The Upper Walbran Valley on the southwest coast of BC's Vancouver Island is believed to produce more biomass per hectare than any ecosystem in Canada. The BC government's failure to protect the Upper Walbran has so far(2001) resulted in the clearcutting of 25 percent of this beautiful area. Read more about some of Canada's largest red cedars, Douglas firs and Sitka spruces. But also about endangered species, like the Marbled Murrelet, who call this valley their home.

Park the Upper Walbran Valley

Wilderness Committee Educational Report Vol.20 - No.01, Summer 2001

How to Visit the Walbran

Driving Instructions to the Walbran

  • Turn west off Hwy 1 just north of Duncan onto Hwy 18.
  • Head along Hwy 18 through the towns of Cowichan Lake and Honeymoon Bay.
  • Roughly 2 km past Honeymoon Bay the logging road begins.
  • Go right and continue along the South Shore Road for roughly 25 km. Follow the Caycuse

    • Main Rd where it curves left off the South Shore Road. Now set your trip odometer to 0 km.
    Note: most roads have no signposts.

  • At about 10.5 km, take left fork onto Mclure Main (Caycuse Main continues on the right).
  • At about 26.5 km, just past McLure, take left fork onto Glad Lake Main.
  • At about 38.5 km, after the large bend around the steep drop off, go right (the road GL-12 curves left).
  • At about 41.5 km, by the Parks Canada "West Coast Trail" sign, turn right.
  • From here on 'water bar' ditches in the road make it passable only to vehicles with good clearance.
  • On the far side of the bridge, park on the side of the road. Campsites and trails are on the right side near the river.

    • Note: A Vancouver Island Backroad Map book is available for $15.95 at WCWC's Victoria store 651 Johnson St.

    About the Logging Roads: Always drive with headlights on. Drive with caution. Always stay on the right side of the road when going around curves and pull over to let logging trucks pass. Make sure your spare tire and jack are in good condition.