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Offroad 4×4 & ATV Tours on Vancouver Island

The range of outdoor adventure to be found on Vancouver Island in British Columbia attracts explorers from around the world. While many of the recreational activities in BC can be enjoyed on your own, or in private groups, many are best enjoyed under the care and guidance of experienced tour operators. Casual visitors to British Columbia are seldom able to venture into the backroads and experience the real wilderness – that’s where 4×4 offroad All Terrain Vehicle tour operators play a valuable role, offering full-day or half-day ATV Quad trips.

Don’t be deceived by the cozy but thin veneer of civilization that has been thrown up around the wilderness. Those who do not respect the neighbouring wilds often face uncompromising consequences. With proper preparation and a confident spirit you can negotiate your way in and around the landscape, emerging with untarnishable memories of your encounter with the natural world. Fortunately, most travellers don’t have to resort to extremes in order to get an inside look at these fantastic features.

Pacific Rim On the west coast of Vancouver Island, exciting backroad adventures are offered out of Tofino and Ucluelet in the comfort and safety of 4 x 4 vehicles. Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged west coast with an offroad trip up Mt. Ozzard, from where the view stretches from Barkley Sound and the Broken Islands Group, across Long Beach and beyond that past Tofino to Clayoquot Sound. After leaving Mt. Ozzard, take a short walk along the beautiful nature Trails at Kennedy Lake and view the huge old-growth cedar trees.

Offroading along the shoreline of Barkley Sound east of Ucluelet is a great wildlife experience. Eagles gather to feed on herring spawn, waterfowl gather along the shores to rest during their spring migration. In late summer, bears linger near the salmon bearing Thornton Creek.

The gravel road hugs Tofino Inlet providing breathtaking views of Clayoquot Sound. Watch for bears along the shoreline, and birds and waterfowl along the beaches and mudflats of the estuaries feeding the sound. After leaving the Inlet the road climbs high into the mountains, with Tofino Creek as a companion.

Huge rock formations evidence a landscape shaped by the girth of glacial ice that until quite recently covered the entire landmass. So strong was the force exerted by this miles-thick crush that, as it retreated, it cast a ragged impression in the bedrock.

Central Island Explore the beautiful and challenging off-roads of South and Central Vancouver Island. From weekend adventures, to challenging 6-day safaris, weekend 4×4 schools, and corporate weekend challenges. Fun-filled and intense weekends are for all comers, designed for anyone wishing to learn safe operation of 4×4 vehicles in the wilderness. Go offroad in the wilderness areas surrounding Shawnigan Lake and north to Cowichan Lake.

The weekend 4×4 schools include qualified instruction on safety, winching, vehicle recovery and the philosophy of treading lightly in the wilderness.

New Regulations for Off-roaders British Columbia announced new regulations for offroad vehicles in 2011, including safety and environmental regulations, and requirements regarding licensing and registration.

Only a licence will be required for crossing highways at designated areas, rather than the operations permit previously required. The designated crossings will help connect trails across the province. Off-road vehicle users are also required to have a one-time registration permit.

The changes will apply to all-terrain vehicles, quads, off-highway motorcycles and utility vehicles, as well as snowmobiles. By fall 2012, all of BC’s new requirements should be in effect, including required helmet use, spark arrestors to avoid forest fires, and new mufflers to control noise.

Responsible off-road riders welcome the new regulations in BC, particularly the registration and display of plates, as it may help to identify off-road users who damage the environment. A portion of the registration and licensing fees will go back to the associations to build trails.

The new policy regulations were implemented by ICBC in consultation with the Quad Riders Association of B.C. and the Private Forest Landowners Association.

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Explore Off Road: The Top 10 ATV & Overlanding Adventures on Vancouver Island

Scenic ocean vistas, towering cliffs and mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forest are the main features of any trail on Vancouver Island, and those who make the effort to get into the backcountry are rewarded with untouched wilderness, secluded swimming holes, and several attractions and viewpoints that would be nearly impossible to reach on foot. This is where the Vancouver Island ATV, OHV, and all-terrain vehicle overlanding scene comes into play. From ATV trails that climb deep into mountainous scenery with plenty of interesting attractions along the way to multi-day overlanding trips and rustic wilderness camping spots, a motorized vehicle can get you into backcountry areas with epic scenery and plenty of solitude.

Below, we list some of the most popular and unique ATV and overlanding routes on Vancouver Island. This is just a small portion of the thousands of kilometres of motorized trails, logging roads, and deactivated roads that can be used to reach incredible destinations. For a complete and comprehensive list of ATV and overlanding routes in this stunning region, be sure to check out the brand-new, 10 th Edition of the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook .

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1. Overlanding: Port Hardy – Holberg Loop

The most northerly overland route on Vancouver Island, this 100 km (62 mi) route features spectacular scenery and direct access to the popular Cape Scott Provincial Park and its windswept, rugged beaches, coastal and forested hiking trails, and great backcountry camping opportunities. This route also visits the communities of Port Hardy, Coal Harbour, and Holberg. From Port Hardy, head south on Coal Harbour Road, picking up Wanokana Main, Clesklagh Main, and NE Main to Holberg. Once you have finished exploring around Holberg, the route follows Holberg Road back to Port Hardy.

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2. ATV: North Island 1,000 Loop

Also used as an overlander route on some of the wider sections, this 1,000 km (620 mi) route was developed by the Campbell River ATV Club and leads riders through the north portion of Vancouver Island. A great route for adventurers that want to explore as much of this region as possible, this route begins in Campbell River and primarily follows gravel logging roads leading through the communities of Gold River, Tahsis, Zeballos, Woss, Port Alice, Coal Harbour, Holberg, Port Hardy, Port McNeill, and Sayward. There are plenty of optional side trips, and riders should bring enough fuel to last 200 km at a time, bring camping supplies, and a GPS. For more information, visit northisland1000.com .

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3. Overlanding: Gordon River Main

Stretching from Lake Cowichan to Port Renfrew, the Gordon River Main is a popular overlanding route. While the route can be done as an out-and-back trip, it is also possible to make a loop using a paved section of the Pacific Marine Scenic Highway, for a total distance of 150 km (93 mi). Starting and ending in Lake Cowichan, this route features fairly well-maintained gravel roads, massive trees, and secluded swimming holes. Along the way, take a short detour on Edinburgh Main to check out Lonely Doug, the second largest Douglas fir tree in North America, stop at Avator Grove, which is found on either side of the Gordon River Main at the 5 km mark, and be sure to check out Fairy Lake and Lizard Lake, both of which have forestry recreation camping.

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4. ATV: Tansky ORV Area

The largest official riding area for OHVs and dirt bikes on Vancouver Island, this exhilarating OHV area features around 50 km (30 mi) of mostly intermediate to technical cross-country trails. Logging roads also snake out of the area in all directions, allowing for longer rides of up to 100 km (60 mi). Elevations gains are up to 500 metres (1,640 ft), and the main trails have rocky creek crossings and entrances. To access this area, take the Jordan River North Main from Highway 14, west of Sooke, where you will find the parking area a short distance up the road. A popular route branches west along the N 500 Road and leads along the scenic Jordan Ridge for a 25 km (15 mi) trip.

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5. ATV: Oyster River Trails

Stretching out in either direction of Highway 19 from York Road near Campbell River, this maze of trails is made up mostly of old logging roads, leading to several unique destinations. Explore caves, old abandoned mines, and the Oyster Bowl, which is a great swimming and fishing spot, along these scenic trails. One popular route heads west off Highway 19 down the Eden Main Road or the Oyster River Main, while another follows the Piggott Main and the Rossiter Main, offering around 60 km (37 mi) of great riding, with elevation gains of up to 1,100 metres (3,610 ft).

6. Overlanding: Comox to Great Central Lake Route

Featuring stunning scenery, this route makes its way past Comox Lake and south to Great Central Lake. Accessed by the Comox Lake Mainline, this 80 km (50 mi) one-way route features elevation gains of up to 300 metres (985 ft), great camping on the shores of Great Central Lake, and wonderful island scenery. Side routes include the Toma Main and the Cruickshank Main. Please note that there is active logging in this area, and you may encounter logging trucks.

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7. ATV: Whiskey Creek Motorized Rec Trails

Containing around 30 km (19 mi) of beginner to intermediate, single-track trails, this is a great spot for riders to test their skills. The trails feature minimal elevation gain and a lot of tight corners, with a fun gravel pit located in the centre of the trails. Accessed off Melrose Road near Highway 19, trails continue to be added to this area yearly, and there is even a kid’s track at the staging area.

8. ATV: Mount Bolduc Route

Branching off the Harris-Gordon Cross Forest Service Road and following a creek for most of its distance, this 10 km (6.2 mi) route climbs approximately 700 metres (2,300 ft) to the site of a 1944 plane crash near the summit of Mount Bolduc. The plane, a Lockheed Ventura, carried six RCAF airmen, all of whom unfortunately perished in the crash and were buried at the site, which is marked as a war grave. The turn-off for this route is about 2 km (1.2 mi) along the Harris-Gordon Cross Forest Service Road.

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9. Overlander: Port Alice to Coast Route

Featuring stunning coastal views on several parts of the route, this route leaves from the Victoria Lake Recreation Site near Port Alice, creating a 108 km (67 mi) loop with 640 metres (2,100 ft) of elevation gain that follows the Cayuse Main and Klaskish Road to the coast of the Klaskino Inlet. From the inlet, the route follows Kaskino Main and B Main before reaching the coast again near the mouth of Klootchlimmis Creek. The loop then picks up East Main, K Main, the K500 Road, and Teeta Main to get back to the start of the route. Side trips include a 24 km (15 mi) ride to Side Bay via Le Mare Main and an 8 km (5 mi) return ride to the community of Mahatta River.

10. ATV: Cruikshank Canyon Riding Area

Stretching from Comox Lake to Circlet Lake in Strathcona Park, this route starts at a staging area on the Comox Lake Main, near where it crosses the Cruickshank River. From here, the route follows the Cruickshank Main for 3 km (1.8 mi) and then the East Cruickshank Main for 12 km (7.5 mi) before accessing a trail network of around 40 km (25 mi) that climbs up the canyon walls and along the surrounding ridges. Riders will gain about 1,000 metres (3,280 ft) of elevation gain to the top of the canyon, which provides beautiful views.

atv tours vancouver island

Ready to start exploring motorized trails, ATV routes, and overlanding routes on Vancouver Island? Check out the brand-new 10 th Edition of the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook , which is available in both print and digital formats. For all this information and more right at your fingertips, try out our Backroad Maps App or Web Map , which can be downloaded straight to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. And, be sure you tag us on social media at @backroadmaps or #BRMBLIFE on all your favourite Vancouver Island ATV and overlanding adventure photos!

THE 10 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, Canada

4wd, atv & off-road tours in vancouver island.

  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Nature & Wildlife Tours
  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
  • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Surfside Adventure Tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle
  • Government House
  • The Butchart Gardens
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

atv tours vancouver island

1. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

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2. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

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3. The Ultimate Group Package Tour of Victoria

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4. Waterfalls, Cathedral Grove Rainforest, and Coombs Adventure with Hiking

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5. Private Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip

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6. Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike with Private Guide

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7. STUNNING San Josef Bay Tour in Cape Scott Provincial Park

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8. Discover Sooke to Port Renfrew Scenic Tour of Vancouver Islands

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9. Ucluelet Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint

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10. Vancouver Island Tour, The Wilderness Explorer to Nahmint Valley

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11. Tofino Private Tour: Coastal Excursion to Rainforest Waterfall

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12. Christmas in Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

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13. One Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

What travellers are saying.

A L

  • Victoria Whale Watch Tour
  • Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal
  • Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria
  • West Coast Big Tree Beach and Waterfall Adventure
  • Full Day Grizzly Bear Expedition in Desolation Sound
  • Port Renfrew Outback Tours
  • West Coast Edge Adventures
  • Explore Vancouver Island
  • FarOut Wilderness
  • North Island Overland

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  • Bushwacker Tour
  • Easy Rider Tour
  • Private Tour – 2 hour
  • Private Tour – 3 hour
  • BUGGY TOURS
  • GROUP TOURS
  • Policies/FAQ
  • Gift Voucher
  • WINTER ACTIVITIES

atv-easy-drive

EASY TO DRIVE

Whistler ATV offers fully automatic ATV’s with power steering for easy control and handling.

atv-easy-rider-whistler

ALL WEATHER ACTIVITY

Easy rider 4

WHISTLER'S BEST TRAILS

Atv adventures, go offroad and explore with the, bushwacker tour.

  • Price: $179 per Driver | $139 per Passenger
  • Duration: 2 Hour Round Trip

Tour Times: 9:00 am | 10:00am | 12:00 pm | 2:00 pm | 4:00 pm

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PERFECT FOR FIRST TIME RIDERS !

Easy rider tour.

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EXPERIENCE AN EXCLUSIVE ADVENTURE

Private tour - 2 hour.

  • Price: $219 per Driver | $179 per Passenger

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TAKE IT TO THE TOP !

Private tour - 3 hour.

This is our longest tour and covers the most amount of terrain, designed for adventure seekers who love varying trail conditions. All of our tours have great viewpoints but this one takes you a little deeper to one of our favorite lookouts overlooking Mt. Fee, Black Tusk and beyond. Take your Off-Road skills to the next level with this tour!

  • Price: $269 per Driver | $219 per Passenger
  • Duration: 3 Hour Round Trip

Tour Times: 9:00 am

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TAKE THE WHOLE FAMILY OFF ROAD

Family buggy tour.

Venture into Whistler’s backcountry in comfort and ease with our 4×4 off-road vehicles. Whether you’re treating the whole family to a fun day out with incredible scenery, or taking your group on a backcountry adventure, our Backcountry Buggy Tour is a favorite in Whistler. There will be a guide leading the tour with an ATV as you follow, taking in the spectacular backcountry scenery at a leisurely pace. Our Buggy’s are easy to drive and are great for families with small children and first-timers.

Max combined weight 700lbs. *Option to add ATV.

  • Price: $499 - 5 Seater | Max 2 Adults

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FUN ADVENTURE FOR YOU AND YOUR GROUP

Looking for a fun adventure for you and your group? You have come to the right place! 

Whether you are celebrating a Bachelor/Bachelorette, Birthday, Anniversary or finally booking that excursion for your work you have been putting off the last 2 years, we have the perfect tour for you. Escape into the lush backcountry on ATV’s to magnificent viewpoints, then enjoy a delicious BBQ Lunch or Gourmet Picnic lakeside. 

For more information on time, availability, and cost, please call or email us directly and we will be happy to help you plan your day. 

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about whisthler atv

Whistler original atv company.

Our adventure company was founded on the idea of offering visitors exclusive access to remote trails and off road terrain located in the Whistler backcountry. Whister ATV is proud to be a family owned and operated adventure tour company since 1992.

  • Brandywine Base Facility,
  • 2 Callaghan Rd, Whistler, VON 1B1
  • QUICK LINKS

THE 10 BEST Vancouver Island 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

4wd, atv & off-road tours in vancouver island.

  • Fishing Charters & Tours
  • Nature & Wildlife Tours
  • Dolphin & Whale Watching
  • 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Surfside Adventure Tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle
  • Government House
  • The Butchart Gardens
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

atv tours vancouver island

1. Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

atv tours vancouver island

2. Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour

atv tours vancouver island

3. The Ultimate Group Package Tour of Victoria

atv tours vancouver island

4. Waterfalls, Cathedral Grove Rainforest, and Coombs Adventure with Hiking

atv tours vancouver island

5. Private Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip

atv tours vancouver island

6. Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike with Private Guide

atv tours vancouver island

7. STUNNING San Josef Bay Tour in Cape Scott Provincial Park

atv tours vancouver island

8. Discover Sooke to Port Renfrew Scenic Tour of Vancouver Islands

atv tours vancouver island

9. Ucluelet Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint

atv tours vancouver island

10. Vancouver Island Tour, The Wilderness Explorer to Nahmint Valley

atv tours vancouver island

11. Tofino Private Tour: Coastal Excursion to Rainforest Waterfall

atv tours vancouver island

12. Christmas in Victoria and the Butchart Gardens

atv tours vancouver island

13. One Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria

What travellers are saying.

A L

  • Victoria Whale Watch Tour
  • Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal
  • Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria
  • West Coast Big Tree Beach and Waterfall Adventure
  • Full Day Grizzly Bear Expedition in Desolation Sound
  • Port Renfrew Outback Tours
  • West Coast Edge Adventures
  • Explore Vancouver Island
  • FarOut Wilderness
  • North Island Overland

A Vancouver Island ATV tour you won’t soon forget

The Campbell River ATV Club has a 400-kilometre circle tour that should bring more ORV visitors to Vancouver Island's north

by Kirsten Armleder — June 28, 2017

An ATV sitting on top of a mountain overlooking the Johnstone Strait.

With miles upon miles of Crown land, the northern region of Vancouver Island is ideal for off-road riders. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

Imagine spending your entire summer vacation on an ATV, exploring sandy beaches, coastal inlets and the temperate rainforest of northern Vancouver Island. Riding from town to town, you see abundant wildlife, meet new people and learn about the fascinating culture of this remote region.

That is the vision of Mike Coulter, president of the Campbell River ATV Club (CRATV). And he’s one step closer to seeing it become reality.

“We just got access to Gold River,” said Coulter, “so now we can ride from Campbell River to Gold River and then go north to Sayward and back to Campbell River.”

It’s a 400-kilometre circle tour that follows forest service roads (FSR) and existing trails. Of course, ATVers need more than one tank of fuel and places to stay if they want to ride it. Before, that was a problem. But now, with new designated access in Tahsis and Gold River and off-road vehicle (ORV) operating permits available in Sayward, ATVers can ride into town on specific routes to access fuel, food and lodging. Campbell River also granted support to let riders stage from the Shell gas station on Willis Road—which has specified access to the FSR network. 

According to Coulter, there was some hesitation at first, but the club worked with the regional district, RCMP, tourism association and community council groups to come up with a plan that would be beneficial for all. With that in mind, he asks that riders be on their best behaviour and stay on the designated routes when riding into each community. 

Off-road vehicle tourism

The northern region of Vancouver Island relies heavily on industries like forestry and mining. In recent years, small towns have been struggling economically. Driving tourism, and more specifically ORV tourism, here will generate some much-needed business.

“The businesspeople are all excited in both communities,” said Coulter, who later added, “We are hoping to start a tourist movement on the North Island by making it a destination for off-road vehicle tourism.”

Two ATVs in a verdant forest on Vancouver Island.

This is the side of Vancouver Island that few get to experience. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

The loop is not yet signed and it’s a little rugged in areas, but it’s already becoming an attraction.

“I’ve had enquiries from as far away as Paris, France,” said Coulter. “They wanted to know if they could rent machines.”

Other communities, too, want in on the trail.

“I just got an invite to do a presentation in front of the Port Hardy council so that we can advise them on what kind of access they could provide for us to get riders to come there,” said Coulter.

This isn’t the first time the CRATV has been successful in lobbying government for increased ORV access. In the spring of 2016, the club celebrated the grand opening of its Pye Mountain Recreation Site. Located 35 kilometres north of Campbell River, this designated ORV campsite is the first of its kind on Vancouver Island. Picnic tables, firepits, a loading ramp and access to the club’s trail system are available. This project took about three years to go from concept to completion, and according to Coulter, there’s more in store.

“We’re developing it into our main staging area,” he said.

An aerial shot of the Pye Mountain Recreation Site near Campbell River.

Although it’s geared towards ATVers, the Pye Mountain Rec Site is open to everyone, and the trails are multi-use. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter

With 110 members, the CRATV is a very active group of ATV and SxS owners. Coulter has been president for about three years, but he’s been through several ORVs in his lifetime. What he enjoys most about riding is the freedom.

He said, “When you’re out in the middle of nowhere, travelling down a trail, it’s just a sense of youth—being free.”

That’s an experience worth sharing. 

atv tours vancouver island

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ATV ADVENTURE (Nanaimo): Ce qu'il faut savoir pour votre visite (avec critiques)

ALL BOOKINGS ARE 20% OFF - FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

atv tours vancouver island

Vancouver Island

Is our adventure.

Nobody knows the wild like we do. Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun, family friendly, thrilling adventure through forested trails to see breathtaking sights.

ASH LUCKETT

Owner / tour guide.

I love to explore new places: from camel trekking in the mountains of Kenya, paragliding in Turkey, hitchhiking the Australian coast to  dirt-biking through the jungles of Cambodia — if there was adventure to be had, I had it.

Returning home to Canada, I’ve found my greatest adventure — the breathtaking  forests, lakes, rivers and mountains of British Columbia.

Now it’s my turn to bring you the newest, most exciting way to explore and experience the amazing beauty of North Vancouver Island.  Join me and my team as we take you on the off-road adventure of a lifetime.

Up close and personal: ATVs are the best way to get into the wild. Surround yourself with beautiful forests, stunning lakes, rivers, and beautiful vistas featuring snow-capped mountains. Who knows – from the safety of your enclosed vehicle, you might even see a black bear, cougar, bald eagle, or one of the many other creatures of the forest.

Keep In Touch

atv tours vancouver island

The Vancouver Island Grand Loop is the definitive overland adventure motorcycle route circumnavigating Vancouver Island. The VIGL stitches together the best roads Vancouver Island has to offer, including widely popular local favourites and many unique hidden gems. Preference has been given to avoid the main highways in favour of back roads featuring scenic vistas and challenging roads.

The route is approximately 1,700km long, about 50% paved, 50% dirt/gravel. Depending on your pace, it will take 5-8 days to complete. It's recommended to ride an adventure motorcycle due to the amount of dirt/gravel roads.

The entire route has been made available through an interactive Google Map of the route . You can download .kmz files for each stage of the route as well. You can also download the .gpx file of the route.

If you have any feedback on road conditions, recommended side-trips branching off from the main route, or would like to report a road closure or detour, please contact me .

atv tours vancouver island

Please Note: The Vancouver Island Grand Loop maps and stage descriptions are intended to be an overview of the route rather than turn-by-turn instructions. In addition to Google Maps as a method of navigation, it’s recommended to have an accurate GPS, a copy of the Backroads Mapbook, a personal locator beacon and to know how to use them. As with any remote travel on Vancouver Island, conditions can change dramatically from blistering sun to complete downpour in as little as 10 minutes and may render parts of the VIGL as unpassable. Many of the northern stages contain evidence of wildlife (bears, cougars, wolves, etc) and appropriate precautions should be taken.

Please take care and be ready to turn back if the situation becomes unsafe.

If you would like to donate toward maintaining the Vancouver Island Grand Loop, I've set up a PayPal donation link below. I really appreciate your support.

https://www.paypal.me/JColinBeck

northisland1000.com

North Vancouver Island's 1000 km Back Roads Loop

Explore Northern Vancouver Island on the back roads

The north island 1000.

Experience Vancouver Island North as you never have before with the ultimate back roads adventure.

Check out Trips Reports for new videos from riders like you!

atv tours vancouver island

First Group Ride: June 2020

Check out the video in the Trip Reports button above for some highlights from our first ride of the North Island 1000 route. The weather was perfect and the company was even better. What better way to kick off the riding season than with a multiday tour of the scenic backroads of the North Island!

The North Island 1000 route plan available on Avenza!

Thanks to Frances Walsh who sent a GPX file based on the basic route from the turn by turn directions. It doesn’t show any of the optional side trips, but gives a good overall base for your ride. You can download the file below. Thanks to everyone who is riding the route and sharing their experiences, we love to see it!

Now Available: Route Logo Decals

atv tours vancouver island

Order yours today and show your support for the North Island 1000! Proceeds help with signage and website costs. Click the button below and fill out the form,  letting us know what sizes etc. you want, then pick them up when you pass through Campbell River, or we can mail them to you ($5 processing fee). Thanks for your support!

Small (3 inch): $2              Medium (4 inch): $4        Large (5 inch): $6                                                

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Alternative route to gold river: "khyber pass".

Khyber Pass is a more difficult route that connects Campbell River to Gold River. This route would not be suitable for loaded dual sport bikes.

About the Route

atv tours vancouver island

Trip Reports and Videos

Pictures and videos from the latest adventures to inspire your trip!

atv tours vancouver island

Plan your Trip

Take the adventure of a lifetime on the back roads of Vancouver Island.

atv tours vancouver island

The Communities

Journey through 11 Northern Vancouver Island communities.

atv tours vancouver island

Over 1000km of back country gravel roads to be explored.

atv tours vancouver island

Ride it Your Way

Whether you ride, cycle or walk, this trail does it all.

S ee the backcountry of British Columbia from the seat of an All Terrain Vehicle, commonly known as an ATV. ATV's allow access to places where few people go. Infact, these sure-footed machines can take you places that even horses fear to tread!

Through BC there are ATV tour operators with experienced and local guides ready to take you into their wilderness region.

ATV tours take you over trails and backroads into BC's pristine backcountry to enjoy breathtaking vistas of majestic green forests, crystal clear streams and lakes; open meadows and snow capped mountains. This is your opportunity to see BC's wildlife and waterfowl in their natural habitat. Be sure to take your camera, as there are photo ops around every bend.

Before any tour gets underway, your top-notch guide will make sure you are familiar with your machine, as safety is of utmost importance. These measures help assure you of a ride that is safe, comfortable and fun.

Experienced guides lead the way making frequent stop and setting a pace conducive to all riders.

For an unforgettable and different BC adventure experience - book an ATV tour:

Beste Vierwielaandrijving-, ATV- en off-roadtours in Vancouver Island, Canada

Vierwielaandrijving-, atv- en off-roadtours in vancouver island.

  • Vischarters & -tours
  • Boottochten
  • Natuur- & wildlifetochten
  • Dolfijnen & walvissen spotten
  • Vierwielaandrijving-, ATV- en off-roadtours
  • 1 tot 4 uur
  • 4 uur tot 1 dag
  • 5,0 van 5 bollen
  • 4,0 van 5 bollen & hoger
  • 3,0 van 5 bollen & hoger
  • 2,0 van 5 bollen & hoger
  • Surfside Adventure Tours
  • Craigdarroch Castle
  • Government House
  • The Butchart Gardens
  • Speciale aanbiedingen
  • De classificatie van tours, activiteiten en ervaringen die beschikbaar zijn op Tripadvisor wordt bepaald door verschillende factoren, waaronder de omzet die Tripadvisor genereert uit deze boekingen, het aantal keer dat gebruikers op de boeking klikken en de hoeveelheid en de kwaliteit van beoordelingen van gasten. Soms worden nieuwe vermeldingen gemarkeerd als prioriteit en worden ze hoger in de lijst weergegeven. De specifieke plaatsing van deze nieuwe vermeldingen kan verschillen.

atv tours vancouver island

1. Twee uur durende luxe stadstour door Victoria

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2. Victoria City en Butchart Gardens Privérondleiding van een halve dag

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3. De ultieme groepsreis door Victoria

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4. Watervallen, Cathedral Grove Rainforest en Coombs Adventure met wandelen

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5. Privé dagtocht van Vancouver naar Victoria en Butchart Gardens

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6. Begeleide wandeling met privégids in het regenwoud van Vancouvereiland

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7. PRACHTIGE San Josef Bay-tour in het Cape Scott Provincial Park

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8. Ontdek Sooke naar Port Renfrew Scenic Tour van Vancouver Islands

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9. ATV-tour Tofino

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10. Vancouver Island Tour, The Wilderness Explorer naar Nahmint Valley

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11. Tofino privétour: kustexcursie naar regenwoudwaterval

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12. Kerst in Victoria en de Butchart-tuinen

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13. Luxe stadstour van een uur door Victoria

  • Victoria Whale Watch Tour
  • Pedicab Tour of Victoria vanuit Cruise Ship Terminal
  • Twee uur durende luxe stadstour door Victoria
  • Westkust Big Tree Beach en watervalavontuur
  • Grizzly Bear-expeditie van een hele dag in Desolation Sound
  • Port Renfrew Outback Tours
  • West Coast Edge Adventures
  • Explore Vancouver Island
  • FarOut Wilderness
  • North Island Overland

IMAGES

  1. ATV Adventure

    atv tours vancouver island

  2. A Vancouver Island ATV tour you won’t soon forget

    atv tours vancouver island

  3. Vancouver Island ATV Tour: Triphobo

    atv tours vancouver island

  4. Vancouver Island ATV Tour 2022

    atv tours vancouver island

  5. ATV Adventure

    atv tours vancouver island

  6. West Coast Edge ATV Adventures

    atv tours vancouver island

VIDEO

  1. Carrier Princess sail on the Fraser River

COMMENTS

  1. ATV Adventure

    Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun, family friendly, thrilling adventure through forested trails to see breathtaking sights of central Vancouver Island. Come experience the majestic mountains, forested trails, and remote lakes of our central island ATV adventure tours!

  2. Offroad 4×4 & ATV Tours on Vancouver Island

    Casual visitors to British Columbia are seldom able to venture into the backroads and experience the real wilderness - that's where 4×4 offroad All Terrain Vehicle tour operators play a valuable role, offering full-day or half-day ATV Quad trips. ATV Quads offroading on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

  3. THE 10 BEST Vancouver Island ATV & Off-Road Tours (Updated 2024)

    These experiences are best for 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island: Victoria Whale Watch Tour; Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal; Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour; Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria; Ucluelet Harbour Tour; See more 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island on ...

  4. Explore Off Road: The Top 10 ATV & Overlanding Adventures on Vancouver

    1. Overlanding: Port Hardy - Holberg Loop. The most northerly overland route on Vancouver Island, this 100 km (62 mi) route features spectacular scenery and direct access to the popular Cape Scott Provincial Park and its windswept, rugged beaches, coastal and forested hiking trails, and great backcountry camping opportunities.

  5. THE 10 BEST Vancouver Island 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours (2024)

    These places are best for 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island: Port Renfrew Outback Tours; West Coast Edge Adventures; Explore Vancouver Island; FarOut Wilderness; North Island Overland; See more 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island on Tripadvisor

  6. Whistler ATV

    Get ready to get a taste of the best of Whistler's backcountry on this guided ATV tour! Explore low to mid range mountain trails with a variety of wide open roads and single track trails to scenic lookouts. Experience what it's like to journey deep into the coastal region of British Columbia - no wonder this tour is our most popular and ...

  7. Offroad 4x4 & ATV Tours on Vancouver Island

    Offroad 4x4 & ATV Tours on Vancouver Island - British Columbia Travel and Adventure Vacations. Those who devote themselves to adventurous exploration eventually make their way to British Columbia to hike trophy trails, ski trophy peaks, and paddle.

  8. Top Vancouver Island 4WD Tours

    Check out reviews & photos of Vancouver Island 4WD Tours with increased safety measures & flexible booking.

  9. Top 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Vancouver Island, Canada

    These experiences are best for 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island: Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal; Victoria Whale Watch Tour; Gulf Islands Kayak and Seaplane Adventure; Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Telegraph Cove; Ucluelet Harbour Tour; See more 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island on Tripadvisor

  10. ATV Adventure

    ATV Adventure. 10 reviews. #13 of 40 Tours & Activities in Nanaimo. 4WD, ATV & Off-Road ToursDay Trips. Closed now. Write a review. See all photos. About. Nobody knows the wild like we do. Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun, family friendly, thrilling adventure through forested trails to see breathtaking sights.

  11. A Vancouver Island ATV tour you won't soon forget

    A Vancouver Island ATV tour you won't soon forget. The Campbell River ATV Club has a 400-kilometre circle tour that should bring more ORV visitors to Vancouver Island's north. by Kirsten Armleder — June 28, 2017. With miles upon miles of Crown land, the northern region of Vancouver Island is ideal for off-road riders. — photo courtesy Mike Coulter.

  12. ATV Adventure

    Vancouver Island. Nanaimo. Things to Do in Nanaimo. ATV Adventure. 10 reviews. #13 of 40 Tours & Activities in Nanaimo. 4WD, ATV & Off-Road ToursDay Trips. Closed now. 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Nobody knows the wild like we do.

  13. 50 Outdoor Adventures in Vancouver Island

    Try West Coast Edge's ATV Tours. For one of the most thrilling, land-based tours on Vancouver Island, hop on an ATV with West Coast Edge's ATV Tours. Launching out of Port Alberni, these tours take you into the island's wilderness. With options for half-day tours (3-4 hours) or full-day tours (6-7 hours), West Coast Edge is ...

  14. ATV ADVENTURE (Nanaimo): Ce qu'il faut savoir pour votre ...

    10 avis. Nº 13 sur 40 Circuits et activités à Nanaimo. Excursions tout terrain, 4 × 4 & VTTExcursions d'une journée. Fermé. De 09:00 à 17:00. Écrire un avis. Toutes les photos. À propos. Personne ne connaît la nature comme nous.

  15. THE 5 BEST Victoria 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours (Updated 2024)

    Vancouver Island. Victoria Capital Regional District. Things to Do in Victoria. 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Victoria. THE 5 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Victoria, British Columbia. 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Victoria. Enter dates. Outdoor Activities. Filters • 1. Sort. All things to do. Category types. Attractions. Tours. Day Trips.

  16. About

    About | atvadventure.ca. about. Vancouver Island. IS OUR ADVENTURE. Nobody knows the wild like we do. Our experienced tour guides will take you on a fun, family friendly, thrilling adventure through forested trails to see breathtaking sights. ASH LUCKETT. Owner / Tour Guide.

  17. Tofino Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint

    Extreme Sports in Vancouver Island: Check out 6 reviews and photos of Viator's Tofino Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint Tofino Tour, Pacific Rim Expedition to Barkley Sound Viewpoint 2023 - Vancouver Island - Viator

  18. Vancouver Island Grand Loop

    The Vancouver Island Grand Loop is the definitive overland adventure motorcycle route circumnavigating Vancouver Island. The VIGL stitches together the best roads Vancouver Island has to offer, including widely popular local favourites and many unique hidden gems.

  19. THE 10 BEST Vancouver Island 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours (2024)

    These experiences are best for 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island: Victoria Whale Watch Tour; Pedicab Tour of Victoria from Cruise Ship Terminal; Victoria City and Butchart Gardens Private Half-Day Tour; Two Hour Luxury City Tour of Victoria; Ucluelet Harbour Tour; See more 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Vancouver Island on ...

  20. THE 10 BEST British Columbia ATV & Off-Road Tours ...

    These are the best places for groups seeking 4wd, atv & off-road tours in British Columbia: West Coast Edge Adventures; Explore Vancouver Island; Okanagan ATV Tours; The Adventure Group; Great Canadian Tours; See more 4wd, atv & off-road tours for groups in British Columbia on Tripadvisor

  21. northisland1000.com

    What better way to kick off the riding season than with a multiday tour of the scenic backroads of the North Island! The North Island 1000 route plan available on Avenza! Avenza: North Island 1000

  22. BC ATV Tours & ATV rentals. All Terrain Vehicle Tours & rental in

    For an unforgettable and different BC adventure experience - book an ATV tour: Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Plato Island Resort : We offer excellent fishing on Quesnel lake, camping & comfortable cabin accommodation, a well protected marina, & delicious quality meals.

  23. Vierwielaandrijving-, ATV- en off-roadtours in Vancouver Island

    De beste Vierwielaandrijving-, ATV- en off-roadtours in Vancouver Island, Canada. Lees beoordelingen van echte reizigers zoals jij en bekijk professionele foto's van de beste Vierwielaandrijving-, ATV- en off-roadtours in Vancouver Island op Tripadvisor.