Ah! It’s that time of year, finally! Time to be done with the long slumbering and get out into the natural world. We had a sudden transition in October, from sunshine, late-season swimming, and tranquil sunsets, to ice and snowfall, within one week. And we had colder-than-usual temperatures right through March. But now there’s no denying the daffodils, and birdsong.
Here on the Coast we have a crazy abundance of trails and hikes, beaches, and viewpoints. We enjoy myriad ways to easily have a healthful and enlivening experience in Nature. Here are some of our favourites. Lucky us.
Soames Hill in Gibsons is an outstanding short hike through old forest to the kind of viewpoint that leaves visitors gobsmacked. There are two different access points, one on Bridgeman Road, and one on Esperanza Road, that lead to the steep trail, with steps of intermediate difficulty. At the top, mossy rock and arbutus trees frame views of Howe Sound, Keats Island, the North Shore Mountains, the beautiful natural harbour that shelters Gibsons, and the Salish Sea. The forest surrounding Soames Hill is known for it’s resident Barred Owls, so listen for their distinctive call as you walk.
Cliff Gilker Park in Roberts Creek is yet another of our trails that leaves tourists blown away but that locals take for granted. With easy access off Highway 101, a playing field and playground, plenty of parking, and well-marked trails of varying lengths, this is the perfect hike for families and dog walkers. There are locals who walk this trail every day. But for visitors, it’s hard to put the camera down, with so many picturesque creeks and waterfalls, charming bridges, and big trees. Winter and summer this is a cool, green, protected hike. Watch for the sign off the highway in Roberts Creek, near the golf course and east of the lights.
Further up the Coast we have Mount Daniel in Garden Bay, a longer trail for those wanting a real workout. The Garden Bay area is a playground of accessible lakes, marinas, and great hikes. If you have the energy, this is the place for your surf ‘n turf day: a long hike to a splendid viewpoint, then a dip in a sparkling lake, or out on the sea on your watercraft of choice to view marine life and coves. Starting at the metal gate off Garden Bay Road, the Mount Daniel hike is approximately 6 km each way, and steep in places. There are two view points from which to survey the diverse beauty of the area, including lakes of all sizes, protected harbours, marine activities, islands, and distant mountains.
If you are travelling to Powell River and want to stretch your legs before the ferry, the hike to Skookumchuk Narrows is the perfect choice. A green, accessible, fairly flat trail winds 4 km through forest to a viewpoint where the astonishing power of our local tides can be witnessed. Whirlpools, overfalls, and currents that reach top speeds of 30 km/h are ever-changing and fascinating. Two hundred billion gallons of water moves through the narrow passage. The best times are peak flood and peak ebb, but it’s always a worthwhile hike whenever your schedule allows.
Hikers who visit the Powell River area are in for a treat. The Sunshine Coast Trail extends 180 km through old growth forest, mountaintops, creeks, lakes, and shorelines on a breathtaking and well-maintained route from Desolation Sound to Saltery Bay. There are 14 shelters in beautiful locations, which make excellent day-hike destinations or allow for a secure overnight experience. Huts cannot be reserved and are on a shared, first-come, first-sleep basis, with priority for thru-hikers. Composting toilets, bear-proof food lockers, and tent platforms are just some of the enhancements that hard-working volunteers are adding all the time. The Sunshine Coast Trail is Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, and the only free one. Overnight, backcountry travel requires experience and equipment. Visit the excellent website at sunshinecoastcanada.com for the most up-to-date information.
