Skookumchuck

Edit text   |   Edit all fields

The Skookumchuck is a tidal rapid in British Columbia, Canada. It's located in the Sechelt inlet, near the town of Egmont.

The name comes from Chinook: skookum means "strong" or "powerful", and "chuck" means water. Paddlers call it the Skook.

These rapids are similar to river rapids, except that they are caused by tidal flow. When the tide is coming in, up to 200 billion gallons of water rushes into the narrow inlet, creating a set of waves and whitewater features that are used for playboating. When the tide goes out, the direction of the flow changes, which is a freaky sight for those not used to it. For hikers and sightseers, the best times to visit are during the hour or so, twice a day, when the tide changes direction.

As "skookumchuck" is a native word, there are several other places in Pacific Canada and the U.S. that use the name.

---

The Wave

For kayakers (playboaters as well as sea kayakers), the most spectacular feature is a monstrous play wave that forms at the Skookumchuck narrows only on the incoming (flood) tide. The wave isn't always great, either, but when it's at its best, it's a playboater's dream: smooth, consistent and huge.

According to some regulars, the best conditions are when the flow is at 11 to 12 knots, with 10 to 14 a good range, too. (The current can reach 17 knots, depending on the tide.) You want to be there from about two hours before maximum flood, until about one hour after.

The wave is relatively accessible for novices, but the downstream boils are troublesome, and a swim will lead to an hour spent getting back to the wave. Tentative paddlers might want to time their surfing to the hour before and after the peak suggested above.

To protect marine life, paddlers are required to stay within the restricted area near the eddy. Most importantly, be careful and conscientious when putting in, as dragging or sliding your boat will damage the natural surroundings.

This entry needs a link to a tide chart or similar feature. Can you help?

---

Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park

The 40 hectare park itself offers a hiking trail from Egmont to viewing sites at North Point and Roland Point. The distance is about 4 km., and a round trip will take in the neighbourhood of two hours. Public toilets are located at both ends of the trail.

Best viewing:
- falling tide at North Point
- rising tide at Roland Point
The park posts a sign by the parking lot with details on tidal action.

---

Getting There

From Vancouver: - Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Horseshoe Bay
- pay the toll (details needed), and take the ferry (details needed) to Langdale
- from Langdale, continue to Egmont
- turn right onto Egmont Road, to the end

---

Accommodation

(details needed) - camping is available near Egmont, at Strong Water Campground and Klein Lake Recreation Site.