Advisories & Bulletins
Tofino’s remote and rugged location on the West Coast of Vancouver Island allows us to reconnect with the outdoors, and enjoy spending time together. It also means that we need to be ready to adapt to situations dictated by nature or travel logistics.
Before you start your journey to Tofino, we always recommend checking DriveBC and BC Ferries for any bulletins. On this page, we do our best to include any important messages that could impact your travel. This section is also updated with info you need to know for your time here, including power outages and water conservation measures, to ensure that you can always make the most of your stay.
Wesley Ridge & Mount Underwood Wildfires -Highway 4 Remains Open
The Wesley Ridge Wildfire is approximately 2.5 hours east of Tofino, between Parksville and Port Alberni, and the Mount Underwood Wildfire is along the Alberni Inlet, between Port Alberni and Bamfield. Crews have made good progress, and both fires are now considered held.
Please be advised that Highway 4 remains open.
There are no expected closures at this time. Keeping Highway 4 open and safe remains a top priority for BC Wildfire and other responding agencies.
For your safety and the safety of others:
- Do NOT stop along the highway to observe the wildfire
- Obey all posted speed limits
- Use caution as visibility may be affected by smoke
Drivers are reminded to always carry an emergency vehicle kit, including:
- Food and water
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Personal medications
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Extra clothing and footwear
- Blankets
Stay informed:
- For the latest road conditions and updates, please check DriveBC.
- For wildfire updates, use the BC Wildfire Service app or website.
The air quality in Tofino has not been impacted by the fire and remains low risk. However, the air quality on the way to/from Tofino through Port Alberni may be impacted.
Highway upgrades between Port Alberni and Tofino-July to December 2025.
Highway upgrades between Port Alberni and Tofino are scheduled from July to December 2025. Travellers should expect delays and plan for extra travel time as crews work to improve road safety.
Estimated delays by month, plan for extra travel time:
Month | Daytime Delays | Evening/Night Delays |
July | Up to 30 min | Up to 30 min |
August | Up to 50 min | Up to 50 min |
Early September | Up to 70 min | Up to 40 min |
Mid-Sept–October | Up to 50 min | Up to 20 min |
November–December | Up to 30 min | Up to 30 min |
Travelling from Port Alberni to Ucluelet August-Mid September? Subtract 20 minutes from the above estimates.
Travelling from Tofino to Ucluelet August-Mid September? Add 20 minutes to your travel time.
For real-time updates, visit DriveBC: https://www.drivebc.ca/
Note: Some GPS apps may suggest alternate routes that are not open or recommended. Cell coverage is limited along the route, but Wi-Fi is available at the Taylor River rest area.
Contact the Tofino Visitor Centre for assistance:
- Call 1.888.720.3414
- Message us on social media
- Open daily 8:30 am-6:00 pm
On the road? Dive a little deeper into the stories that shape Tofino....
Hear locals speak to the history, evolution and future of Načiks - also known as Tofino - and gain a richer understanding of this vast and rugged coastline. From the Tuff City Radio talk show "Tourism Talk" to the Destination Think-led podcast "Travel Beyond," we invite you to see Tofino through a new lens.
