Masset

Masset, formerly Massett, is a village in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia. It is located on Masset Sound on the northern coast of Graham Island. The village of Old Masset (also known as Haida) is located 2 km from Masset, and is the site of three ancient Haida villages.

Understand
Masset is located on Masset Sound on the northern coast of Graham Island, the largest island in Haida Gwaii, and is approximately west of mainland British Columbia.



History
The name Masset was a gift from the captain of a Spanish vessel that was repaired with the assistance of the Haida citizens of Atewaas, Kayung and Jaaguhl. These three villages accepted the gift and adopted the name Masset to commemorate what might be the first ever contact between Europeans and the Haida. The name Masset is now used by the Village of Masset and the Village of Old Massett, the original recipient of the name and a village under the Constitution of the Haida Nation. Masset's name in the local dialect of the Haida language is Uttewas, "white slope", probably referring to a small hill south of the village.

By car
Masset is located at the western terminus of the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16). The nearest ferry terminal with connections to Prince Rupert and mainland British Columbia are an hour away in Skidegate.

Airlines at main airport

 * Operates flights to Masset from Vancouver (2.25 hours).

Get around
Masset is small and walkable. Masset and Old Masset are connected by road and by sidewalk.



Do

 * Beachcombing along North Beach, search for treasures while hiking along the beach. Top treasures include Japanese glass fishing floats, sperm whale teeth, shells, sand dollars, and agate gemstones.
 * Fishing along the Hiellen River, Sangan River or Chown River.
 * Fishing along the Hiellen River, Sangan River or Chown River.

Stay safe
The Greater Masset area lies in a seismically active area and can be vulnerable to tsunamis. Familiarize yourself with the local emergency plan and map.

If you experience a strong earthquake that lasts more than a minute, do not wait for an evacuation order. Gather your emergency kit and leave immediately along the designated route.

Go next
Explore Naikoon Provincial Park. You're also at Mile 0 of the Yellowhead Highway, head east for and go to Winnipeg.