The climate of the Charlottes is very mild. The annual temperature is a balmy 8°C (46°F). The summer temperatures are similar to those in Northern and Central BC. It is the winter temperatures, which are moderated by the Japanese current that are much higher than winter temperatures of inland BC and the rest of Canada. The Islands have a reputation for rain. In reality, the rainfall on the east side of the islands is similar to Vancouver and south coastal BC, because the mountains on the west side of the Charlottes create a significant rain shadow. The average annual rainfall is about 125 cm (50 inches). The west side of the Charlottes is similar to the west coast of Vancouver Island and has some of the highest rainfalls in Canada at about 450 cm (180 inches).

The Queen Charlotte Islands/Haida Gwaii are a collection of about 150 islands resting on the western edge of the continental shelf. There are two main islands, Graham Island to the north and Moresby Island to the south. About 5,000 people share these islands, most residing on Graham Island in the communities of Queen Charlotte City, Tlell, Port Clements, Masset and the two Haida communities of Skidegate and Old Masset. Sandspit is located on the northeastern tip of Moresby Island. A 20 minute ferry ride and 130 kilometers of pavement connect the two islands and their communities. Each community is unique and collectively they offer a wonderful insight into island living.

The southern part of Moresby Island is Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve/Haida Heritage Site. The area, unique because of its spectacular west coast scenery, rich ecology and Haida culture is cooperatively managed by Parks Canada and the Council of the Haida Nation - the Archipelago Management Board, plans, operates and shares the management of Gwaii Haanas. These islands have been home to the Haida for thousands of years. A recent archaeological inventory of the area has documented more than 500 Haida archaeological and historical sites. The village of SGang Gwaay, located at the southern end of Gwaii Haanas is considered to have the world's finest display of Haida mortuary poles, all over one hundred years old. In consultation with the Haida, UNESCO declared Nan Sdins Illnagaay (Ninstints) a World Heritage Site in 1981. Gwaii Haanas is considered a wilderness park and is accessible by air or water and reservations and participation in an orientation are required if traveling independently. To make a reservation or request an information package please contact Super Natural British Columbia at 1-800-435-5622 in North America, outside of North America 1-250-387-1642 or in the greater Vancouver area call 604-435-5622.