Culture And History Are Alive In The Alberni Valley
Ride an old-fashioned steam train into the early 20th century. Watch the only steam-operated sawmill in Canada cut raw logs into lumber. See an astonishing array of First Nations art displayed in a unique visible storage system. Enter an old lighthouse and hear tales of heroism on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island. Learn the stories and songs of the Hupacasath people as you glide through ancient waterways in a replica canoe. These are some of the experiences that await you as you explore the rich cultural heritage of the beautiful Alberni Valley.

An Unforgettable Outdoor Experience
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience? Alberni Valley parks offer hiking and walking trails through majestic old-growth forests, camping alongside vast lakes and salmon-streams, quiet picnic areas, and almost every type of water sport.

Enter the Alberni Valley on scenic Highway 4, which passes through Cathedral Grove (MacMillan Provincial Park). Several paths wind among towering Douglas fir and Western red cedar, along the banks of the Cameron River and the shores of Cameron Lake. The oldest trees in this world-famous park sprouted about 800 ago, and measure 76 meters (250 ft) high and 9 meters (29 ft) in circumference.

Pristine Nature, Human Heritage: The Alberni Valley’s Got It
Hike to the highest waterfall in Canada, ride an old-fashioned steam train through a forested valley, cruise down a spectacular 40-kilometre fjord to the Pacific Ocean, see the only steam-operated sawmill in Canada, contemplate prehistoric petroglyphs – these are just a few of the many attractions of the beautiful Alberni Valley.

The City of Port Alberni nestles at the end of the Alberni Inlet, at the mouth of the Somass River. To get there take scenic Highway 4 past Cameron Lake and through Cathedral Grove.

The Port Alberni area offers numerous walking trails that pass through all of our ecosystems: beaches and headlands, coastal bog, rainforest, and high alpine. The trails range from easy walking paths near town, some of which are wheelchair-accessible, to scenic day-hikes, to challenging multi-day backpacking routes suitable only for the most experienced wilderness travellers.

Whether you are on a short walk in or near town, or hiking in remote wilderness, make sure you are aware of how to travel safely in wildlife habitat.

Annual Events
The great community spirit in our little towns means that we have a lot to celebrate – with each other and with visitors.

Aside from the annual events listed below, there are always community events such as arts and craft displays, music and dance shows, or film festivals, so it pays to check in with the local tourism websites before you travel.