Train
Few hikers use the train as they are expensive and don't run frequently. But if you like to travel by train check:
On Vancouver Island there is a tourist sightseeing train running Victoria - Qualicum Beach:
Bus to Vancouver Island
In a huge country like Canada, bus is often the easiest way to get around. Service is good (better than the USA, for example) but not inexpensive.
Greyhound is the biggest bus company in North America, but they don't go all the way to Vancouver Island, instead they connect with regional bus services. Laidlaw Coach Lines, for example, is the biggest carrier on Vancouver Island. For transportation links on Vancouver Island check this web site.
Unfortunately there is no bus to Gold River, BC — but you can get close — 100 kms away — to Campbell River, British Columbia. From anywhere in North America you can book a bus ticket to Campbell River.
From Campbell River you’d need to hire a taxi or hitch to Gold River.
Greyhound offers some interesting travel passes & special fares. If you’re considering taking the bus to get to British Columbia, check their US web site or Canadian web site.
Greyhound Fare & Schedule Information:
- 1 (800) 229-9424 toll free in the US
- 1 (800) 661-8747 toll free in Canada
- +1 (402) 330-8552 (International areas without toll free access)
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Backpacker buses
More fun than Greyhound are the backpacker buses & vans that trip around BC. For example you can travel by van from Banff, Alberta in the Rockies to Vancouver for about C$100. Check Bigfoot Adventure Tours or Moose Run Adventure Tours.
Anyone can hop on a backpacker bus, but most of the passengers are in their twenties.
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Hitchhiking
Hitching should be your LAST option, especially on remote highways. On the other hand, if you get stuck, Canadians are still willing to pick up hitchhikers — unlike the USA where it can be difficult to get a lift.
If you somehow get to Gold River, you may still end up hitching the 14 km Gold River to the wharf (where Air Nootka & the Uchuck depart) or even Gold River to Campbell River. There’s not much traffic on either of those routes, though. Check around in Gold River to see if you can find someone willing to drive you out to the wharf.
