Bird's-eye view of the sandy beach at Grant Bay

Grant Bay Trail near Holberg leads to Grant Bay, an isolated and beautiful little bay on the north side of the entrance to Quatsino Sound.

Bounded by a shore of shoals and rock, its main attraction is its 800 metres of sandy beach. Hiking time one way is 2½ hours.

Facing south, Grant Bay is less exposed to the open Pacific, and its surf is moderate compared to the exposed west coast beaches.

This trail is a popular route for black bears, and Browning Inlet is a preferred hangout for them. However, they are unlikely to present a problem as they are genuinely wild and associate man with danger and not with food - be sure to tell the bears you read that on this website!

From Holberg, drive south almost to the quaint little fishing village of Winter Harbour and turn right at West Main junction. Follow the posted signs to the trailhead.

Click for companies that offer Hiking & Backpacking services, or visit our Recreation section for more information on Hiking and Backpacking in British Columbia.

Trail information for Vancouver Island is provided in three superb Hiking Trails guides by the Vancouver Island Trails Information Society.