The Discovery Islands region of British Columbia is a group of islands located at the northern end of the Salish Sea and the eastern end of Johnstone Strait, between Vancouver Island and the mainland coast of British Columbia, Canada3. Quadra Island is one of the islands. Here are some key points about the Discovery Islands:

• The Discovery Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, with endless ocean views, lush forests, and picturesque beaches6.
• The archipelago is part of the Inside Passage, a popular route for boaters and kayakers exploring the coastal waters of British Columbia2.
• The major islands within the Discovery Islands include Quadra Island, Cortes Island, Hardwicke Island, West Thurlow Island, and East Thurlow Island3.
• The region offers a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, scuba diving, salmon fishing, and wildlife watching, including orca sightings6.
• The Discovery Islands are a haven for anyone with a boat, with numerous islands, marine parks, and beautiful views to explore1.
• The islands are known for their relatively drier climate compared to other parts of the British Columbia coastline, making them an attractive destination for outdoor adventures6.

Overall, the Discovery Islands region offers a unique and untamed experience for those seeking to explore the natural wonders of British Columbia’s coastal waters and islands.

What is noteworthy about Quadra Island Canada for a boater, hiker, skier, fisherman or musician? How do you get there from Seattle by automobile and how many ferries are involved? Is there a good place to swim? How was the Island named? What is the history of the island and what industries are prominent on the island? What noteworthy bars are on Quadra Island? Where are the public docks on Quadra Island? Can you fly to Quadra Island?

Quadra Island is a popular destination for boaters, hikers, skiers, fishermen, and musicians. The island is known for its beautiful scenery, including parks, beaches, and hiking trails3. Some noteworthy features of the island include:

• Boating: Quadra Island has several public docks, including the Heriot Bay Public Wharf and the Quathiaski Cove Government Wharf3.
• Hiking: Quadra Island has many hiking trails, including the Chinese Mountains Trail and the Morte Lake Trail3.
• Fishing: The island is home to many species of fish, including salmon, halibut, and lingcod3.
• Music: Quadra Island hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the Quadra Island Blues Festival and the Quadra Island Summer Music Festival3.

To get to Quadra Island from Seattle by automobile, you would need to take a ferry from Anacortes, WA to Victoria, BC, and then take another ferry from Campbell River, BC to Quadra Island2. There are no roads that connect Quadra Island to the mainland.

There are several good places to swim on Quadra Island, including Rebecca Spit Provincial Park and Heriot Bay3.

Quadra Island was named by the Spanish explorer, Quadra, who visited the island in 17753. The island has a rich history, including a long history of First Nation’s occupation and a thriving logging industry in the early 20th century3.

Today, the island’s economy is based on tourism, fishing, and forestry3.There are several bars on Quadra Island, including the Heriot Bay Inn and the Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge3.

As mentioned earlier, Quadra Island has several public docks, including the Heriot Bay Public Wharf and the Quathiaski Cove Government Wharf3. You can fly to Quadra Island via CampbellRiver Airport, which is located on VancouverIsland1.

What is the history of Quadra Island’s indigenous peoples

The history of Quadra Island’s indigenous peoples is rich and dates back thousands of years. Here are some key points about the history of the indigenous peoples of Quadra Island:

• The indigenous peoples of Quadra Island can trace their ancestry to the aboriginal people who inhabited the land that is now British Columbia, Canada1.
• The island has a long history of First Nations occupation, with villages established in Campbell River and Cape Mudge on Quadra Island6.
• Quadra Island was part of the traditional territory of the Kwakwaka’wakw (Kwak’wala speaking) peoples6.
• The island’s earliest history is one of shifting territorial claims, with British explorer Captain George Vancouver visiting the area and encountering the Salish peoples3.
• The island was named after a Spanish naval officer, Quadra, who visited the area in 17754.
• The arrival of non-indigenous settlers in the late 19th century brought logging, fishing, and ranching to the island5.
• Today, the indigenous peoples of Quadra Island continue to maintain their cultural heritage and connection to the land.

Overall, the history of Quadra Island’s indigenous peoples is intertwined with the island’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

The indigenous peoples of Quadra Island have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in their connection to the land and their ancestral traditions. Here are some cultural traditions of Quadra Island’s indigenous peoples:

1. Art and Craft: The indigenous peoples of Quadra Island are known for their traditional and contemporary native art. They create intricate carvings, masks, totem poles, and other forms of artwork that reflect their cultural stories and beliefs2.
2. Potlatches: Potlatches are ceremonial gatherings that hold great cultural significance for the indigenous peoples of Quadra Island. These events involve feasting, gift-giving, storytelling, and performances, and serve as a way to honor important life events, share cultural knowledge, and strengthen community bonds1.
3. Language and Oral Traditions: The indigenous peoples of Quadra Island have their own language, Kwak’wala, which is an important part of their cultural identity. They also have rich oral traditions, including legends, myths, and historical accounts that are passed down through generations3.
4. Traditional Fishing and Hunting: Fishing and hunting have long been important activities for the indigenous peoples of Quadra Island. They have deep knowledge of the local ecosystems and practice sustainable fishing and hunting methods that have been passed down through generations3.
5. Cultural Centers and Events: Quadra Island is home to cultural centers and events that showcase the traditions and values of the local First Nations groups. The Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre, for example, offers exhibits, workshops, and performances that provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the indigenous culture and history4.

These cultural traditions are an integral part of the identity and heritage of Quadra Island’s indigenous peoples, and they continue to play a vital role in preserving and sharing their rich cultural legacy.

Are there totem poles on Quadra Island? Are there any craft breweries on Quadra Island?

Yes, there are totem poles on Quadra Island. The ferry terminal at Quathiaski Cove on Quadra Island is home to three new Welcome Poles, which were carved by local artists1.

Additionally, the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre on Quadra Island houses a collection of totem poles, canoes, and other artifacts that showcase the indigenous culture of the area5.

As for craft breweries, there are no specific craft breweries listed on Quadra Island in the search results. However, there are dining options on the island that offer locally roasted coffee and a selection of beverages3. For craft breweries, you may need to explore nearby areas on Vancouver Island, which is accessible from Quadra Island by ferry.To summarize:

• Quadra Island has totem poles at the ferry terminal and at the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre.
• There are no specific craft breweries listed on Quadra Island, but there are dining options that offer beverages. For craft breweries, you may need to explore nearby areas on Vancouver Island. We were happy to find the Dark Matter craft brew on tap at the April Point Restaurant.

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Are there any restaurants on Quadra Island that serve traditional indigenous foods

While there is limited information available specifically about restaurants on Quadra Island that serve traditional indigenous foods, there are dining options that showcase local flavors and ingredients. Here are a few establishments that offer a diverse culinary experience on Quadra Island:

1. Kameleon Food & Drink: This restaurant on Quadra Island offers a menu that combines international flavors with local ingredients. While it may not exclusively serve traditional indigenous foods, it provides an opportunity to explore a variety of culinary influences6.
2. Cafe Aroma: Cafe Aroma is another popular restaurant on Quadra Island that offers a range of dishes, including vegetarian options. While it may not specifically focus on traditional indigenous foods, it provides a cozy atmosphere and a chance to enjoy local flavors4.
3. Coveside Seafood Eatery: As Quadra Island is known for its seafood, Coveside Seafood Eatery is a notable establishment that offers fresh seafood dishes. While it may not exclusively serve traditional indigenous foods, it provides an opportunity to savor the local catch3.

It’s worth noting that Quadra Island is rich in First Nations’ culture and history, and there may be cultural tours or events that offer a more immersive experience in traditional indigenous foods and practices5. It’s recommended to check with local tourism resources or cultural centers for more information on specific dining options that focus on traditional indigenous foods.

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What are some other cultural sites or landmarks on Quadra Island besides the totem poles

Quadra Island is home to several cultural sites and landmarks that offer visitors a chance to explore the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Here are a few examples:

1. Cape Mudge Lighthouse: The Cape Mudge Lighthouse is a historic landmark on Quadra Island that dates back to 1898. It is one of the only staffed, road-accessible lighthouses in Canada14.
2. Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park: This park is a popular destination on Quadra Island, known for its sandy beaches, hiking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding islands2.
3. Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre: The Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre is a museum and cultural center that showcases the history and traditions of the indigenous peoples of Quadra Island and the surrounding area25.
4. Quadra Island Farmers’ Market: The Quadra Island Farmers’ Market is a weekly event that offers visitors a chance to sample local produce, crafts, and other goods2.
5. SouthEnd Farm Vineyards: This vineyard on Quadra Island offers wine tastings and tours, as well as a chance to explore the island’s agricultural heritage5.

These cultural sites and landmarks are just a few examples of the many attractions that Quadra Island has to offer. Visitors can also explore the island’s parks, beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife tours, among other activities1.

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The Cape Mudge light station is a historic landmark on Quadra Island that has played an important role in the island’s maritime history. Here is a brief history of the Cape Mudge light station:

• The Cape Mudge light station was established in 1898 on the southern tip of Quadra Island14.
• The lighthouse was built to guide ships through the treacherous waters of Discovery Passage, which separates Quadra Island from Vancouver Island15.
• The light station was initially staffed by a keeper and his family, who were responsible for maintaining the light and the surrounding buildings1.
• Over the years, the light station has undergone several changes and upgrades, including the installation of a foghorn and the automation of the light15.
• Today, the Cape Mudge light station is still staffed by the Canadian Coast Guard and is one of the only staffed, road-accessible lighthouses in Canada13.
• The light station is a popular destination for visitors to Quadra Island, who can explore the historic buildings and learn about the island’s maritime history26.

Overall, the Cape Mudge light station is an important landmark on Quadra Island that reflects the island’s connection to the sea and its rich maritime history.

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Where are the octopus islands in relation to Quadra Island? How would you get from the Octopus Islands from Quadra Island? Could you rent a kayak?

The Octopus Islands are located northeast of Quadra Island, in the Discovery Islands region of British Columbia, Canada12. To get to the Octopus Islands from Quadra Island, you would need to take a boat or kayak, as there are no roads that connect the islands245.

Also, you cannot hike directly to Octopus Island Marine Park from Quadra Island. However, there is a portage route from the Octopus Islands to Small Inlet Marine Park on the west side of Quadra Island13.

While you may not be able to see Octopus Islands directly from the hike, the trail offers a scenic and mossy experience4. It is important to note that the Octopus Islands Marine Park is best explored by ocean kayaking2.If you are interested in visiting Octopus Islands Marine Park, it is recommended to access it by boat or kayak from Quadra Island or other nearby areas. This will allow you to fully experience the beauty and serenity of the marine park and its surrounding islands25.

There are several options for renting a kayak to explore the Octopus Islands. Quadra Island Kayaks offers customized kayaking adventures that can take you deep into the heart of the Discovery Islands1. Spirit of the West Kayaking also offers kayak rentals and guided tours of the area5. Additionally, Discovery Islands Lodge B&B Kayak Inn and Coast Mountain Expeditions offer kayak rentals and guided tours of the Octopus Islands46.

Overall, the Octopus Islands are a beautiful and remote destination that can be accessed by boat or kayak from Quadra Island. Visitors can explore the islands’ natural beauty, wildlife, and marine ecosystems, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and camping26.

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Is there an inn at April Point? What is it like? Is there kayaking? Is there swimming?

There is an inn at April Point called April Point Resort. Here is some information about it:

• April Point Resort offers casual rooms, cabins, and houses with ocean views1.
• The resort features amenities such as a spa, dining options including a sushi bar, and other recreational activities14.
• Kayaking is available at April Point Resort, providing an opportunity to explore the surrounding waters and coastline2.
• A boat can take you to the Painter’s Lodge from April Point Resort, for lunch (not dinner). The charge is $20.
• Guests swimming in the ocean was observed during our visit in August of 2023. However, we elected to swim in the warmer waters of Rebecca Spit.

Overall, April Point Resort offers a comfortable and scenic retreat on Quadra Island, with a range of accommodations, dining options, and recreational activities such as kayaking and swimming.

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Quadra Island, a land of beauty and wonder
Where nature’s splendor never goes asunder
From Cape Mudge Lighthouse to the Octopus Islands
There’s so much to explore, so many sights to behold

Indigenous culture thrives on this land
With Pacific Coast Kwagiulth architecture so grand
Traditional and contemporary native art abound
And the freshest seafood can always be found

Dining options are aplenty, take-out or fine
From burgers and sushi to waterfront dining so divine
Locally roasted coffee and vegetarian fare
Quadra Island’s culinary scene is beyond compare

The island’s history is rich and diverse
From logging and mining to indigenous culture so immersed
Totem poles, feasts, and performances so grand
Quadra Island’s past and present go hand in hand.

So come and explore this island so fair
With kayaking, hiking, and wildlife to spare
Quadra Island awaits, with open arms
A place of beauty, a place of charm.

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Wolves, apex predator

There is a unique species of wolf known as the coastal or sea wolf that can be found in the Great Bear Rainforest, which includes Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands such as Quadra and Cortez23. These wolves are known for their ability to swim and hunt for seafood, such as fish and crabs, along the coastline23. They have larger paws and shorter fur than their inland counterparts, which helps them to swim more efficiently2.

Large apex predators such as wolves are some of the first animals to decline or disappear when they share landscapes with humans. Large carnivores are particularly susceptible because of their naturally low numbers, wide ranges, and active predator control by people.

Cascading benefits

Wolves allow the healthiest deer to perpetuate by culling sick, old and genetically-inferior individuals. Wolves don’t kill for sport, they kill to feed themselves. They’ll return to food reserves for weeks until they (and other wild beings) have finished it off.

Losing wolves can create ecological effects that ripple through an ecosystem.

Family knowledge

Wolves are intensely social and devoted to family. Like people, wolves pass down learned information through generations. Killing wolves has unexpected consequences: when leaders and elder wolves are killed or die prematurely, precious survival experience is lost before it is learned. Small packs & individuals have a harder time bringing down large prey. Consequently, forced to find easier-to-kill prey, wolves

I wind um vies rose very itle dangerto people

” ertapesson in kers Anektave been on y fiererises wyhere wild wolves reporedy

Don’t feed deer or raccoons: they are prey species of wolves. Food-conditioned deer and raccoons may attract wolves to your yard.

Leash your dog

Wolves view all dogs as a territorial threat and unleashed dogs are seen as prey.

Overnight, secure pets inside or in predator-proof kennels outdoors.

Residential area wolf encounters

Instill wariness in wolves in inhabited areas: wave your arms, use aggressive body language and shout loudly. Let them know they need to respect you and they are not safe in this place.

Good animal husbandry

Fence livestock inside 6′ high enclosures and predator-proof shelters at night.

Free-ranging (unfenced) livestock are seen as prey. If wolves approach livestock during the day, HAZE them: scare them away with loud noises and aggressive body language.

After butchering livestock, dispose of carcasses responsibly, buried deeply, ideally away from residential areas.

Report routine wolf sightings to QuadraWolves@gmail.com or 250.202.7802; report incidents of concern to the Conservation Officer Service at 1.877.952.7277.

To coexist with wolves we must keep them wild.

During our visit, we discussed an effort to classify the coastal sea wolf in the same way as the polar bear which would afford protection under the marine mammals act.

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What seabirds can be found on Quadra Island? Name the sites on Quadra Island that have petroglyphs?

Seabirds that can be found on Quadra Island include:

• Glaucous-winged gulls
• Bald eagles
• Ospreys
• Kingfishers
• Bonaparte Gulls
• Cormorants

These birds can be spotted throughout the island, particularly in areas such as Mitlenatch Island, which is home to the largest seabird colony on the Strait of Georgia3.

The petroglyphs on Quadra Island can be found at thirteen different sites, with nearly one-hundred carved boulders located throughout the island2. Some of the sites that have petroglyphs include:

• Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre
• Cape Mudge Village Site
• Kanish Bay
• Open Bay
• Granite Bay

The Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre on Quadra Island offers guided tours of the petroglyphs, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of these ancient carvings23.

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Where are the hikes on Quadra Island featuring petroglyphs?

There are several hikes on Quadra Island that feature petroglyphs. Here are some examples:

1. Cape Mudge Petroglyphs: The Cape Mudge Petroglyphs are located near the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre and can be accessed via a short hike1.
2. Maud Island Petroglyphs: The Maud Island Petroglyphs are located on Maud Island, which is accessible by boat or kayak from Quadra Island. The petroglyphs can be viewed during a hike on the island5.
3. Rebecca Spit Provincial Park: Rebecca Spit Provincial Park offers a scenic hiking trail that leads to a beach area where petroglyphs can be viewed at low tide4.

These hikes offer an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Quadra Island while also learning about the island’s rich cultural history. It’s important to note that some of these hikes may require a moderate level of physical fitness and proper hiking gear.

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SouthEnd Farm Vineyards on Quadra

While wineries continue to crop up on the southern end of Vancouver Island like chanterelle mushrooms after a heavy rain – on the Saanich Peninsula…in the Cowichan Valley – there’s seldom even one opening any year on the North Island. But last year saw Beaufort Vineyards open just north of Courtenow and they’ve done nothing but make great wines since then.

…

Ben McGuffie and Jill Ogasawara currently have about four acres of vines – a mixed bag of Petit Milo, Siegerrebe, Bacchus. Leon Millot, and Marchal Foch, with plans to plant Caberet Foch next year. While they wait for their vines to produce enough grapes, they are making their wines strictly from grapes they’ve sourced from the Nevermore Farm (what used to be Marshwood Estate) and other winegrape growers on the southern end of Quadra Island. Interestingly enough, they intend to continue to use only Quadra-grown grapes for all their wines.

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Seldom seen as a single variety elsewhere in British Columbia, Siegerrebe was created by German viticulturist Dr. George Scheu in 1929 at the Alzey institute in the Rheinhessen by crossing the two very floral and early ripening Madeleine Angevine and Gewürztraminer winegrape vines.

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Their “Bara” $18.40 – the Japanese word for “rosé” – picked with profound thanks to the “Nevermore” crew and Ben and Jill’s ever helpful parents – was crushed and pressed with very little skin contact. This is a delicate off dry wine with an enchanting pink hue. Strawberries, white pepper and subtle tropical fruits abound. Sip solo or serve with salmon!

….

Within rock-throwing distance of the ocean, SouthEnd Farm Vineyard’s specific microclimate is tempered by the waters of the Sutil Charinel to the east, running between Quadra and Cortes islands.

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http://www.southend.ca or call 250-285-2257 for more information. But do it soon – with only 6,000 bottles to sell. they’re likely to be out of stock long before September!

By Doug Sloan, Courier-Islander July 3, 2009