The Magic of Every Season Awaits
Seasonal Experiences on the Sunshine Coast
On the sunshine coast, every season brings a new rhythm, a fresh invitation to explore and connect with nature’s beauty. From the misty trails and abundant foraging of spring, to the sun-soaked waters and vibrant festivals of summer, to the golden forests and coastal quiet of fall, and the peaceful snow-capped adventures of winter — each time of year offers its own unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, restorative wellness, or simple moments of coastal serenity, you’ll find that every season here has something extraordinary to offer.
Reawakening Coastlines & Forests - Spring (March–May)
Coastal Adventures
• Rugged Coast Expeditions – Spring Wildlife Tours
Seal, sea lion, and whale tours aboard a custom RIB; learn about local history and ecology.
• Terracentric – Guided Kayak & Zodiac Tours
Explore Copeland Islands or Desolation Sound by kayak or Zodiac with expert guides.
Fishing & Foraging
• Spring crabbing & prawning.
• Oyster & clam harvesting along Okeover Inlet.
• Wild mushroom foraging begins late spring in shaded forests.
Scenic Trails & Forest Walks
• Appleton Creek Trail & Kelly Falls — lush, waterfall-fed landscapes.
• Willingdon Beach Trail & Valentine Mountain — coastal blooms and birdlife.
Festivals & Events
• qathet International Film Festival (March).
• Townsite Jazz Festival (April).
• Marathon Shuffle (April 27).
• Lund Seafood Festival (May).
Peak Ocean Adventures & Festival Fun - Summer (June–August)
Guided Expeditions
• Rugged Coast Expeditions – Wildlife & Coastal Tours
2–2.5 hr tours with whale, sea lion, and cliffside viewing.
• Terracentric – Desolation Sound Kayak Tours
Paddle to hidden lagoons and marine parks; rentals and multi-day trips.
• Zodiac tours to Mitlenatch Island and Toba Inlet.
Bioluminescent Night Paddles
• June–September: magical glowing plankton on moonless nights.
Fishing & Foraging
• Peak season for salmon, halibut, and lingcod charters.
• Berry foraging along forest trails.
Trails & Climbing
• Inland Lake Loop, Duck Lake, Mount Mahony — top biking and hiking spots.
• Stillwater Bluffs and Higgyland — ideal summer rock climbing.
Festivals & Events
• PRISMA Festival (June 16–28).
• Kathaumixw Choral Festival (July 1–5).
• Logger Sports (July 12–13).
• Sunshine Music Festival (Aug 30–31) — intimate coastal festival at Palm Beach Regional Park with world-class performances, local food, and artisan markets.
• Blackberry Festival (August).
• Texada Sandcastle Weekend (TBD).
Foragers' Paradise & Quiet Coastal Escapes - FALL (SEPTEMBER–NOVEMBER)
Wilderness Tours
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Rugged Coast Expeditions – Fall Eco Tours
Autumn light and quiet waters make for unforgettable scenic rides. Private custom charters available for wildlife photography and coastal exploration. -
Terracentric – Zodiac & Kayak Tours
Cooler temperatures and calmer waters are perfect for wildlife viewing and peaceful paddles.
Foraging
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Mushroom Season
Chanterelles, king boletes, and pine mushrooms flourish along forest trails near Inland Lake, Scout Mountain, and Duck Lake. -
Shellfish Harvesting
Ideal time to harvest oysters and clams along Powell River’s beautiful beaches.
Autumn Hikes
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Scout Mountain & Atrevida Loop
Fiery foliage, golden light, and cool air make fall hikes magical. -
Inland Lake Loop & Stillwater Bluffs
Enjoy peaceful shoulder-season trails and stunning lakeside views.
Cultural & Community Events
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Powell River Fall Fair (September 16–17, 2025)
A beloved community tradition celebrating local agriculture, crafts, art exhibits, live music, and family-friendly fun at the Paradise Exhibition Grounds.
Biking & Rock Climbing
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Fall brings perfect trail conditions and cool rock faces — head to Stillwater Bluffs or the Duck Lake bike network.
Snowshoe Adventures & Coastal Solitude - Winter (December–February)
Snowshoeing & Winter Hikes
• The Knuckleheads Recreation Area — deep powder and warming huts.
• Emma Lake Trail — steep winter hike to a frozen alpine lake.
• Mount Troubridge — Sunshine Coast Trail’s highest peak.
• Walt Hill Hut — peaceful backcountry winter escape.
• Lower elevation trails: Inland Lake Loop, Valentine Mountain, Willingdon Beach.
Coastal Paddling (Calm Days)
• Okeover Inlet & Powell Lake — misty, serene winter paddles.
Fishing & Shellfish
• Winter crabbing and prawning.
• Peak oyster and clam harvesting season.
Indoor Fun
• Top Out Climbing Co-op — indoor bouldering for stormy days.
Winter Arts
• qathet Festival of Performing Arts (Feb 26–Mar 8).
Year-Round Experiences
Glass-Panel Sauna
Immerse yourself in relaxation with stunning ocean views, rain or shine.
Culinary Experiences
Indulge in private in-suite dining, wine-paired dinners, and interactive cooking workshops.
Explore Powell River
Discover local art studios, vibrant markets, and historic sites any time of year.
Marine Adventures
Join wildlife tours that operate year-round and explore the rich marine life.
Oceanfront Hot Tub
Unwind with panoramic views of the ocean, perfect for any season.
Wellness Activities
Enjoy sauna soaks and fireside reading for ultimate relaxation.
Artistic Inspirations
Find creativity in our serene environment, ideal for artists and dreamers.
Local Flavors
Savor seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in every dish.