Sunshine Coast
5 Hours
Jan - JulyWelcome to the Sunshine Coast Trail, a captivating journey through the heart of British Columbia's pristine wilderness. This world-renowned trail, stretching over 180 kilometers, offers an unrivalled adventure for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Plan your escape to the Sunshine Coast Trail, where every step is a discovery, and every view is a masterpiece. This iconic trail promises an unforgettable journey, inviting you to experience the untamed beauty of British Columbia's Sunshine Coast. Embark on a Trail Adventure – Your Gateway to Coastal Wilderness Exploration!
What to see
Visitor guidelines
Pre-arrival checklist
Camping equipment
Clothing
Personal gear
Fire information and updates
Trail conditions
Safety & Guidelines
Coastal Rainforests: Begin your adventure through lush coastal rainforests featuring towering cedar and fir trees. The trail winds through moss-covered landscapes, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Viewpoints and Scenic Overlooks: Ascend to various viewpoints and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, forests, and the Salish Sea. Notable viewpoints include Tin Hat Mountain and Manzanita Hut.
Backcountry Huts: Discover charming backcountry huts strategically placed along the trail. These rustic shelters provide hikers with a unique opportunity to rest, enjoy a meal, and take in the surrounding beauty. Popular cabins include Walt Hill Hut and Elk Lake Cabin.
Mountains and Alpine Meadows: Traverse the Coastal Mountain Range, witnessing the transition from dense forests to alpine meadows. Marvel at vibrant wildflowers during the summer months, creating a tapestry of colours against the mountain backdrop.
Historical Points of Interest: Encounter historical points of interest, including artifacts and interpretive signs that share the cultural heritage of the region. Learn about the indigenous peoples and early pioneers who shaped the Sunshine Coast.
Old Growth Forests: Experience the awe-inspiring presence of ancient trees in old-growth forests. Walk among colossal cedar and fir trees, some of which are centuries old, and appreciate the ecological significance of these pristine ecosystems.
Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail. Deer, black bears, eagles, and various bird species are commonly spotted. The trail's diverse habitats make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Creeks and Waterfalls: Encounter babbling creeks and picturesque waterfalls as you traverse the landscape. These natural features add to the serene ambiance and offer refreshing spots to rest.
Local Communities: The trail passes through charming villages and hamlets, allowing hikers to experience the warmth of local communities. Connect with locals, enjoy local cuisine, and gain insights into the unique coastal culture.
Year-Round Beauty: Depending on the season, witness the changing colours of fall foliage, the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes in winter, and the vibrant blooms of spring and summer. Each season brings its own charm to the trail.
Hut Etiquette: The huts cannot be booked ahead of time – they are on a first-come, first-serve basis for sleeping. You cannot “save” or “reserve” spots in the huts. One night stays only. Priority should be given to thru-hikers. Please also note that the stoves in the huts are not stocked. Be sure to bring your own pellets and starter. Available in smaller quantities at the PR Visitor Centre.
Group Hiking Etiquette: Groups of 8 or more should consider staying at camp sites along the trail.
Note that the SCT is intended to be traversed from North to South. Why?
There are twice as many markers
Better signage
Lock-step with other hikers which creates less bottle-necking
Guidebook reads North to South as well
Dogs on leashes are allowed anywhere on the Sunshine Coast Trail. Given that significant parts of the trail are on private land or in public parks, there are restrictions regarding off-leash dogs and dogs that do not interact well with others. Dogs are not allowed in the huts.
We strongly recommend that you do NOT depend on either the pellet stoves being operational or there being pellet fuel in the free huts. qPAWS volunteers do their best to maintain the stoves and occasionally provide pellets and fire starter for emergencies.
Reception on the trail is sporadic, especially in valleys where coverage is blocked by the mountains. It is best on slopes facing Powell River or the Salish Sea. Check with your service provider for specific coverage. Don’t rely on constant coverage on the trail. GPS stand-alone devices are recommended as they are more accurate than cell phones.
The huts have sleeping lofts that can be closed at night to keep the critters out. Be prepared to hang your food in a bear bag well away from your campsite or hut.
Composting toilets can be found at most of the huts as well as pit toilets at various locations on the trail.
There is access to water along most of the trail via creeks and lakes, except some high mountain summits where you will of course not have water. If you are going on a multi-day hike and will need access to water other than what you can carry, please inform yourself about water access in the area you are visiting. The best way to do this is by getting a copy of the SCT guidebook. You are advised to boil your water or use a purification system.
1. Trail Information: Familiarize yourself with the Sunshine Coast Trail, including its length, difficulty, and notable points of interest. Review trail maps and elevation profiles.
2. Weather Check: Monitor the weather forecast for the duration of your hike. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and pack accordingly.
3. Trail Conditions: Check for any trail advisories, closures, or maintenance updates. Contact local authorities or visit official trail websites for the latest information.
4. Navigation Tools: Bring a detailed map of the Sunshine Coast Trail and a compass. Consider using a GPS device or a navigation app for additional way-finding support.
5. Health and Fitness: Assess your fitness level and ensure that you are physically prepared for the hike. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns.
6. Safety Gear: Pack a comprehensive first aid kit that includes essentials for minor injuries. Bring a whistle, emergency blanket, and a multi-tool or knife.
7. Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating layers, a waterproof and windproof jacket, and suitable footwear for hiking.
8. Camping Gear: If camping, ensure you have a lightweight and suitable tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and other camping essentials. Check the condition of your gear.
9. Food and Water: Plan your meals and pack non-perishable, lightweight foods. Bring a water filtration system or purification tablets for refilling water along the trail.
10. Backpack: Use a comfortable and appropriately sized backpack to carry your gear. Ensure it is fitted properly to distribute weight evenly.
11. Leave No Trace Principles: Familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles and commit to minimizing your impact on the environment. Pack out all waste and follow responsible hiking practices.
12. Communication: Bring a fully charged cell phone or satellite communicator for emergency communication. Save important contact numbers, including local emergency services.
13. Community Information: Learn about the communities along the trail, including services, amenities, and emergency contacts.
14. Wildlife Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and practice responsible wildlife viewing. Bring bear spray and store food in bear-resistant containers.
15. Emergency Plan: Share your hiking itinerary and emergency plan with a trusted friend or family member. Include details such as your expected start and end dates, planned campsites, and contact information.
Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. There is a lot of climbing on most of the Sunshine Coast Trail. When conditions are wet (and we ARE on the wet coast!) things get slippery. Make sure your boots have good tread, good ankle support, are broken in, waterproof and comfortable.
Proper clothing. Obviously the definition of proper clothing will vary depending on how long you are hiking for and what time of year you are hiking. However, always be prepared for rain, and regardless of the time of year it’s always a good idea to carry extra, dry clothes and socks.
Hiking stick or poles. These can be useful when climbing/descending some of the trickier sections of the trail, and many people find hiking with a stick/pole useful on uneven or slippery terrain.
A good backpack, and a waterproof cover for it. Your loaded pack should weigh 30-35% of your body weight, at most.
Sleeping bag and sleeping mat. The sleeping mat is not necessary, but will make your trip more comfortable. The sleeping bag should be lightweight but warm. Carry it inside your pack to ensure it stays dry. A suspendable mosquito net is also recommended.
Tent (with waterproof fly). Even if you are planning to hike hut-to-hut it’s a good idea to bring a tent in case the huts are occupied when you get there. The huts can sleep 8-12 people but the SCT is getting busier and more popular all the time, and the huts are often busy. It’s a good idea to carry a tent for emergencies, and so that you can stop between huts if you want/need to.
Lightweight camping stove and fuel.
Food and water. Especially for longer hikes it is a good idea to carry lightweight, high-energy foods, and a water bottle with a built-in purification system.
Cell phone or satellite phone. Although your cell coverage will be patchy, it’s a good idea to take a cell phone with you for emergencies (leave it off when you are not using it since being away from access will drain the battery quickly).
Miscellaneous items, such as:
lighter/waterproof matches
candles
plastic bag (to pack out your garbage)
toilet paper
map
guidebook
first aid kit (including moleskin)
insect repellent
sunscreen
warm hat, gloves, sun hat
clothing layers
gaiters
emergency signalling device
cash for unexpected emergencies
knife
lightweight sandals/shoes for camp or hut
repair kits for equipment
sunglasses
toiletries (preferably eco-friendly)
Hiking Boots: Wear sturdy and supportive hiking boots with good traction.
Moisture-Wicking Clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay dry and comfortable during your hike.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Bring clothing suitable for the expected weather conditions, including a waterproof jacket and pants for rain.
Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Gloves: Consider bringing lightweight gloves for added warmth, especially if hiking in cooler temperatures.
Extra Socks: Pack extra pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.
Gaiters: If hiking in muddy or snowy conditions, gaiters can help keep debris out of your boots.
Buff or Bandana: Bring a buff or bandana to protect your neck and face from sunburn or bugs.
Warm Layers: If hiking in cooler weather or at higher elevations, bring additional warm layers such as a fleece jacket or thermal underwear.
Backpack: Carry a comfortable backpack with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt to distribute weight evenly.
Navigation Tools: Bring a detailed trail map, compass, or GPS device to navigate the trail effectively.
Water Bottle or Hydration System: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle or hydration bladder.
Snacks and Meals: Pack lightweight, high-energy snacks and meals for your hike, such as trail mix, energy bars, and sandwiches.
Camping Gear (if applicable): If camping along the trail, bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and other necessary camping equipment.
Cooking Supplies (if applicable): If cooking meals on the trail, bring a lightweight stove, fuel, cookware, and utensils.
Personal Hygiene Items: Pack items such as hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and a trowel for waste disposal.
Multi-Tool or Knife: Bring a multi-tool or knife for various tasks, such as cutting cord or preparing food.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Carry a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for hiking in low-light conditions or emergencies.
Campfires are allowed as long as there is not a Provincial or regional fire ban in effect. Use existing fire pits and dead wood only, please. Ensure that your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving a site and cold to the touch.
Contact Sunshine Coast Trail to inquire about current trail conditions.
Plan Your Route: Research the trail, plan your route, and inform someone of your itinerary before starting your hike.
Check Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by disposing of waste properly and minimizing your impact on the environment.
Stay on Designated Trails: Stick to marked trails and avoid taking shortcuts or creating new trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
Be Bear Aware: If hiking in bear country, carry bear spray, make noise to alert bears of your presence, and store food properly to prevent attracting wildlife.
Stay Hydrated and Energized: Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout your hike.
Pace Yourself: Hike at a comfortable pace and take breaks as needed to prevent exhaustion and injury.
Be Prepared for Emergencies: Carry essential items for emergencies, including first aid supplies, navigation tools, and communication devices.
Camping area
Picnic Areas
Restrooms
Visitor guidelines
Anyday
Anytime
Sliammon
Powell River
Lund
Bliss Landing
+1 855 926 3224
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