Island Information

Lansdscape: Queen Charlotte Island is characterized by steep, forested mountains and deep U-shaped valleys, streams, lakes, saltwater straits, and bays that were carved by glacial ice which once covered this entire area. The blanket of spruce-hemlock forest on Queen Charlotte is broken by scatterings of muskegs, or bogs. Most of the mountains on the island are 2,000 to 3,000 feet high.

Climate: 
Haida Gwaii is well known for its abundant rainfall. The maritime (ocean-influenced) climate is cool and moist most of the year. Winter temperatures on the islands typically range from the mid-30's to low 50's. Between 60 and 220 inches of rain saturate the island each year. July is generally the driest month, November usually the wettest. Be prepared for rain any month of the year. Bring warm clothing, rain gear, and knee-high rubber boots.

Tides: 
The changing tides are an ever-present part of life in Haida Gwaii. There are two high tides per day and two lows; the tide reaches a maximum or minimum point of the cycle in 6 1/2 hours. Tidal fluctuations can be as much as 23 feet in just a few hours.