Toba Fjordlands Expedition

An amazing journey into awe inspiring scenery with towering waterfalls from the high mountains of British Columbia.

Cost

$2800 cdn*

(* Subject to 5% gst and $40 Environmental protection & Indigenous land use fee)

Why We Love This Trip

Toba Inlet was one of the first destinations we chose to run kayak expeditions 30 years ago, and it remains one of our very favourite places to paddle. Whether you’re seeking a journey, awe inspiring scenery, or towering waterfalls, Toba Inlet has it all. This trip is perfect for those looking for a high energy wilderness adventure to a rugged and rarely paddled place.

About the Area

Just 35km in length and less than 2km wide in places, Toba is a small inlet, and that is exactly what makes it special. Mountains rise straight out of the water, and their proximity on either side amplifies their already lofty peaks. Get ready to spend a lot of time looking up!

Fueled by glacial runoff and clay sediments, numerous creeks and rivers flow into the inlet, lending the ocean an aquamarine hue that brightens towards the head of the inlet. Our trip route includes several waterfalls that cascade directly into the sea – you’ve probably seen waterfalls before, but paddling beneath them can be a powerful experience – emotionally and physically!

Toba Inlet is the focal point of this expedition, but it’s important not to forget the approach. Our trip begins in the Discovery Islands, often referred to as the foothills of the Coast Mountain Range. The islands host abundant marine ecosystems that support a diverse array of birds and marine mammals, including seals, sea lions, porpoises, and dolphins. In recent years we’ve also seen a dramatic resurgence in the humpback whale population, and sightings of these bus-sized cetaceans have become a common occurrence. As we paddle toward the inlet, gentle islands give way to a steeper landscape that becomes more dramatic around every corner.

Once home to the Klahoose First Nation Band of the Coast Salish peoples, and still part of their traditional territory, Toba Inlet is almost totally uninhabited today.

Trip Itinerary

The Toba Fjordlands Expedition begins with a scenic boat ride to Coast Mountain Lodge on Read Island. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into sleeping cabins before hitting the water with a comprehensive kayak skills lesson and pre-trip briefing. Don’t worry about getting cold; we’ll finish off with a soak in our wood-fired hot tub or creekside sauna before settling in for a gourmet dinner featuring locally-sourced food, much of it from our own garden.

The following morning we’ll load up kayaks and depart on our expedition. We’ll travel self-supported for six days and five nights, stopping to camp at a variety of naturally beautiful undeveloped campsites. We’ll cover distance, but always aim to stop paddling early enough to be well rested for the next day. Along the way, we’ll be well fed with healthy and delicious lodge-packed food and Lannie’s famous cookies. We’ll also have the opportunity to feed ourselves with fish and forage local shellfish.

We’ll base camp far up the inlet for two nights, allowing for relaxation and further exploration of the far reaches of the fjord. On day seven, we’ll paddle out the inlet towards our afternoon boat pickup and transportation back to Read Island where we’ll enjoy a relaxing evening together in the comfort of the lodge. Day eight, we’ll enjoy one last morning before our boat ride back to Quadra Island.

Trip Details

 • Trip begins 1:00pm first day, drop-off noon last day.

• Maximum 10 participants with 2 kayak guides.

• Single and double kayaks.

• Trip challenge: Strenuous.

• Paddling: 4 to 6 hours of kayaking per day (9-18 km (6-12 mi)).

• Sea conditions: mostly sheltered but the inlet is subject to occasional inflow (anabatic) winds that can create choppy waters.

• Beaches: everything from low sloping gravel to medium boulders and rocky shorelines. Slippery when wet, especially in the inlet.

• Please note that this trip includes two early morning starts (5am wake up) to avoid potential winds.

Fitness Requirements

This trip is suitable for people who exercise regularly, have good strength and balance, and are ready for a remote and rugged wilderness adventure. Participants should be able to help move loaded kayaks over rough and slippery terrain (imagine carrying a 25lb weight in one hand). Prior paddling experience is not required, but strongly recommended. Paddling days can be long (14-22km/day), routes very exposed, landings infrequent, and beaches steep and slippery. Camping spots are mostly undeveloped, and less established.

What’s Included

• All kayaking equipment

• Group camping gear and shelter

• Tent (you choose single or double)

• Therm-a-Rest inflatable sleeping pad

• Dry bags for personal gear

• All meals & snacks

• Professional skills training & guiding

• Boat transportation to & from CME Lodge

• Boat pickup from Bute Inlet

You Provide

• Personal clothing and accessories (see our packing list)

• Sleeping bag (available to rent)

• Sense of adventure!

Ready to make a Reservation?

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More Information

We’d love to answer any more questions you might have about this tour, and are also happy to chat if you’d just like to get to know us. We’re looking forward to sharing our island home with you!

(250) 285-2823
kayak@coastmtn.com