Abandoned Railroad Town | Steam Train Found | Destination Adventure

Haida Gwaii has a tremendous amount of history, across a vast spectrum of subjects. The First Nation history dates back to the earliest in out country, but there is a lot of history scattered along these islands from industry and towns that have been basically forgotten. If you take a boat out on the water here and cruise along the coastline, it is hard to get out of site from one historic location before you spot another. Logging has been the main industry leading to all of these boom and bust locations, and the amount left behind is astonishing.
If is hard to find much if you are not diligently looking, because the moss and the regrowth of the forest quickly take over again, but if you put in the time you will discover so much. I ended up finding Aero Camp, formerly Allison Camp, completely by accident. When Kirtus was visiting, we were heading out to Sewell Inlet when we saw some pilings sticking out of the water. Upon closer inspection, it was obvious this was the location of something quite large. I recognized a couple of the larger pieces of iron as components of a locomotive, so plans were made for a revisit.
The second visit did not disappoint, and I think I even managed to find what is left of an entire train left on the tracks. It is difficult to say what is left of Aero Camp, because there is very little documentation of the site between its abandonment in 1955 and today. I am sure that anything of value was taken or scavenged, and anything wood would have decomposed, but there is enough left today to more than peak your curiosity.
It is a shame I didn't have more time to pursue this story properly, but never the less it was an amazing site to visit.
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[@PauliG]

Love these so much. Every time I have been injured in the wilderness was because I made a bad decision. Crossing those logs by yourself in the middle of nowhere might be considered one. It’s fun until it ain’t. Please be careful. None of us would have cared if you didn’t cross them.

[@gorillagoldhunters]

100% I have fell, n I grew up in the woods, fell off a slick log n a stick went up my arse . Very lucky..

[@SterlingBall]

Risk it for a biscuit 🍪

[@SterlingBall]

Stick in your arse isn't lucky haha

[@SRM_NZ]

@@gorillagoldhunters ???🤔🤔I don't get it? Where you lucky the stick went up your arse?🥸😵‍💫

[@xacexredsmrfgaming7987]

i just kept thinking what if he fell thats is at least 20 feet in the air

[@admireandinspire4525]

This is it this is the one I've been waiting for. I spent a little bit of my childhood at this camp I wish I could put a photo It was truly one of the best things ever Thank you so much we're going to be spreading my father's ashes there 1 day I have to make time to go with my brother Thank you again . love and respect

[@blakedurrant9399]

I've learned more about the history of this province from your youtube channel than any other source. You're a national treasure. Can't wait to see the next episode of "Canadian Heritage Minutes" with Dustin Porter.

[@Destination_Adventure]

That’s awesome 😊

[@2peaseinapod486]

Couple of things here. At 11:41 I believe the wood would be part of the cab for the steam locomotive. Usually the inside of steam locomotive cabs were painted green because its a calming colour. At 12:51 it is quite hard to tell but I think the picture actually shows an old wooden boxcar. Some passenger cars did look like that but they were the really old ones and they were quite small. At 13:09 that would be the frame of a railcar though I am not sure what kind. At 13:22 I don't think thats a smokestack at least for a steam locomotive. The smokestack on steam locomotives were usually made out of cast iron. At 13:48 most traincars were built out of wood in the early days because wood was relatively strong for its weight and especially in the forest where there is lots of it the wood was much cheaper than steel railcars. At 16:16 I'm not too sure what that cylinder is but my best guess is an air reservoir for the air brakes on trains. The locomotive would have an air compressor to keep the reservoir pressurized and if the engineer wanted to slow the train down with the brakes he/she would release some of the air and that would apply the brakes. At 16:52 those are wheels and and one of the trucks or bogies that the train car would sit on. At 12:48 something quite interesting. That is a split knuckle coupler. They were made to be compatible with another coupling system called link and pin couplers so you could have one railcar with the knuckle coupler and another with a link and pin coupler and you could still use them together. Some quite interesting things here and I hope this little bit of info helps you out

[@robertkissiar2976]

Mornin coffee with a side of adventure! Thanks for lettin me tag along!

[@brokendowndog]

Awsome episode Dustin.! My grandfather, we called him Pa Pa, was a forestry locomotive engineer, so the train stuff surely stirred something in me. There definitely are some of those specially designed forestry locomotives in Cowichan. Some are static, whereas a few are maintained to operational condition. Anyone interested in that sort of thing, B.C. Forest Discovery Centre, in Duncan, on Vancouver Island is where the locomotives you mentioned can be found.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I’ll definitely be checking them out next visit to the island.

[@kathrynjohnston794]

It's amazing to what lengths they had to go to to get to the areas that held the raw resources to build things. I did enjoy your walk across the two trees. However, I held my breath and was so glad you are so sure footed because of the remoteness you were in. Loved this series. Your work is so professionally done, and you truly capture the beauty and history that you have available to you. Thank you again, Dustin, for this adventure. God's safety and blessing on you from Proctor Minnesota!

[@One2Daemon]

Did I tell you that you are the best. Did I tell you that your are my favorite on KZbin? Did I tell you before that some of your video's make me cry out of joy to what our creator has given us and how you capture it so wonderfully? The way you place camera angles, the video, the music, your commentary are simply exceptional. I give a lot of comments on KZbin, most are critical sorry to say, but yours. Oh My GOD, they are magnificent. Are you getting offers from networks? You should be. I started watching your content when I wanted to learn more about Canada, but your content is WAY beyond that. It is inspirational, its nature at its finest, and it inspires us all to get out there. Again, thank you for what you provide. Sometimes folks do not hear that much. Sincerely, Leslie.

[@lingling5278]

Good morning hope y'all have a wonderful weekend.

[@classydays43]

Well aren't you a hidden gem. Thank you for making the time to put this together.

[@vernsampson3584]

Yet again another great episode, Dustin, thanks for all the vicarious adventures. In 1958 our family moved up to Alliford Bay ( I was 11) At that time it was to be a logging camp for Powell River Timber after Aero closed down but the interesting thing about the place for an 11 year old kid was that it's very recent past was an RCAF amphibious aircraft base. Large concrete ramps ran down into the bay, there were 2 big hangers and barracks + married quarters. There were gun emplacements in the hills around the place. I spent hours exploring everything I could find. It never really became a permanent camp after Mac & Blo took over. Dad worked for CZ (Northern Pulpwood) in Sandspit. Lived there for the 3 years of our time in Haida Gwaii. Disclosure. some of the facts may be not exactly right as that was 65 years ago!} Cheers from Sointula

[@Destination_Adventure]

That must have been such an interesting childhood. Probably felt quite normal at the time, but what a memory. Thank you for sharing.

[@sheridagg4017]

I think you need a pair of goggles Now that would be fuuuunnny when you removed them after this ride. Once again great job you have made my day again There’s a great railway museum in prince George ( which you may already know about ) most rail cars where made of wood. Thank you again for the history ❤

[@screwthecabal6453]

Kinda funny and cool how mother nature takes back what we take (and make) from her.

[@terriflewin6228]

Thank you, every episode I have learned something new.

[@rhinoandlue]

That place looks like something out of Avatar. Beautifully done Dustin, thanks so much for bringing this history into our homes.

[@mrc1539]

Great episode, so much history in such an out of the way place. I’m always amazed at how Mother Nature reclaims her area once man has left it . Thanks for the ride along .

[@eggberta]

This video perfectly documents Nature claiming back what was taken from it. Cool episode Dustin!

[@andrea6421]

I always enjoy your adventures! Nature truly does take over doesn’t it. Still such a beautiful island! Thanks for sharing. 😊

[@darrellsharman9408]

It’s amazing how mother nature slowly takes everything back! Another amazing video thanks for sharing

[@sharlettedavidson81]

Absolutely a magical place,blankets of moss …wow just loving it. Well done as always Dustin. See you next week. ✨🙏✨

[@bc30cal99]

Good morning from the cool south Okanagan, it's 4 here this morning so fairly brisk. Thanks for taking us along again, it's interesting to see some of the off the main trail spots you've brought to us. We camped at Gray Bay for a week when we were there in the early 90's and it never rained once, so our memories of Haida Gwaii are unusually dry and very pleasant. All the best and safe travels.

[@Beachhopper]

I can't believe you're leaving already! Definitely have to go back! I'm still anxiously awaiting to hear about what you discovered under the trees that made you back away. :)

[@jeffgodsy9155]

Oh heck yes. I definitely believe another visit here is warranted.

[@TheeKronz]

Love the videos. My children and I love learning history and seeing place we would never likely see. As a father I love the dad jokes too.

[@fredv7487]

Just another fantastic video Dustin. Hard to believe all this equipment is just left to rot away. Thanks for all your hard work. 👍👍👍👍👍🍻🍻

[@Jasontodd74]

Can't really see you grumpy. Don't get me wrong we all can get that way but I am sure you aren't bad. Now Mick maybe could get a little alcohol induced attitude but we all can. Thanks for another winner. I've been rewatching old videos of yours for over 4 hours. Actually found two that I somehow missed. Glad I went back. Some of my favorites I could watch 100 times. You are amazing!!!

[@robroaring7175]

Another ripper adventure. Thanks Dustin. I love finding the remnants of past lives in the bush like that. We have a strong industrial mining and logging history here in Tasmania, and the lengths and effort they went to back in the day is mind blowing. Such hard work! Thanks again for another beaut story. Rob, Tasmania, Australia

[@patrickcampbell4504]

If I'm out and about, I watch you on the phone but when I get home I do a repeat on the big screen. That stump became huge!

[@normanmallory2055]

Great find , this is my kind of history , I just love old abandoned RR grades and old camps ! Sometimes following RR steel I find a gold mine but most times not but I keep searching!

[@oddballno3-builds780]

its crazy what salt air will do! up in Maine USA a logging company abandoned some steam trains of roughly the same vintage which are away from the ocean, and they are still almost 100% complete.

[@parkerottoackley6325]

Thanks again for the ride 👍

[@paulmeinke9461]

Your face near the end told the whole story. Make sure you wash behind your ears like your momma taught you! Lol!!!! Great job, loved the video.

[@kenuber4014]

Thanks Dustin!

[@jonsymmonds1120]

Checks in the mail! Wow, I could have never walked over those logs! Awesome skills and balance Dustin!

[@kristinakahila8914]

I loved this video. Thank you Dustin.

[@1927su]

There’s always something/someone lost when something is gained in the name of progress. Neat video Thanks for sharing

[@darlenemurphy4968]

Another great adventure! Thank you.

[@joedunbarjr]

As always, another thumbs up for you!

[@toddtraficanti4832]

Willing to loose sleep just to watch another adventure with you. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Stay safe and thanks again.

[@juanaction2715]

As always Dustin, Glorious!!! Thanks man. Respect

[@aussiefirestorm]

Thanks for taking us along on your adventures.

[@jameslumley5170]

Once again, poking your nose into everywhere that most of us will never see. That is why I enjoy your channel so much. Happy New Year, Dustin! Keep'em coming!😁

[@Nancy-xs9pm]

As always, you never disappoint. Thank you for another amazing adventure.

[@jellyartist]

Fascinating episode. Amazing how much the salt water and wind has affected the rate of decay. The post apocalyptic appearance is truly humbling. Not much plastic back then though, so much less survives the test of time. Take care mate.

[@chrisblack8390]

Loved it!! Thank you

[@ledwardian1]

Man, another great video, Dustin! Such a beautiful place and the history is really neat. I can only imagine what's buried beneath all that moss! I can't wait for the next one!

[@rebelonemarkgold4532]

I'm so glad this video was up this morning I sure didn't need to take one of your calming trips. I know how tough it is to traipse through the woods call grass and mud in the face. Thanks for taking me along. These these Adventures you take believe it or not or so calming to the heart and nerves. Thank you for doing what you do!!! .

[@Moxinea]

This place looks so beautiful. Thank you for sharing

[@sissysenn833]

Another amazing video Dustin! Nice to see your smile today!❤❤❤

[@SwedishCook1]

Love your sense of humor and the adventure…safe travels!

[@floydt2029]

Well done Dustin! Your capture of history is amazing, take care!

[@pattie1705]

As always, very enjoyable and relaxing.

[@ryanmcknight4580]

Great experience as usual! Always so much fun exploring with you!

[@michellebreau1124]

Definitely worth a repeat visit. Such a beautiful place.

[@kendalshepard2883]

Great Ep. Keep up the super work. So much great history on HG .

[@Rainnchaser]

You definitely need to return for more exploring. You could spend an entire season checking out spots on Haida Gwai and still only scratch the surface. Another amazing video. Thanks Dustin it brings back many memories.

[@trailblazerlife3140]

Absolutely awesome thank you

[@LiveAlohaOhana]

Great stuff Dustin ! You know I was imagining what it must of been like back then with all the sounds and sights of all that heavy equipment and men working up there ,what an exciting time that must of been ! I want to thank you for checking out and sharing all of this from Haeda as this brings back so many great memories and a deeper insight of all the islands ,what a fascinating experience this has been and I'm so looking forward to your next adventures abound good friend ,Aloha to you and Mick eh 😊 🌴

[@Ruffway64]

Another fantastic video.

[@randybooth9192]

Such great scenery. Thanks Dustin 🤘

[@dwightwindrum7886]

Excellent adventure. I love how you incorporate as much history as you've researched.

[@neilhansen5663]

Thanks for another great video

[@matthewtaylor1697]

Dustin I love hearing about the history of the places you go to. Thank You.

[@1slippery2]

Love the history that you provide on your adventures! Makes it so much more intriguing.

[@curtisv7114]

What an incredible site and history, and top quality video as usual. Can't wait to see what you find next!!!!

[@Paddy_Roche]

Thanks Dustin this was an amazing place. I, for one would love to see more in the future.

[@PeterWitham]

Love these videos, thanks for putting them out there. I love videos where I feel like I'm experiencing the trip with folks, you nailed it.

[@Awsom47Merc]

* RUST NEVER SLEEPS ! 🤭 Another great informative vid. Thanks Dustin. 👊😎👍

[@jefflawrentz1624]

This is sooo cool! I love learning about history like this! Thank you for taking us places we never would have gotten to go otherwise. 🤗

[@robdedrick2052]

Great Explore Buddy . Tks

[@normanmallory2055]

You gotta do more like this adventure, neat history !!

[@urbancavemanintheak7732]

Great vid, nicely done!

[@marcuswenger7668]

Dude, thanks for another awesome adventure!

[@Dwendele]

I'd give you $100 a day, to take me on a couple week adventure. That kindnof nature (and the historical part too) just speaks to my soul. I was born and raised in Texas, but for as long as I can remember those ancient mountains and (rain)forests have just....moved me.

[@michealwhynot]

Another great video Dustin

[@kaineleeabel]

Cool adventure thanks for sharing

[@godsteam8903]

It seems these get better and better. Love the beautiful scenery, history and your adventures.

[@beachtimehawaiibth7222]

Keep the videos coming our way! 👍

[@terrycole9427]

Enjoyed this adventure so much thank you for sharing with us

[@jimmystewart3288]

Thanks for the ride and another great adventure .... ✌

[@johnmccormick175]

Amazing place and quite the history,Thanks for sharing Dustin ,stay safe.

[@DeadBaron]

Sobering how quickly everything rots away and anyone that used to live and work there is long forgotten

[@jeraldheinrich3589]

Great video! Haida Gwaii has alot of interesting history.

[@tracyb8193]

Need a repeat! There is a lot of interesting stuff there!

[@Mark-si7tf]

That trip was really cool. I liked the scenery very much too!

[@ex_yz]

thanks for the great adventure! you do good work sir, dont stop!

[@gorillagoldhunters]

Another amazing video my friend!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you

[@kinderliving1]

Not only do I always enjoy your adventures but I also enjoy your soundtracks. Thank you for this joy.

[@muzza566]

Great viewing for a Sunday morning here in Qld Australia cheers

[@lauraduffy6177]

Thank you again. I love all your videos. You rock. Keep up the great work. 😊

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you.

[@joshthomas6410]

That’s awesome Dustin, I’m a railroader myself and this video is amazing.

[@davecottrell3044]

Awesome find!

[@lifewithconnie3738]

Dustin! FANTASTIC! As usual!!! Saturday morning is the best with destination adventure! I love your excitement about everything. The whole place is so beautiful

[@FranHutchison]

Wow. Cool episode.

[@poisongirl666avenged]

Another great vid

[@vanveen8472]

thanks for another great one, having grown up on the coast when I saw you head out without any rain gear I was impressed with your bravery

[@DannoM_]

This area is so neat looking! The woodsy, rainy, foggy and somewhat eery feel is fascinating. It's amazing how what was once a bustling operation has been claimed by nature.

[@trevorkenny]

Good stuff as always.

[@calldon4688]

Another great episode!! And yes, a return visit would be wonderful. I'm sure there's tons more to explore. And, ah, by the way, I have to admit I agree with PauliG about crossing the logs. Maybe it's because I bear the injuries accumulated over years of invincibility.

[@joyb1299]

Yaaaay! Perfect bday gift! More Dustin! 🎉

[@Destination_Adventure]

Happy birthday. 😊

[@joyb1299]

@@Destination_Adventure Thank you!