May
17
2010
Powell River, British Columbia part 2
Author: RockyOn Friday i told you about places to stay at the alternative holiday destination of Powell River.. So, what do do while you’re on your holiday at Powell River? Well i suppose you could ask what can’t you do. As I’ve said this is the perfect place for an ‘Adventure Holiday’. You’re in Canada, home to the first nations – so Kayaking is a must! For ocean kayakers, Powell River is a world-class experience. Some of the premiere spots include Desolation Sound, the Copeland Islands, Mitlenatch Island, Savary Island and Texada Island. 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. Ever wanted to touch the side of a WWII ship? Kayak to the Hulks, ten steel and concrete ships that now comprise the world’s largest floating breakwater.
Prefer freshwater kayaking and canoeing? This coastal community also offers easy access to more than 30 lakes including the world-famous Powell Forest Canoe Route, a semi-circle of eight lakes and portages. 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. Camping accommodations are available along the route.
Kayaking is of coarse one of many activities on offer at Powell River which includes Trails and hiking, Fishing and charters, Mountain biking, Climbing, Driving, Golf and Winter activities: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter hiking and snowmobiling.
If you’re like me, and love to eat – Powell River isn’t short on this neither. What’s fun about dining in Powell River are the big tasty portions, which are the rule rather than the exception. In keeping with the community’s overall vibe, expect relaxed yet highly attentive service. This upper Sunshine Coast community is home to some fine dining establishments that serve West Coast cuisine with local, organic ingredients. Pub fare and ethnic restaurants figure into the hearty selection as well. Check for Mexican, Thai, and sushi restaurants while driving or strolling through the Marine Avenue dining district.
Head to Joyce Avenue, particularly the area around the Crossroads Shopping Centre, for fast food and chain restaurants. Coffee lovers can grab a latte or frappuccino at any of our several cafes or coffee shops. If Seafood is your thing, what better place to enjoy the ocean’s bounty than on its doorstep? Savour delicious dishes and experience the very best in culinary creations on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, complete with stunning views of the ocean, the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, mountains and the world-famous sunsets.
How do you get there? Well the first step is book your flight to Vancouver, which Canadian Affair will help you do easily – and with the lowest priced flight to Vancouver you’ll find.
So what about the adventure part? Well, if you’re travelling by car you wont just be able to get there by road! Powell River is on Highway 101, about 4-5 hours north-west of Vancouver. Although the city is on the mainland and there are roads in the area, it will require a couple of ferry rides (Horseshoe Bay to Langdale and Earl’s Cove to Saltery Bay) to get to it because it is not directly linked with the rest of the provincial road network.
Highway 101: The Pan-American (also named Highway 101 in parts of the United States and Canada) is the world’s longest highway, stretching 9,312 miles (15,020 km) from Chile’s south coast to Lund on BC’s Sunshine Coast.
The 87-mile (139-km) stretch of Highway 101 between Langdale and Lund is a motorcyclist’s dream come true. Dozens of parks with biking, hiking, and ski trails; canoe and kayak routes; beaches; and coastal viewpoints are easily reached directly from the highway.
If you want to take a little more direct approach, you can fly to The Powell River Airport (YPW) which is centrally located within city limits. Pacific Coastal Airlines offers daily flights to Powell River. Click here to find out more.
The majority of the information i’ve selected is just a small portion of the information available at Discover Powell Lake’s website http://www.discoverpowellriver.com/ So for more information about everything you would ever need to plan your vacation there click here!
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On a completely different note, look out for our new articles starting Friday from my most recent trip from Canada, of which i got back from last night!






May 24th, 2010 at 6:46 pm
I just took an overnight kayak trip on a portion of the Canoe Route. You can launch easily from the Nanton Lake forest campground reached via the Goat Lake Main Logging Road in the evenings or on weekends when logging is less active. Nanton links with Horseshoe Lake for lots of paddling through the back country without having to make a portage. Kayak and canoe rentals are available in Powell River from several vendors that will even take them to your launch location. Take a look at our recent trip. You’ll really want to make Powell River your adventure laden vacation destination. http://powellriverbooks.blogspot.com/2010/05/horseshoe-lake-kayak-adventure.html
May 24th, 2010 at 11:34 pm
Thanks for the comment Margy
– and for the suggestions!