person (min 2 guests)
Duration 30 minutes
Level Light
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Tariff
1-2 guests
CAD$2,990
Additional guest CAD$1,000
Duration
Half day (4 hours)
Level
Beginner
⚪⚪⚪⚪
Sea Caves
Fly north via heli to discover some of Vancouver Island’s remote sea caves, created over centuries by the power of the ocean. Wearing a headtorch, explore inside the caves, finding sheer rockfaces, tidal pools and cool pebbled beaches. Keep an eye out for ‘the locals’ playing in the crashing surf.
Walk the Wildside
Hop in a heli and fly to the remote and untamed Flores Island. The 11km trail follows a cultural route of the First Nations Ahousaht people who have gathered medicinal plants, seasonal foods and cultural treasures over centuries. Get set for an incredible day of discovery surrounded by nature at its most grand.
There's more to explore
Tariff
1-2 guests CAD$4,000
Additional guest
Duration Half day (4 hours)
Tariff
1-2 guests
CAD$4,000
Additional guest CAD$1,000 Duration Full day (up to 6 hours)
There are endless possibilities for exploring Clayoquot Sound. The Clayoquot team can choreograph a personalised itinerary tailored to guest preferences, featuring experiences from this guide and beyond. Ascend a majestic 250-year-old Sitka spruce, enjoy yoga atop a mountain or explore the rainforest on two wheels. Please call +1 250 266 0397 from 9am5pm (PST) daily or email reserve@clayoquotwildernesslodge.com to contact the team.
Terms & Conditions
Helicopter tours are operated by Atleo River Air Service Ltd and additional charges apply. For cancellations within 24 hours of the booking date, a 100% cancellation fee applies. Heli operation is subject to weather conditions. V1 | December 2024
