ITS MOUNTAIN RANGES ARE BREATHTAKING

Rivalling some of its neighbouring Sea-to-Sky mountain ranges, the Sunshine Coast’s local mountains are starting to make their way into the conversation. They have unbelievable views tied together by a network of huts, set above winding logging roads. Our local mountains deserve to be added to your winter adventure list.

Photo: Sunshine Coast Canada

From crowd-free snowshoe trails, competitive cross-country skiing, and backcountry snowmobiling. To winter hikes and trail runs, this almost untouched winter oasis is your all-access pass to BC’s winter playground. 

For weekend enthusiasts, Dakota Ridge is a 1,532-acre plateau located in Sechelt, BC. It features old-growth forests and open areas in a beautiful subalpine setting. Locals host a myriad of skiing and snowshoeing events on the ridge. There’s also a great tobogganing spot for kids of all ages.

While the amenities at Dakota Ridge are minimalist – a warming hut and an outhouse — this coveted spot tops out at 1,200 meters. It boasts amazing views of the Coast Mountains, Vancouver Island, and the Georgia Straight.

BACKCOUNTRY ESCAPE FOR THE SEASONED EXPLORER

Next up, we have the Sunshine Coast trail, perfect for the seasoned backcountry explorer.

It spans over 180 kilometres from Saltery Bay to Desolation Sound. It can either be experienced as one long trek or broken up into shorter trips.

In the winter, lower elevations of the trail are generally snow-free and can provide great conditions for trail running and winter hiking. At higher elevations, you’ll generally find snowpack. In addition to great views and rugged backcountry snowshoeing, trek to Tin Hat Hut or Walt Hill Hut. Both of these huts are winterized, and free for day trips and overnight use. 


Photo: Trip Advisor

With the upcoming Spring Break, schedule a two- or three-day trip and link the two huts with a stop in at Elk Lake Hut along the way.