Amy Marie Visits: Skookumchuck Rapids and Egmont
The view of Secret Bay from Backeddy Marina in Egmont B.C.
Backeddy Marina was our stop both before and after our visit to Princess Louisa Inlet. It is located near the intersection of Jervis Inlet and Agamemnon Channel. It is also a convenient stop from which it is easy to access the nearby Skookumchuck Rapids. Currents are vigorous during certain portions of the tide cycle, so plan accordingly. We all have a different tolerance for currents while docking. We chose to arrive near slack water.
There is fuel and water available at the marina. Additionally, there are cabins and yurts available for rent. The restaurant was particularly good, and the beer was cold! Upscale dining is available at West Coast Wilderness Lodge just a short walk to the southeast. Kayak rentals are also available on site.
A fishing boat at dock in Egmont
YURTS for rent at Backeddy Marina.
Rental cabins at Backeddy Marina
Totem Pole on the edge of Skookumchuck Narrows
An attempt to look as fearsome as the Totem character
The local IPA was quite tasty!
Seafood Chowder for lunch
My Birthday lunch courtesy of my youngest daughter!
Sunset occurs later as you head north
We hiked 6 miles, round trip, to visit Shookumchuck rapids. It is known for its fourteen knot currents, whirlpools and standing waves. We were there on an ebb tide so only saw whirlpools. The standing waves, which the kayaker seek, occur on a flood tide.
There is a delicious Bakery at the start of the hike
The trail was well maintained and easy to follow.
Beth liked it too!
Beth is carrying a stick as protection from the bears.
We later upgraded to carrying bear spray!
Skookumchuck Rapids
A whirlpool
Bathgate Maina at low tide
When you have a 14' tide, the ramps are steep at low tide
Egmont Harbor and Bathgate's Marina at low tide
Bathgate Marina offers fuel, water and can refill propane bottles prior to heading into Desolation Sound. You'll also want to dispose of your garbage prior to heading into the sound as there are fewer options to do so further north. Bathgate's store also has a modest selection of groceries. We arrived on the second birthday of the owner's daughter and were treated to a birthday cupcake!
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Our Track Logs from our summer of cruising the San Juan Islands, the Gulf Island and Desolation Sound can be found at the following URL:
"Beth is carrying a stick as protection from the bears" ? Would that work?
ReplyDeleteNot really, we upgraded to some bear spray. As soon as we did, we saw a bear on the other side of a lake to which we hiked!
DeleteHappy belated birthday looks like you are having a great time.
ReplyDeleteAny time I'm able to enjoy some time on the water is a great time....
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