Cycling the Gulf And Vancouver Islands: Rugged West To Sheltering East

In 1843, the first permanent European settlement - a fur trading post - was established at Victoria on Vancouver Island. Communities quickly sprang up as trains were built to haul goods to port. The communities prospered, but the trains did not. Fortunately, many miles of track were converted into bike paths, creating a vast network of trails. We cycle some of these trails, studying Vancouver's sheltered eastern area and exposed rugged west coast. We learn of communities that developed around forestry, fishing and mining and of the forces of nature that forged this magnificent landscape.

Victoria, on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, has a mild Mediterranean climate with year-round gardens. Established as a Hudson's Bay Company Fort, the city is a "bit of olde England" with a proud history and British customs. Lectures focus on the unique features that draw visitors to the area, early history of British Columbia, natural history, why the area was settled and the natural resources that assisted in its development. Bicycling field trips follow the Galloping Goose Trail - a former railway line - to Sooke and include stops at "castles" built by former coal and railroad barons as well as a former quarry now elevated to one of the most beautiful gardens in the world - Butchart Gardens. A hiking excursion along the Juan De Fuca Trail features a magnificent coastal view.

Bordered by the Strait of Georgia and surrounded by forest, ocean, islands and mountains, Nanaimo has a scenic harbor and bustling waterfront. A former coal mining town, Nanaimo serves as a major ferry terminal linking Vancouver Island with the mainland. Lectures explore the historic and cultural significance of the Cowichan Valley, examining Newcastle Island and Marine Park, with its sandstone cliffs and shoreline dotted with caves and caverns. Excursions to the Nanaimo Museum and the Cowichan Native Heritage Centre in Duncan highlight area history and rich native heritage, including its petroglyphs and artifacts. We also experience a field trip to Chemainus, famous for outdoor murals and sculpture. Bicycle excursions include beautiful Malahat, Shawnigan Lake, and an Aboriginal village.

Situated in the heart of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, Tofino is part of a vast temperate rainforest. Nearby Pacific Rim National Park is home to old-growth cedars, abundant wildlife and spectacular trails. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the area has miles of sandy beaches, tidal pools, deep fjords and inlets. Whales, porpoises, and sea lions are often seen along the coastline. Lectures on marine life and the Pacific Rim National Park highlight the diverse and abundant wildlife of this lush coastal rainforest. On a bicycle field trip through the Long Beach area of Pacific Rim National Park we view flora and fauna, including - with luck - whales. An excursion introduces Cathedral Grove, its fragile 800 year-old forest and inherent ecological challenges.

Start Location:	Victoria
End Location:	Victoria
Accomodations:	Best Western Waterway Victoria, Coast Bastion Nanaimo, Best Western Barclay Port Alberni
Required Equipment:	Cycling jacket, gloves and padded shorts recommended.
Required Skills:	Basic cycling skills.
Required Documents:	Passport AND photo ID and birth certificate (proof of citizenship) required for entry into Canada and reentry into the USA.
Required Inoculations:
Packing List:	Bring comfortable walking or cycling shoes, sleeveless tops for warm days, light wind & rainproof jacket & sweater for cool nights and incase of wind or rain during trip. Bring sun screen, a hat, sun glasses & camera.
Luggage Limits:	Please pack carefully as you are expected to handle your own luggage. We suggest that you use luggage with wheels. Laundry facilities located in or close to our hotels are available to refresh clothing and minimize bulky luggage.

Handicapped Rooms :	Not available.
Ground Floor Rooms:	Available upon request.
Elevators:	Yes.
Walking Distances:	Hiking distances up to 5 kilometers per day. Cycling distances up to 50 kilometers per day.
Elevation:	Sea level.

Independent arrival, Vancouver, British Columbia 1 night; coach and ferry to Victoria, 2 nights; coach and cycle to Nanaimo, 3 nights; coach and cycle to Port Alberni, 1 night; coach and cycle to Tofino, 2 nights; ferry to/ depart Vancouver.