Are photographs allowed of the petroglyphs?

No, photography of the petroglyphs is prohibited to protect their spiritual and cultural integrity.

How do I get to the meeting point at 520 Tonquin Rd?

The meeting point is accessible by vehicle via road from Bella Coola; precise directions will be provided upon booking.

Is the trail suitable for children or seniors?

The trail is moderate with uneven footing; while children and seniors can participate, assessing individual mobility is recommended.

Do I need previous hiking experience to join?

No prior experience is required, but be prepared for a moderate walk on forest terrain.

Are dogs or pets allowed on the trail?

No, pets are not permitted to preserve the sanctity and safety of the cultural site.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

Tours operate rain or shine; appropriate rain gear is essential. Severe weather may result in rescheduling for safety.

Sacred Petroglyphs Trek with Copper Sun Journeys in BC

Set along the rugged shores and dense forests of British Columbia’s Central Coast, Copper Sun Journeys offers an immersive two-and-a-half-hour guided trek to the Sacred Petroglyphs site, a rare gateway into the spiritual heart of Nuxalk territory within the Great Bear Rainforest. Beginning at 520 Tonquin Rd, this unique journey ventures into the Thorsen Creek Conservancy, where over 40 ancient petroglyphs etched into stone surfaces stand as enduring records of the Nuxalk people’s deep cultural and natural history.

Unlike typical hikes, this experience is a cultural passage through time, framed by towering western red cedar and hemlock trees whose evergreen canopies filter the coastal light onto the moss-draped forest floor. The petroglyphs themselves, depicting animals, spirit figures, and creation narratives, serve as living imprints of Indigenous teachings and traditions preserved through oral history and shared by your knowledgeable Nuxalk guide.

What distinguishes Copper Sun Journeys’ offering is the direct connection to the land's original stewards, making the hike more than a nature walk — it’s a profound invitation to witness stories woven into stone, atmosphere, and the natural world. Photography is restricted here, emphasizing respect and preservation for these sacred symbols.

For visitors to Bella Coola or nearby hubs, this trail presents an emblematic outdoor adventure that strengthens understanding of Indigenous stewardship amid one of the world's largest coastal temperate rainforests. It's a rare opportunity to combine cultural insight with the lush ecological diversity of BC’s Central Coast, making it a standout destination for travelers aiming to engage deeply with both environment and heritage.

Sacred Petroglyphs Trek with Copper Sun Journeys in BC

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