A large, sheltered basin near the head of the Broughton Archipelago, famous for the short forest trail over the mountain to swimmable Huaskin Lake.
Turnbull Cove lies off the northwest entrance to Kenneth Passage in the upper Broughtons, reached via Wells Passage and the Grappler/Mackenzie Sound area. It is one of the northernmost and most popular anchorages in the archipelago, a broad bay with plenty of room for a good-sized fleet and good holding in sticky mud.
The cove is well protected from prevailing northwest winds and feels snug and secluded, ringed by steep forested slopes. It is a favorite for crabbing and as a base for exploring the surrounding sounds.
The signature attraction is the trail at the north end of the cove: a roughly 1 km steep climb (with a log staircase and handrail) over to Huaskin Lake, where boaters find a dock, swimming float, picnic table, and fire pit.
Approach notes, hazards to watch for, and what's available once you're tied up.
Approach from Wells Passage into Kenneth Passage. The entrance to the cove is narrow, roughly 60 yards wide and about 20 feet deep, with thick kelp lining both sides (heaviest on the west side). Favor the middle of the channel.
On spring tides current through the entrance can reach about 2 knots; it is generally not hazardous but warrants a mid-channel approach. The most serious concern is weather: the bay is open to the southeast, and per Sailing Directions a southeast or easterly gale can circle the cove in full force and turn it into a lee shore. Some references note possible debris or deadheads near old slide areas.
Wind protection summary and tide planning at a glance. Full per-direction and 7-day detail with Plus.
Live readings from the nearest OpenWeather station and WorldTides; refreshed every few minutes.
Source: OpenWeather One Call API + WorldTides.
A curated photo + map walkthrough showing approach, mooring options, and points of interest.
A guided walkthrough of Turnbull Cove with approach photos, depth notes, and points of interest — written by members who have been here recently.
Real first-hand reports and questions answered by members who have actually been here.
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Cruising-distance picks near this anchorage.
