Cortes Island. The most northern of the Gulf Islands, Cortes Island guards the entrance to Desolation Sound, the ultimate destination and culmination of the wonders of the Gulf Islands. Being the most northerly island in the group, it is the most remote and requires two ferry rides from Vancouver Island to reach. It is a large island but only the southern half is populated leaving large wilderness areas on the island. The permanent population of about 800 is scattered sparsely with concentrations on the south end and The Gorge, a large protected waterway entered through a narrow cliff entrance.

Its remoteness creates a strong island identity and community. It has several fresh water lakes that are perfect for swimming in the summer. It has a truly abundant wildlife and is home to countless deer. Cougars, wolves and the occasional brown bear swim over from the mainland to make the island their home as well.

The shape of the island is remarkable with its ruggedness, deep inlets, points and bays. In the winter the storms that come roaring up the Straight of Georgia hit the island with their full force creating some spectacular Arbutus trees which cling to the southern and western exposures.

Cortes Bay is home to both the Seattle and Vancouver Yacht clubs. Squirrel Cove is the closest entry way to Desolation Sound, a paradise of unpopulated wilderness islands, bays, fiords and rugged snow capped mountains, including the pyramid shaped, Matterhorn like, Mount Denman at the end of Desolation Sound.