When temperatures dip and the days get greyer and darker, you could suppose there’s less to do on the Sunshine Coast. After all, summers here are pretty lively—endless beach days, hiking and mountain biking galore, the warm ocean and lakes that invite all kinds of watersports. And don’t forget a growing food-and-drink scene from Gibsons to Powell River.
But winter on the Sunshine Coast is hardly a write-off. In fact, plenty of colder-weather activities make the Coast a year-round destination for visitors and a lucky place for locals to call home. So what are some must-do winter activities on the Coast? This geography boasts the ocean all the way up to mountain altitudes, with things to do in every town from Langdale to Lund.
QUIET OCEAN ADVENTURES
Sunshine Coast beaches are an all-season escape. With a coastline that stretches 180 kilometres from Howe Sound at the southern end to Desolation Sound to the north, you’ll find an abundance of shoreline for tranquility and rejuvenation. Whether gathering with a few friends around a fire at Bonniebrook Beach (when there’s no fire ban!) or paddling a kayak along the coastline, there’s something peaceful and expansive about spending time oceanside in winter. Long walks on the beach with a hot drink in hand are just as restorative as beach walks in warmer weather, and Fido doesn’t care either way. With fewer people and canine companions around, our furry friends can have much more off-leash freedom if you so choose.
RESPLENDENT WATERFALLS AND WICKED RIDES
If you’re in the mood for the comforting enclosure of verdant forest instead of the open Salish Sea, the Sunshine Coast has 1,570 kilometres of hiking and mountain-biking trails that meander through old-growth, fern-carpeted wilderness. A drive up the Sunshine Coast Highway reveals entry spots to smaller hikes through the woods as well as larger parks.
In winter, the West Coast rainforest feels much like it does in the summer—just wetter. You might need an extra fleece layer, a trusty rain jacket, and waterproof outdoor shoes if you’re exploring on foot. One winter hiking experience you can’t miss is the waterfalls. Cliff Gilker Park is a dramatic experience in winter, with powerful waterfalls that are a gentle trickle in warmer months. Hikes through Langdale Falls and Homesite Creek offer waterfall views too, while Blackwater Creek
Trail just outside Powell River reveals Kelly Falls and David Lam Falls. The latter is one of the highest on the Coast at a towering 60 feet.
Rain or shine, the woods always promise a good time for mountain bikers. The Coast’s 844 trails include routes shared by hikers and riders, and some that are designed specifically for mountain biking. Right off the Langdale ferry, Sprockids Park is a popular mountain-biking spot, with trails to challenge both beginners and more advanced riders. In Sechelt, Coast Gravity Park is a world-renowned mountain-biking destination, with trails designed by riders for riders. Because of COVID-19, access to Coast Gravity Park is by prepaid, prescheduled ticketing only.
ACTIVITIES ABOVE THE SNOWLINE
Moving inland, you’ll find invigorating snow-based activities at the Coast’s higher elevations. On the southern Coast, Dakota Ridge is a popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. On 1,532 acres of backcountry plateau, 20 kilometres of groomed nordic ski tracks and 8 kilometres of snowshoe trails offer breathtaking views out to the Salish Sea, Vancouver Island, and the Coast mountains. A crisp, sunny winter day is paradise up on Dakota Ridge, and you can even end your snow day with hot drinks at the cosy warming hut. Don’t have your own snowsports gear or a 4×4 vehicle? Not to worry. Alpha Adventures is located at the base of Dakota Ridge and offers gear rentals and shuttle service.
Tetrahedron Provincial Park is the ultimate outing for serious trekkers. Traversing an elevation gain from 900 to 1,800 metres, the Tetrahedron is a trip for those who are equipped to commit: in winter, an avalanche warning means travellers should have avalanche safety equipment and know how to use it. Tenting isn’t allowed, but four rustic cabins are stationed along the route for overnight backpacking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. And when you get to the summit, Mt. Steele, it’s no surprise that your reward is an epic 360-degree view of the ocean, Vancouver Island, and the mountain peaks nearby. On a clear day, you can sometimes even see Mt. Baker. Make sure you’ve got a four-wheel–drive vehicle and chains to reach the trailhead.
INDOOR VIBES IN WINTER
As mentioned, the Sunshine Coast has an abundant hospitality scene. When you’re ready to come in from the cold, cosy up at your chosen resort or rental accommodation—you’ll find options aplenty, from simple to indulgent, beachfront to treetops. While you’re here, get a taste of the Sunshine Coast’s evolving food and drink offerings. Unpretentious but delicious craft beer and cider complement restaurants that range from comfort food to casual fine dining. There are also winter markets like the Sechelt Farmers’ & Artisans’ and Friends Winter Market, Powell River Uptown Winter Market, and quaint Christmas markets throughout the area where you can find locally made treats and holiday gifts.
Wherever your winter itinerary takes you, the Sunshine Coast is not to be missed. You’ll find all the West Coast wonders you love in the summer months, just a bit more tranquil and low key.
