A summer steelhead season runs from April through October. The nearby Heber River is also home to summer steelhead. While the pulp mill has been affected by the downturn in the forest industry, Gold River's tourism sector is booming. Along with the excellent river and lake fishing, the salmon fishing is superb in nearby Muchalat Inlet, named for the Native Indian band that still lives along it shores. Gold River has taken advantage of the big fish, transforming itself into a getaway for the dedicated fishermen and outdoor enthusiast.
Accommodations range from campsites to luxury resorts.
If you're not into fishing but want to view the splendor of Nootka Sound, hop aboard the Uchuck III, a working coastal vessel that supplies villages and logging camps between Gold River and the small village of Tahsis or Gold River and the west coast village of Kyuquot. Always go well prepared into the caves. Check with the Association for details. Go to Canadian Caving Assoc. If you're taste runs to the up and open, Kings Peak, Elkhorn Mountains and Crest Craggs are a mountain climber's dream, drawing climbers from around the world.