Sunshine Coast | Hikes with views


  • Two viewpoints to observe the Skookumchuck rapids are worth the detour.

    PHOTO FRANÇOIS ROY, THE PRESS

    Two viewpoints to observe the Skookumchuck rapids are worth the detour.

  • Breathtaking view of the bay

    PHOTO FRANÇOIS ROY, THE PRESS

    Breathtaking view of the bay

  • We are not alone in this forest, bird lovers, be on the lookout!

    PHOTO FRANÇOIS ROY, THE PRESS

    We are not alone in this forest, bird lovers, be on the lookout!

  • The Skookumchuck Rapids, and their giant whirlpools, are a unique natural phenomenon not to be missed.

    PHOTO FRANÇOIS ROY, THE PRESS

    The Skookumchuck Rapids, and their giant whirlpools, are a unique natural phenomenon not to be missed.

  • A memorable walk in the heart of the tropical forest

    PHOTO FRANÇOIS ROY, THE PRESS

    A memorable walk in the heart of the tropical forest

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It’s obvious: British Columbia in general, and the Sunshine Coast in particular, is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, with no less than 180 km of excursions to do in the region. For a more modest journey, three suggestions: Smuggler Cove (from Halfmoon Bay, about twenty minutes of walking in the forest, to reach a breathtaking view of the bay, mountains and steep shores included); Pender Hill (departure further north via the village of Egmont), this more demanding and rocky walk (allow a good hour round trip), all uphill, once again offers a truly spectacular finale; finally, and this was the highlight of our stay, hiking in Skookumchuck Provincial Park (still in the Egmont area), in the heart of a tropical forest. This 4 km wetland walk ends on the Skookumchuck rapids (and offers two distinct viewpoints, both are worth a look), a unique and spectacular natural phenomenon: depending on the tides, the current changes here direction, causing big whirlpools, which are the delight of ducks, but also kayakers, and, if you are lucky… seals! Allow a good two hours to get there, appreciate the phenomenon, then return to square one.


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