Nimpkish River

The Nimpkish River is a waterway on northern Vancouver Island that flows from mountain sources down to the coastal Broughton Strait. The river winds through heavily forested terrain with dense coniferous woodlands and passes through several lake systems along its course.

The river's name originates from the Kwak'wala language of the 'Namgis people, a coastal First Nation with deep historical ties to the land. European settlement and industrial development arrived in the late 1800s, but the waterway remained central to the region's ecology and indigenous presence.

The Nimpkish River Ecological Reserve contains some of Canada's tallest Douglas-fir forests and supports research and educational activities.

The river area is accessible from Island Highway 19 south of Port McNeill, with trailheads and boat access available at several points. Water conditions and weather can change with the seasons, so checking local conditions before paddling or hiking is important for safety.

The lower sections of the river experience strong tidal currents that create unexpected flow patterns during certain tidal cycles. These natural features often surprise paddlers and require local knowledge to navigate safely.

Location: Regional District of Mount Waddington

GPS coordinates: 50.24268,-126.67262

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:03