Welcome to the Village of Tahsis, nestled in the heart of Nootka Sound Tahsis is a premier ecotourism destination and beautiful nature getaway on Vancouver Island With more than 50km of passages, Tahsis is also one of Canada's caving meccas Hiking in Tahsis frequently leads to spectacular mountain overlooks Land and marine animals are abundant in the area, making for outstanding wildlife viewing With numerous docks and marinas, Tahsis is a perfect launching point for diving, kayaking and fishing Old-growth forests surround Tahsis and visitors are often amazed by the size of these giant trees The scenery in Tahsis is ever-changing, making it a great ecotourism vacation in any season

Walking In Tahsis

Tahsis offers many scenic and popular walks, which visitors can explore at their leisure in the village.

Historic Tahsis

Tahsis Public Boat Launch

Just before the A-frame church on South Maquinna is the foot of the Cardiac Climb stairs, a steep and demanding climb. Walking around this section of the old town site is very rewarding for those interested in architecture, as this area features old float homes from the 40s (the oldest in Tahsis) and the heritage building housing St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church.

Continue on down South Maquinna Drive to Tipperary, and then walk around the town site to see homes from the 50s and a spectacular view of the inlet from Tipperary Park.

As South Maquinna heads down toward the public boat launch, there is a picnic table and sign marking Ubedam Trail. This is a short hike up to Discovery Crescent and a popular shortcut for residents.

To accompany you on your walk around Tahsis, pick up the Tahsis Heritage Walk Brochure from the Tahsis Recreation Centre or the Tahsis Info Centre (open in summer) and learn about the heritage sites as you explore.

West Bay Park

A short drive past the Maquinna Resort is the turnaround and parking lot for West Bay Park. There are washrooms and stairs down to the rock beach at West Bay. This sheltered bay is an exception to the deep waters of Tahsis Inlet. It is shallow and catches the sun to warm up to comfortable swimming temperatures. Locals love to come down here to swim, sunbathe, and walk the short trails in this area.

Tahsis Boardwalk

Tahsis Waterfront & River Bridges

Back at the head of Alpine View is the Tahsis Heliport and a very walk-able waterfront section. There is an expansive panoramic view of the Inlet, lots of local marine bird life and convenient parking.

The first river bridge is close by and a great spot to view spawning salmon going up the river in the fall. Stroll down North Maquinna and the second bridge over the Tahsis River, and you'll find another great spot to view wildlife, bird life, and spawning salmon.

Leiner River Estuary Trail

This 2-kilometre trail is a level trail with boardwalks and viewing platforms that is located on the salt marshes and along the Leiner River (where it meets the sea). The trail access is from the Tahsis Road, just 500 metres short of town and is well marked. There is a parking lot and washroom at the trailhead. This makes an easy afternoon stroll close to town.