Top 10 Reasons to Visit Powell River this Winter

Today's the first "official" day of Winter. What are your travel plans? Here are ten reasons why Powell River, BC should be at the top of your winter travel list.
 

10. Shopping. Powell River has lots to offer. Stroll Marine Avenue in for quaint shops. A favourite is Breakwater Books with the tastiest fudge in town. The Artique is a local artist's cooperative. On Saturdays there's the Winter Market with baked goods, veggies, and more. The Town Centre Mall has everything and anything you might need.

9. Take the scenic route. Drive to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal to catch a ride on BC Ferries to Powell River. Your drive will take you along the uncrowded Sunshine Coast with its scenic vistas. At Earl's Cove, you'll catch the second ferry to Powell River, the Pearl of the Sunshine Coast. The trip itself will be a vacation highlight.

8. Locals know. Talk to locals on your ferry ride. They'll gladly share history and highlights of our unique region. Strike up a conversation at a coffee shop or cafe. Stop at the Tourism Powell River Visitor Centre on Joyce Avenue, pick up a free Powell River Living magazine, Discover Powell River, and a PEAK newspaper to see what's happening around town.

7. Cozy seaside resorts. Along the way you'll find signs directing you to great out-of-the-way places to stay. Many take full advantage of our beautiful coast. In winter, you can sit warm and cozy inside while you watch exciting weather outside. South of Powell River look for Kent's Beach, Oceanside Resort and Cabins or Beach Gardens. If you're north of town, try the Historic Lund Hotel or the Desolation Sound Resort.

6. Sumptous restaurants. Powell River is well known for its many restaurants. The atmosphere may be casual, but the settings are romantic and food is excellent. The Laughing Oyster on Okeover Inlet is well worth the drive. Try the Shinglemill Pub overlooking spectacular Powell Lake. Head to the Savoury Bight for a seaside dinner, or Magpie's in Cranberry for home-style cooking. Or just stroll along Marine Avenue and find a world of flavours to choose from.

5. Holiday events. Come spend the Christmas season in Powell River. Check out the Christmas light displays on homes and businesses, and many churches have a Christmas Eve service. The Recreation Complex has the Winter Wonderland Skate and a Kings hockey game on New Years Eve, then New Years brings the Polar Bear Swim at Willingdon Beach!

4. The Historic Townsite. Powell River was founded as a mill town for the Powell River Paper Company. The homes are now privately owned and the Townsite was designated a National Historic District by Parks and Monuments Canada in 1995. Discover Powell River's history at the Museum near Willingdon Beach and stop by the Tourism Powell River Visitor Centre for a walking tour guide of the old homes and other historic buildings.

3. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Marine effect protects Powell River from heavy snow, but just a few miles inland from late fall to spring you'll find plenty. Bring your own gear or check with Mitchell's for snowshoe rentals, guides and advice. We even have several free backcountry cabins in the Knuckleheads Recreation Area. Take care driving on back roads though, they can get boggy at times. Read Up the Winter Trail for more exciting things to do.

2. Lots of other year-round outdoor activities. Whether your favourite activity is boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, ATVing, 4X4 adventuring, horseback riding, kayaking, touring, or just relaxing, Powell River has it all. Popular Desolation Sound anchorages and forest campgrounds are almost empty for the hardy outdoor enthusiast. But be careful, you might come for a weekend, but stay for a lifetime like we have.

1. Heading up the lake. Powell Lake is my home. Wayne and I live up the lake in all seasons, and winter is one of our favourites. You can also read about off the grid living on Powell Lake in Up the Lake and Farther Up the Lake and Off the Grid available at www.PowellRiverBooks.com.

Need more reasons to come? Visit Tourism Powell River.
Have questions? Leave a comment or send an email through my profile link. Hope to see you soon! -- Margy