Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
299 reviews
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188
Very good
99
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3
Don M
Vancouver, BC124 contributions
Ensure that you check the tides so that you can arrive near the time of maximum tide change. The local tourist magazines show the best times to visit. For outflow tides, choose the North path when you get near the rapids. There is free parking at the museum across the road from the trail entrance, and it takes about an hour on a fairly easy, well-marked trail to walk each way to/from the rapids. It is an amazing site to see all that water rushing past.
Written July 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
christinern
Vancouver, Canada279 contributions
This is a pretty popular place for a hike, rapids viewing and relaxing. It is a 1 hour hike/walk one way in the forest (not wheelchair or stroller accessible), fairly flat and wide trail. You pass a beautiful lake, and have 2 choices of viewing areas depending on the direction of the tides. The sign at the beginning of the hike will provide some suggestions. Check online for the best times to go to catch the biggest tides. Once you reach the rapids, there are rocks for sitting on, you can catch kayakers or surfers on the standing waves, it’s a very cool experience to see. Not many places in the world that you can see this natural phenomenon. Another 1 hour walk back out, the rainforest is beautiful. Cherish the memories of the beautiful day you just experienced on the lovely west coast.
Parking is free at the provincial park boundary or across the road in the museum parking lot.
Parking is free at the provincial park boundary or across the road in the museum parking lot.
Written November 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Escape691136
2 contributions
We walked the trail in to Roland Point in about 40 minutes about two hours ahead of the peak tide time and there was a group of kayakers surfing and doing tricks on the waves created by the tide. We were there at the time of a full moon which meant the waves were larger than usual. Well worth the hike.
Written September 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Susan L
Vancouver, Canada17 contributions
What a lovely park. An 8 km round trip hike from the road provides a most unique waster phenomenon. The Skookumchuck Rapids appear at peak tide change. I had heard of the narrows before I didn’t realize how cool they were. Colourful kayakers and surfers really out a pop of colour in my photos.
Beautiful west coast marine rainforest, a cool bakery on the trail and (at least during COVID-19 times) not too busy to realize that this is nature and not a theme park.
The hike is quite easy but you should wear sensible shoes because there are some roots and rocks that need to be navigated. If you feel that 8 k would be too much for you, check out the boat tours that will take you in. Certainly worth the $50 CAD charge.
Beautiful west coast marine rainforest, a cool bakery on the trail and (at least during COVID-19 times) not too busy to realize that this is nature and not a theme park.
The hike is quite easy but you should wear sensible shoes because there are some roots and rocks that need to be navigated. If you feel that 8 k would be too much for you, check out the boat tours that will take you in. Certainly worth the $50 CAD charge.
Written July 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Paul K
Vancouver, Canada310 contributions
Couples
We couldn’t sync our schedule with the big tidal events, but just seeing the Narrows around slack water was worth the walk. What a view, and a big sea lion at the whirlpool area was a treat. The walk thru the forest was enjoyable too. Lots to see and hear. But don’t believe the tourist brochures about “soft forest walk” and the “occasional rock and root”. The walk from the junction between the two viewing points is very uneven and hilly, and mostly rocks and roots. So wear good walking shoes.
Written September 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Christina C
Coquitlam, Canada6,386 contributions
One of the popular attractions in Sunshine Coast is to visit Skookumchuck Narrow Provincial Park to watch the tidal wave pushing through the Skookumchuck Narrows. We went on August 9th, it was an Extra Large Tide. We even saw a kayaker surfing there.
Although it took us an hour and twenty minutes to walk there it was worth it. Most of the trail is easy walking and surrounded with greenery and tall forest trees. Only at the end there are three ups and downs that needed more effort. If the senior citizens can do it, there shouldn't be any problems for the young people.
There are outhouses at the beginning and the end of the trail, but use at your own risk (it was smelly). Almost at the end of the trail, there was a fork in the trail. One is to North Point to watch the whirlpools during low tide starts when the water starts to recede. The other is to Roland Point to see the rapids during high tide. There is a sign to show the way.
Happy travelling!
Although it took us an hour and twenty minutes to walk there it was worth it. Most of the trail is easy walking and surrounded with greenery and tall forest trees. Only at the end there are three ups and downs that needed more effort. If the senior citizens can do it, there shouldn't be any problems for the young people.
There are outhouses at the beginning and the end of the trail, but use at your own risk (it was smelly). Almost at the end of the trail, there was a fork in the trail. One is to North Point to watch the whirlpools during low tide starts when the water starts to recede. The other is to Roland Point to see the rapids during high tide. There is a sign to show the way.
Happy travelling!
Written August 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
laurie213
Milna, Croatia56 contributions
Couples
We decided to hike up to Roland Point to see the kayakers attempt to ride the big waves and we were not disappointed. We were there for about an hour or so and really enjoyed the spectacle. The walk is also great, surrounded by trees and not too busy, with a great bakery too!
Written September 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Trek32626773922
Vancouver, Canada9 contributions
This was an easy walk through the forest. It takes about an hour from the parking lot to reach the rapids. This is a popular trail and there are many people on it. The bathroom are outhouses and leave much to be desired, so if you need the restroom, you're best to use the washrooms at the Native Interpretive House at the start of the trail.
There is a nice cafe to get a snack and a drink before or after your hike.
There is a nice cafe to get a snack and a drink before or after your hike.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
roadscribe
Roberts Creek, Canada8 contributions
Family
You have to consult the tide-table, easily found on the Internet, and visit Skookumchuck when the ebb is at its height. You can walk out on the rock which forms the narrows until you're standing right next to a tiderace going by at about 30 kmh. The centre of the flow bows up into the air to a height of about two metres, and on a sunny day you can see through that rushing bottle-green hump of water to the trees (and sometimes people) on the opposite shore. The scent of the air is like salty ozone.
Getting to the Narrows park involves a walk of maybe 45 minutes along a fascinating forest trail. In itself, that's worth doing. But what awaits you at the end of the hike is unlike anything else in British Columbia - or most of the world.
I have visited this amazing place numerous times, since I live only about fifty miles down the coast, so the "when did you visit" question doesn't provide an accurate answer, but I had to choose one for the autocratic form to allow me to submit this review. Similarly, while good eateries and restrooms are available near the beginning of the trail, beyond that you are effectively in wilderness, although there is a pair of outhouses near the Chuck itself. Again, the multiple-choice options are not accurate The trail is not suitable for baby buggies or strollers. But mobile kids love it, and there is safe swimming away from the Narrows (with close adult supervision). Acres of smooth sunbathing rock, bits of shingle beach, some shade from trees but not a lot.
Getting to the Narrows park involves a walk of maybe 45 minutes along a fascinating forest trail. In itself, that's worth doing. But what awaits you at the end of the hike is unlike anything else in British Columbia - or most of the world.
I have visited this amazing place numerous times, since I live only about fifty miles down the coast, so the "when did you visit" question doesn't provide an accurate answer, but I had to choose one for the autocratic form to allow me to submit this review. Similarly, while good eateries and restrooms are available near the beginning of the trail, beyond that you are effectively in wilderness, although there is a pair of outhouses near the Chuck itself. Again, the multiple-choice options are not accurate The trail is not suitable for baby buggies or strollers. But mobile kids love it, and there is safe swimming away from the Narrows (with close adult supervision). Acres of smooth sunbathing rock, bits of shingle beach, some shade from trees but not a lot.
Written May 19, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
travelduo79
Qatar36 contributions
Family
Went hiking here today. Sechelt visitor centre told me it was doable with a jogging stroller. Have a 2.4 year old and a 7 week old so took a sturdy 4x4 stroller and carrier and off we went. The trail was straight with some rolling hills for the first 3km but the last km was a nightmare of pathway completely obstructed by large rocks and mishmash of tree roots. Def not for families with young children (it is, after all an 8km walk in total) or anyone with mobility issues. Will def go back when the kids are older - the sight is amazing. Just make sure to check flow and ebb charts so you get there for the best views.
Written August 11, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Erica S
Washington11 contributions
Can you bike out to the rapids or hike only?
Erica S
Washington11 contributions
I’m answering my own question since I just visited. We couldn’t find the answer beforehand anywhere online so I thought it might be helpful to have it in the Q & A.
The first part of the trail is on a private gravel road and you CAN bike this section. However, once you reach the actual provincial trailhead (less than 1k in) the signs clearly state NO bikes. Hiking only. There are no bike racks but there is a signpost you could lock your bike to.
Probably best to just leave the wheels at home.
Bonnie K
4 contributions
Which is the better view at Skookumchuck Narrows : +XL or -XL tide? Does the whirlpool activity happen during -XL only, or also at +XL? Thanks!
Gavin J
Victoria108 contributions
I was there about 2 hours before max high tide and the standing wave had already formed at the right hand view point and people were surfing it in kayaks, so it's definitely good to watch any time from -2 to +2 hours of high tide, tide going in (left to right) from the right viewpoint.
I have no idea about the whirlpools I did not see them but suspect they only form later at high tide as the water was beginning to swirl when we left. The whirlpools appear best viewed from the lefthand viewpoint at high tide.
No idea about low tide conditions (water flowing out, from right to left). I would Google it to see hiker's first hand accounts and pictures.
Darlene W
Victoria, Canada7 contributions
Are there bench along the trail
B0bJay
Sunshine Coast, Canada42 contributions
No benches but lots of big rocks,logs and soft moss to sit on. We had a small backpack with us and took a piece of foam to sit on.
We brought our lunch and ate it at the rapids which gave us a good rest before heading back. We are in our 70's . We were tired when we got home but it was a lovely walk and lots of magnificient forest to see. We were fortunate in that there were kyakers there having a great time playing in the rapids and watched in awe at their skill level.
jeancoops2
Queensland, Australia1 contribution
Is there camping there? I would be in a small tent- is that safe with wildlife in the area? I know not to have food in the tent!
C2342HFlisam
36 contributions
There is no camping there but Egmont is close by as is Klein Lake where my husband and daughter usually camp.
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park (Egmont) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
- Hotels near Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park:
- (1.69 mi) West Coast Wilderness Lodge
- (6.28 mi) Wilderness Resort and Retreat
- (1.82 mi) Backeddy Resort & Marina
- (0.78 mi) The Perch B&B
- (9.32 mi) Enchanter Oceanview Suites
- Restaurants near Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park:
- (1.29 mi) Skookumchuck Bakery & Cafe
- (1.81 mi) Backeddy Marine Pub
- (3.26 mi) La Trattoria Italiana
- (1.69 mi) Inlets Restaurant and Bar
- (9.53 mi) Grasshopper Pub