Now that summer has arrived, and with the recent lifting of travel restrictions in place for many months within BC due to COVID-19, qathet region residents are considering options for spending weekends and vacation time.
For those fortunate enough to live in the Powell River area, outdoor activities are nearly limitless, so why leave this paradise? Here are just a few ideas to start with for an action-packed staycation.
Biking
Powell River has captured the attention of mountain biking enthusiasts far and wide. Suicide Creek and Mud Lake trails are two of the most popular, with dozens more to be found. Try a pavement ride on Texada Island, a quick spin through the Willingdon Beach Trail, or visit the bike and skateboard park at Powell River Recreation Complex.
Canoeing
The world-renowned Powell Forest Canoe Route is a scenic journey stretching 57 kilometres from Lois Lake to the Shinglemill. Each of the eight lakes on this route are accessible by an active logging road as a shorter paddling excursion. For more information, visit canoeingbc.com.
Camping
Whether you are looking for a truly back-to-the-earth experience or all of the modern luxuries money can buy, the qathet area has a campsite with your name on it. Call ahead to confirm the availability and amenities of your campsite of choice.
Climbing
Stillwater Bluffs are home to some of the best sea-cliff climbing in BC, while the Eldred Valley boasts granite walls to rival Yosemite National Park, up to 900 metres high in some places. Near the Shinglemill you will find the Higgyland cliffs and the Powell Lake bluffs.
Hiking
There are 400 mixed-use trails and counting, as well as the longest hut-to-hut hiking route in Canada. The Sunshine Coast Trail is truly world class, with 180-kilometres of traversable terrain and 14 huts ideal for stopping and sleeping along the way. The trail can be completed as a whole in less than two weeks, or broken into multi-day or day hikes.
Kayaking
The ocean waters that surround Powell River are some of the calmest due to the shelter provided by nearby islands. The area is abundant with sea stars, sea urchins, sea anemones, and sea cucumbers. Or, put in near the mill and see the Hulks up close. Powell Lake is a fresh-water option closer to the town centre.
Stand up paddling
Stand up paddling, or SUP, is a low-impact, all ages workout and meditation with nature. The sport provides a level of ease and accessibility.
Swimming
Powell River offers a wide array of swimming spots to help you beat the summer heat. Hands down, the most accessible are Willingdon Beach and Mowat Bay. Haywire Bay, Gibsons Beach and Second Beach take a little more effort to find but are worth it every time. Beach access signs can be found all along the highway.
Have fun checking out these options. You might just stumble upon some other gems along the way
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