RE: [Paddlewise] Question about Canada's Discovery Islands, Desolation Sound and Sunshine Coast area

I have done several trips in the area you describe. In a few spots the
camping is a little thin, and be sure you have the navigation charts and the
tide charts for the area.  You can paddle in safely in the hazardous
currents if you go at slack tide.  The tide tables for the are excellent.
Some of the passages have 14 k currents with extreme tidal rapids. Octopus
islands are a must see, but there are many outfitters so you have to camp
early. Hard to describe the best camp, but it is a small island just before
you get to the Octopus Island group from the south (just as you get into
Waiatt Bay start looking).  There are some other islands in Octopus Island
that afford camping, but it is slopey and rocky.  Many sailboats anchor off
the Octopus Island group which decreases the camping potential. Beazley
passage and Yoculta rapids can be a serious hazards unless you go at slack
tide.  Hole in the wall is an interesting paddle (slack tide) but terrain
offers no camping.  I remember some long paddling days looking for camps.
Water can sometimes be hard to find so bring plenty.

If you come up from Campbell River, Rebecca spit has a good launch area.  We
couldn't find a place to launch at Village Bay.  I would stay out of
Discovery passage, too much traffic and development, plus wicked currents.
Coming up from Rebecca there is a camp at Conville Pt a tiny island right
off the mainland.  It is a pain dealing with boats but it is a nice little
island to camp on. There were some camps along the other side of the
channel, if my memory is correct Hjorth Bay.

Desolation is easier paddling, quiet water and a few more camps. There was
more water, but still carry an adequate supply. The currents don't flush
through as well so water is much warmer, and in late summer you have to
watch for red tide. Mosquitos were fierce in spots.  Desolation sound has
oyster beds everywhere which can be hard on your gelcoat, and you need tough
sandles or boots. Neoprene booties don't privide enough protection unless
you have tough soles.

-- MZ


website:
http://members.home.net/mzuschlag

-----Original Message-----
From: owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net
[mailto:owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net]On Behalf Of Richard A Niemi
Sent: Saturday, June 02, 2001 12:38 PM
To: PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net; carigr_at_aol.com; johnnyg_at_asilomar-ps.com;
rickniemi_at_juno.com; vicki_at_emeraldegg.com
Subject: [Paddlewise] Question about Canada's Discovery Islands,
Desolation Sound and Sunshine Coast area


Hello,

A group of us are planning a two week sea kayak trip to Canada's
Discovery Islands, Desolation Sound and or the Sunshine Coast area. We
are trying to narrow down the exact area to paddle. We are going through
books and maps now. I was wondering if anyone out there has been to this
area and if they would comment on it. My group sure would appreciate
input from someone who's been there.

Thank You in advance.

Rick Niemi
408-394-6278
Please check out my WEBSITE at http://nirvana2000.netfirms.com

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