KIIX̣IN TOURS. Open May 19th-September 4th 2023
JOURNEY WITH OUR ANCESTORS
Inhabited by Huu-ay-aht ancestors for more than 5,000 years, Kiix̣in is the only known remaining traditional First Nations village on the west coast of southern B.C., and it is commemorated as a National Historic Site. Visitors are invited to hike the trail to Kiix̣in, while exploring Vancouver Island’s pristine old-growth rainforest, beautiful protected beaches and significant standing house remains. Along the way, guests will learn about the Huu-ay-aht’s knowledge and history, as well as Indigenous culture in the region.
Each cultural tourism exploration to Kiix̣in lasts approximately four hours. Guided by Huu-ay-aht Traditional Knowledge Holders, groups hike along an old-growth rainforest trail with boardwalk sections and stairs, leading to a beautiful protected beach with rocky ledges and tide pools.
DAY TOUR
Day Tours - Saturday to Thursday at 10 am
Each tour will last approximately four hours. Guided by Huu-ay-aht Knowledge Holders, you will hike through an old-growth rainforest trail with some boardwalk sections and stairs, leading to a beautiful, protected beach with rocky ledges and tide pools.
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY ▲
EVENING TOUR
Evening Tours - Fridays & Saturdays at 5 pm
Not only will you get to go on a culturally guided hike through an old-growth rainforest, you will gather on the beach where you will be immersed into Huu-ay-aht history, song and drumming from our Knowledge Holder.
Special requirements for evening tour:
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Blanket or towel to sit on
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY ▲
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
BC West Coast weather is unpredictable, so it is best to bring a backpack and layer your clothing. Dress accordingly for the weather, and bring the suggested items below:
- Good hiking shoes – NO sandals or open-toed footwear or you will be denied the tour.
- Rain gear – weather can be unpredictable
- Sweater, hoodie, or other warm clothing
- Hat/head covering
- Headlamp or flashlight (Night Tour Only)
- We HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you bring water and snacks to avoid overheating or dehydrating.
- Camera
- Medications and prescriptions
- Insect repellant, sunscreen
- Mask, hand sanitizer and wipes
- Headlamp or flashlight (Night Tour Only)
- A desire to learn about Huu-ay-aht history!
TOUR FEES ▲
KIIX̣IN TOURS
May 19 - September 04, 2023
One tour daily, except Saturday, Group rates available.
TOUR RESTRICTIONS
Please consider the following before booking:
SAFETY ▲
- The hike to Kiix̣in is a MODERATE PLUS hike, with some challenging areas that may include muddy, slippery, uneven and steep terrain, along with some stairs and boardwalk. Unfortunately, people with injuries, mobility challenges or hiking-restricted medical conditions cannot be accommodated.
- Children aged seven and older must be accompanied by a parent or guardian aged 19 years or older.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) are responsible for the supervision, safety, and behaviour of their child/children on the tour. Running, rough play, and dangerous behaviour is unacceptable. The Tour Guide has the right to deny or refuse tours at any time.
- Liability waiver forms must be signed before tour departure.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS ▲
- Washroom facilities are available for emergency only.
- Expect to have no cellphone reception on your hike.
- Each tour can accommodate a maximum of 10 guests.
- Pets are not permitted on the tour.
- Covid safety measures are still in place for the tour. Physical distancing & the use of hand sanitizer when signing in at the float house.
RESPECT FOR THE SITE ▲
- Guests must not leave any trace of garbage or waste behind.
- Guests must remain on the designated boardwalk and trail at all times, and stay inside the tour boundaries.
- Feeding or intentionally disturbing wildlife is prohibited.
- Collecting or disturbing natural features, plants, rocks, antlers, or cultural/archaeological resources is prohibited.