The Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Canada, is not an island, but more of a peninsula, packed with hundreds of hiking trails and numerous beach access points for your enjoyment.
There are a few towns on the Sunshine Coast, from Langdale at the southern point to Lund at the northern end, where mile zero starts or ends for Highway 101.
Though close to Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast is still very wild with bears and cougars, as well as other wildlife.
Mile Zero maker in Lund at the north end of the Sunshine Coast.
Lund, BC, is a picturesque village on the northern Sunshine Coast, famous as Mile Zero of Highway 101, marking the start of Canada’s portion of this historic route that eventually connects to South America. Known as the “End of the Road,” Lund offers stunning oceanfront views, access to Desolation Sound, water taxis to Savary Island, and is a charming destination for cyclists and travelers seeking remote beauty in British Columbia.
Batch 44 in Sechelt, is a great place to stop for a cold one and great food
also, along the way is Pender Harbour, a small but thriving community.
Egmont is next, home to the world-famous Skookumchuck Narrows (also known as the Sechelt Rapids). The word “Skookumchuck” roughly translates from Chinook jargon to “strong water”, and the name is accurate; twice daily, as the tide changes through this narrow ocean passage, the flow of saltwater switches, reversing direction. The resulting currents create incredibly powerful, turbulent rapids. On the flood current, the rapids build to a breathtaking standing wave, which attracts expert paddlers from around the world. On the ebb current, the eddies, bubbles, and boiling waters swirl back in a mesmerizing display.
Visitors wishing to view the Skookumchuck can hike through the Provincial Park, winding their way through lush, old-growth forest on a moderate hiking trail. The trail leads to two viewpoints, ideal for viewing the rapids from the safety of shore.
Powell River offers unspoiled wilderness beauty, endless ocean vistas and more than 36 lakes in temperate rainforest to explore. Here you will find friendly locals, unique neighbourhoods and a wide variety of events and art venues to keep you entertained. The Historic Townsite represents one of the very few National Historic Districts in Western Canada, with each home or business having stories to tell.
Can’t forget to mention a great spot for eats before hopping on the ferry back to Vancouver Island.
Powell River offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by lush forests and rugged coastlines, this town is a haven for nature-lovers. Go whale watching or explore over 180 km of hiking trails for a day outside or visit some of the local art galleries.
