British Columbias Mysterious Northern Islands | Destination Adventure

Haida Gwaii has always been a dream of mine to visit. It is remote, hard to access, rarely visited and most of all, rich in history. The first nations people have been living here for more than 6000 years, and the culture is still strong today. Europeans made it to Haida Gwaii in the mid 1800s, and that chapter of our history book is a very dark one, and was almost the end of the Haida People. Populations have slowly risen back over the decades, and with it came the culture. Ancient culture is still common practice on the islands today, and I am looking very much forward to learning as much as I can during my stay. History of the first nations is most prevalent, but scattered all around the island is bits and pieces of history from cultures all around the world. This is the final piece of land between Canada and Japan, and the rugged coastline is littered with shipwrecks, totem poles, villages and more. It is one of the few places that still has stories to be discovered.
I am visiting for a month, and I truly can not wait to dig into some of the stories and adventures here. In this episode I try to cross off the "touristy" locations, because I want to see it all, but then our focus will go to the remote and hard to get to places.
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[@PissBoys]

There’s been a thread throughout your videos of respect for the indigenous tribes of these areas, and I want to thank you not only for showing them that respect but for showcasing them and allowing them to tell their stories. There’s so much language and folklore and history with these peoples that’s lost every year, and having someone chronicling it, even though that’s not the focus of this channel, is so important to the history of this region.

[@MrCarltonv]

What are the Piss Boys up to this weekend?

[@dubstrippin]

Lmaoo every time you comment I laugh at your name.

[@PissBoys]

@@MrCarltonv Piss, bro. Every day.

[@Destination_Adventure]

They have the oldest history in our country, and that’s a huge interest to me. Too much has been lost, and if I can help even a little to preserve some, I am honoured to have the chance to do so. Thank you for the kind words.

[@chrissmith3509]

They have the greatest culture in history. I just wish the government would back more young white people to conserve their great history.

[@1954shadow]

You handled that back up onto the ferry like a boss!

[@Destination_Adventure]

🤘🏻

[@MattyBrad]

Glad somebody said something.

[@mccullochmike]

I lived in Masset when I was a little kid, back when it was called the Queen Charlotte Islands. Spent many hours on the ferry when there was no ipads, phones or internet. I remember it being so long and boring...and sometimes very rocky. Haven't been there in a number of years but still think about it as many of my childhood memories are there. What a magical place.

[@jewel2022now]

Yes, tense I bet. But you did good

[@knexpert93]

Facts lol

[@nicholasdickson3891]

My son and I were so pumped to finally meet the guy we watch every Saturday morning. Thanks for taking a few minutes to chat! Enjoy your stay and welcome to Haida Gwaii! Don’t forget to stop at Sherri’s gas bar. She’d love to say hi.

[@Jasontodd74]

Dang bud, I forgot how much I liked when you interviewed people. You really know how to get them to talk and find out good stuff. I love to learn from your travels. You have got a serious talent and I am not kidding. I could watch your videos over and over. I know because I have a bunch of the older ones. I will visit some of Canada when I can. It’s an amazing place and I had no clue till you showed me. I’ve got my whole family watching now!!! Thank you so much!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much, I appreciate that.

[@NeverlandSystemAngel]

I LOVE you showcasing native art and the indigenous tribes and their heritage! They are so overlooked, forgotten, and deserve so much better.

[@hellofoodiebeauties]

Is it weird that I love when Mick shows up? 😂

[@muddawgkomm9642]

Your not the only one because I'm right their with ya! 👍🤘

[@eggberta]

I actually laughed out loud when Mick showed up! LOL! @@muddawgkomm9642

[@marksmith1033]

I third that! 😅😅

[@ivanovitchivanovsky8255]

My uncle does most of the road grading on the island. Any of the dirt roads you go on, he maintains them. My favorite part of the island is the giant slugs lol

[@Destination_Adventure]

Noice. So far, they’re in pretty good shape. :)

[@bigbird2451]

I live in Oceano California. Way back a Scandinavian ship carrying lumber from BC ran aground off our coast. They tossed their load overboard so the ship could escape. There was a massive scramble to harvest wood on the beach. To this day you can see signs of it in local construction of the times where metric lumber was used to build shacks and houses around town.

[@th3oryO]

Interesting, as we don't use metric lumber in Canada. Everything building related is still imperial due to the vast amount of export to the US. I wonder if the mill did a custom order for the Europeans?

[@bigbird2451]

Yeah. I'm pretty sure it was a Scandinavian ship heading back home with euro spec lumber. @@th3oryO

[@whitneycrew1]

We met you in Rupert a few years ago. Connect again?

[@hummer010]

This is amazing! We were just in Haida Gwaii a few weeks ago! I'm super envious of you having a month - we were only there for 5 days. My #1 discovery was that 5 days wasn't enough. We'll be back in Haida Gwaii someday. If you're looking to get to the west coast, I highly recommend Rennell Sound. It's a pretty nice campground, and the Sound itself is spectacular. We kayaked around the Sound - more than once I found myself wishing for a motor - there was so much to see, but we had some bad weather rolling in and had to get off the water. I wish we'd had e-bikes for the Pesuta - the road portion of that hike was pretty miserable. Might have been the pouring rain that made it miserable though.

[@richardksimpson800]

Killing it as usual. Your ability to operate your equipment, choose angles, narrate and edit are truly impressive. Your show feels like a team is working BTS. Well done and super fun AND FUNNY. Great work!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@Island_Boys_Adventures]

First time seeing one of these videos of his and Holy bud! You've put in a tone of effort into this video. Thoroughly impressed.

[@poohbear4130]

Without a doubt Haida Gwaii trip was one of my best trips ever. I have travelled to a lot of ancient places, guided through jungles but I never thought I would find someplace like this in my own country. It’s like going back in time and removing everything stress in your life and ya nobody moves quickly! War memories through out, incredible Beachcombing, incredible native history, even a golf course. Meet a local carver and learned the difference between living and survival! Incredible fishing can’t say enough about this little place. Found every one extremely accommodating but ya it’s pricey I feel for the locals!

[@mrandrat625]

I like how the second route went from a much nicer route, to a huge mistake, to a dumpster fire. All to reveal a hidden beauty. I can remember news stories of the Haida fighting to keep the old growth from the saws. I respect and applaud them for doing so, there needs to be some places left untouched.

[@1603shadow]

Although I lived in Prince Rupert for many years I never had the opportunity to visit Haida Gwaii the scenery is stunning, and your videography is beautiful as always. I look forward to what this new series is going to bring.

[@JackDaniels350]

My sister lives in Haida Gwaii - I went to visit her back in 2017 and the road to the Pesuta wasn’t there, only the trail. There’s actually an old cabin in that cool grassy green area you found - shame you missed the cabin, it’s something you would have loved to check out!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Maybe it is gone. It seemed like the place something should be, but I saw nothing. Lol

[@evileyeball]

Though he is not indigenous in any way my father loved the art of the Haida people and he passed away this weekend. This is the perfect video for my life currently. Thank you very much for every video you make.

[@Destination_Adventure]

You’re very welcome, and I am sorry for your loss.

[@evileyeball]

He also loved Mussels so this is great too

[@evileyeball]

He had a good 68 years, and he will be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him so what more can you ask for in life.@@Destination_Adventure

[@kimklobucher3154]

Thanks for the history, comedy and views in this vid. Can't wait to see more of this adventure! ❤️

[@MorbinNecrim86]

Major mad props on the reversing. It's awesome when you interview local people and share bits of their story

[@Destination_Adventure]

🤘🏻☺️

[@PinInTheAtlas]

Well Dustin, you’ve done it again. The cinematography and production are superb. You have charm, wit and respect. Thanks for such an entertaining video. And that mussel! Well it looked delicious! See you on your next adventure.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much :)

[@WeDanceWestie]

Hello Dustin, love your videos they are beautifully shot and edited, exceptional views and scenery. I really enjoy your sense of humour and your great adventurous spirit. Cheers from Southern Ontario.

[@nickfrechette19]

Fellow ontario day dreamer! What awesome videos right!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@tresfreaker]

I don't think you mentioned it, but the island used to be called Queen Charlotte Island. They renamed it in 2009 to Haida Gwaii, and more recently they are changing a lot of the villages names to be more traditional.

[@pinebearclub]

HAIDA GWAII!!! What a surprise! My favourite place as I was there in ‘19 with my daughter camping from Rose Spit, all the way to Gray Bay. I laughed when you said that you could’ve driven out to the wreck as that happened to us. I ran the five Km back to the truck and then drove it out to the wreck and camped in it’s shadow, a truly amazing experience. Love this place, will definitely go back with my little boat to explore more! Bryan from Vancouver

[@katheriner9970]

I'm excited to see this destination with a full month of you exploring this island I didn't even know existed. Very cool that the locals are welcoming of your videography; you've already proven you'll do them justice.

[@wendydaniels9730]

Dustin, I love your videos! Your views are just amazing, this is one of the best ones yet! I stumbled upon your channel when the Mt Layton hot springs episode came across my facebook page. My husbands family were the managers/caretakers there in the early 90s and we all were just in awe at the video. It was so sad to see how run down that place is now but you did a beautiful job of capturing its legacy. Thanks for the ability to explore from the comfort of my chair 😊

[@TallchickLynz]

Hi Dustin!! That's my husband talking to you in the beginning of the video! I'm the wife. You've spoken to me on Instagram too, tall girl with blue hair!! I work for BC Ferries, spent a while hoping I'd run into you when you finally got to go to Haida Gwaii, only I'm working on the other boat this Summer. Hope you had a good trip on the ferry, thank you for the sticker!! And this video of course, made me smile. It's been a while since I've been able to go very far in Haida Gwaii, normally an hour long bike ride in either direction from the terminal, so seeing more of it was such a treat. Thank you!!!

[@Destination_Adventure]

This is a super fun comment to read. :) I’m always happy to find my stickers a good home.

[@keithrides65]

I thought those metal support rods on the shipwreck were nails until you grabbed it with your hand. Huge! Can't wait to see around the Islands on this trip.

[@MrGordy2630]

Another outstanding adventure..thank you for bringing us along and sharing the story of the locals.❤❤

[@gorillagoldhunters]

5am upload! Wooo wooo just getting off work n get this masterpiece to watch! Thank u Dustin!!!

[@RobsNeighbor]

I haven't watched yet however feel this is going to be another amazing showcase of Dustin's amazing talent and a great story!

[@kathrynjohnston794]

The beauty that you capture in your videos is amazing. At times, I almost come to tears at the beauty of God's creations. I do love it when you interview the local native people. They are such a wealth of history and knowledge that may be lost if not shared as you do through your interviews. Great job of backing the rig up into the ferry. You could just film continuously, and I would be a happy adventurer with you. You always bring me much joy every Saturday morning. Thank you once again for taking this senior on adventures with you. And yes, I do watch the Wednesday shorts also. I can't wait until next week for more. Stay safe! God's blessings on you, Dustin, from Proctor Minnesota!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you for enjoying, and for the kind words.

[@flightographist]

I got to spend several weeks there studying the coastal bogs ( I recommend Tow Hill for the beach and the orange Sphagnum imbricatum bog, it's mind blowing- it is behind that tree line across from the campers- too bad you missed it.). I too was surprised when they told me I had to back my tailer into the ferry. The Cumshewa trail is incredible to hike. Up near Masset, there is a short trail where you can see the culturally modified trees and a partially completed canoe in the forest, miles from the sea. When I visited, it was pretty much intact, no longer as I understand it. I hiked out to that ship wreck too.

[@parapelegicBUD]

Mick is the man. Nice to see him again . Well done thanks .

[@Jackielocks]

One of my favourite places to go! The North Shore is my fav spot.. Tow Hill, Agate Beach, the Spit! The entire two islands are beautiful though and the people are great. So much quieter and more natural than Vancouver Island. Dip netting for crab on the North Shore is a blast! We’ll be back again next summer.♥️

[@jens.9155]

Breathtaking; beautiful place and beautiful people.❤ Praying your touristee spots are protected and respected unlike some of the ones here in the states. 🙏 The Mick "romancing" part had me rolling in laughter! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Love your photography, videography, editing, jokes, etc. God bless you Dustin Porter and your travels. You sure are a blessing to all of us! ❤

[@marciebalme588]

just watching this now - regards from Brisbane Australia

[@kootenaycat]

Great introduction to the island! I have family there and forget how beautiful it is when it's not raining, need to get back for a visit! When we saw the Pesuta wreckage 10+ years ago the tides had revealed more of the frame a little to the north but it probably gets covered up again over time. Looking forward to seeing more back roads in future episodes!

[@Jasontodd74]

Yessssss!!! Great driving under pressure. Lol. Was pretty long and straight. That was great for someone that does it everyday bud!!!

[@sheridagg4017]

Thank you again Dustin . Good to to see Mick again . Can’t wait for all the history on this trip ❤

[@curtisv7114]

Love it when you let your personality shine and incorporate lots of playful humor into your activities. I think we'd get along great if we were hanging out, I have very similar personality haha! Another 5-star video Dustin, no surprises here. :D

[@ginrobi01]

I think this is one of my favourite vids that you've posted. You never fail at making your videos interesting and I can't wait to hear more about the history.

[@katherinespong]

I adore HG. Thank you for showcasing it!! Enjoy your time, can't wait to see where you go next.

[@nickiewilson9134]

Found out that my G.G.Grandmother Tutsumutsa Edenshaw aka Mary Warren Williams, came from the Haida Gwaii. She was the oldest native to die on Vancouver Island in Esquimalt, in 1931 at 104. It was my G.G.Grandfather Captain James Douglas Warren's second marriage. He came from P.E.I. in 1858,he opened up the Trade Routes around Vancouver Island to the Haida Gwaii. He jad many Shipwrecks, The S.S.Apha,Barbara Boscowitz, S.S.Thornton,the Famous S.S.Beaver that sunk at Prospect Point in 1888. My cousin's and i are taking a cruise next summer,just like my many family members have.❤ Thans for sharing this beautiful place.

[@gretaleeschmidt]

watching this episode again and in awe of the beauty and sadness for the strife thank you Dustin for showing the world how beautiful the Islands are and cant thank you enough for your work

[@Celoso26]

Glad you are showing your cooking skills plus the inside of your camper, awesome! Thanks! Love your channel.

[@paulson6270]

Another Great Adventure!!! Beautiful Places. Love when you interview People in those places.Gotta love Mick.

[@keestoft250]

Yes! I was going to mention a book I've just finished in the comments last week, but you're there! It's called The Golden Spruce by John Vaillant, it's the very dark history of a rare genetically mutated Sitka that appeared golden, located in Haida Gwaii or Queen Charlotte Islands. It's a sad but great book, and I would like to go there one day, but for now I'll come along with Dustin and everyone watching. 🖖

[@Destination_Adventure]

I have that book now. It was gifted to me here :)

[@westcoastislander6699]

Awesome book! Have read it twice. An excellent telling of history of the area with a mystery of the Golden Spruce threaded through.

[@lucymcrae162]

The first time we were at Haida Gwaii we took pictures of the Golden Spruce....so sad when that nut cut it down...yes, I read the book. I am so grateful that we took the time to get the pictures.

[@GrannysGarage333]

What a super cool place!!!Looking forward to this series! Plus I just love your humor … thanks for taking us along for the ride!

[@handmadeDenver]

Yes- adding to the chorus of thanks for inclusion of so much of the daily lives of local native culture, with it's beauty, history, and challenges of island life. It's a delight to see it through their eyes and hear their voices. Your video was a welcome introduction before I visit with a kayak guided tour next summer. It didn't seem possible to get me even more excited than I already was, but your adventure episode sure did. Breathtaking cinematography, gorgeous people and arts.

[@TinTin-nz2kt]

Your cinematography is amazing thank you for showing the beauty of our country and giving it the respect it needs.

[@sunshine000000ful1]

Oh im so so excited to see this series with your visit to the Queen Charlotte Islands!!!!! So so wonderful, Dustin!!!!! Such beauty!!!!

[@DocJ58-OCB]

Thank You for this Dustin, since I'm part Haida, and never had a chance to actual visit the hereditary home of that part of my heritage, this is going to be a fun experience.

[@nickiewilson9134]

Me too,found out that my G.G.Gram came from Masset Land,she was the oldest native to die on Vancouver Island in 1931 at 104 in Esquimalt. It was my G.G.Gramps Captain James Douglas Warren 2nd marriage to Tutsumutsa Edenshaw aka Mary Warren Williams. He came from P.E.I. in 1858,opened up the Trade Routes here to the Haida Gwaii. He had many Shipwrecks, like the S.S.Alpha,Barbara Boscowitz, the famous S.S.Beaver, it sunk at Prospect Point in 1888. My cousin's and I are taking a cruise there to visit her Homeland,just like most of my family did when they retired. ❤ 🇨🇦

[@michaeltorumedia]

It was my first time watching one of your videos and I absolutely loved this episode. The storytelling, cinematography, and humour are all on point. Thank you and enjoy your time in Haida Gwaii 🙌

[@FirstLast-zm1cd]

This is such a lovely video! I came here as a kid with my family and seeing that sunset and toe hill made me remember that trip and made me a little teary

[@user-wn8mk9cx7l]

I am looking forward to your adventure on the islands. Thank you for taking us there and sharing your experience with us

[@marilynmaker5942]

Yes, its on my bucket list but doubt I'll get there. So thanks so much for taking me along! Awesome video and look forward to your month there. Love the cooking show too (you crack me up)! xo

[@edmundabc1]

I just want to say that everything you do on your channel is completely right and wonderful. That's it, just carry on with whatever you're doing. It's perfect ❤❤❤

[@Soylentology]

Mick spanking a muscle was the gift I needed this weekend.

[@kimklobucher3154]

😂love this comment! Mick always delivers.

[@Destination_Adventure]

You’re welcome ;) hahaha

[@plumbobmillionaire6246]

Loved it. Snuck it in before the kids woke up, great start to my day. Looking forward to next Saturday.cheers

[@darlenemurphy4968]

Thank you for taking us along on another great adventure.

[@leonardfernie7695]

You and Mick always crack me up, keep doing what ypu are doing, looking forward to your next adventure. wish i was there, all the best, Len from scotland

[@ohjessika]

I am so excited to see you travel Haida Gwaii, it seems like such a gorgeous place, filled with beautiful people.

[@ledwardian1]

Man, I really love your videography, Dustin! You go to some pretty cool places, and I'm glad you share your adventures! 👍

[@KiraandtheSurvivalPod]

This is awesome. I also spent a month in Haida Gwaii last summer and was learning as much as I could. I didn't even make it into Gwaii Haanas, but I have hopes to return and discover more history and wildlife through kayaking. Fingers crossed I can make it. Visiting Haida Gwaii is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thanks for the video - I learned a lot and enjoyed it very much! 🤩

[@kenuber4014]

Would have loved to see what Nick might have come up with! Lol. Thanks for the adventure again Dustin!

[@sissysenn833]

I love it! Beautiful views! Great video thanks Dustin!❤

[@daveschofield9448]

Another awesome saturday morning tv 😊 Thanks great show Dustin/Mick

[@ccdodge6359]

Thank you. Wonderful Adventure. The History and sights are Fantastic. You do put smiles on faces and in Hearts. Adventure on. 😊

[@jennysolomon-haase9103]

You are such a joy to follow. I've lived in the PNW my entire life. You help to take me to those places I won't get to. I'll keep following.

[@montyforster3370]

Fantastic material and editing. 35 years ago I visited a pal whom was responsible for building a school in Charlotte city. Quite a building and history. Reynolds spund is a keeper. Hope you make it there

[@DragonflyenAmber]

Wow, I can't wait to see the rest of your journey on Haida Gwai, another place added to my bucket list to go see.

[@cathymacdonald1469]

Haida Gwaii is an amazing place, I have been twice and love both adventures. Thank you for bringing this to everyone’s attention Dustin. Wonderful video😊Agate beach is the most beautiful spot that I have ever stayed.

[@jimmystewart3288]

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

[@krudolph7]

One of your best yet. Keep it going!

[@sheriewelsford]

OMG...I so loved this one Dustin. Haida Gwaii is a bucket list destination for me...someday. I'm looking forward to seeing the next videos you do.

[@mjmcomputers]

Thanks for taking us along.

[@lostrailbeds8289]

Your hits just keep on coming!.......THANK YOU Dustin!

[@Destination_Adventure]

You’re most welcome 😊

[@yourmoney11]

Nice to see mick another great video Dustin can’t wait for more!!

[@landlice48]

Ok, have to admit, this will be my 3rd time watching your Haida Gwaii videos. Love them!!

[@dcustomt727]

Dustin, I like the way that you incorporate the music and the content. I enjoy your videos with music it sets the tone. Thank you for all the great adventures.

[@apancher]

The intro to the cooking portion had me rolling! Another awesome video, man! Enjoy your time on the island.

[@FRkiddo]

You’re such a pro, you’re made for this. Looking forward to your future videos and supporting you for many years to come I hope.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you. 😊

[@paulawebb700]

You are an old soul..Never stop the adventure..Beautiful beach view ..

[@JesusSaves473]

Nice scenic views. Thanks for taken us along

[@sergiolandz6056]

I just found you channel this morning, and wow !! So happy i did, i am done work for the winter in 2 weeks and i will be going threw your videos, cant wait ! And thank you so much for sharing your experience.

[@bensun432]

Heck ya man, saw you driving around here. Didn't get a chance to say hi, but glad you made it over! Awesome job showing HG

[@bobmanzi7712]

You always find the perfect spot. Great stuff, thanks. Safe travels

[@BlackCat-aka-Jewels]

In the north beach of Astoria we got the Peter Iredale...also a historic shipwreck still visible ! History is so amazing ❤

[@mattlavers2871]

Man...that Sunset was UNREAL ❣

[@vancityracedesigns2283]

love all your vids bud. great work.

[@glassglowz]

Your production quality is top shelf! Thanks so much for putting in the hard work to get all those camera angles 👌

[@laurascherle930]

Well done with that amazing backup💝❣️ Thanks for taking up along on your amazing adventures 💝 I’ve enjoyed following on some of your adventures in Mexico That I had explored years ago. Now your travels take me along on wonderful new adventures that I am no longer able to go on my own. Thank you for the respect that you show the places and peoples that you visit.

[@Maxdekriek]

as alway's a stunning video dustin.... thank you for sharing!!!! greetzs from friesland...max....

[@lifewithconnie3738]

Dustin!!! You’re amazing. I’m so excited about these videos. I’ve lived in BC all my life and have never been up here. Always wanted to - so will enjoy this trip vicariously through you. You’re videos NEVER disappoint !!! Wow. I tell everyone about your videos , and sometimes share them on my fb page. Truly amazing.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much :)

[@jameslumley5170]

I am so looking forward to your next videos. Another place that I hope to see. Love your channel Dustin.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you

[@whiteknucklert2315]

Sick! Can’t wait to watch the rest of the series!!

[@janicem4382]

The thing I love about driving behind someone slow is that it slows me down and gives me a chance to look around.

[@rhondaburke5700]

Like opening a present, each time I see your video pop up! Thanks Dustin!😊

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you 😊

[@BALLGAWKER]

Genuinely love everything you do bro, you're a master of your craft.

[@jayinthemtns]

Yeah! We did a campervan trip there last year and it was incredible. Stoked to see the rest of your time there. Take some time to relax, it's a magical place.

[@ericfinley3915]

Another fantastic video! Great work man!

[@ricknelson576]

Such a beautiful part of our world, im lokn forward to many more adventures there. Thanks for awesome video.