Chaalh uu Kaahlii (Rennell Sound), Haida Gwaii
A Remote & Rugged Destination
Chaalh uu Kaahlii is the largest and most dramatic sound on the west coast of Haida Gwaii, British Columbia. It is one of the only places on the islands where you can drive to the wild west coast, offering breathtaking views of towering cliffs, rocky shorelines, and remote beaches. However, getting there is not easy—this is one of the most rugged and isolated locations on Haida Gwaii, requiring a personal 4x4 vehicle to access.​
Where is Chaalh uu Kaahlii (Rennell Sound)?
Chaalh uu Kaahlii is located on the west coast of Graham Island, part of the Haida Gwaii archipelago in British Columbia. To reach the sound, travelers typically start from Daajing Giids (formerly known as Queen Charlotte). From there, you'll take a series of logging roads, which wind through thick forests and provide a rugged, off-the-beaten-path route. The roads are generally well-maintained, but they can be bumpy and are often remote, offering an adventurous drive to the sound.
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Chaalh uu Kaahlii is home to several beautiful beaches, some of the nicest in Canada including Bonanza Beach, Gregory Beach, and Riley Creek Beach. These secluded and tranquil spots are perfect for beachcombing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the peaceful environment. Bonanza Beach offers a rocky shoreline and scenic views, while Gregory Beach features soft sand and calm waters. Riley Creek Beach is known for its serene setting with gentle waves and a beautiful forest backdrop.
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The sound itself is approximately 29 kilometers inland from the coastline, and while it is relatively accessible, the journey is scenic, passing through forested areas and landscapes shaped by both natural and human influences. As you approach the sound, you’ll encounter beautiful views of dense forests, towering trees, and clear waterways. The area offers a perfect mix of wilderness, history, and natural beauty, making it a hidden gem for visitors seeking to connect with Haida Gwaii's unique environment. Whether you're interested in wildlife watching, hiking, or simply relaxing, the journey to Rennell Sound offers a memorable adventure.
Chaalh uu Kaahlii
How to get to Chaalh uu Kaahlii (Rennell Sound)?
Directions to Chaalh uu Kaahlii (from Daajing Giids)
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Drive about 22 km northwest along the QC Mainline, which is an active logging road.
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Turn west onto the Rennell Sound Forest Service Road (FSR), marked by a blue sign for Duu Guusd Conservancy and Rennell Sound.
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Continue about 12 km through Rennell Pass.
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Carefully descend Rennell Hill, a steep 1 km stretch with a 25% grade that leads down to Rennell Sound.
You can also come from Port Clements — the route is about 48 km via the QC Mainline, joining the same Rennell Sound FSR.
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Road Conditions & Safety
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Roads are gravel and rough, with potholes and steep hills.
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A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, though high-clearance 2WD vehicles have made it.
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Logging trucks use the road — travel during off-hours or follow vehicles with CB radios.
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No cell service in the area, so plan ahead.
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Check for current road conditions before heading out.
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Camping at Chaalh uu Kaahlii
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Rennell Sound Recreation Site: Outhouses available, no drinking water.
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Cone Head: Two sites and an outhouse.
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Sites are first-come, first-served, with the season running from March 15 to October 31.
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What is a sound?
A sound is a large, wide inlet of the ocean that is typically larger than a bay and can be formed in different ways. Sounds often occur along coastlines and can be created by glacial activity, river erosion, or the flooding of a valley. They may connect to the open ocean or be partially enclosed by islands or peninsulas.
In the case of Rennell Sound in Haida Gwaii, it is a deep, fjord-like inlet on the west coast of Graham Island. This sound is carved into the coastline, allowing ocean waters to extend inland, creating a sheltered marine environment. Sounds like Rennell Sound often have dramatic landscapes, rich marine life, and are influenced by tidal movements.
Chaalh uu Kaahlii (Rennell Sound) and Haida Gwaii facts
Rennell Sound is the largest sound on Haida Gwaii’s west coast, extending about 29 km into Graham Island.​
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Haida Gwaii was once connected to the mainland during the last Ice Age, allowing unique species to evolve here.
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Some of the ancient cedar and spruce trees in this region are over 1,000 years old!
Rennell Sound is one of the only west coast locations on Haida Gwaii accessible by vehicle.
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This area is a prime spot for spotting humpback whales, sea lions, and rare seabirds nesting on the rocky cliffs.
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The dark skies over Rennell Sound make it a perfect place for stargazing—on clear nights, the Milky Way is visible!
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Storm-watching here is an incredible experience, with massive ocean swells crashing into the shoreline.
The road to Rennell Sound is steep and adventurous—making it one of Haida Gwaii’s best-kept secrets!
The beaches here are covered in driftwood, some of which has traveled across the Pacific Ocean.
Haida Gwaii’s black bears are among the largest in North America, thanks to their rich seafood diet.
Seabirds like puffins, murres, and cormorants make their nests on the cliffs near Rennell Sound.
Tidepools reveal colorful sea stars, sea anemones, and tiny crabs—perfect for curious explorers.
The sound’s deep waters are home to abundant marine life, including halibut, salmon, and rockfish.