Everything you need to know before riding the Vancouver Island Grand Loop.
It's about 50% paved and 50% dirt and gravel. However, considering the amount of time you spend on each type of road, it feels more like 20% pavement and 80% gravel by the end.
The main route will take 5–8 days depending on your pace. Based on my own experience, I would recommend the following itinerary:
Day 1 — Stages 1, 2 & 3: Victoria to Lake Cowichan
Day 2 — Stages 4, 5 & 6: Lake Cowichan to Mount Washington
Day 3 — Stages 7 & 8: Courtenay to Woss
Day 4 — Stages 9, 10 & 11: Woss to Port Hardy
Day 5 — Stages 12, 13 & 14: Port Hardy to Campbell River
Day 6 — Stages 15, 16, 17 & 18: Campbell River to Victoria
That depends. People have travelled around the world on a Honda Goldwing, a Vespa, and even a tiny moped. If they can do that, then you can ride the Vancouver Island Grand Loop. However, I would highly recommend using an adventure motorcycle. Many of the roads are quite rough and will be very stressful on your suspension.
No. Parts of Vancouver Island are very remote, isolated, and mountainous. Please refer to your service provider's coverage map. It is highly recommended that you have emergency satellite communication (like a ResQLink or a SPOT GPS) for the entire western side of the VIGL route.
Food is readily available at a variety of restaurants and pubs along the route. Each stage description includes specific recommendations for coffee, lunch, and dinner stops.
There are hotels and motels, hostels, lots of campgrounds, an alpine resort, and even some backcountry camping options. In general, you should not have an issue finding accommodations. However, if you plan to do any camping, it's advised that you book as early as possible during the summer months as they fill up quickly. If you plan to do any backcountry camping, please be bear aware.
Yes. Stages 2 and 3 combined are one of the longest stretches without fuel, as are Stages 10 and 11. Extra care should be made to ensure you always have a full tank of gas before setting out.
You'll need to purchase tickets from BC Ferries to transport your vehicle to and from Vancouver Island. Most travelers arrive in Victoria via ferry. If you're traveling from outside of Canada, you'll need your passport. Most US auto insurance policies extend their coverage into Canada, but be sure to check.
Feel free to send me an email and I'll do my best to help.