Prince Rupert Whale Watching

Pike Island Natural & Historical Discovery Tour

Prince Rupert British Columbia

Laxspa’aws (meaning “island of sand”), is the Tsimshian name for Pike Island. Located in the heart of the Coast Tsimshian territory on the Northwest Coast of British Columbia. Pike Island is home to 5 of the 150 archaeological sites that have been identified in the Prince Rupert area, the approximate centre of the traditional territory of the Tsimshian-speaking people. This region is one of the oldest continuously occupied regions in the world dating back to 10,000 years. Visit ancient village sites, discover Petroglyphs, see subtle evidence of life lived long ago, and visit a recreated long house, all under the guidance of a Tsimshian guide.

Tour Overview:

  • To reach Pike Island, we take you by ferry 9 km west of Prince Rupert, crossing through Venn Passage and passing the Tsimshian village of Metlakatla.
  • Once on the Island the group sets off for a 1-½ hour (1.3 km) walking tour in the pristine coastal rain forest.
  • Your guide is of Tsimshian ancestry and will share with you his/her knowledge of the traditional plant and food gathering practices, and Tsimshian culture
  • In addition you will be taken back in time to a traditional cedar longhouse and see evidence of ancient village sites
  • The guide will identify petroglyphs as well as the traditional uses for the cedar tree and other plants
  • See further down page for delicious Salmon BBQ Option

After our tour you will enjoy a 30 minute narrated ferry ride back to Prince Rupert.


Inclusions:

-Minimum 90 minute guided walking tour of Pike Island

 

--30 to 40 minute round trip ferry transfer between Prince Rupert & Pike Island

 

-Rain ponchos (in the event of inclement weather)

 

-Use of umbrellas while on the tour



Minimum:


10 People


Maximum:


40 People


Length:


3.5 hours


Meeting Place:


Atlin Terminal, Seashore Charters Reservation Counter (15 min. prior to tour time)


Clothing:


Recommend that participants wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, and layer clothing to ensure warmth and comfort.


Difficulty Level:


Easy to Moderate. Note that this is a well-maintained forest trail with slightly uneven ground and inclines. The tour is conducted at a leisurely pace to ensure participants enjoy the interpretation.


Our tour of the Island concludes at our hand built solid cedar Traditional Longhouse complete with a center fire-pit, vented roof, and lots of seating inside and on our beautiful cedar deck. This structure is a wonder to behold and is a throwback to the days when the Tsimshian People inhabited Pike Island. Here you will enjoy a delicious BBQ salmon meal complete with baked potato, bun, salad, deserts, and an assortment of beverages.

Group Addition - Salmon Dinner at Longhouse

Minimum 15 Maximum 40

Total Length 4 hours

Inclusions - Pike Island tour as outlined above

- Salmon meal, including salads, potatoes or similar, dessert and selection of beverages (bottled water, juice and pop)

Reservations:

Individuals (FIT): Request reservations be made minimum 48 hours prior to desired tour departure although we realize this is not always possible.

Groups Recommend that Pike Island tour be booked minimum of 7 days prior to arrival to guarantee date & time.

 
 

 

Seashore Charters offers whale watching, grizzly bear viewing, wildlife excursions, sightseeing, cultural and historical tours in Prince Rupert, BC region.