When I was told about British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast Trail, I was stunned. I work for a hiking organization in Washington state — how had I never heard of this incredible trek before, just a few hours to the north of the U.S. border? And so of course, I want to make sure you know all about it, too.
Hike the full length of its 180 km (112 miles) or just a hike a section or two. Most guidebooks advise starting the full trek on the north end, at Sarah Point in Desolation Sound Marine Park north of Lund. The full length of the trail end, then at Saltery Bay ferry terminal in the south. Or, pick one or more of the trail’s five sections to create a shorter hike.
Pack your tent to stay along the trail in a designated campsite, or stay in one of the trail’s new volunteer-built hut shelters (available first-come, first-serve). I am fascinated by hut-to-hut hiking, which is common on the east coast of the U.S. and quite uncommon out west.
If you’re not into sleeping outside, there are two bed and breakfasts along the trail, or you could arrange transport at designated places along the route to be brought to a nearby hotel.
PLAN YOUR HIKE: Start planning your hiking trip at the Sunshine Coast Trail website.
Photo by Tourism Powell River.
