Things To Do

As the central hub on the upper Sunshine Coast, Powell River burgeons with things to do.

That goes for the actual city (pop. 12,957), as well as the vast surrounding realm of pristine mountains, lakes, and rivers between Jervis Inlet to the south and Desolation Sound to the north.

This region, a few hours northwest of Vancouver, is a magnet for visitors who enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, diving, or swimming. Exploring local parks while hiking or mountain biking is another appealing prospect. For those who prefer more relaxed or cerebral pursuits, Powell River offers intriguing art galleries and heritage sites, plus some great golfing.

Kayaking

For many visitors, Desolation Sound Marine Park is the crowning glory of Powell River's renowned outdoor recreation scene. Enjoying some of the warmest water north of California and Mexico, take a kayaking trip from the village of Lund and explore 60km/37mi of shoreline, including beautiful, sheltered bays and coves. With luck, sightings of dolphins, whales, and porpoises are possible.

The rocky archipelago of the Copeland Islands is another favourite for kayakers, plus snorkelers and swimmers. Alternatively, ride a Zodiac boat over to Mitlenatch Island, where the Strait of Georgia's largest population of sea birds thrives along with seals and otters. A freshwater mainstay is the Powell River Forest Canoe Route. Explore roughly 80km/50mi of wilderness canoeing (or kayaking) on eight lakes amid old-growth forest and waterfalls, with campsites and B&Bs en route.

More Water Actitivies

Scuba divers have choices aplenty in Powell River's glittering ocean waters, from the octopi and cloud sponges at Texada Island's Grilse Point to the famous "Emerald Princess" mermaid statue submerged in Saltery Bay.

Looking to catch a mighty Chinook or Coho salmon? Hook up a fishing charter and find out what's biting off nearby Texada Island or Harwood Island. Powell River's Westview waterfront offers great shore fishing as well. And don't neglect the freshwater fishing scene. Catch cutthroat trout and rainbow trout at area lakes like Lois Lake, Inland Lake, and Powell Lake.

Where to swim? One preferred spot is at Saltery Bay, near the ferry terminal that connects Powell River to Earl's Cove and the village of Egmont on the lower Sunshine Coast. Don't miss the white, sandy beaches on Savary Island, playfully dubbed the "Hawaii of the North." Or take the entire family to Powell River's Willingdon Beach with its hiking trail, playground, concessions, and water park.

Land Activities

Powell River has plenty of parks and other outdoor venues to explore. Hike around Inland Lake's wheelchair-accessible trail and watch for wildlife like eagles and deer. Get in some stellar bird-watching at the 768ha/1,897ac Duck Lake Protected Area. Or enjoy a great view of Powell River from atop Valentine Mountain. Go mountain biking on the Malaspina Trail through Dinner Rock Forest Service Recreation Site, or lose some calories with a thigh-burning ride on the Bunster Hills Loop.

For those who want to experience as much of Powell River's natural beauty as possible, a hiking expedition on the 180km/111mi Sunshine Coast Trail is a must. It runs between Desolation Sound and Jervis Inlet, laden with alpine ridges, old-growth cedar and fir trees, and sparkling lake views. Prefer a quick day trip? The Sunshine Coast Trail can be done in smaller sections via numerous access points.

In spring/summer golfers can tee off at Myrtle Point Golf Club, which has an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by Les Furber, a driving range, and an ocean-facing restaurant that serves West Coast cuisine. In the winter, head up to the pristine Knuckleheads Recreation Area for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the backcountry.

Culture and History

Powell River's mill town roots are on display in the historic Townsite, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2010. Check out landmark buildings like the Patricia Theatre, Dwight Hall, and the Rodmay Hotel, as well as the nearby Catalyst paper mill. Walking tours are available. The funky collection of logging equipment and Sliammon First Nations art at the nearby Powell River Historical Museum is a highlight.

With a burgeoning local arts scene, connoisseurs can pick up First Nations-themed watercolours at Wind Spirit Gallery or handmade ceramics at Cranberry Pottery. The annual Purple Banner Studio & Gallery Guide helps visitors locate artists independently. For festivals and events, don't miss the stunning selection of choirs at International Choral Kathaumixw (July), the week-long Blackberry Festival (August) with fireworks and foodie fun, or the Sunshine Music Festival (September) with blues and worldbeat artists.

Hockey is huge in Canadian culture, and for spectator sports buffs, Powell River is home to the Powell River Kings of the Junior-A level British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and the Powell River Regals, three-time Allan Cup champions in Canadian senior hockey. Feel like a workout? Try the huge Powell River Recreation Complex (5001 Joyce Ave.) with two ice rinks, a 25m/82ft swimming pool, a skateboard park, and so on.

Driving Routes

Access the upper Sunshine Coast and Powell River along the Coastal Circle Route for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, diving, swimming, exploring local parks, hiking, and mountain biking.