I’ve done all of these trips, some of them multiple times. I’ve also done lots of other backpacking trips across BC that didn’t make the list, so you can rest assured that these are the best of the best.

For each trip, I’ve got all the details you need to make it happen: difficulty, duration, distance, best time to go, fees, reservations, and links to trail guides.

The trips on this list are:

• Vacation-worthy – you won’t mind travelling a bit to get there
• Located all over BC including near Vancouver, on Vancouver Island, and in Eastern BC including the Rocky Mountains.
• For hikers of all abilities – there are trips for both beginners and experts, and lots in between. (I’ve also got a whole list of Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners.)
• Great for any vacation length from quick overnighters to long-weekend-length trips to week long epics.
• Great for planners or last-minute trips: A few of these trips require reservations, but most do not.

Here’s a handy map I made for you that shows the locations for each of my picks for the best backpacking trips in BC.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Backpacking Trips Near Vancouver

Howe Sound Crest Trail

Duration: 2-4 days

Distance: 31.7 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Howe Sound Crest Trail is very rough and difficult. Honestly, it is more like a route in some places and requires occasional hands-on scrambling moves as you traverse a chain of rocky summits high above Howe Sound near Vancouver. If you’re up for the challenge, the views are worth it.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Watersprite Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 17 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Both the hut and campground require reservations and fees.

The Trail: Watersprite Lake is an Instagram sensation thanks to its ice blue water and dramatic rock tower. We can credit the BC Mountaineering Club for building the trail to the lake along with a cabin and campground. I think it’s one of the best hikes in Squamish.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Make cabin reservations through the BCMC.

Elfin Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 22 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: Even though the hike to Elfin Lakes is on an old road, it’s worth doing since the views are so incredible. You can see Mount Garibaldi/Nch’kay and lots of glaciers. Its worth spending more than one night at the Elfin Lakes campground or Elfin Lakes Shelter to do some of the great day hikes.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Elfin Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and the hut through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: Located just north of Squamish, Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular backpacking trips in BC. But it’s also one of the most picturesque with tumbling glaciers, alpine meadows, and unique volcanic geology. From the lake, you can tackle incredible day hikes like Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Russet Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 25 to 29 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping and the hut.

The Trail: Nestled into the mountains above Whistler, Russet Lake is home to a backcountry campground and a luxurious hut. There are two ways to get there: a steep trail from the village or an undulating traverse across mountain summits from the top of the Whistler Gondola via the High Note Trail.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my guide to hiking and backpacking at Russet Lake and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• For hut reservations, see the Spearhead Huts Society.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Joffre Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 10 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: The chain of three Joffre Lakes near Pemberton make up one of the Vancouver area’s most popular day hikes. But leave the day-time crowds behind by scoring a coveted reservation to camp at the Upper Lake. Listen for chunks of glacier crashing down the rocks on warm days. This is also one of my picks for the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Joffre Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

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Sunshine Coast Trail

Duration: 8-14 days

Distance: 180 km traverse

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Sunshine Coast Trail winds through the forests along the length of the upper Sunshine Coast near the town of Powell River. Hike by the ocean, through old-growth forest, and across mountain tops, staying in rustic backcountry huts along the way.

More Info:

• Find details on shorter backpacking trips you can do on sections of the SCT in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• For full details on the trail, pick up a copy of The Sunshine Coast Trail Guide Book by R. E. Walz or visit the Sunshine Coast Trail website.
• Some sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail are hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Heather Trail

Duration: 2 to 5 days

Distance: 45 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for Buckhorn and Kicking Horse campgrounds. Nicomen Lake Campground is first-come, first-served and fees are required.

The Trail: The Heather Trail is Manning Park’s signature trail. With a start high in the alpine, you stay above treeline in meadows of wildflowers for nearly the entire length. Take a side trip to summit Three Brothers Mountain and dip in chilly Nicomen Lake.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and pay fees and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Frosty Mountain

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 14 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required year-round. Reservations are required between late July and late October.

The Trail: Frosty Mountain is the highest mountain in Manning Park and it has panoramic views. Break up your hike by camping at Frosty Creek camp. Plan your visit for fall when the larch tree needles turn golden.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, and my Frosty Mountain trail guide.
• Booking camping and pay fees through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Best Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island

Juan de Fuca Trail

Heads up: The Juan de Fuca Trail will be closed in 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach.

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

The Trail: The Juan de Fuca Trail is a gorgeous coastal trail is easier to access than the West Coast Trail thanks to first-come, first-served camping and trailheads close to Victoria. But the hike is just as challenging and spectacular, making it easy to include on a list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Juan de Fuca Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The JDF is hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

West Coast Trail

Duration: 5-8 days

Distance: 75 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The West Coast Trail is Canada’s premier multi-day backpacking trip. It follows the wild coastline for 75 kilometres, up and down ladders, across cable cars, through mud holes, and along beautiful beaches as it travels between the isolated towns of Port Renfrew and Bamfield.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• The West Coast Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Della Falls Trail

Duration: 2-5 days

Distance: 32 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations or fees are needed for camping. But if you want to take a water taxi to the trailhead, you’ll need to book in advance.

The Trail: Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in BC at 440 m tall. (Some sources claim it’s the tallest waterfall in Canada, but that’s not true.)

The hike starts with a boat trip across Great Central Lake. From there you hike up a river valley to the base of the falls. Allow time for the 6 km side trip to Love Lake where there is an incredible view of the entire waterfall from above.

More Info:

• Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Wild Side Trail

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Easy

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required but you must pay trail fees and water taxi fees.

The Trail: The Wild Side Trail takes you along the shoreline of Flores Island in Ahousaht First Nation territory. Most of the hike is along incredible sandy beaches. The trail is a short water taxi ride from Tofino. This off-the-beaten-path hike doesn’t get many visitors, making it one of the quietest hikes on this list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• The Wild Side Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• It’s also on my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Circlet Lake and Mount Albert Edward

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 31 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Summit Mount Albert Edward, one of the highest peaks on Vancouver Island. On the way, you’ll stay at tiny Circlet Lake. This Strathcona Provincial Park trip starts at Mount Washington and is a rite of passage for many Vancouver Island hikers.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Bedwell Lakes

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Climb steeply up through the forest to emerge on the granite shores of Bedwell and Baby Bedwell Lakes, each with their own campground. Intrepid hikers can continue to isolated Cream Lake, which makes a great day trip destination. The trailhead is in a remote area near Buttle Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Elk River Trail and Landslide Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Follow the trail through a beautiful forest alongside the shady Elk River to its terminus at picturesque Landslide Lake and great views of Mount Colonel Foster. There are two campgrounds along the river to choose from. Find the trailhead along the highway to Gold River.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Nootka Trail

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 35 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required. You must pay camping fees. You also need to book in advance for the water taxi or float plane.

The Trail: Arrange a water taxi or floatplane to shuttle you to the Nootka Trail on Nootka Island near Gold River. It’s a remote coastal hike that sees few visitors but has incredible scenery. Highlights include sandy beaches, wolf sightings, Calvin Falls, and the tiny Mowachaht First Nation village of Yuquot.

More Info:

• See my trip report from my Nootka Trail hike. Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay camping fees to the Mowachaht/Muchalaht Nation
• The Nootka Trail made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

North Coast Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 43 to 59 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. You also need to book the water taxi in advance.

The Trail: The rough and rugged North Coast Trail follows the coastline around the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Start with a water taxi from Port Hardy, then get ready for lots of mud, steep hills with rope assists, and rocky beaches.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The North Coast Trail is a great destination between May and September, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Cape Scott Trail

Duration: 3 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: The Cape Scott Trail follows an old settler’s route through the muddy forest to the wild beaches at the north end of Vancouver Island. Choose from several campsites on sandy beaches, then day hike out to the Cape Scott Lighthouse.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions. For camping fee info, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The Cape Scott Trail is hikeable all year, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Best Backpacking Trips in Eastern BC and the Rocky Mountains

Kaslo Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required for camping (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. Reservations and fees required for the hut.

The Trail: Hike into the backcountry of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park near Nelson to camp next to Kaslo Lake. Follow beautiful trails through the alpine to viewpoints and peaks. You can also book the palatial Kokanee Glacier Cabin nearby.

More Info:

• See Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park for trail info.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• See the Alpine Club of Canada for cabin reservations.

Eva and Jade Lakes

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 12 to 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: This alpine hike is easily accessible thanks to the paved Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through the alpine to a beautiful campsite on the shores of Eva Lake, an easy distance for beginners and made my list of beginner-friendly backpacking trips in BC. If you want more solitude, head over a pass to Jade Lake.

More Info:

• Get the details in my Mount Revelstoke National Park guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Mount Assiniboine

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Distance: 52 to 55 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees if you camp in Banff National Park on the way to the trail.

The Trail: The scenery at Mount Assiniboine is postcard-worthy, but getting there can be a challenge. The hike itself is long, but not too difficult and the camping at Lake Magog is gorgeous. But it requires reservations in both a BC Park and Banff National Park, which can be tough to arrange.

More Info:

• See my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide for trail info and reservation strategies.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park through BC Parks.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Banff National Park on the way to Assiniboine with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Mount Assiniboine Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Rockwall Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 55 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The spectacular Rockwall Trail traverses the mountains of Kootenay National Park near Banff, climbing up and over several high passes. There are glacier views, alpine lakes, and the best wildflower meadows I’ve ever seen. I think it has the best effort to reward ratio of all the backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Rockwall Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Rockwall Trail Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.

Yoho Valley Loop/Iceline and Whaleback Trails

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 29.4 km loop

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: Combine several trails in Yoho National Park near Field to make an epic loop that takes in the spectacular Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The views of nearby peaks and waterfalls are breathtaking. Choose from two backcountry campgrounds along the way.

More Info:

• Get trail details in my Yoho Valley Loop backpacking guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• This hike is on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Berg Lake

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 42 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: The incredible Berg Lake Trail near Valemount follows the Robson River uphill to Berg Lake, named for the glaciers crashing into it from Mount Robson, the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Plan to spend a few days in the area to tackle spectacular day hikes.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Berg Lake Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping through BC Parks. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

BC Backpacking in Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

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Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 25 recommendations for the best backpacking trips in BC. How many of these trips have you done? Is there an amazing backpacking destination that I left off the list? Tell me in the comments.

Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

MORE BC BACKPACKING DESTINATIONS:

• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 35+ Places to Go Backpacking in BC Without A Car
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

BC BACKPACKING RESERVATION INFO:

• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know

The post 25 Best Backpacking Trips in BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

While this post is aimed at locations where you can go on an overnight hiking trip in spring, most of these trips make great fall backpacking trips in British Columbia too.

In BC, most mountain trails are snow-covered between late October and mid-June. However, there are lots of lower elevation trails that are snow-free between March and November. There are even a few on this list that you can backpack year-round.

This list of 25 spring backpacking trips in British Columbia includes:

• Destinations near Vancouver, on Vancouver Island, and in BC’s interior
• Trips ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert
• Hikes between 2 and 8 days long
• Trails that are usually snow-free by March, April, or May and stay snow-free until October or November
• Tips for spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• Bonus: Spring backpacking suggestions for Washington State

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia

Tips for Spring Backpacking in British Columbia

Backpacking in the spring has its own challenges. Here are a few things to watch out for:

Weather: In spring, the weather is colder and wetter than in summer. It’s also less predictable. Pack accordingly and be prepared to cancel your trip or switch to a different destination if the forecast looks bad. (Use these picks for the best weather apps for hiking.)

Trail Conditions: Many trails suffer blow-downs, wash-outs, and flooding over the winter. Often, parks staff and volunteers do trail maintenance in late May or June, which means trails can be in rough shape before then. (Here are my tips for how to check trail conditions.)

Mud: Wet and muddy trails are inevitable in spring. Come prepared with waterproof hiking boots and gaiters.

Creek crossings: Streams run high in the spring with a combo of snow-melt and rain. Bridges may be washed out and fords may be dangerous. Be prepared to turn back.

Bears: As they wake up from hibernation and tend to new cubs, bears are more active in spring, especially in valley-bottom and coastal locations where there are lots of things for them to eat at this time of year. Read more about bear safety for backpackers.

Seasonal closures: Some parks and trails are closed in the off-season, or may have temporary closures to due damaged infrastructure. Check park and trail websites before you go.

Trailhead access issues: In spring, logging roads that access trailheads may be muddy or washed out. If you’re heading to a trail that requires a water taxi or floatplane, fog and rough weather may delay or cancel your trip. Shuttle services between trailheads may not start operating until May.

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Spring Backpacking Trips in Southwestern British Columbia

Viewpoint Beach and Halfmoon Beach, Golden Ears Provincial Park

Heads up: Day passes are required at Golden Ears Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry permit registration, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

This easy hike in Golden Ears Provincial Park follows the banks of Gold Creek. There are trails on both the west and east sides of the creek, connected by a bridge, so loop trips are possible. You can camp at Viewpoint Beach or venture further upstream to Halfmoon Beach.

This is the closest place to Vancouver that you can take a spring backpacking trip in British Columbia and also made my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees, see Golden Ears Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC

Lindeman and Greendrop Lakes, Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

It’s a short hike to picturesque Lindeman Lake where you can camp next to the tranquil turquoise waters. If you have more energy, carry on along the rougher trail to Greendrop Lake. Lindeman Lake is often snow-free in April, but Greendrop Lake holds snow into May.

Lindeman Lake is also one of my picks for beginner-friendly backpacking rips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees, see S⨱ótsaqel / Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

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Skagit River Trail, Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Note: Access to this trail was disrupted by the November 2021 storms. The river has changed course at the Sumallo Grove trailhead and the bridge is not accessible at times of high water. In late summer, it’s an easy ford. However, western trailhead on Silver-Skagit Road in Skagit Valley Provincial Park is open between mid-April and November, so you can access it from that direction.

This laid-back hike follows a historic fur-trade route along the banks of the Skagit River as it flows downstream. You can do an 8 km round trip hike from the Sumallo Grove Trailhead in Manning Provincial Park, camping at Delacy Camp. If you have two cars, you make a 14 km traverse from Sumallo Grove to Silver-Skagit Road.

The Skagit River Trail is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the E.C. Manning & Skagit Valley Provincial Parks map from Clark Geomatics.

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Tikwalus Heritage Trail, Fraser Canyon

This historical Indigenous and fur trade route leads steeply up from Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon to several spectacular lookouts. Camp high on a bluff near several small lakes. The trail takes its name from a former Nlaka’pamux village near the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

READ NEXT: How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations

Lower Stein Valley, Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Provincial Park

Note: A large wildfire burned the lower Stein Valley trail in July and August 2023. As of early 2026, the trail is currently only open up to Earl’s Cabin camp 10.5 km from the trailhead.

The warm, dry climate in Lytton makes the Lower Stein Valley my favourite choice for spring backpacking trips in British Columbia – Over the years, I’ve been there six times in March, April, and May. The valley is a spiritual place for the local Nlaka’pamux First Nation.

The trail travels next to the Stein River passing Indigenous pictographs and culturally modified trees. Choose from five different campgrounds spaced out along the lower section of the trail. This is one fo the best places for beginner backpacking in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the Stein to Joffre Trail Map by Trail Ventures BC.

READ NEXT: How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC

Cheakamus Lake, Garibaldi Provincial Park

Heads up: Day passes are required at Cheakamus Lake in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

As the lowest elevation trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park, Cheakamus Lake is a good spring backpacking destination. The flat and easy trail leads through old-growth forest to the beautiful glacially-fed lake. Camp at the lake outlet or follow the trail along the shoreline to camp at Singing Creek.

This trail is my number one pick for easy backpacking near Vancouver.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and the Garibaldi Provincial Park Map by Clark Geomatics. For info on camping fees and reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Fairview Bay/Saltery Bay Loop, Sunshine Coast Trail

Portions of the Sunshine Coast Trail are snow-covered most of the year, but you can tackle this low elevation section starting at the southern terminus in Saltery Bay. Hike along the coast to Fairview Bay hut as an out-and-back trip, or take on the full loop, camping at either Fairview Bay Hut or Rainy Day Lake Hut.

The trip to Fairview Bay is on my list of the best easy bacpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Confederation Lake and Fiddlehead Landing, Sunshine Coast Trail

Here’s another low elevation section of the Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT) that is perfect for a spring backpacking trip. The trail starts at Inland Lake, then climbs steeply through thick old-growth forest to a hut on the shores of Confederation Lake. Follow the SCT downhill to Fiddlehead Landing on the shores of Powell Lake and another hut.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Sarah Point to Powell River, Sunshine Coast Trail

This northern section of the Sunshine Coast Trail is an ideal spring backpacking destination. Arrange a water taxi or 4WD shuttle to the trailhead at Sarah Point or skip the first few kilometres by taking the shortcut trail to Wednesday Lake from Sarah Point Road. Finish your trip at the Shinglemill Pub in Powell River. Along the way, walk along bluffs speckled with arbutus trees, through old-growth forest, and past small lakes.

More Info: Read my trip report from my March backpacking trip on the northern section of the Sunshine Coast Trail. Part of this section is also featured in my book Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Spring Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island

Narvaez Bay, Saturna Island

This oceanfront campground is located on the southeastern side of Saturna Island in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It’s an easy hike in from the trailhead and the trail is also open to bikes. FYI: There is no potable water here so you’ll have to pack in your own. It’s also on my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. See Gulf Islands National Park Reserve for camping reservations.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know

Juan de Fuca Trail, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Note: The Juan de Fuca Trail is closed in summer 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach. The full trail is expected to re-open in late May, 2026.

The rugged Juan de Fuca Trail runs along the coast from near Jordan River to Port Renfrew. It’s a little shorter than the West Coast Trail, its famous neighbour to the north, but it’s just as rugged and has more hills. This trail crosses lots of steep gullies, so it is prone to washouts in the spring, fall, and winter months.

More Info: Read my Juan de Fuca Trail guide for full details. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

West Coast Trail, Pacific Rim National Park

Note: The West Coast Trail is open from May 1 to September 30 each year. The National Park officially closes the trail from October to the end of April.

The West Coast Trail is Canada’s most famous multi-day hike. Since it opens in May, it also makes a great spring backpacking trip. The 75-kilometre-long trail follows the wild shoreline with the help of bridges, ladders, and cable cars. Each night you will camp on a wilderness beach.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on reservations, trail fees, and National Park fees, see Pacific Rim National Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia

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Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

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Keeha Beach, Pacific Rim National Park

Note: Keeha Beach is open from May 1 to early October each year. The National Park officially closes the trail from early October to the end of April.

This sandy beach is located just north of the West Coast Trail. It’s a short hike to get there, but allow plenty of time as the trail is very rough with lots of slippery roots and tons of mud. (The mud is pretty epic – comparable to the North Coast Trail.) You can also day hike to the nearby Cape Beale Lighthouse.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For trail fees, and reservations, see Pacific Rim National Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Della Falls Trail

At 440-metres-tall, Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. To get there, you first have to canoe, motor boat, or water taxi across Great Central Lake. Then hike up through a river valley to the base of the falls. Don’t miss a side trip on the Love Lake trail for incredible views of the falls.

The water taxi starts running on May 15 each year when the falls are in full flow. However, snow can linger in May and early June in the upper valley and on the Love Lake Trail, so go prepared.

More Info: Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and join the Della Falls Facebook group. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Della Falls Trail Hiking Guide

Wild Side Trail, Flores Island

Note: The Wild Side Trail is open from May to October each year. The Ahousaht Nation officially closes the trail from November to April.

The Wild Side Trail has one of the best effort to reward ratios of any of Vancouver Island’s coastal trails. It’s one of my favourite spring backpacking trips in British Columbia – I’ve done it twice in May! This trail is also one of my picks for the best beginner backpacking trips in BC.

It’s an easy walk along beaches and through the forest to a gorgeous campsite at Cow Bay. There are also two other campsites along the way. The hike is located in Ahousaht First Nation territory on Flores Island near Tofino, so you’ll need to arrange a water taxi.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on trail fees and camping fees, see the Wild Side Trail website.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide

Hesquiat Peninsula Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a water taxi or floatplane to the remote Hesquiat Peninsula on the west coast of Vancouver Island. This informal trail follows the rugged coastline as it bucks and dips across rocky headlands, through surge channels, and along beaches. There are no facilities or formal campsites.

More info: See Hiking the West Coast of Vancouver Island by Tim Leadem, and Hesquiat Peninsula Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Nootka Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

The Nootka Trail is my favourite coastal hike in BC. It’s located on Nootka Island off the west coast of Vancouver Island, so you need to take a water taxi or floatplane to get there. What makes this trail special is that it is almost entirely on the beach. There are no formal facilities or campsites.

More info: See my Nootka Trail trip report. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on fees, see Yuqot.ca, the Mowachaht-Muchalaht First Nation website.

READ NEXT: Sunshine on the Edge of the World: Nootka Trail Trip Report

Tatchu Peninsula Trail, West Coast Vancouver Island

The Tatchu Peninsula is a wilderness hike on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The hike traces a route down the west side of the peninsula, linking numerous beaches with short overland trails. There are no formal facilities or campsites. You can do the easier (and more scenic) northern section as an out-and-back or complete a very challenging traverse.

More info: See my Tatchu Trail guide, Rugged Point Provincial Park. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Raft Cove, Raft Cove Provincial Park

Raft Cove is a remote beach on the north end of Vancouver Island, reached by a maze of logging roads from the tiny town of Holberg. It’s a short walk into the beach, but the rough and muddy trail makes it seem longer. Camp on the sandy beach and watch surfers work the waves just offshore.

This is one of my picks for the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. See Raft Cove Provincial Park for info and camping fees.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

San Josef Bay, Cape Scott Provincial Park

This is the easiest trail in Cape Scott Provincial Park, but it still has spectacular scenery. The trail winds through the coastal forest and ends at a beautiful beach. At low tide, you can explore incredible sea stacks. There are two beaches to camp on separated by a headland that is impassable at high tide.

The flat trail makes it one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More info: For more info, see my Cape Scott guide, the North Coast Trail Map by John Baldwin, and the North Coast Trail Waterproof Map by Wild Coast. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Cape Scott Trail, Cape Scott Provincial Park

While the north end of Vancouver Island gets a lot of rain, the Cape Scott Trail can be a great spring backpacking destination if you get a window of good weather. It’s a long hike through bog and coastal forest on old settler trails to the campsite at Nel’s Bight. From there, you can day hike to Cape Scott, the northernmost point on Vancouver Island.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide, the North Coast Trail Map by John Baldwin, and the North Coast Trail Waterproof Map by Wild Coast. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

North Coast Trail, Cape Scott Provincial Park

The tough North Coast Trail traverses the northern end of Vancouver Island. It starts with a water taxi drop-off in Shushartie Bay and ends when it intersects the Cape Scott Trail at Nissen Bight. In between, there is lots of muddy and rough trail through coastal bog and old-growth forest, and a few gorgeous beaches.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide. Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

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Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia’s Interior

Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park

This large park between Kelowna and Naramata has several different spring backpacking options. You can hike to Divide Lake and Baker Lake near the summit of Okanagan Mountain. You can also follow the Wild Horse Canyon Trail to campsites on the shores of Okanagan Lake. A connecter trail links the two, so you can make a big loop. Spring and fall are the best time to visit this park, as it is too hot in the summer.

More info: See Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations

Okanagan High Rim Trail

This trail follows an elevated route above the Okanagan Valley between Vernon and Kelowna. In most years, it is snow-free by early to mid May. This trail is only a few years old and crisscrosses lots of forestry roads in between great viewpoints and small lakes.

More Info: Get the details from the Okanagan High Rim Trail Association.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Deer Point Trail, Gladstone Provincial Park

The low elevation Deer Point Trail along Christina Lake in Gladstone Provincial Park near Grand Forks make a good spring backpacking destination. You can camp at Trapper Creek partway along the trail or at Troy Creek at the north end of the lake. Both campsites are open to boaters as well.

More Info: Get info on the trail and camping fees from Gladstone Provincial Park.

Flatiron Trails, Wells Gray Provincial Park

Note: In 2023, a few key bridges washed out and with high water, it is currently not possible to cross the creeks and reach any of the campsites.

Even though it is near the entrance to the park, Flatiron area of Wells Gray Provincial Park is a bit under-the-radar. A network of trails follows creeks to the banks of the Clearwater River and there are three backcountry campgrounds. You can access the area from three different trailheads, making loop trips or a traverse possible.

More Info: Get info on the trails from Exploring Wells Gray Park by Roland Neave. For camping fees see Wells Gray Provincial Park.

Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

Spring Backpacking Trips in Washington

Since it is a short trip across the border, it’s worth mentioning a few spring backpacking locations in Washington State.

Olympic Coast: The wilderness coast in Olympic National Park is accessible year-round. With several access points, lots of different trips are possible. As a bonus, it’s easier to get permits in the spring. For trip ideas, see my guides to Shi Shi Beach, Ozette Loop, and Toleak Point.

Enchanted Valley: Follow the East Fork Quinault River Trail into the Enchanted Valley in the rainforest of Olympic National Park.

East Bank Trail, Ross Lake: This trail in North Cascades National Park follows the shoreline of Ross Lake. See my East Bank Trail trip report.

Chelan Lakeshore Trail: This 17-mile-long trail in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest begins and ends with a ferry on Lake Chelan. The trail finishes at the boat-access-only village of Stehekin in North Cascades National Park.

So that gives you 25 different spring backpacking trips in British Columbia to choose from!  Which one would you choose?  I’ve hiked most of these trails (some of them several times) so feel free to ask me more about them in the comments.

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Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

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READ NEXT:

• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know
• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking

The post 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Over the years, I’ve made numerous trips to the Sunshine Coast to go hiking, camping, and snowshoeing. And I actually lived in Gibsons for five months in 2020/21. So I’ve got lots of locals insider info including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see on the Sunshine Coast.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Sunshine Coast Basics

Where is the Sunshine Coast?

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is a short ferry ride from Vancouver. Although you have to take a boat to get there, it’s not on an island (and locals will get a bit cranky if you suggest it is.) The Sunshine Coast is on the mainland, but it doesn’t have a road connection to the highway system since there are several huge fjords in the way.

The Sunshine Coast region stretches along the side of the Strait of Georgia and is bounded by Howe Sound in the south and Desolation Sound in the north. Jervis Inlet splits the coast in the middle – there’s a small ferry to make the connection between the two parts of the coast.

The towns of Sechelt and Gibsons are on the South Sunshine Coast, along with the villages of Roberts Creek, Halfmoon Bay, and Pender Harbour. You’ll find the town of Powell River on the North Sunshine Coast along with several small hamlets.

Pro tip: There is also a very famous region called the Sunshine Coast in the Australian state of Queensland. Be careful when googling things about the Sunshine Coast, BC to make sure you aren’t getting results for Australia!

Sunshine Coast, BC Map

I made a custom google map for you that includes everything I mention in this post. Enjoy! This map of the Sunshine Coast is all you’ll need for your trip.

How to Get to the Sunshine Coast

There are two main ways to get to the Sunshine Coast: ferry or fly. Several companies offer scheduled floatplane service to Sechelt and Powell River from Vancouver and Victoria.

But the most common way to get to the Sunshine Coast is to take a ferry. From Vancouver, it’s a quick 45-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal to Langdale on the South Sunshine Coast. From Vancouver Island, the ferry from Comox to Powell River takes 1.5 hours.

You can walk on to the ferry as a foot passenger or take your car. If you’re going by car, I recommend making a reservation with BC Ferries as it can get booked up, especially on summer weekends.

How to get around on the Sunshine Coast

Highway 101 stretches from the south end of the Sunshine Coast at the Langdale Ferry terminal all the way to Lund past Powell River. It’s the main thoroughfare for the region.

Getting Around By Car

The easiest way to get around the Sunshine Coast is with a car. That will give you the freedom to set your own schedule and travel a bit off the beaten path.

Getting Around By Bus

A car-free trip to the Sunshine Coast is fairly easy, but will take some planning. You can take public transit to the ferry terminals in Comox or Horseshoe Bay, then walk on to the ferry. Once you are on the Sunshine Coast, BC Transit has bus service from Langdale to Halfmoon Bay and in the Powell River area.

To get between the south and north sections of the Sunshine Coast including to and from the Earl’s Cove and Saltery Bay ferry terminals, you can take the Sunshine Coast Connector Bus. It runs in the summer only.

Getting Around by Bike

Bike touring on the Sunshine Coast is very popular. I have several friends who have done bike tours in the area, either as an out-and-back trip from Vancouver or on a loop route that includes both the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island.

If you choose to see the Sunshine Coast by bike, be prepared for rolling hills and narrow shoulders. There are bike shops in Gibsons, Roberts Creek, Sechelt, and Powell River if you need a mechanic.

Sunshine Coast Weather

The Sunshine Coast has a similar climate to Vancouver with average summer temperatures between 11 and 24C. May through August are the driest months. Although it is often gorgeously sunny here, it also rains frequently, especially in the spring, fall, and winter. Pack a rain jacket just in case.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Indigenous context

The area around Gibsons and Roberts Creek is the traditional territory of the Squamish Nation. Shishalh Nation territory stretches from Roberts Creek to Saltery Bay. The North Sunshine Coast is the traditional territory of the Tla’amin Nation.

Indigenous people have lived on the Sunshine Coast since time immemorial and continue to live here today. Visit the tems swiya Museum in Sechelt to learn about indigenous history and culture. Be respectful of indigenous land as you travel through their territory.

Things to do in Gibsons

Gibsons is a cute town just a few minutes from the Langdale Ferry terminal. It’s one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. The town is split into two parts: Upper Gibsons is along the highway. Lower Gibsons, also known as Gibsons Landing, is down the hill on the ocean. Here are the best things to do in Gibsons.

Explore Gibsons Landing

Gibson’s Landing is tucked against the shoreline down the hill from the highway. Take a walk along the long pier to enjoy views of nearby Keats Island and the mountains of Howe Sound. Or stroll along the waterfront walkway to Armours Beach in the north or the Gibsons Marina in the south.

Wander along Marine Drive, Molly’s Lane, and Gower Point Road to discover lots of cute shops. Try the olive oil at Sunshine Coast Olive Oil or browse the racks at Starlet Vintage. Don’t miss the Gibsons Public Market a few blocks south. Vendors there sell amazing cheese, meat, bread, chocolate, veggies, and more.

Of all the small towns in the region, I think Gibsons is the cutest (and not just because I used to live there!) Exploring Gibsons Landing is one of my top picks for things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Enjoy Beachcomber’s Nostalgia

The Beachcombers was a Canadian TV show about life in a gritty but quaint coastal town near Vancouver that ran for 18 years on CBC Television. (You can find some old episodes on Youtube.) It was set and filmed in Gibsons, so the residents are pretty proud of it. See how many Beachcomber’s legacy sights you can see around Gibsons.

Grab a meal at Molly’s Reach, the famous cafe from the show. Take a photo with the Persephone, the boat that the lead character Nick drives. It’s parked on Gower Point Road. (Persephone Brewery is named after the boat!) Grab a coffee at Beachcomber Coffee Company – it’s named after the show.

Or take a stroll around town to spot some Beachcombers-themed street names: Relic’s Lane, Adonidas Lane, Beachcomber Lane, Jesse’s Lane, Molly’s Lane, Gerussi Lane, and Persephone Lane.

Drink Craft Beer, Cider and Spirits

The craft beer and cider scene is thriving in Gibsons.

Visit Persephone Brewing near the ferry terminal to experience their farm to keg brewery – they grow their own barley as well as lots of fruits and veggies too.

I love Gibsons Tapworks in Lower Gibsons for their incredible patio, but my husband thinks they have the best beer in town. He likes the One Sailing Wait IPA best.

In Upper Gibsons, The 101 Brewhouse + Distillery has craft beers and a small restaurant. They are also the Sunshine Coast’s first craft distillery, making small-batch gin and vodka.

If beer isn’t your thing, Sunday Cider can help you out. They make small batch craft cider at their cider house in the forest just north of town. Their classic Sunday Sesh Cider is great.

And if you’re craving spirits, head to Bruinwood Estate Distillery. They’re a little bit north of town on the way to Roberts Creek. Visit their tasting room to sample their more adventurous spirits including Earl Grey Gin, Creme de Cassis, Spirited Horchata, and Akvavit.

Visit an Art Gallery or Studio

Gibsons (and the Sunshine Coast in general) is a haven for artists. A great place to start is the Gibsons Public Art Gallery in Lower Gibsons. They have new exhibitions monthly and a great gift shop.

The Kube in Upper Gibsons is also worth a visit. It’s a combination gallery/boutique that features work from Sunshine Coast artists as well as from other parts of Canada.

You can find listings for tons more artists in Gibsons and throughout the Sunshine Coast through the Purple Banner Art Map. (Note: Many artist studios require appointments.)

Best Beaches in Gibsons

Tiny Armours Beach in Lower Gibsons is a great place for a swim. There’s a cordoned-off swimming area for safety, grassy areas, and picnic tables up the banks.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of town, head to Georgia Beach. It’s in a residential neighbourhood on the bluff in Lower Gibsons. It has a small pebble beach and a bit of grass. Be careful of the current here.

I think Bonniebrook Beach north of town is the best beach in Gibsons. It has sections of sand and sections of pebbles, but it’s over 2km long so there is lots of space to spread out. It’s also a great place to go for a walk. However, parking is limited so arrive early and respect private property. (Tip: the best sand is near the end of Ocean Beach Esplanade.)

Best Hiking Trails in Gibsons

After living in Gibsons for five months, I’ve hiked most of the trails nearby. Langdale Falls is a nice hike through the forest to a waterfall. But my favourite is Soames Hill for its incredible views. I think it’s the best outdoorsy thing to do in Gibsons.

For more nearby trails, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Where to Eat in Gibsons

If you want something light, coffee and a doughnut at Beachcomber Coffee Company is my go-to. For quick sandwiches, Black Bean Cafe is great. For a sit-down meal, I recommend Molly’s Reach, Lunitas Mexican Eatery, Smitty’s Oyster House, and Sushi Bar Nagomi.

Where to Stay in Gibsons

Bonniebrook Lodge: A historic lodge right near the beach. The fabulous Chaster’s restaurant is on-site. Check prices.

Gibsons Harbour Retreat Apartment: Fully equipped 2 bedroom apartment with a hot tub and patio in the heart of Gibsons Landing. Check prices.

Things to do in Roberts Creek

Roberts Creek is a little hamlet alongside a creek near the ocean. It’s a tiny place but has a relaxed, hippy atmosphere. Read on for my picks for the best things to do in Roberts Creek.

Visit the Pier and Mandala

The heart of Roberts Creek is the old pier. Before the ferry and roads were built, this pier was the only link to the outside world. Today’s it is no longer used for boats and makes a great place to walk.

Don’t miss the Roberts Creek Mandala next to the pier parking lot. Each July the community comes together to create a massive art project by painting a new mandala. Local artist Robert Marion dreams up a new design and creates the outline, then anyone who stops by can fill in a section. The mandala is one of the most unique things to see on the Sunshine Coast.

Explore the Shops

Roberts Creek may be tiny, but it has a cluster of adorable boutiques. Exploring the shops is my pick for the best thing to do in Roberts Creek. There’s a well-stocked health food store, a cute garden boutique, a yoga studio, and a bike store. For a real feel of what Roberts Creek is really about, head to Eco-Freako for eco-friendly products and local art.

Hit the Farmers’ Markets

Roberts Creek hosts two farmers’ markets every Wednesday afternoon, year-round. The food-only Farm Gate Market in the Masonic Hall near the highway is “beyond organic” – they are local, ethical, and free from GMOs, pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, and synthetic fertilizers. Next door you’ll find the Roberts Creek Community Farm Market at the Roberts Creek Community Hall. They have lots of food as well as crafts.

See the Waterfalls in Cliff Gilker Park

This small forested park near the highway is home to a network of trails and was one of my regular haunts when I lived on the Sunshine Coast. Two creeks wind through the trees, creating lots of cascades and waterfalls. Use my Cliff Gilker Park hiking guide to take an easy 1-hour walk through the park.

For more nearby trails, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Where to Eat in Roberts Creek

The Gumboot Cafe is an iconic part of Roberts Creek. They’ve been dishing up healthy soups, pizzas, and salads for over 20 years. They have beer and coffee too.

For a less casual (but still authentically Roberts Creek) experience, head next door to the Gumboot Restaurant. They have an amazing patio and a varied menu that includes burgers, salads, Buddha bowls, and Roberts Creek originals like Curried Perogies.

Where to Stay in Roberts Creek

Shades of Jade Inn & Spa: A serene forest retreat with a spa on-site. It’s a short walk to the beach too. Check prices.

Up the Creek Backpacker’s Lodge: Located right in Robert’s Creek, this funky hostel has dorms, private rooms, and a shared kitchen. Check prices.

Roberts Creek Provincial Park Campground: This 21-site campground is centrally located and is a 15 minute walk to the beach. No reservations. More info.

Things to do in Sechelt

Sechelt is the biggest city on the Sunshine Coast, but it’s still a pretty laid-back place. The town sits on a narrow strip of land that separates Sechelt Inlet from the Strait of Georgia. The name Sechelt comes from shishalh, the name of the local Indigeneous people.

Explore Downtown Sechelt

Sechelt has a small downtown along Cowrie Street, just one block from the Sunshine Coast Highway. There are lots of cute little shops. Get coffee and a snack at The Basted Baker, then go for a stroll. Don’t miss Fresh from the Coast on Trail Ave – they have great local art and gifts. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, be sure to check out the Farmers Market.

Stroll Along the Sechelt Waterfront

There’s a lovely oceanfront pathway in Sechelt. It starts at Friendship Park off Wharf Avenue and finishes less than a kilometre later at Snickett Park. Stop to enjoy the view from a bench or walk out to the end of the pier. It’s one of the prettiest walks on the Sunshine Coast and my choice for the best thing to do in Sechelt.

Go Paddling

The calm waters of Sechelt Inlet are a great place to go for a paddle. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Halfmoon Kayaks on Anchor Road. You’ll launch directly into Porpoise Bay and can paddle along the quiet coastline.

Hit the Beach at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park

One of the best beaches on the Sunshine Coast is at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park just north of Sechelt. It faces Sechelt Inlet, which has very calm water and has a sandy bottom – much nicer than the pebble beaches found elsewhere. The park has lots of picnic areas, a playground, and a popular campground. A swim at Porpoise Bay is a must-do on my list of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Drink Craft Beer and Cider

Bricker Cider Company has a cute tasting room next to their orchard up the hill in West Sechelt. Their Brickers Original cider is dry and delicious, but don’t forget to try some of their unique flavours like Earl Grey or root beer!

I didn’t have time to visit Batch 44 Brewery and Kitchen in downtown Sechelt, but they are the first craft brewery in town and I’ve heard their beers are great.

Walk Along Davis Bay Beach

This stretch of coastline is one of my favourite places to walk on the Sunshine Coast. There’s a one-kilometre-long pathway beside the ocean and a pier that’s a great place to fish for crabs or watch the sunset. Head across the street to soak up the sun on the patio at the Wobbly Canoe or Gourmet Girl.

Learn about Indigenous Culture

Visit the shíshálh Nation’s tems swiya Museum to learn about local Indigenous culture. Unfortunately, the museum was closed due to the pandemic when I lived on the Sunshine Coast, so I haven’t been yet. But I’m eager to visit as it has lots of historical artefacts including 3500-year-old mortuary stones.

Go Skiing or Snowshoeing

If you’re visiting Sechelt in the winter, you can’t miss cross country skiing or snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge. It’s a community-run ski hill and snowshoe trail network in the mountains above town. I had a season pass when I lived on the Sunshine Coast and went up nearly every weekend.

Read my guide to skiing and snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge to learn more.

Best Hikes in Sechelt

There are several fun short hikes near Sechelt. My favourites are the easy walk to Burnett Falls or a meander through the old-growth trees at Hidden Groves.

For more nearby trails, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Where to Eat in Sechelt

For baked goods, my go-to is The Bakery on Wharf Ave downtown. Strait Coffee in Wilson Creek (near Canadian Tire) has coffee, fabulous sandwiches, and the best cheesecake on the Sunshine Coast. For burgers and comfort food The Wobbly Canoe in Davis Bay is good. If you’re looking for something more upscale, eat at Shift Kitchen and Bar.

Where to Stay in Sechelt

Tranquility Bay Waterfront Inn: Located on quiet Sechelt Inlet north of town, this gorgeous resort has a spa, a hot tub, BBQs, and a private beach. Check prices.

Davis Bay Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B is right across from the beach in Davis Bay. Reviewers say the breakfast is great. Check prices.

Porpoise Bay Provincial Park Campground: With over 80 campsites steps from a sandy beach, this is the best place to camp on the Sunshine Cost. Make advance reservations.

Things to do in Halfmoon Bay

Halfmoon Bay is a small seaside residential area just north of Sechelt. It’s a great place to hike, relax by the ocean, or just chill out at a cute cabin. Secret Cove a few minutes north is another picturesque spot. Here are the best things to do in Halfmoon Bay.

Best Beaches in Halfmoon Bay

Sargeant Bay Provincial Park has a great gravel beach in a sheltered bay. The lagoon behind the beach is a great place to watch for wildlife, especially birds.

Cooper’s Green Park is a beautiful oceanfront park with a grassy lawn and a pebble beach. It’s a great place for a swim on a hot day. If you rented a kayak in Sechelt, the boat ramp here makes a good launching point.

Best Hikes in Halfmoon Bay

Halfmoon Bay is my go-to spot for hiking on the Sunshine Coast. The huge trail system in Sargeant Bay Provincial Park and Welcome Woods in between Highway 101 and Redroofs Road has seemingly limitless loop hike possibilities. A good destination to get you started is Triangle Lake.

The hike to Smuggler’s Cove is one of the most popular hikes on the Sunshine Coast, and I’d argue it is one of the most scenic too. It’s a short walk to several beautiful coastal viewpoints. A visit to Smuggler’s Cove is definitely the best thing to do in Halfmoon Bay.

For more hikes in Halfmoon Bay, see my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Where to Eat in Halfmoon Bay

Food options are pretty limited in Halfmoon Bay. The Halfmoon Bay General Store is currently working on a cafe to open in late 2022. Welcome Woods Market also has a little deli. There are also two food options in nearby Secret Cove: Upper Deck Cafe at the Secret Cove Marina and the in-house restaurant at the Rockwater Secret Cove Resort.

Where to Stay in Halfmoon Bay

Nestledown B&B: This cute bed and breakfast is a short walk from Sargeant Bay Provincial Park. It has a kitchenette and a hot tub too. Check prices.

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: I actually got engaged at this dreamy waterfront resort. Splurge on the tent cabins – they’re worth it. Check prices.

Things to do in Pender Harbour and Egmont

Pender Harbour is a loose collection of small communities (including Garden Bay and Madeira Park) spread around small bays and peninsulas. The village of Egmont is a few minutes north on the shores of Sechelt Inlet. It’s a sleepy area, perfect for chilling out and spending time in nature. These are my picks for the best things to do in Pender Harbour and Egmont.

Skookumchuck Narrows

The hike to the tidal rapids and whirlpools at Skookumchuck Narrows in Egmont is one of the most popular things to do on the Sunshine Coast. Be sure to time your visit to coincide with the tide change. Use my hiking guide to Skookumchuck Narrows to plan your trip.

Explore the Lakes

The area around Pender Harbour is home to lots of gorgeous lakes where you can go for a swim. Garden Bay Lake, Mixal Lake, and Hotel Lake are all located on the north side of Pender Harbour. You’ll find little Katherine Lake here too. Don’t miss it as it has the warmest water around.

Head a little further north along Highway 101 to Sakinaw Lake and Ruby Lake. They are both great places to launch a boat. (Ruby Lake has kayak and SUP rentals.) You can also go for a swim at the sandy beach at Dan Bosch Park on Ruby Lake.

Go Paddling

The quiet waters of Pender Harbour are perfect for kayaking. There are so many islands and little coves to explore. Rent kayaks at Alpha Adventures. (Many resorts have kayak rentals too.)

Best Hikes in Pender Harbour and Egmont

The hikes in Pender Harbour and Egmont have some of the best views on the Sunshine Coast. Of course Skookumchuck Narrows is a classic, but there are lots more to choose from. Pender Hill has my favourite viewpoint, but nearby Mount Daniel is great too. I also love the oceanfront walk at Francis Point Provincial Park. Get details on all of these hikes in my guide to the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Where to Eat In Pender Harbour and Egmont

Pender Harbour has a few good food options. If you want something a bit more luxe, head to the Lagoon Restaurant at the Painted Boat Resort. For more casual fare, check out Harbour Pizza or Badabing Burgers. In Egmont check out the Skookumchuck Bakery Cafe and the Backeddy Pub.

Where to Stay in Pender Harbour and Egmont

Painted Boat Resort: This beautiful waterfront resort in Pender Harbour has great views, plus an outdoor pool and a spa. Check prices.

Backeddy Resort: Stay in a cute and cozy A-frame cabin or a futurists geodesic dome overlooking Sechelt Inlet in Egmont. Check prices.

Things do in Powell River

Powell River is the main city on the northern Sunshine Coast, but there are also small communities in Saltery Bay, Lang Bay, and Lund. The area is a bit quieter than the southern Sunshine Coast. Read on for the best things to do in Powell River.

Explore the Historic Townsite District

Powell River is split into two parts: the main part of town along Marine Avenue near the ferry terminal and the historic Townsite district a few minutes north. Pick up a map at the visitor centre to take a self-guided tour of the old buildings. Don’t miss the spectacular Patricia Theatre, dating back to 1913 and Townsite Brewing inside the old post office. A visit to the Townsite District is my pick for the best thing to do in Powell River.

Visit Lund

The tiny village of Lund at the end of Highway 101 is the northernmost settlement on the Sunshine Coast. Lund is the jumping-off point for kayaking in Desolation Sound or the Copeland Islands, hiking the Sunshine Coast Trail, or trips to nearby Savary Island. But the scenic waterfront is a worthy destination in itself. Don’t miss the legendary bakery.

Go Paddling

The Powell River area is a prime destination for paddlers. Nearby Desolation Sound and the Copeland Islands are popular for kayaking. It’s also the starting point for the multi-day Powell Forest Canoe Route that loops through several large lakes behind the town.

Experience Savary Island

Located near Lund, the white sands and warm waters of Savary Island feel more like the Caribbean than coastal BC. The entire island is off-the-grid and has no cars so you’ll need to get around on foot or by bike. Book accommodation well in advance if you plan to stay the night. Get there via water taxi from Lund.

Best Beaches Near Powell River

Willingdon Beach is located right next to downtown Powell River. It’s got a big grassy area and lots of sand, so it’s pretty popular. If you’re looking for a quieter beach, Gibsons Beach north of town or Saltery Bay Provincial Park near the ferry terminal are good options. If you’re rather swim in freshwater, head to Mowat Bay Beach on Powell Lake.

Hike the Sunshine Coast Trail

The most famous hike in the area is the Sunshine Coast Trail. It is 175km long and runs from the ferry terminal in the south, through Powell River, and ends north of Lund. It crosses lots of roads so you can access many different sections.

My book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia has info on how to do day hikes or short backpacking trips on the best parts of the trail. If you’re a hiker, hiking the Sunshine Coast Trail is one of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Parts of the trail are snow-free year-round, which is why they made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Where to Eat in Powell River

Powell River has lots of great restaurants. It has a great Belgian-style craft brewery in the heritage part of town called Townsite Brewing. We loved the Mexican food at Costa del Sol. Hikers love the Shingle Mill Pub since the Sunshine Coast Trail goes right past the front door. In Lund, be sure to get a cinnamon bun at Nancy’s Bakery.

Where to Stay in Powell River

The Magical Dome: This amazing dome-shaped house near Lund has a quirky interior with a cute loft bedroom. Check prices. (It’s also on my list of the coziest cabins near Vancouver.)

Higgin’s Inn: This quiet inn near Lang Bay has apartment-style suites. It’s a short walk to the beach or an easy drive to Powell River. Check prices.

Saltery Bay Provincial Park Campground: Locate near the ferry terminal, this forested campground has 42 sites and a nearby beach. No reservations. More info.

Now you have all the info you need to head to the Sunshine Coast. What is your favourite thing to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC? Tell me in the comments. And as always, send me your questions as I’m happy to help answer them.

More Sunshine Coast info:

• 21 Best Hikes on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Skookumchuck Narrows Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• How to Snowshoe and Ski at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Cliff Gilker Park Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Soames Hill Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Langdale Falls Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures

The post The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I lived in Gibsons for five months in the winter of 2020/21. I went hiking every weekend and some weekdays too, so I’ve hiked all the trails on the Sunshine Coast (some of them multiple times).

In this post, I’ve got my local’s picks for the best hiking trails, plus where to find more info. There’s something for everyone with hikes to waterfalls, mountain tops, forests, and even tidal rapids. Most of the hikes are short and easy, but there are a few tough ones too.

Psst: Hiking isn’t the only thing to do on the Sunshine Coast – get my list of the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast.

Sunshine Coast Hiking Basics

Getting to the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is part of British Columbia’s mainland, but it’s not connected to the road network. That means that you’ll need to take a ferry to get there.

You can take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay near Vancouver to Langdale near Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast. From Vancouver Island, take the ferry from Comox to Powell River.

The Sunshine Coast is also divided into two sections, separated by Jervis Inlet. You can take a ferry in between the northern section which includes Powell River, and the southern section, which includes Gibsons, Roberts Creek, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, and Pender Harbour.

Once you’ve arrived on the Sunshine Coast, the easiest way to get around is by car. However, there is some limited public bus service.

Hiking Season on the Sunshine Coast

With a few exceptions, most of the trails on the Sunshine Coast are near sea level, so you can hike all year. In the fall, winter, and spring, the trails may be a bit muddy or slippery, so be careful.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

What to Bring Hiking on the Sunshine Coast

Even if you are just going for a short hike, you need to be prepared for the weather and conditions. Don’t forget the 10 essentials. (Rain gear and warm clothing are especially important outside of summer.)

Bear Safety

The Sunshine Coast has a healthy black bear population. Carry bear spray and make noise while you hike to reduce your risk of a negative bear encounter. For more info about hiking in bear country, read my post about bear safety for hikers.

Leave No Trace

The area Sunshine Coast is sensitive wilderness. Learn about Leave No Trace principles to help keep the wilderness wild.

Sunshine Coast Hiking Map

I made a custom Google map for you that shows all of the trails on this list, plus the exact location of the trailhead and parking.

Best Hikes in Gibsons

Langdale Falls

Langdale Falls is a beautiful 40-foot-tall waterfall in a deep and mossy canyon. You can start the hike right from the ferry terminal or at the Sprockids Mountain Bike Park.

READ NEXT: Langdale Falls Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Mount Elphinstone

The challenging hike to the top of 1232m-tall Mount Elphinstone takes all day. But the journey is worth it to enjoy the views and take pride in summitting one of the Sunshine Coast’s tallest peaks. This is one of the few hikes on the Sunshine Coast I haven’t done yet, but it’s on my list!

Soames Hill

The view from the top of Soames Hill is spectacular: you can see Gibsons, Keats Island, and of course the ocean. It’s a short hike, but it has lots of stairs so you’ll get a bit of a workout. Soames Hill is one of my favourite Sunshine Coast hikes since it has such a beautiful view.

READ NEXT: Soames Hill Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Best Hikes in Roberts Creek

Roberts Creek Falls

This short hike isn’t well-known. But it’s a very easy hike and the waterfall is spectacular. To get there, park at the end of Day Road in Roberts Creek, then follow the trail signs to the waterfall.

Cliff Gilker Park

This forested park has a great network of easy trails. The cedar trees, ferns, and moss are gorgeous and there are also several beautiful waterfalls and cascades. My trail guide has recommendations for the best loop through the park.

READ NEXT: Cliff Gilker Park Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Best Hikes in Sechelt

Dakota Ridge Snowshoe Trails

Dakota Ridge Winter Recreation Area is a community-run snowshoe area in the mountains above Sechelt. It has lots of rolling trails and some beautiful viewpoints. Dakota Ridge is my favourite place to go snowshoeing on the Sunshine Coast. (And they have cross-country skiing too!)

READ NEXT: How to Snowshoe and Ski at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Chapman Creek Trail

The Selma Park neighbourhood of Sechelt is home to a great trail network through the beautiful rainforest around Chapman Creek. You can start from several different trailheads accessed from Davis Bay, but I like to use the Sechelt Airport Trailhead. These trails also connect to the Chapman Falls Trail (below).

Chapman Falls

Chapman Falls is a gorgeous cascading waterfall in a deep canyon. Sechelt’s main water source is Chapman Creek, and you’ll walk on top of a water pipe for part of the hike. You can start your hike from any of the Chapman Creek Trailheads (above), but the shortest way to get there is from the end of Reservoir Road.

Note: As of January 2021 this trail is closed due to mining in the area. It is unclear if it will reopen.

Burnett Falls

This short walk takes you to a beautiful waterfall. From the views of the lush forest along the way, you’d never guess that it’s tucked away in a pocket of green space between industrial sites. It’s one of the shortest trails on the Sunshine Coast, but it’s worthwhile since it’s so gorgeous.

Hidden Groves

The Hidden Groves are two trail networks in Sechelt Heritage Forest. Community groups worked to protect some huge old-growth trees and build tons of trails. There’s a short section on the west side of Inlet Road but most of the trails are on the east side of the road.

Tetrahedron Provincial Park and Mount Steele

Tetrahedron Provincial Park has a network of trails past several lakes and up to the summit of Mount Steele. A local outdoor club maintains four cabins in the park if you want to stay overnight. It’s a great summer hiking destination, but it’s also great in the winter on skis or snowshoes.

Note: The cabins in the park are currently closed due to the pandemic and tenting isn’t allowed, so right now you can only do day trips.

More Info: Tetrahedron Provincial Park and Mount Steele is Trip 18 in my book Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. The book contains all the info you need to plan a day hike or backpacking trip in the park.

READ NEXT: Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Kinnikinnick Park

This wilderness park in the West Porpoise Bay neighbourhood of Sechelt has several kilometres of pleasant trails. The network of trails lets you choose your own path through ferns, marsh, and mossy forest, or make a loop around the whole park.

Best Hikes in Halfmoon Bay

Triangle Lake

This trail starts at Sargent Bay Provincial Park and heads up into the forest to tiny Triangle Lake. Community volunteers maintain a loop trail around the marshy lake. Take a break at one of the viewpoints – they come with benches.

Big Tree Trail

This short trail takes you to one of the biggest trees on the Sunshine Coast. There’s a picnic area at the base so you can linger and marvel at the tree. There’s also a huge network of mountain bike trails if you want to extend your hike.

Smuggler Cove

This short hike leads past a beaver pond to the shores of Smuggler Cove. From there, you can take the left fork across the peninsula to a quiet rock outcrop, or the right fork out to the point. Both options are stunning, making this one of the prettiest Sunshine Coast hikes.

Homesite Creek Falls

This small and pretty waterfall is a short hike from Highway 101. There are trails on both sides of the creek so you can choose from several viewpoints.

Best Hikes in Pender Harbour and Egmont

Francis Point

This short hike leads along a rocky shoreline to a beautiful viewpoint atop a bluff. While the hike is relatively flat, it traverses some rocky ledges that can be very slippery when they are wet, so be careful.

Mount Daniel

The hike up 440m-tall Mount Daniel is quite steep but fairly short. Your reward is an incredible view of Pender Harbour with its numerous inlets, islands, and squiggly peninsulas.

Pender Hill

If you’re not up for the challenge of climbing Mount Daniel, Pender Hill is a great alternative. I would also argue that it has a better view. You can see Pender Harbour as well as nearby Hotel Lake and Garden Bay Lake. It’s also a steep hike, but it tops out at 231m so you don’t have as far to climb.

Skookumchuck Narrows

The hike to Skookumchuck Narrows is scenic, with lots of beautiful forest. But the main attraction is the crazy tidal whirlpools and rapids that form at the narrows when the tide changes. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular places to go hiking on the Sunshine Coast.

READ NEXT: Skookumchuck Narrows Hike on the Sunshine Coast

Best Hikes in Powell River (and the North Sunshine Coast)

Sunshine Coast Trail

The Sunshine Coast Trail runs 180km from Saltery Bay to Sarah Point on the Northern Sunshine Coast, passing through the town of Powell River. It crosses many access roads, so it’s easy to plan hikes along shorter sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail. Some of my favourite sections for day hiking are:

• Fairview Bay
• Tin Hat Hut
• Inland Lake
• Confederation Lake
• Manzanita Bluff

You can find info on all of these sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

If you’re looking for an overnight or multi-day hike, I’ve got suggestions for which sections of the Sunshine Coast are snow-free early in the year in my guide to spring backpacking in British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

With 21 trails on this list, I’m sure you’ll find a Sunshine Coast hike that you’ll love. (Actually… you’ll probably find a few!) Have questions about hiking on the Sunshine Coast? Ask me in the comments as I’m always happy to help.

More Sunshine Coast Info:

• The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Langdale Falls Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Soames Hill Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Cliff Gilker Park Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• How to Snowshoe and Ski at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Skookumchuck Narrows Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Backpacking Manzanita Bluff and Rievely’s Pond on the Sunshine Coast Trail
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

The post 21 Best Hikes on the Sunshine Coast, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Never heard of the Sunshine Coast Trail? The whole trail is 180 kilometers long and stretches the whole length of the northern Sunshine Coast from north of Lund, past Powell River, to the ferry terminal at Saltery Bay. The local trail society, led by the trail’s founder Eagle Walz, has worked hard to build the trail and route it through the most scenic areas.

It starts on the ocean, then heads inland to follow mossy streams, pass by numerous lakes, and go up and over many hills and mountains before finishing back by the ocean again. While it may have the word “coast” in its name, the SCT spends 95% of its time inland in the forest and on mountain tops so don’t get confused and think it is an alternative to the West Coast Trail or the Juan de Fuca Trail – this is something totally different.

There are also 13 backcountry huts and shelters on this trip, billed as Canada’s first hut-to-hut hiking experience. There are also tons of road access points to trailheads along the length of the trail so doing a day hike or a section as a multi-day backpacking trip rather than the whole trail is totally doable.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Since three days is not enough time to tackle 180 kilometers, we opted to do only a section of the trail. (Well it’s not enough time unless you are Nicola Gildersleeve, the trail runner who holds the fastest known time at just under 34 hours!) Since we would be hiking in late March, we chose a 40 kilometer section that stayed at relatively low elevation to avoid snow: the northern section from near Lund to near Powell River. You can see our route expertly (ha!) drawn on the map below.

My 3 Day Hike on the Sunshine Coast Trail

Due to cost and time pressures, we opted to skip the first few kilometers of the trail and start part way along. This meant that we didn’t have to organize a water taxi and our first day on the trail (our first of the season wearing fully loaded overnight packs) would be a bit shorter. So bright and early on the morning of Good Friday we woke up at a friends house in Powell River (having arrived from Vancouver the night before) and headed out to start our section hike of the Sunshine Coast Trail.

Since we would be doing a point to point hike, our first step was to leave one of our cars at the end point for our trip (in the Wildwood neighbourhood of Powell River), then drive towards Lund where we parked our car at a trailhead that was marked with a wooden arrow that said “SCT access”.  This was one of the many access trails that lead towards the SCT proper. The forecast had been for sun but the sky was grey and a light drizzle was falling.  We donned rain coats, shouldered our packs and headed up the trail (an old road) for a kilometer or two until we got to a junction.  The junction indicated we should turn right to get to the SCT on the Spire Trail. What?!? We thought we were on the Gilpin Road access trail!

A quick check of our map and our GPS revealed that we had actually parked our car in the wrong place (a few kilometers too early) and were in fact on the wrong trail! But on the plus side, we were way closer to the Manzanita Bluff Hut, that evening’s destination than we had planned and the sun had come out! However, on the minus side, there is no water at the hut or on the bluffs and we had planned to stock up on water at Wednesday Lake, 4 kilometers to the east.  We decided to just head up to the hut directly, have lunch, then day hike down to the lake to get water.

After leaving the junction with the old road, we followed the Spire Trail for a few hundred meters to another junction where we got on to the Sunshine Coast Trail proper for the first time. We had been travelling in rather dense second growth forest but after we got on to the Sunshine Coast Trail the vegetation changed. We gained elevation as we climbed up on to Manzanita Bluff surrounded by moss, arbutus trees and yes, manzanita bushes.  The only downside (besides all the steep hill) was the view of a nearby clearcut.

Before long we reached the Manzanita Bluff hut, claimed spots in the sleeping loft, then headed out to a nearby picnic table at the end of the bluff to eat lunch.  What a spectacular view: down the hill to Lund, across to Savary Island and then across to Vancouver Island.

After lunch we hung our food in a bear hang, stowed our packs in the hut and set off with all of our water containers on a day hike to Wednesday Lake. It was 4 kilometers of mostly downhill travel across more arbutus bluffs and through some mossy forest. The lake looked pretty inviting and I’m sure it’s a great place to swim on a warm summer day, but on this March afternoon, even though it was sunny, none of us wanted to brave it.  Instead we filtered litre upon litre of water, then bundled it all into backpacks that we took turns carrying all the way back up the hill to the hut.

Back at the hut we cooked dinner then ate down at the viewpoint on the edge of the bluff. Unfortunately it was too cloudy for a nice sunset. After the sun went down we took advantage of the nearby firepit complete with benches and had a quick campfire.

On Saturday morning we were up fairly early (despite all six of us sleeping through several alarms!) and on the trail as we had a long 17.5km section of trail to tackle to get to the next hut at Rieveley’s Pond. We started by descending the SCT south of the bluff back to the junction where we had first joined it the day before, then continued south. The trail at this point is in a narrow buffer of intact forest between a couple of clearcuts and is not that scenic. It soon heads back into some more bluffs though, including one with a great view to the east down into Okeover Inlet.

After finishing the bluffs section of the trail (also known as the Gwendoline Hills) we popped out on to the paved Malaspina Road. It was weird to cross a road in the middle of a backpacking trip! Next we tackled the Thunder Ridge section of the trail: a long steep mossy climb up a hill, then a steep descent through alder and willows down to another road.

After crossing the road we walked on an old logging railway bed towards Plummer Creek where we had lunch. There is a campsite on a spur trail here, but it was so dark in the forest that most of the campsite (including the giant log picnic table) was coated in moss. The morning had been sunny and warm, but by mid-afternoon the temperature had dropped and the sky was looking pretty grey.

After lunch the trail followed mossy and fern-covered Toquenatch Creek and passed beside the 1000 year old Toquenatch Fir before crossing another road to start our final section for the day, the Marathon Trail. This trail wound through dense second growth forest and passed the junction with the Trinket trail (where apparently people leave toys on branches in the forest). The trail then steeply climbed a ridge before descending (finally!) to Rieveley’s Pond where there is another shelter. We opted not to take the side trail to Gibraltar Bluff as we were tired, it was cold and the weather was rather grey and gloomy so we didn’t think we would have a view – who knows what we missed!

The Rievely’s Pond shelter is set back from a small pond and we were serenaded by a frog symphony all through dinner and dishes. As the sun set it started to rain and the sound of the rain on the metal shelter roof mixed with the song of the frogs as we headed to bed.

The next morning my friend A and I got up before everyone else, ate a quick breakfast and headed on on the trail while the rest of the group was still getting up: we were the advance troops, the faster hikers tasked with doing the car shuttle and coming back to pick everyone else up in time to get to the ferry. We set off under grey skies thinking it would rain at any moment.

For the first few kilometers we plodded along silently in the thick second growth forest, but before long we were crossing the bridge over Appleton creek and entering the Appleton Canyon section of the trail. In this section the trail follows the steep walls of the canyon, dipping down to the side of the river every so often. The most spectacular part was the viewpoint of Gorge Falls. That is where our group’s plan to send A and I ahead hit a snag – we were also the two most avid photographers on the trip and we spent a good amount of time at the falls frantically taking photos as fast as we could (and fighting with misty lenses).

After the Appleton Canyon section we crossed another road, then headed into the Sliammon Lakes section of the trail where the sun came out and it warmed up. We passed by three lakes, Theyeth Lake, Sliammon Lake and Little Sliammon Lake. The trail in this section was a bit more technical than some of the other sections with lots of rooty sections, ups and downs and twists and turns.  We’d go from a viewpoint of a lake up on a bluff, down to lakeside, then back up again.  At the end of Little Sliammon Lake we came upon the Shangri-La campsite complete with a dock and a canoe.  The lake was still, the sun was shining, but we didn’t have time to paddle the canoe… we had to go shuttle the cars or we’d miss the ferry! Sad face.

After leaving the lake we walked beside and then through our final clearcut of the trip before doing another kilometer in dark second growth forest. The trail then turned on to an old forest road for a few hundred meters down to where we had parked one of our cars. We threw our packs in the car, sped off down to Lund, picked up the other car, and drove back to the trailhead, all in less than an hour.  After the rest of the group showed up we headed into Powell River for a quick lunch before heading to the first of our two ferries back to Vancouver.

While the two ferries and twisty roads make it a hassle to get to the Sunshine Coast, the views from the ferries kind of make up for it.

If You Go:

You can find lots of info including maps on the Sunshine Coast Trail website and they also post trail conditions updates on their Facebook page. There is also lots of info including detailed trail descriptions in the only guide book to the trail, The Sunshine Coast Trail: Hut to Hut Hiking by Eagle Walz.

There are no fees to hike the trail or stay in the huts. As well, no reservations are required and you don’t have to register anywhere. (All huts and campsite are first come, first served.) But the local trail society has worked hard to build and maintain the trail using only donations and volunteer labour so if you hike the trail please consider donating.

It is worth noting that many of the huts on the trail (including the two that we stayed in) are more shelter than hut: they are open (or partially open) to the elements downstairs and then have an enclosed loft for sleeping.  The sleeping lofts are not insulated at all and are not bug proof.

The Manzanita Bluff hut sleeps about 12 people and the downstairs area has a wooden floor that could accommodate more people.  The Rievely’s Pond hut only sleeps 8 and has a dirt floor downstairs.  The Manzanita Bluff hut area has one or two small tent sites nearby. The Rieveley’s Pond hut has two or three tent sites. The trail is billed as a hut-to-hut hike, but since the huts can fill up, are often not insulated or bugproof and are about 15 to 20km apart (too far for many novice backpackers) you may want to carry a tent anyway.  Some of our group carried tents.  I carried a tarp for an emergency shelter.

As well, none of the huts or campsites that we saw had a bear locker or bear pole so you’ll need to bring your own cord and know how to make a bear hang. Read up on bear safety before you go.

Some of the huts (including the Manzanita Bluff hut) don’t have a nearby water source so you’ll need to plan ahead to bring your own water.

Keep in mind travel time to the Powell River area can be long as it requires two ferries with schedules that don’t line up so plan carefully.

Overall, this section of the Sunshine Coast Trail was a great three day shoulder season trip, made even sweeter by being able to stay in huts and not have to carry a tent. For me the highlights were the views from Manzanita Bluff and the Appleton Canyon section. The rest of the trail was pretty enough, but not very spectacular.  I’m curious to see how the rest of the trail is and want to return to hike some more sections hut-to-hut. Do you have questions about the Sunshine Coast Trail? Ask me about it in the comments.

More Sunshine Coast Posts:

• 21 Best Hikes on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Langdale Falls Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Soames Hill Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Cliff Gilker Park Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Skookumchuck Narrows Hike on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• How to Snowshoe and Ski at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Biking the Sunshine Coast via My Five Acres.

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