subject: Port Alberni: An Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream [print this page] Whether you're interested in camping, hiking, fishing or simply spending time outdoors, a visit to Port Alberni is first on your to-do list. The area is located on the central west coast of spectacular Vancouver Island, British Columbia and is home to mountains, lakes, beaches, waterfalls and rainforests. Its environment makes it seem difficult to get to, but it's only a few hours by car from several ferry terminals and major airports.
Port Alberni is famous for its salmon fishing, and is aptly nicknamed the "Salmon Capital of the World." In the summer, fisherman from every corner of the world flock to the Alberni Valley to have a go at fishing for sockeye, steelhead, spring and coho salmon. Visitors may choose to charter a boat or hire a guide, which gives them the local's insight on where to catch "The Big One." A focal point of the Port Alberni tourism industry is the annual Salmon Festival, which features BBQ's, entertainment and a salmon derby. This year, the derby winner took home a huge 40.3 lb chinook salmon as well as a huge $10,000 cheque.
The Alberni Valley also has plenty of land-based areas for visitors to enjoy. Cathredral Grove, in MacMillan Provincial Park, has many easy trails that weave throughout towering red cedars and 800 year old fir trees. Nearby Mt. Arrowsmith is the highest peak on Southern Vancouver Island and is a popular place for rock and ice climbing, snowshoeing and hiking. A Port Alberni tourism favourite is Della Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in North America. Cascading 440 m from Della Lake, the falls are surrounded by numerous hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
The city of Port Alberni itself is known for its outdoor activities. It boasts over 20 ball diamonds, a huge lighted softball diamond and track and field stadium, turf fields for soccer, rugby and field hockey, tennis courts, equestrian rings and shooting range, just to name a few. Port Alberni is also proud to be the only BC community to host all the BC Games: Summer, Winter, Seniors and Disabled.
From the moment you step into the Alberni Valley you will be overwhelmed with all the area has to offer. With each season, new and amazing outdoor activities present themselves, making Port Alberni Vancouver Island's playground.
