Welcome to the Powell River Area, the Pearl of the Sunshine Coast

Situated between Jervis Inlet and Desolation Sound along the edge of Malaspina Strait, Powell River is almost completely surrounded by water.  To reach Powell River from Vancouver means a short ferry trip from Horseshoe Bay, a scenic 80 kilometre drive on the Sechelt Peninsula, then a second ferry trip to Saltery Bay.  Or you can travel on BC Ferries from Comox-Courtenay on Vancouver Island across Georgia Strait directly to downtown Powell River.

The Townsite
Powell River's historic Townsite area offers a concentration of homes and commercial buildings built before 1930, with some dating even before World War I.  The area is designated as a National Heritage District by the federal government.  Ongoing work and lobbying by the residents of the Townsite and the Townsite Heritage Society have resulted in significant improvements to many heritage properties in the area.  

Powell River is known to divers worldworldwide

Activities on the Upper Sunshine Coast Known as the "Dive Capital of Canada" there are over 100 regional dive sites. The waters are exceptionally clear and the octopus and wolf eels are uncommonly large. One dive, near the mill, is a ring of old ships that form a breakwater called "The Hulks".  Other recreational activities you can enjoy in the area include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, golf, tennis, and some of the best freshwater and saltwater fishing in BC. Top 10 Reasons to Visit Powell River this Winter!

If you love to hike and explore the natural beauty of the area, be sure to check out the Sunshine Coast Trail consisting of 180 km (112 mi.) of hiking trails from the Saltery Bay ferry terminal in the south to Sarah Point in the world-famous Desolation Sound Marine Park in the north. The Sunshine Coast Trail will present you with panoramic views and a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife. Hikers who want the full adventure of spending more than a few days on the trail will find campsites all along, but more frequently in Sections 1, 2, and 3. Most campsites in these areas are developed, while others are rudimentary.   There are also three Bed & Breakfasts for those who wish to spoil themselves after trekking through the forest. Off-trail lodging is also available, as is transport to and from the trail each day. This allows the hiker to travel lightly and be taken to the trail section of choice in the morning, and then picked up in the afternoon at the end of the hike to be brought to the comfort of a hotel room or a bed and breakfast. There are many restaurants in Powell River.   Another hike, the Inland Lake Trail, is the only wheelchair accessible wilderness trail in the world. Read a great article about the 'BOMB squad' in Walrus Magazine online. Some text and information courtesy of http://www.sunshinecoast-trail.com/

Map of the Sunshine Coast Trail

Kathaumixw Festival Powell River has many events throughout the year, but it is famous for an international choral festival known as Kathaumixw. Kathaumixw is a Coast Salish word that means a gathering of different peoples. Choirs come from all over the world and Powell River's own Boys and Youth Choirs are among the best. Powell river also has an excellent school of dance and members have gone on to perform with the world renowned Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

The Powell River Historic Museum

The Powell River Historic Museum houses the 3rd largest photo archives in BC and has many excellent artifacts and displays. One display is "Billy Goat" Smith's cabin. "Billy Goat " was reputed to have been involved in the 1906 New York murder of architect Stanford White.

Lund North of Powell River is the historic fishing village of Lund. It offers a quiet, rural and alternative lifestyle along with a strong sense of community.  The Lund Hotel was built in 189 and still operates as a hotel and restaurant.  From Lund you can take a water taxi to the white sand beaches of Savary Island.  There are some lovely B&B's and cottages in this area, so be sure to check them out for their tranquility and beauty.

Desolation Sound North of Lund is BC's largest marine park, Desolation Sound. There are over 60 km (37.25 miles) of shoreline and many islands, bays, and coves. You can have a great time swimming, diving and just plain relaxing.

Texada Island Another place to visit is Texada Island, reachable by another ferry.  You can hike or bike around the island where you can stop and enjoy the beach, have lunch, or just relax and enjoy the views.  At Gillies Bay you can check out the unique "Flower Rock" jewelry or visit the art gallery.

An Amazing Holiday Experience With its emerald waters and astounding mountain and forest scenery, Powell River delights visitors with an amazing variety of outdoor activities. Whatever you choose, with Powell River's mild year-round climate, you'll be sure to enjoy your visit and will want to return again and again.  With the endless number of things to do, your trip to the Northern Sunshine Coast ensures that it is always time well spent.