For canoeists and kayakers, Powell River offers a world-class paddling experience. Not only does the natural setting feature rugged mountains and glittering ocean waters, but it's also well-sheltered from the elements thanks to the bulk of Vancouver Island and nearby Texada Island.
Prefer freshwater paddling? This coastal community also offers easy access to more than 30 lakes and the Powell Forest Canoe Route, which is arguably the most dynamic paddling on the Sunshine Coast.
The Powell Forest Canoe Route covers a 57km/36mi semi-circle of eight lakes, but paddlers can extend the route to more than 150km/94mi with side trips. Most estimates put it at 80km/50mi. Budget five to seven days to complete the route. All major lakes on the route can be accessed by logging roads, making it feasible to do the route in sections.
The best time of year to go is between June and October. Expect enrapturing visuals: soaring coastal mountains laden with cedar, fir, and spruce trees overlook fjord-like waters; and wildlife sightings, from bald eagles to black bears, are always possible.
Canoe Route Accommodation
There are about 20 campsites along the Powell Forest Canoe Route including Haywire Bay Regional Park, which has 12 waterfront campsites on the small Honeymoon Island, plus 33 more RV and tent sites on the mainland.
Prefer the B&B scene? Several reputable B&B's are scattered along the route, including Suncatcher Oceanside B&B and other Powell River accommodations.
Paddling in Desolation Sound Marine Park
Paddling choices seem to be unlimited, but the most popular destination is Desolation Sound Marine Park. Sheltered coves and bays abound in this marine park (BC’s largest), encompassing 8,449ha/14,000ac. Warm water – average temperatures are 22°C/74°F – features a striking abundance of marine life, such as porpoises, dolphins, seals and more. Desolation Sound has more than 60km/37mi of shoreline to explore, and three major anchorages at Prideaux Haven, Grace Harbour and Tenedo's Bay.
More Paddling Excursions
Another popular kayaking option is the Copeland Islands; this is a great place to paddle along narrow passageways. Watch for bald eagles and loons fishing by day, or experience what it’s like to paddle with bioluminescence during a moonlight excursion.
Savary Island’s white sandy beaches offer a picturesque shoreline. Kayak to Mitlenatch Island to observe the largest colony of sea birds in the Strait of Georgia, including gulls, cormorants and oystercatchers.
Want a taste of Powell River's waterfront history? Paddle from Willingdon Beach up to the "Hulks," ten steel and concrete ships from World War II that now comprise the world's largest floating breakwater next to the city's pulp mill.
Kayak Rentals and Tours
This region is home to numerous reputable kayak operators. Based in Lund, Powell River Sea Kayak (10676 Crowther Rd) offers day tours and multi-day tours of Desolation Sound, along with kayak rentals, and also sells all types of kayak gear.
Another Lund kayak operator, Terracentric Coastal Adventures (1451B Hwy 101), creates specialized kayak tours such as "The Story of Lund by Kayak" and "Floating Families Kayak Tour" that provides insight on local wildlife and the marine environment. In Powell River, Alpha Adventures (6812 Alberni St) provides kayak rentals, lessons, and tours.
Canoe and kayak rentals are available from numerous local suppliers.
Check with the Powell River Visitor Centre for more information about paddling in the area.
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