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Gambier Island TrailsGambier Island is the largest of four islands located in Howe Sound. It is approximately 25 square miles and is home to about 125 permanent residents. This number increases to 600 or so during the summer months. Gravel roads connect the three small communities of New Brighton, Gambier Harbour and West Bay. This island is considered part of the Sunshine Coast and can be accessed by passenger ferry from Langdale Ferry Terminal. The fare for one adult passenger is $7.15 (includes tax) as of early May 2011 and takes approximately 10 minutes. Dogs on leash are allowed on the ferry which docks at New Brighton. Click here to go to the BC Ferries website to check out their schedule. As of May 2011 there is a cafe that is open Friday evening from 5:30 to 8:00 pm and serves pizza and lasagna. It is open for breakfast and lunch from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Best to pack a lunch if you are heading over for a day of hiking. Access to the scenic walking and hiking trails on the island is from the various public docks at New Brighton, Gambier Harbour, Fircom and Artaban. The Gambier Conservancy (GIC) has done a fantastic job of documenting and mapping the many trails on the island. For this reason and because I have yet to hike and GPS these trails myself, I have chosen to link to the GIC website to provide you with the information you will need. Trail descriptions on the GIC website are linked to a contour map of the Island and are on crown land. The remains of old logging roads trace along maple and alder groves to old growth fir and cedar trees. Rock outcroppings offer many fantastic views, but be prepared for a steady climb. Many of the trails are not suitable for bikes, but there are no specific restrictions against bikers. Please respect the sensitive nature of mossy outcroppings, wetlands, streams and lakes. Click here to go to the GIC website and check out the trails. They are fantastic!
Click here to return from Gambier Island to the Sunshine Coast Trails Home page. |
