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11 Best Things to Do in Port Hardy

Port Hardy is the gateway to many epic outdoor adventures in northern Vancouver Island . This remote-feeling community has gorgeous secluded beaches, world-class hiking trails, rugged coastline, and incredible wildlife-viewing opportunities. It’s one of the best places to experience the wilderness of the west coast of British Columbia!

While often overlooked when planning a trip, Port Hardy and the rest of northern Vancouver Island are both incredible places to head on a vacation. While the town of Port Hardy is small, don’t discount it for its size. Here, you’ll find some of the best outdoor adventures that you can have on Vancouver island !

In this article, you’ll discover the best things to do, activities, and places to see in and around Port Hardy. As well, you’ll learn about the best places to stay in Port Hardy, what to pack on your trip, and what to expect from the town and weather. This guide will help you plan out your next amazing Port Hardy adventure!

Best Things to Do in Port Hardy

Wondering what to do in Port Hardy? Below, in no particular order, we cover the best things to do, activities, and places to see in Port Hardy and the surrounding North Vancouver Island area. These recommendations range from epic backcountry hiking trips to once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. You’ll be ready to plan your vacation to Port Hardy in no time!

1. Relax on the Beach at San Josef Bay

One of the most breathtaking, spectacular beaches on all of Vancouver Island is at San Josef Bay in Cape Scott Provincial Park . With unparalleled beauty, this beach is a must-see for any trip to northern Vancouver Island (and the rest of the island).

Featuring a massive white sand beach, San Josef Bay feels like a tropical paradise. When the tide goes out, the receding water exposes 2.5 kilometers of flat, sandy beach. Long walks on the beach seem to last forever here. You can go beachcombing for a long time until the sand disappears under the high tide again.

At low tide, you can also explore cool sea caves, tidal pools full of colorful intertidal creatures, and unique sea stacks (towers of rock). You’ll also be able to get over to the second beach and the beautiful hidden waterfall!

San Josef Bay is about 70 km (1.5 hours of driving along logging roads) from Port Hardy. From the parking lot, it’s about 30-60 minutes of walking on an easy 2.7 km forest trail. Yes, it’s a bit of a trek to get there! However, it’s absolutely worth it. You won’t regret heading out to this spectacular beach for a day trip or backcountry camping trip to sleep under the stars near the ocean.

2. Hike the North Coast Trail

If you love multi-day hikes through the coastal wilderness, the North Coast Trail (NCT) in Cape Scott Provincial Park will be perfect for you! This 44-km long epic hiking trail (about 5 to 8 days of hiking) goes between the remote Shushartie Bay and the gorgeous Nissen Bight, exiting with a 16-km hike to the Cape Scott trailhead and parking lot.

The North Coast Trail is challenging but extremely rewarding, immersing you in an incredible wilderness adventure. You’ll cross picturesque beaches with sea otters eating urchins in the waves, head through towering lush old-growth forest, watch whales breach as you sit by your tent, and spot black bears foraging in the surf. Many days, you’ll even be the only person standing on the beach as you watch the sunset!

One of the highlights of the NCT is being dropped off by the water taxi boat at Shushartie Bay. When we hiked the trail, our boat was surrounded by orcas. It was an unforgettable way to start a hike! We recommend staying at the North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel the night before you start your trip – the boat leaves pretty early!

While it has a similar feel to Vancouver Island’s famous West Coast Trail near Port Renfrew , the North Coast Trail is much less crowded. You’ll often feel like you’re the only person on the trail! It’s just as wet and muddy though. You’ll need good rain gear and gaiters !

3. Learn about Indigenous Culture and History

Vancouver Island has been home for the First Nations peoples for thousands of years, and Port Hardy is no exception. Port Hardy lies on the traditional territory of the Kwakiutl First Nations, and the nearby land is also home to the Quatsino and Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw. With the land steeped in First Nations culture and history, you’d be remiss to not learn about these vibrant people on your trip to Port Hardy.

Around Port Hardy and the nearby Fort Rupert, you’ll find totem poles and big houses. There are even petroglyphs in the sandstone near Fort Rupert, although they are quite difficult to find. You can also see First Nations artifacts at the Port Hardy Museum . And, at the end of the day, stay at the Kwa’lilas Hotel (Kwa’lilas means ‘place to sleep’), constructed out of Western red cedar and designed after a traditional big house.

There are several First Nations cultural experience tours that you can join. Head out of a Nakwakto Rapids tour that heads through Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw territory to see the tidal rapids near Tremble Island at Seymour Inlet. Or, join one of the Indigenous cultural experiences offered at the Kwa’lilas Hotel . You can learn about the process of cedar weaving or listen to an elder’s storytelling session.

4. Go on a Whale Watching Tour from Port Hardy

If you’re looking for an incredible whale watching experience, look no further than the tours from Port Hardy. These amazing wildlife viewing boat tours take you out onto the ocean near Port Hardy to look for these massive marine mammals.

On a whale watching tour from Port Hardy, you have the chance to spot orcas, humpback whales, Dall’s porpoises, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and Minke whales. Look out for the marine mammal-eating Transient orcas hunting for seals, and their cousins, the fish-eating Northern Resident orcas.

There’s also the possibility of seeing other marine wildlife, like adorable sea otters floating in colonies, shy harbor seals, and majestic sea lions speeding through the ocean. And, if you love birdwatching, you’ll see many sea birds on these tours! Don’t forget a good pair of binoculars and your camera!

5. Taste some Local Seafood

With Port Hardy right beside the ocean, you should definitely try some of the local seafood. Most of the town’s seafood is freshly caught from the waters around Vancouver Island!

The restaurants in Port Hardy serve all kinds of fish and shellfish, among other tasty foods. You can get delicious meals made of every kind of seafood imaginable. There’s sushi, pub faves like fish & chips, calamari, crab cakes, fish tacos, amazing salmon filets, smoked salmon, and more. You won’t know where to start!

Seafood isn’t the only thing that you can find in the restaurants in Port Hardy. Even if you don’t enjoy seafood, you should still try some of Port Hardy‘s restaurants, bakeries, or coffee shops. You can enjoy artisan coffee, freshly baked sweets, and other treats. After, head out on a walk around Market Street for some shopping!

6. Learn about Fish at the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre

Salmon is an important fish species around Vancouver Island, so what better way to spend an afternoon than to learn about this amazing fish at the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre! Run by the Northern Vancouver Island Salmonid Enhancement Association (NVISEA), the center focuses on teaching people about salmonids, as well as the enhancement and conservation of these species.

For only $6, you can enjoy the Quatse Salmon Centre’s interpretive education gallery from July through September. Learn about the incredible life of salmon, from their origins as a tiny orange egg to their journey through the vast ocean to their struggle back up the river to their spawning habitat.

There is also a salmon hatchery at the Salmon Centre that you can tour. The Quatse River hatchery produces Coho, Pink, and Chum salmon, as well as Steelhead Trout. Also, nearby the center, you can walk the Quatse River Nature Trail & Estuary Trail Loop. This 3.4 km long trail takes you through the forest along the Quatse River.

7. Explore Cape Scott Provincial Park

Some of the best hiking and backcountry camping on Vancouver Island is in Cape Scott Provincial Park. This remote protected area is the northernmost provincial park on Vancouver Island. Full of beautiful beaches and excellent hiking trails to explore, any outdoor adventurer will love Cape Scott.

Both the North Coast Trail and San Josef Bay are in Cape Scott Provincial Park, but there are also many other awesome destinations in this protected area. View the beautiful Eric Lake, Fisherman River, Hansen Lagoon, or Guise Bay. Walk the Cape Scott Trail to see the gorgeous beaches at Nissen Bight, Nels Bight, and Experiment Bight. Along the way, you’ll spot historical features like the Corduroy Road and building ruins. Head all the way to the Cape Scott Lighthouse, built in 1960 and still in use!

For a panoramic view of Cape Scott, head up Mount St. Patrick. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can also adventure to the remote Sea Otter Cove and Lowrie Bay. Or, if you want to explore the water, you can launch a boat at the San Josef River and float down into the bay.

Many of these destinations in Cape Scott Park have camping areas, often with tent platforms, a pit toilet, and a food cache. Make sure to bring a Cape Scott Trail map and check the weather before you head out!

8. Kayak and Scuba Dive at God’s Pocket Provincial Park

Some of the best scuba diving and kayaking spots in BC are found in the 2036-hectare God’s Pocket Marine Provincial Park . This beautiful remote protected area is located at the edge of Queen Charlotte Strait and the Goletas Channel. The islands (the largest are Hurst Island and Bell Island) sheltered sailers from the open ocean in a protected bay, giving the park its namesake – God’s Pocket. These islands are only reachable by boat or floatplane, but it’s worth the effort to get there!

Touted as some of the world’s best cold water diving by Jacques Cousteau (a famous marine explorer), you don’t want to miss scuba diving at God’s Pocket Provincial Park. The best diving is at the spectacular Browning Pass by the Browning Wall, which is covered in a rainbow of marine life. As soon as you dive in, you’ll see incredible biodiversity. Look for unique nudibranchs, fish of all kinds, swaying anemones, and colorful sponges. At the surface, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged beauty of the West Coast.

God’s Pocket Provincial Park doesn’t just have phenomenal scuba diving – it’s also amazing for kayaking, wilderness camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. Exploring these islands by sea kayak is a great way to experience the wild beauty of these islands. There are no designated campgrounds but you can camp at random along the beaches. Or, you can stay at the remote God’s Pocket Resort on Hurst Island.

Also, you are almost guaranteed to see some wildlife on your trip to this secluded protected area. The marine park protects an impressive seabird breeding colony and bald eagle habitat. Plus, you’ll probably spot all kinds of marine mammals!

9. Head out on a Grizzly Bear Viewing Tour

Join in a grizzly bear viewing tour to see these majestic mammals foraging along the coast of BC. While Vancouver Island itself doesn’t have a large grizzly bear population, the northern tip of the island is quite close to the Great Bear Rainforest. This temperate rainforest is home to massive brown bears, including the spectacular white Spirit Bears.

Grizzly bear watching tours from the north island cross over to the remote islands, inlets, and estuaries of the Great Bear Rainforest. These wildlife viewing tours allow you to get an incredible look at these wild animals in their natural habitats.

Not only will you get an amazing chance to see grizzly bears along the coast. You’ll also have the opportunity to see other wildlife along the way. There’s a pretty good chance that you’ll see sea lions, whales, seabirds, and sea otters!

If you’re looking for the ultimate wildlife watching experience, join one of these Port Hardy grizzly bear tours. The guided nature tours depart from either Port Hardy by plane (usually flying to an overnight bear lodge) or by boat from Port McNeill or Telegraph Cove. Bear viewing is usually done from the spring to autumn, and each season offers a different experience. You won’t regret going on one (or many) of these tours!

10. Walk along the Hardy Bay Seawall to Carrot Park

For an easy stroll with scenic views of the ocean, you can walk the Hardy Bay Seawall to Carrot Park. The walk is quite short, only 0.25 km long. Start at the Port Hardy Visitor Information Centre and head north along the shore. Along the way, you’ll see the beautiful Japanese Garden, impressive totem poles, and the Cenotaph war memorial. Keep your eye out for wildlife like shorebirds!

On the walk, you’ll spot the “Welcome to Port Hardy” and the town’s famous wood carrot in Carrot Park. After, walk out onto the Seagate Pier to view the mountains across the water. Or, head north to visit the tide pools at Tsulquate Park.

After you’re done exploring, head back downtown to explore the First Nations art galleries and gift shops on Market Street, full of unique handcrafted souvenirs. You should also stop by the Port Hardy Museum and Archives, to learn about the history of the area.

11. Join a Port Hardy Fishing Charter

The rich fish diversity in the cold waters around Port Hardy makes it a choice sport fishing spot for anglers across the globe. Get out on the water with a world-class sports fishing charter from Port Hardy to join in the fun in this premier sport fishing destination. You’re guaranteed to make a catch!

While the waters are teeming with fish of all kinds, the area is best known for its excellent salmon fishing. Here, you’ll hunt for the elusive Chinook Salmon, struggle with the strong Coho Salmon, or try catching some Sockeye and Chum Salmon as they migrate past.

Alternatively, you can search for massive bottom-dwelling fish, like halibut and lingcod. Halibut fishing charters from Port Hardy are excellent as these fish grow to impressive sizes in the cold waters.

The Port Hardy fishing charters know where the best fish are found. You’ll be able to hook the biggest fish possible! These all-inclusive expeditions are quite popular, so book your adventure early. You don’t want to miss out on this amazing fishing experience!

12. Visit Raft Cove Provincial Park

Another incredible sandy beach is just to the south of San Josef Bay and Cape Scott, at the beautiful Raft Cove Provincial Park . This 405-hectare protected area is absolutely breathtaking, with a towering forest of old-growth trees and a massive, 1.3 km crescent-shaped sandy beach at the mouth of the Macjack River.

Sometimes river otters can be spotted playing near the river. At low tides, you can walk far along the beach to the north or south of the cove. Near the sandy bay, you’ll also find an old trapper’s cabin, once used by a Cape Scott pioneer called Willie Hecht.

To access the beach, you’ll hike 30 to 45-minute from the road. The Raft Cove trail is done as either a day hike or an overnight adventure. Along with Cape Scott, the Raft Cove hike is one of the best day trips from Port Hardy. As a warning, you’ll have to slog through the rainforest to get there and the trails are often full of mud! Make sure to bring good waterproof boots and gaiters to keep your feet and legs dry.

While there’s a trek to get to the beach, it’s absolutely worth it! The beach is stunning and very secluded. There often won’t be too many people. If you prefer paddling, you can also sea kayak to Raft Cove from San Josef Bay. Surfing is becoming more popular at Raft Cove, as well. Make sure to check out Palmerston Beach when you’re in the area!

13. Find the Dakota 576 Port Hardy Plane Crash

One of the lesser-known attractions around Port Hardy is the Dakota 576 plane crash near Bear Cove. This old Royal Canadian Air Force plane crashed in 1944, in a failed landing attempt when their fuel ran out during a navigation exercise from Patricia Bay.

At first, the pilot couldn’t land in Port Hardy because of stormy weather. Then, the plane ran out of fuel and the plane crashed not too far from the airport. Two of the crew members passed away, but one survived. Now, the plane is hidden by the forest around Port Hardy, accessed by a short hiking trail.

It’s only a 2 km walk one-way to access the plane’s crash site. The 576 crash site trail starts near the Port Hardy Ferry Terminal at Bear Cove and heads into the forest to the aircraft ruins. The terrain is pretty rough, with lots of roots, mud, and some rope climbing sections as well. Bring your good hiking boots!

The Dakota 576 is one of the many plane crash sites you can find around Vancouver Island. If you visit Tofino, check out the Canso Plane Crash Site from WW2.

14. Relax on Storey’s Beach at Beaver Harbour Park

If you need a break from all the adventure, relax on Storey’s Beach (or Stories Beach) at Beaver Harbour Park. This beach is a great spot to hang out during the summer if you don’t want to go too far from town. When the tide is out, it’s a lot of fun beachcombing and looking in the tidepools. Also, the beach gets massive at low tide, with lots of sand to walk on and explore.

On a hot day, the sand is a great place to lay down a towel to relax and soak up the sun. The beach and park have lots of amenities, with a covered Rotary pavilion, barbeque pits and tables for picnics, ball fields, and a forest with some awesome hiking trails like the Fort Rupert Trail. You can spend the whole day at this beach and not get bored!

15. Walk the Fort Rupert Trail

You don’t have to head far to find great hiking or walking trails around Port Hardy. There are trails of all difficulties, with lots of different things to see. There’s something for everyone!

A great hiking trail by Port Hardy is the Fort Rupert Trail. This 4-km long trail crosses from Beaver Harbour Road by Fort Rupert to Bear Cove Highway by Port Hardy. Also known as the Commuter Trail, the Fort Rupert Trail takes you through some of the old-growth forests of the Kwagu’ł territory. You’ll also cross some boardwalks beside a beautiful small lake.

If you want a harder trail, try the 12.7-km Tex Lyon Trail. This in-and-out trail heads along the coast of Beaver Harbour, giving you impressive views of the ocean and islands (like Peel & Deer Islands). You’ll hike all the way to Dillion Point before turning back. It’s quite the trek, so make sure you have good hiking shoes!

Alternatively, if you want something a bit easier, try the Keogh River Trail, Quatse Loop Estuary Trail, Beaver Lake Forest Trail, Hardy Bay Estuary Road, Echo Lake Trail, Glenlion River Walk, or the Glen Lyon Trail. You’ll never be bored with all your options for walking trails!

Where to Stay in Port Hardy: Best Hotels and Accommodations

Trying to decide where to stay on your trip to Port Hardy? Here are some of the best hotels and hostels in Port Hardy that you’ll love:

Kwa’lilas Hotel – Most Luxurious

If you’re looking for luxurious accommodations, look no further than the Kwa’lilas Hotel ! This hotel is gorgeous, designed like a Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw big house and showcasing beautiful Indigenous artwork. It’s one of the most modern hotels in Port Hardy. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and feature views of the mountains. With a great location, you’ll be close to everything in Port Hardy. However, the hotel has everything you need, including a restaurant, cafe, and gift shop. The one downside of this hotel is that it doesn’t have great internet but they are apparently in the process of upgrading their WiFi.

Click here for more information & the latest prices!

North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel – Budget-Friendly

For budget-friendly accommodations, the affordable North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel is a great choice. Located in the center of Port Hardy, you’re only a short walk from most amenities and only a couple of minutes from the beach! The hostel is well equipped, with internet, laundry, a full kitchen, a drying room for wet gear, kayak/bike storage & a full games room. Plus, the hosts are very accommodating and super friendly. It’s the perfect spot to stay the night before you head out to hike the North Coast Trail!

Port Hardy Cabins – Best Value

If you want a cozy stay in a log cabin, the Port Hardy Cabins will be perfect for you. These cute cabins are well equipped with a shower, kitchenette, TV, dedicated internet, and colorful patio chairs. While the cabins are close to the highway, you won’t hear any traffic noise. However, there isn’t much privacy between cabins and they may be somewhat small for large families.

Weather in Port Hardy

Port Hardy has a cool, wet climate throughout the year. The proximity of the ocean keeps Port Hardy’s temperatures quite mild, never getting too hot or too cool. In the summer, average temperatures range between 10°C to 14°C, reaching highs around 18°C. Winter temperatures range from lows of 2°C to highs of 12°C.

You should expect some rainfall on your visit to Port Hardy. Winters are wet, with about half or two-thirds of the days in the month getting some precipitation. Even in the summer, there are no fewer than 7 days of rain per month. While Port Hardy does get some snow in December and January, it doesn’t last for too long.

June to July is the best time to visit Port Hardy if you’re looking for warmer, drier weather. During these months, the town gets the least amount of rain and the most sun. You should still bring an umbrella though, just in case!

How to Get to Port Hardy

Port Hardy is in northern Vancouver Island, so you may be wondering how to get there. You can travel to Port Hardy by car, ferry, bus, and plane.

If you have a vehicle, getting to Port Hardy is quite simple. From Victoria and southern Vancouver Island , drive up Highway 1 until you find Highway 19, which goes all the way up to Port Hardy. The road is paved and easy to drive! It’ll take you about 6 hours to drive from Victoria to Port Hardy.

If you’re coming from BC’s mainland, you’ll need to take BC Ferries to get to Vancouver Island first. Either take the ferry from Prince Rupert and sail over to Port Hardy directly on an incredibly scenic BC Ferries route through the inside passage. Or, take BC Ferries to either Victoria or Nanaimo from Vancouver , then drive up the island to Port Hardy. From the USA, you can take the Coho Ferry that sails from Port Angeles to Victoria.

If you need to rent a vehicle, there is a Budget at the Port Hardy Airport. Alternatively, you can rent a vehicle along the way from Vancouver, Victoria, or Nanaimo.

If you’re coming from Campbell River, you can bus to Port Hardy. The bus service runs three days a week, leaving Campbell River at 7 am to go to Port Hardy. On the way back, the bus leaves at 4:30 pm.

You can also fly to Port Hardy (YZT) from Vancouver (YVR) on Pacific Coastal Airlines in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The flights depart from the Vancouver International Airport and arrive at the Port Hardy Airport. The airport is only a 10-minute drive from the town.

You might not think of visiting Port Hardy when you’re on a trip to Vancouver Island, but trust us, it’s worth a visit! This charming northern Vancouver Island community is an amazing destination if you love outdoor activities!

Top Travel Tips & Resources for Port Hardy

• Activities – Here are the best things to do in Port Hardy !
• Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
• Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
• Accommodations – Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Port Hardy . We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
• Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
• Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

Related posts:

• Where to Stay in Port Hardy: Best Hotels & Reviews (2023)
• Where to See Big Old-Growth Trees on Vancouver Island
• Juan de Fuca Trail Backpacking Guide
• Pacific Marine Circle Route: Road Trip Guide
• Where to Stay in Port Renfrew
• 20 Best Things to Do on Hornby Island

Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

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Port Hardy Travel Guide: Things to Do, See and Eat traveling in Port Hardy, BC

Port Hardy is a small coastal town located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is the largest community in the area and serves as the gateway to the beautiful and rugged wilderness of Northern Vancouver Island.

The town is named after Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, who served under Lord Nelson during the Napoleonic Wars. Port Hardy is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, and wildlife viewing.

The area is home to several First Nations communities, including the Kwakiutl and the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. Visitors to Port Hardy can learn about the rich cultural heritage of these communities by visiting local museums and cultural centers.

Despite being a small town, Port Hardy has a thriving economy, with fishing, forestry, and tourism being the major industries. The town has all the amenities necessary to make a visitor’s stay comfortable, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Port Hardy has something to offer.

Port Hardy Travel Guide: A Brief History Of Port Hardy, BC

The history of Port Hardy dates back thousands of years to when the area was inhabited by First Nations peoples. The Kwakiutl and the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations have been living in the area for generations, relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering for their livelihoods.

In the late 1700s, European explorers arrived in the area and began to trade with the Indigenous peoples. In 1786, Captain George Dixon of the British Royal Navy named the area “Queen Charlotte Sound” after the wife of King George III. The name was later changed to “Johnstone Strait” in honor of Captain Charles Johnstone, who had explored the area in the 1790s.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the area became a hub for the logging industry. The first sawmill was built in the nearby community of Holberg in 1908, and the town of Port Hardy was established in 1909 as a supply center for the logging industry.

During World War II, Port Hardy became an important military base. The Royal Canadian Air Force built an airfield in the town, and it was used as a training center for pilots.

After the war, the town continued to grow, and in the 1960s, the fishing industry became the dominant industry in the area. Today, Port Hardy is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The town has a rich history that is celebrated through local museums and cultural events.

Port Hardy Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit on Vancouver Island

Port Hardy is a charming coastal town located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is an idyllic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and a variety of activities to explore.

One of the top attractions in Port Hardy is Cape Scott Provincial Park. This park boasts stunning coastlines, sandy beaches, and old-growth forests, making it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain and spot a variety of wildlife, including black bears, cougars, and bald eagles.

Another must-visit attraction in Port Hardy is the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre. This educational facility is dedicated to teaching visitors about the lifecycle of salmon and their important role in the local ecosystem. Visitors can observe live salmon and other marine life, participate in interactive exhibits, and learn about the history and culture of the local Indigenous peoples.

The Port Hardy Museum and Archives is another popular attraction that offers visitors the chance to discover the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. The museum features a range of exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that showcase the town’s logging, fishing, and military history. Guided tours and educational programs are also available.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Hardy Bay is a scenic waterfront area that offers stunning views, a boardwalk to stroll along, and a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries. Visitors can watch fishing boats come and go, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area.

Carrot Park is another charming spot that is popular with families. The park features a playground, picnic tables, and a view of the historic Quatsino Cannery, which was once a bustling hub of the local fishing industry.

Those seeking outdoor adventure can embark on a guided kayak tour with North Island Kayak. The local coastline offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales, seals, and sea otters. Diving and snorkeling opportunities are also available in the nearby God’s Pocket Provincial Park, accessible only by boat.

Port Hardy is a delightful destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone in this charming coastal town.

Top 10 Things To Do in Port Hardy, British Columbia For Visitors

If you’re planning a trip to Port Hardy, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do. Here are the top 10 things to do in Port Hardy:

• Explore Cape Scott Provincial Park – This stunning park is located about an hour’s drive from Port Hardy and offers rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and old-growth forests. Hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities abound.
• Visit the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre – Learn about the lifecycle of salmon and their role in the local ecosystem. Visitors can view live salmon and other marine life, and enjoy interactive exhibits and displays.
• Tour the Port Hardy Museum and Archives – Discover the history and cultural heritage of the area through a range of exhibits, artifacts, and photographs. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs.
• Walk along the boardwalk at Hardy Bay – Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk, watch fishing boats come and go, and explore the local shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• Take a guided kayak tour with North Island Kayak – Embark on a thrilling adventure and witness the abundance of marine wildlife, including whales, seals, and sea otters.
• Go diving or snorkeling at God’s Pocket Provincial Park – This remote park is accessible only by boat and offers unparalleled opportunities for underwater exploration.
• Visit Carrot Park – This charming park is a popular spot for families with its playground, picnic tables, and waterfront views. Visitors can also see the historic Quatsino Cannery.
• Take a scenic drive to San Josef Bay – This picturesque bay is located within Cape Scott Provincial Park and offers breathtaking views of rugged coastlines and sandy beaches.
• Go fishing – Port Hardy is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and lingcod.
• Visit the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre – This non-profit organization is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned wildlife. Visitors can see a variety of animals up close and learn about their conservation efforts.

Port Hardy offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. These top 10 things to do are just a few of the many exciting options available in this charming coastal town.

What To Eat and Drink at Restaurants in Port Hardy, BC

It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and seafood enthusiasts. Here are some of the must-try food and drink options when visiting Port Hardy:

• Fresh Seafood – Port Hardy is located on the Pacific Ocean and is known for its abundance of fresh seafood. You can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes at local restaurants, including halibut, salmon, cod, and crab.
• Fish and Chips – One of the most popular dishes in Port Hardy is fish and chips. You can find this classic dish at many local restaurants and food trucks.
• Coffee – For coffee lovers, there are several cafes in Port Hardy that serve locally roasted coffee and espresso drinks.

Here are some of the top restaurants to try when visiting Port Hardy:

• The Sporty Bar & Grill – This popular restaurant offers a variety of delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips. They also have a large selection of local beers on tap.
• Cafe Guido – This cozy cafe serves locally roasted coffee, homemade soups, sandwiches, and baked goods. They also have vegetarian and gluten-free options.
• The Quarterdeck Pub – This waterfront pub offers a casual atmosphere and a menu featuring seafood, burgers, and salads. They also have a large selection of beers and wines.

In conclusion, Port Hardy offers a variety of delicious food and drink options for visitors to enjoy. From fresh seafood and fish and chips to craft beer and locally roasted coffee, there is something for everyone.

Tours For Visitors To Port Hardy, Canada

Port Hardy, located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, offers visitors a variety of tours to explore the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top tours to consider when visiting Port Hardy:

• Whale Watching – One of the most popular tours in Port Hardy is whale watching. Visitors can experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life up close. Tour operators offer a variety of tour lengths and types, including zodiac tours, covered boats, and kayaking tours.
• Cultural Tours – Visitors can learn about the rich First Nations culture of the area with guided tours that include visits to traditional villages, art galleries, and cultural centers. These tours offer visitors the chance to learn about local history and traditions from knowledgeable guides.
• Fishing Charters – Port Hardy is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and visitors can take fishing charters to catch salmon, halibut, and other fish. Charter companies provide all necessary equipment and knowledgeable guides to ensure a successful fishing trip.
• Scenic Flights – Visitors can take a scenic flight over the rugged coastal landscape of Vancouver Island, including the nearby Gulf Islands and the Inside Passage. These tours offer breathtaking views of the area’s mountains, forests, and coastline.
• Kayaking Tours – Kayaking tours offer visitors the chance to explore the area’s rugged coastline and remote islands. Experienced guides provide instruction and lead visitors on paddling tours that can range from a few hours to multi-day trips.
• Hiking Tours – Visitors can take guided hiking tours to explore the area’s many trails and natural wonders, including old-growth forests, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. These tours offer visitors the chance to learn about the local flora and fauna and to take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Port Hardy offers visitors a variety of tours to explore the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From whale watching and cultural tours to fishing charters and scenic flights, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sense of adventure to make the most of your visit to Port Hardy.

Port Hardy Accommodations Guide: Hotels, Guesthouses and Hostels

Port Hardy, located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, offers a variety of accommodations for visitors to choose from. Here is a guide to some of the top accommodations in Port Hardy:

• Kwa’lilas Hotel – This hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including an on-site restaurant and spa. The hotel also features Indigenous art and design, showcasing the local culture.
• Providence Place Inn – This family-owned and operated inn offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. The inn is located in the heart of Port Hardy and is close to many of the town’s top attractions .
• Pier Side Landing – This waterfront hotel offers cozy rooms and suites with stunning views of Hardy Bay. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and lounge, and is within walking distance of downtown Port Hardy.
• Glen Lyon Inn – This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as on-site dining options, including a pub and a coffee shop. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to the Port Hardy airport and ferry terminal.
• Quarterdeck Inn & Marina Resort – This waterfront resort offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, suites, and rooms in the main lodge. The resort also features an on-site restaurant and marina, and offers fishing charters and other tours.
• North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel – This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations for travelers on a budget. The hostel also offers private rooms and is located in downtown Port Hardy.
• Airport Inn – This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites close to the Port Hardy airport. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.

In conclusion, Port Hardy offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. From luxurious hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure availability.

Day Trips From Port Hardy, British Columbia

Port Hardy, located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some day trips to consider when visiting Port Hardy:

• Cape Scott Provincial Park – This remote park is located at the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island and offers visitors the chance to explore old-growth forests, rugged coastline, and historic settlements. Visitors can hike to the park’s sandy beaches and visit historic lighthouses.
• San Josef Bay – This stunning bay is located in Cape Scott Provincial Park and features sandy beaches, sea stacks, and tidal pools. Visitors can hike to the bay from the park’s parking lot, or take a guided tour.
• Telegraph Cove – This historic fishing village is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island and is a popular spot for whale watching tours. Visitors can also explore the village’s historic boardwalk, shops, and restaurants.
• Alert Bay – This small island community is located off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island and is home to the Namgis First Nation. Visitors can explore the community’s cultural center, totem poles, and local shops and restaurants.
• Port McNeill – This small town is located about 30 minutes south of Port Hardy and is a popular spot for wildlife tours, including bear and whale watching. Visitors can also explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and marina.
• Sointula – This small community is located on Malcolm Island, just a short ferry ride from Port McNeill. Visitors can explore the community’s Finnish heritage and unique architecture, as well as the island’s beaches and forests.
• Gold River – Located about 3 hours drive south of Port Hardy, Gold River is a small town situated at the head of Muchalat Inlet. Visitors can explore the town’s marina and shops, as well as nearby hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas.
• Campbell River – Located about 2.5 hours’ drive south of Port Hardy, Campbell River is a larger city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s historic downtown area, take a whale watching tour, go fishing or kayaking, or hike in nearby forests.
• Tahsis – Located about two hours’ drive southwest of Port Hardy, Tahsis is a small village that offers visitors a chance to explore the rugged beauty of Nootka Sound. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, kayaking, or explore the local museum and shops.
• Woss – Located about an hour’s drive east of Port Hardy, Woss is a small logging town that offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful forests and lakes of the surrounding area. Visitors can go hiking, fishing, or explore the town’s historic railway station.

Port Hardy offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most stunning and remote areas of Vancouver Island. From hiking in Cape Scott Provincial Park to whale watching in Telegraph Cove, there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sense of adventure to make the most of your day trips from Port Hardy.

Port Hardy Transportation Guide

Port Hardy is a small town located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. While the town is remote, there are several transportation options available for visitors:

• Flights – Port Hardy Airport (YZT) is located just outside of town and offers daily flights to and from Vancouver, Victoria, and other destinations in British Columbia. The airport is served by several airlines, including Pacific Coastal Airlines and Central Mountain Air.
• Ferries – BC Ferries operates a ferry service between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert, as well as a seasonal service between Port Hardy and Bella Coola. The ferries offer a comfortable way to travel and provide stunning views of the coastal scenery.
• Car Rentals – Several car rental companies, including Budget and National, operate in Port Hardy and offer a range of vehicles for rent. Having a car provides visitors with the freedom to explore the surrounding area at their own pace.
• Taxis – Taxis are available in Port Hardy and can be hired for local transportation or for trips to nearby destinations.

While Port Hardy is a remote town, visitors have several transportation options available to them, including flights, ferries, buses, car rentals, and taxis. Whether you’re looking to explore the surrounding area or just get around town, there is a transportation option that will meet your needs.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Port Hardy?

After visiting Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, there are several nearby destinations on the island itself that you may want to consider exploring:

• Tofino – Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is known for its stunning beaches, surf culture, and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can go surfing, hiking, whale watching, or simply relax on the beach.
• Victoria – The capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a charming city known for its historic architecture, gardens, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s museums, art galleries, and shops, or take a stroll along the picturesque Inner Harbour.
• Campbell River – Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Campbell River is known for its fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can go fishing, hiking, kayaking, or take a scenic drive along the coast.
• Parksville – Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Parksville is known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can go swimming, paddleboarding, or explore the nearby Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park.
• Nanaimo – Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a vibrant city known for its outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, or explore the city’s museums and art galleries.
• Ucluelet – Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Ucluelet is a charming coastal town known for its rugged beaches, hiking trails, and whale watching opportunities.
• Cowichan Valley – Located in the southern part of Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley is known for its wineries, artisanal food scene, and stunning natural beauty.
• Comox Valley – Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, the Comox Valley is known for its beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Sooke – Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Sooke is known for its beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for whale watching and fishing.
• Port Renfrew – Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Port Renfrew is a small coastal community known for its fishing, hiking, and stunning natural beauty.

There are several nearby destinations on Vancouver Island that visitors to Port Hardy may want to consider exploring, including Tofino, Victoria, Campbell River, Parksville, and Nanaimo. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Port Hardy Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Port Hardy is a picturesque destination located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island, offering a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and kayaking, or exploring the area’s cultural offerings like museums and galleries, Port Hardy has something for everyone.

Additionally, Port Hardy serves as a gateway to many other destinations on Vancouver Island, providing easy access to nearby towns and attractions. With so much to see and do, Port Hardy is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Vancouver Island.

Finally, when planning your trip to Port Hardy, be sure to consider the best time to visit based on your interests and preferred activities. With mild temperatures and an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty, the summer months are a popular time to visit, but there’s plenty to enjoy year-round. So start planning your trip to Port Hardy and get ready to experience the beauty and adventure of Vancouver Island!

In Port Hardy, the sea meets the land, A rugged and wild, untamed expanse. Here, travelers come to escape, To explore and discover, to take a chance.

From the waves crashing on rocky shores, To the misty forests that hide secrets untold, Port Hardy is a land of adventure, A place where travelers can be bold.

Kayak through Johnstone Strait, Or hike the North Coast Trail, Visit the Quatse River Fish Hatchery, And learn about salmon’s tale.

Take a whale watching tour, Or fish for salmon in the sea, Explore Cape Scott Provincial Park, And see the beauty that’s meant to be.

The beauty of Port Hardy is in its wildness, Its rugged and untamed appeal, Here, travelers come to be inspired, To feel alive, to experience what’s real.

So come to Port Hardy, travelers, And let the wildness set you free, For here, in this land of adventure, You can truly be who you want to be.

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Call of the wild: Jack London park challenges hardy hikers to conquer its 31 miles of trails

B ay Area folks who are dying to answer the call of the wild, go where the wild things are or while away a little time now have the opportunity of a lifetime — the Wild Trail Challenge at Jack London State Historic Park in the unincorporated community of Glen Ellen in Sonoma County.

For those who are tough enough to try it, the challenge is a series of five hikes on five consecutive Saturdays increasing in duration and/or difficulty each week, covering every trail in the park for a total of 31.2 miles, park officials announced this month.

The series begins on Sept. 7 and concludes on Oct. 5, and participants can do one or (gasp!) all of the hikes. The price for each hike is $25 including the $10 park entry fee. There is a 20% discount if you sign up for all hikes at once.

Details and reservations are available at the park’s website.

The post Call of the wild: Jack London park challenges hardy hikers to conquer its 31 miles of trails appeared first on Local News Matters .

Nanaimo to Port Hardy

Nanaimo to Parksville

38 km | 33 minutes

A popular road trip stop, Parksville offers beautiful sandy beaches and quaint boutique shopping in the downtown district. Tigh na Mara Seaside Spa Resort is worth a stop, whether it’s for a treatment at their Grotto Spa or to hunker down for the night in one of their oceanview rooms.

From here, you can take the fast route by keeping to Highway 19, or take a detour to explore a series of bay towns along Highway 19A.

Charging stations:

• Parksville Civic and Technology Centre, 100 Jensen Avenue East
• Parksville Community Park 193 Beachside Drive Parksville BC
• The Beach Club Resort 181 Beachside Drive Parksville
• Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort 1155 Resort Way Parksville

Must Stop Spots

Nanaimo museum, the bastion, where to stay, tigh-na-mara seaside resort & spa, parksville to campbell river.

120 km | 1 hour 10 mins

• Buckley Bay Highway/Route 19 24.0KM South of Courtenay
• Wayward Distillery (2931 Moray Ave, Courtenay)
• Campbell River Visitor Information Centre in Tyee Plaza (1101 – 1299 Shoppers Row)
• Dogwood Operations Centre (385 South Dogwood Street)
• North Island College (1685 South Dogwood Street)
• Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre Gas Bar (1416 Island Highway)
• Campbell River Hyundai (1853 Meredith Road)
• Campbell River Toyota (2785 North Island Highway)
• Steve Marshall Ford (2300 North Island Highway)
• Campbell River Community Centre (401 – 11th Avenue)
• Island Owl Mazda in Campbell River (2280 N Island Highway)

Elk Falls Suspension Bridge

Discovery pier, campbell river to port hardy.

230 km | 2 hours 34 mins

From Campbell River, you will head inland for a stretch of road towards your final destination: Port Hardy. A short detour off the main drag just under an hour into your drive will take you into Sayward – a town with a tiny population yet plenty to do and see (plus, a great place to fill up your gas tank in case you didn’t have the opportunity in Campbell River). Must-sees here include the World’s Largest Yellow Cedar, the Cable Cookhouse and it is not uncommon to spot elk and black bears nearby.

We recommend lodging in true North Island style – unpacking your tent and sleeping bag for a night in the wilderness. Explore all that the rugged landscape has to offer, from bird, bear and whale watching to taking in this rugged region from above by plane or helicopter.

• Salter Holdings Parking Lot 8645 Granville St Port Hardy
• Port Hardy Visitor Information Centre 7250 Market Street Port Hardy
• North Coast Trail Backpackers Hostel 8635 Granville Street Port Hardy

Gas stations:

• 1590 Sayward Rd, Sayward, BC Note: This is the last gas stations between Sayward and Port McNeill
• 1001 Hyde Creek Rd, Port McNeill, BC V0N 2R0

Important Notes: 

• Cell phone service is spotty or unavailable along this part of the route

Cable Cookhouse

Prince of whales - telegraph cove, cape scott provincial park, campbell river, dive into these other interesting posts.

The longest of the Vancouver Island routes, the Nanaimo to Port Hardy trek also affords the opportunity to take things…

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Getting Here

Whether you drive the winding Island highway north from Campbell River, sail into Hardy Bay, or fly the coastline overtop coastal rainforests and mountaintops, the route to Port Hardy hints at the adventure and discovery to come! There are several travel options to Port Hardy and the surrounding area, each invites discovery and exploration along the way. Regardless of how you arrive to Port Hardy, you will want to be sure to stay.

West Coast Helicopters

Pacific coastal, port hardy airport, wilderness seaplanes, national car rental, waivin flags taxi, budget car rental, vancouver island connector bus, mount waddington public transportation, quarterdeck marina, port hardy harbour authority.

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Yekaterinburg city, Russia

The capital city of Sverdlovsk oblast .

Yekaterinburg - Overview

Yekaterinburg or Ekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk in 1924-1991) is the fourth most populous city in Russia (after Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Novosibirsk), the administrative center of the Ural Federal District and Sverdlovsk Oblast.

This city is one of the country’s largest transport and logistics hubs, as well as an important industrial center. It is unofficially called the “capital of the Urals.”

The population of Yekaterinburg is about 1,493,600 (2022), the area - 468 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 343, the postal codes - 620000-620920.

Ekaterinburg city flag

Ekaterinburg city coat of arms.

Ekaterinburg city map, Russia

Ekaterinburg city latest news and posts from our blog:.

26 May, 2020 / Unique Color Photos of Yekaterinburg in 1909 .

2 December, 2018 / Yekaterinburg - the view from above .

21 November, 2018 / Abandoned Railway Tunnel in Didino .

4 December, 2017 / Stadiums and Matches of the World Cup 2018 in Russia .

3 January, 2017 / Ekaterinburg, the Capital of the Urals: Then and Now .

More posts..

News, notes and thoughts:

4 April, 2011   / Free travel on new high-speed trains should allay fans' fears about long journey to Ekaterinburg - the most far-flung city on Russia's list of sites for 2018 World Cup. Let's hope the train will not break down in the middle of nowhere.

1 February, 2011   / Today is the 80th anniversary of the birth of Boris Yeltsin, the first president of Russia. President Medvedev today unveiled a monument to Yeltsin in his home city Ekaterinburg. First one in Russia.

History of Yekaterinburg

Foundation of yekaterinburg.

The territory along the Iset River, which served as a convenient transport route from the Ural Mountains deep into Siberia, has long attracted settlers. The oldest of the currently discovered settlements on the territory of present Yekaterinburg was located next to the Palkinsky Stone Tents rock massif and dates back to the 6th millennium BC.

From the 7th-3rd centuries BC, ancient metallurgists who mastered the smelting of copper lived in this settlement. Copper figures of birds, animals, people, arrowheads, various household items were found here. Later they learned how to make iron products. All discovered settlements were destroyed as a result of fires, possibly during raids of the conquerors.

The territory occupied by present Yekaterinburg became part of Russia in the middle of the 17th century. At that time, it had practically no permanent population. The first Russian settlements were founded in the second half of the 17th century. At the beginning of the 18th century, the first ironworks were built here.

In the spring of 1723, by decree of Emperor Peter I, the construction of the largest iron-making plant in Russia began on the banks of the Iset River. Construction began on the initiative of Vasily Tatishchev (a prominent Russian statesman). He was supported by Georg Wilhelm de Gennin (a German-born Russian military officer and engineer), on the initiative of which the fortress plant was named Yekaterinburg in honor of Empress Catherine I (Yekaterina in Russian), the wife of Peter I.

More Historical Facts…

The historic birthday of Yekaterinburg is November 18, 1723. On this day, a test run of the plant equipment was carried out. Its main products included iron, cast iron, and copper. In 1725, the Yekaterinburg Mint began production on the territory of the fortress and became the main producer of copper coins in the Russian Empire. Until 1876, it produced about 80% of the country’s copper coins. In the 1720s, the population of Yekaterinburg was about 4,000 people.

Yekaterinburg - one of the economic centers of the Russian Empire

In the middle of the 18th century, the first ore gold in Russia was discovered in this region, which was the beginning of the gold industry in the country. As a result, Yekaterinburg became the center of a whole system of densely located plants and began to develop as the capital of the mining region, which spread on both sides of the Ural Range.

In 1781, Catherine II granted Yekaterinburg the status of a county town in the Perm Governorate. The population of the town was about 8,000 people. In 1783, the town received a coat of arms depicting an ore mine and a melting furnace, which symbolized its mining and metallurgical industries (similar images are depicted on the current coat of arms and flag of Yekaterinburg).

In 1783, the Great Siberian Road was opened - the main road of the Russian Empire that passed through Yekaterinburg. It served as an impetus for the transformation of Yekaterinburg into a transport hub and a center of trade. Thus, Yekaterinburg, among other towns of the Perm Governorate, became the key town for the development of the boundless and rich Siberia, the “window to Asia”, just as St. Petersburg was the Russian “window to Europe.”

In 1808, the Yekaterinburg plant was closed, and the history of the town entered a new stage related to the development of a large regional center with a diversified economy. At the beginning of the 19th century, the gold mining industry flourished. At the same time, deposits of emeralds, sapphires, aquamarines, diamonds, and other precious, semiprecious, and ornamental stones were discovered in the Urals. Yekaterinburg became one of the world centers for their artistic processing.

After the abolition of serfdom in 1861, the mining industry of the Urals experienced a severe crisis, a number of plants were closed. In 1878, the first railway was constructed across the Urals and connected Yekaterinburg with Perm. In 1888, the Yekaterinburg-Tyumen railway was built, and in 1897 - the railway to Chelyabinsk, which provided access to the Trans-Siberian Railway. Yekaterinburg became a major railway junction, which contributed to the development of the local food industry, especially flour milling. In 1913, the population of Yekaterinburg was about 69,000 people.

Yekaterinburg in the first years of Soviet power

On November 8, 1917, Soviet power was established in Yekaterinburg. On April 30, 1918, the last Russian emperor Nicholas II and his family members with a few servants were transported from Tobolsk to Yekaterinburg. They were placed in the “House of Special Purpose”, the mansion of engineer Nikolai Ipatiev requisitioned for this purpose, and transferred under the supervision and responsibility of the Ural Regional Soviet.

In July 1918, units of the White Siberian army approached Yekaterinburg, under this pretext the leadership of the Ural Regional Soviet decided to shoot the imperial family. On the night of July 16-17, 1918, it was done in the basement of the Ipatiev House.

10 days later, units of the Czechoslovak Legion entered Yekaterinburg. Over the next 12 months, it was under the control of anti-Bolshevik forces. On July 14, 1919, the Red Army reoccupied the city. Soviet authorities and the Yekaterinburg Province with a center in Yekaterinburg were restored. In 1920, the population of the city was about 94,400 people.

The political center of the Urals moved from Perm to Yekaterinburg. In 1923, Yekaterinburg became the administrative center of the vast Ural Oblast, which in size exceeded the territory of the present Ural Federal District of Russia. In 1924, the city council decided to rename the capital of the new region to Sverdlovsk - in honor of Yakov Sverdlov, a Bolshevik party administrator and chairman of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee.

Sverdlovsk - a Soviet industrial giant

During the years of Stalin’s industrialization, Sverdlovsk was turned into a powerful industrial center. The old factories were reconstructed and new large factories were built, including giant machine-building and metal processing plants. In 1933, the construction of the future flagship of Soviet engineering (Uralmash) was completed. The population of Sverdlovsk grew by more than 3 times, and it became one of the fastest growing cities in the USSR.

January 17, 1934, Ural Oblast was divided into three regions - Sverdlovsk Oblast with a center in Sverdlovsk, Chelyabinsk Oblast with a center in Chelyabinsk, and Ob-Irtysh Oblast with a center in Tyumen. By the end of the 1930s, there were 140 industrial enterprises, 25 research institutes, 12 higher educational institutions in Sverdlovsk. In 1939, the population of the city was about 425,500 people.

Along with other Ural cities, Sverdlovsk made a significant contribution to the victory of the USSR in the Second World War. In total, more than 100,000 residents of the city joined the Red Army. 41,772 people didn’t return from the war: 21,397 - killed in battles, 4,778 - died from wounds in hospitals, 15,491 - went missing, 106 - died in prisoner of war camps.

Sverdlovsk became the largest evacuation point, more than 50 large and medium enterprises from the western regions of Russia and Ukraine were evacuated here. During the war years, industrial production in Sverdlovsk grew 7 times.

After the war, this city became the largest center for engineering and metalworking in Russia. During the Cold War, Sverdlovsk, as a key center of the defense industry, was practically closed to foreigners. In 1960, in the sky above the city, Soviet air defense shot down the U-2 spy plane of the US manned by Francis Gary Powers.

On January 23, 1967, a millionth resident was born in the city and Sverdlovsk became one of the first Russian cities with a population of more than 1 million people. In 1979, Sverdlovsk was included in the list of historical cities of Russia.

On October 4, 1988, a serious accident occurred at the Sverdlovsk railway station. The train carrying almost 100 tons of explosives rolled downhill and crashed into a coal freight train. An explosion occurred, aggravated by the proximity of a large warehouse of fuels and lubricants. The funnel at the site of the explosion had a diameter of 40-60 meters and a depth of 8 meters, the shock wave spread 10-15 kilometers. The explosion killed 4 people at the station and injured more than 500 people. About 600 houses were severely damaged.

Yekaterinburg - one of the largest cities of the Russian Federation

On September 4, 1991, the Sverdlovsk City Council of People’s Deputies decided to return the city its original name - Yekaterinburg. The population of the city was about 1,375,000 people. The restrictions on foreign visitors to the city were also lifted, and soon the first consulate general was opened here - the United States of America (in 1994).

The transition to a market economy led to a reduction in production at industrial enterprises, inert giant plant found themselves in a particularly difficult situation. In 1991, the construction of the television tower was stopped. The city was flooded with chaotic small retail trade in temporary pavilions and markets. These years were the heyday of organized crime, Yekaterinburg became one of the “criminal capitals” of Russia. The economic situation began to improve by the end of the 1990s.

In 2000-2003, the Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land was built on the site of the Ipatiev House in Yekaterinburg. In 2008-2009, the Koltsovo Airport was reconstructed. In June 15-17, 2009, SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) and BRIC (Brasilia, Russia, India, China) summits were held in Yekaterinburg.

In 2015, the Presidential Center of Boris Yeltsin, the first president of Russia, was opened in Yekaterinburg. On March 24, 2018, the abandoned unfinished television tower was dismantled. It was the tallest building in the city (almost 240 meters) and became one of the symbols of Yekaterinburg. 4 matches of FIFA World Cup 2018 were played in Yekaterinburg.

Today, Yekaterinburg is the largest center of attraction not only of Sverdlovsk Oblast, but also of the surrounding regions. By some socio-economic indicators, this city ranks third in Russia, after Moscow and St. Petersburg. Along with the development of trade and business, the city lost the status of the country’s largest industrial center.

On the streets of Yekaterinburg

Soviet-era apartment buildings in Yekaterinburg

Author: Alex Kolm

In the central part of Yekaterinburg

Author: Serg Fokin

Yekaterinburg street view

Author: Krutikov S.V.

Yekaterinburg - Features

Yekaterinburg is located in the floodplain of the Iset River on the eastern slope of the Middle Urals in Asia, near its border with Europe, about 1,800 km east of Moscow. Since the Ural Mountains are very old, there are no significant hills in the city.

This relief was a favorable condition for the construction of the main transport routes from Central Russia to Siberia (the Siberian Route and the Trans-Siberian Railway) through Yekaterinburg. As a result, it has become one of the most strategically important centers of Russia, which still provides a link between the European and Asian parts of the country.

Yekaterinburg is located in the border zone of temperate continental and continental climates. It is characterized by a sharp variability in weather conditions with well-defined seasons. The Ural Mountains, despite their low height, block the way to the masses of air coming from the west from the European part of Russia.

As a result, the Middle Urals is open to the invasion of cold Arctic air and continental air of the West Siberian Plain. At the same time, warm air masses of the Caspian Sea and the deserts of Central Asia can freely enter this territory from the south.

That is why the city is characterized by sharp temperature fluctuations and the formation of weather anomalies: in winter from severe frosts to thaws and rains, in summer from heat above plus 35 degrees Celsius to frosts. The average temperature in January is minus 12.6 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 19 degrees Celsius.

The city has a rather unfavorable environmental situation due to air pollution. In 2016, Yekaterinburg was included in the list of Russian cities with the worst environmental situation by this indicator. Car emissions account for more than 90% of all pollution.

Yekaterinburg ranks third in Russia (after Moscow and St. Petersburg) in the number of diplomatic missions, while their consular districts extend far beyond Sverdlovsk Oblast, and serve other regions of the Urals, Siberia, and the Volga region.

In terms of economy, Yekaterinburg also ranks third in the country. It is one of the largest financial and business centers of Russia. The main branches of production: metallurgical production and metalworking, food production, production of electrical equipment, electronic and optical equipment, production of vehicles, production of machinery and equipment, chemical production.

Almost all types of urban public transport are presented in Yekaterinburg: buses, trolleybuses, trams, subways, taxis. Yekaterinburg is the third largest transportation hub in Russia: 6 federal highways, 7 main railway lines, as well as Koltsovo International Airport, one of the country’s largest airports. The location of Yekaterinburg in the central part of the region allows you to get from it to any major city of the Urals in 7-10 hours.

Yekaterinburg has an extensive scientific and technical potential, it is one of the largest scientific centers in Russia. The Presidium and about 20 institutes of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 66 research institutes, and about 30 universities are located here.

This city is a relatively large tourist center. A significant part of tourists visit it to honor the memory of the last Russian emperor and his family killed by the Bolsheviks in the basement of the Ipatiev House in 1918.

There are about 50 different museums in Yekaterinburg. One of the world’s largest collections of constructivist architectural monuments has been preserved here. In total, there are over 600 historical and cultural monuments in the city, of which 43 are objects of federal significance. The City Day of Yekaterinburg is celebrated on the third Saturday of August.

Interesting facts about Yekaterinburg

• It was founded by the decree of the first Russian Emperor Peter I and the last Russian Emperor Nicholas II was shot here;
• In 1820, the roof of the UK Parliament building in London was made of roofing iron produced in Yekaterinburg;
• Ural steel was used in the construction of the Eiffel Tower in Paris;
• Ural copper was used in the construction of the Statue of Liberty in New York;
• During the Second World War, Sverdlovsk was the center of broadcasting in the USSR;
• Equipment for the world’s deepest borehole (Kola Superdeep Borehole, 12,262 meters) was produced in Yekaterinburg;
• Boris Yeltsin, the first president of Russia, began his political career in Yekaterinburg;
• Minor planet #27736 Yekaterinburg, discovered by the Belgian astronomer Eric Elst on September 22, 1990, was named in honor of this city;
• Two most northern skyscrapers in the world are located in Yekaterinburg: the Iset residential tower (209 m) and the Vysotsky business center (188 m), they are the tallest buildings throughout Russia east of Moscow.

Pictures of Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg city view

Author: Andrey Zagaynov

Modern architecture in Yekaterinburg

Author: Yury Baranov

The territory of the central stadium of Yekaterinburg before reconstruction

Author: Sergey Likhota

Main Attractions of Yekaterinburg

Sevastyanov House - a palace of the first quarter of the 19th century built in the architectural styles of pseudo-Gothic, Neo-Baroque, and Moorish traditions and painted in green, white, and red tones. Today, it is the most beautiful building in Yekaterinburg and one of its symbols. The house stands on the promenade of the Iset River, very close to the city dam. Lenina Avenue, 35.

“Plotinka” - the dam of the city pond on the Iset River built in the 18th century. From an architectural point of view, it is an ordinary bridge. However, it is of particular importance for the residents of Yekaterinburg since the construction of the entire city started from this place. Today, this is the main place for festivities in Yekaterinburg. Lenina Avenue.

Observation Deck of the Business Center “Vysotsky” - an open-air observation deck on the 52nd floor at an altitude of 168 meters. From here you can enjoy the views of all of Yekaterinburg. On the second and third floors of this skyscraper there is the memorial museum of Vladimir Vysotsky - a singer, songwriter, and actor who had an immense effect on Soviet culture. Malysheva Street, 51.

Vaynera Street - the central avenue of Yekaterinburg, the so-called “Ural Arbat”. One of its parts from Kuibysheva Street to Lenina Avenue is a pedestrian street. This is one of the oldest streets in Yekaterinburg laid in the middle of the 18th century. Along it, you can see merchant mansions, shops, administrative buildings, most of which were built in the late 19th and first half of the 20th centuries.

Rastorguev-Kharitonov Palace (1794-1824) - one of the most valuable architectural manor and park ensembles in Yekaterinburg, an architectural monument of federal significance built in the classical style and located in the city center. Karla Libknekhta Street, 44.

Church of the Ascension (1792-1818) - one of the oldest churches in Yekaterinburg located next to the Rastorguev-Kharitonov Palace. This beautiful building combines the features of baroque, pseudo-Russian style, and classicism. Klary Tsetkin Street, 11.

Yeltsin Center - a cultural and educational center dedicated to the contemporary history of Russia, as well as the personality of its first president, Boris Yeltsin. The museum dedicated to his life is one of the best museums in Russia. Borisa Yeltsina Street, 3.

Yekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts - the largest art museum in the Urals housed in two buildings. This museum is best known for its unique collection of Kasli art castings and the world-famous Kasli cast iron pavilion - a participant in the 1900 Paris World’s Fair.

The following collections can also be found here: Russian paintings of the 18th - early 20th centuries, Russian avant-garde of 1910-1920, Russian porcelain and glass of the 18th - 20th centuries, Russian icon painting of the 16th-19th centuries, Western European art of the 14th-19th centuries, stone-carving and jewelry art of the Urals, Zlatoust decorated weapons and steel engraving. Voevodina Street, 5; Vaynera Street, 11.

Museum of the History of Stone-Cutting and Jewelry Art . A unique collection of this museum consists of gem minerals, works of jewelers and stone-cutters of the Urals, and products created at the Ural lapidary factory. The museum has Malachite and Bazhov halls, the Emerald Room, and several exhibition galleries where visitors can see works made of colored stone and metal created by local artists. Lenina Avenue, 37.

Sverdlovsk Regional Museum of Local Lore . At first, its collection consisted of four departments: mineralogical, botanical, zoological, and paleontological. Later, numismatic, ethnographic, and anthropological sections were added. Today, there are more than 700 thousand exhibits here. Lenina Avenue, 69/10.

Museum of the History of Yekaterinburg . This museum occupies a historic building of the 19th century. In addition to the main exhibition, you can see the wax figures of Peter the Great, Catherine II, Nicholas II, the Ural manufacturers Demidov, and the founders of Yekaterinburg.

Old Railway Station of Yekaterinburg - one of the most beautiful and picturesque buildings in the city built in 1878. In 2003, after a large-scale reconstruction, the Museum of the History of Science and Technology of the Sverdlovsk Railway was opened here. Vokzal’naya Ulitsa, 14.

Yekaterinburg Circus . Visible from a lot of points of the city, the building of the Yekaterinburg Circus is known for its amazing dome consisting of trellised openwork semi-arches, which is not typical for circuses in Russia. 8 Marta Street, 43.

White Tower (1929-1931) - a former water tower 29 meters high located at a certain distance from the center of Yekaterinburg, an architectural monument of Constructivism. Today, it is used as a cultural site. Bakinskikh Komissarov Street, 2?.

Keyboard Monument - a contemporary art object made on a scale of 30:1 in 2005. This 16x4 meter concrete keyboard consists of 104 keys spaced 15 cm apart. From here the famous tourist route “Red Line” begins (a self-guided tour of the historic city center). The monument is located on the embankment of the Iset River next to the House of the Merchant Chuvildin (Gorkogo Street, 14A).

Ekaterinburg city of Russia photos

Places of interest in yekaterinburg.

Sculpture of talking townspeople in Yekaterinburg

Author: Pichugin Mikhail

Old buildings in Yekaterinburg

Author: Andrew Golovin

Wooden Church of the Holy Martyr Arkady in Yekaterinburg

Author: Kutenyov Vladimir

Street transport of Yekaterinburg

Tram in Yekaterinburg

Author: Andrey Permyakov

Bus in Yekaterinburg

Author: Per Heitmann

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