Vargas Island has always been one of my favorite places. This was my 7th visit but not since 2018, so I’ve definitely missed this spectacular area. The only part of the island that I haven’t paddled to or camped on is “Dick and Jane Beach” but I’ll save that adventure for another time. I did get to add Milties Beach to my list though. On the morning on March 28th, just as… Read More
I will start with a bit of a preemptive spiel. Normally I am very excited to share the specific locations that I paddle to, visit and explore in hopes that others can do the same or may be inspired to do so. I will neglect to do so this time. To some, it may be obvious as to where I was and it may not be difficult for others to ascertain, I’m… Read More
I’m a very proud supporter of Friends of Clayoquot Sound and their conservation work in the local area. Two of my images were recently featured on page 5 of the summer 2017 newsletter. Please consider making a donation: http://focs.ca
I will be the first to admit that a lot has been written about this topic. Things like flat ground, proximity to water and firewood, avoiding areas where wildlife activity is evident certainly all do stand out as being obvious. Sometimes though, you don’t have too much of a choice and have to improvise, such as when I was stranded for the night on Vargas Island. My only advice is to plan… Read More
I’ve recently partnered with Wolf Awareness Inc. to pursue an initiative later this year to help raise funds. I’m very proud to be associated with this foundation and to stand alongside their efforts. wolfawarenessinc.org
This was my third time camping on Vargas Island north of Tofino in Clayoquot Sound. The first time was not by choice, the second time involved a strenuous hike with way too much gear but the third time was indeed a charm. Transportation by boat to the pocket beach adjacent to Ahous Bay was arranged with a friend (I wont disclose the individuals name) and the weather was fantastic for our two… Read More
In July of 2013 I paddled from Tofino and made my base camp at Blunden Island. The following morning I set out to paddle across to Vargas Island. The crossing is only 2 km at best and conditions were calm. The goal was to photograph the Wolves on Vargas Island and because the crossing was minimal I only brought along a few provisions, minimal food, a little bit of water and that… Read More
My most sincere thanks to Nova Scotia artist, painter and friend Wendy Crocker for our commission. Her chosen title “Elements” is reflected well in the synonyms of the word – aspect, detail, matter and principal all of which I pondered during this very moment in July of 2013 on Vargas Island in Clayoquot Sound. After being wind and ocean swept while kayaking I was stranded for the night on this remote island… Read More
The Evening Before the Launch I spent the evening before my launch at the Dolphin Motel just outside Tofino. As always it was a pleasant stay and I enjoyed the interaction with one of the owners, “The Dolphin lady.” I’ve stayed at the Dolphin Motel several times now and I still don’t know her name. I’ve just always called her “Dolphin” and so we’ll go with that. Anyone that has stayed here,… Read More
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