Skookumchuck Rapids

Posted By Webmaster Laurie McConnell on Sep 14, 2009 in FEATURED, PLAY, VISIT

Whitewater Kayakers in the Skookumchuck

I know, I know. This happened in late July. I heard all about it but have only just now gotten the time to view the video of the tugboat turning over in the Skookumchuck while pushing a barge loaded with equipment and trucks out of the LaFarge gravel operation and other remote Sechelt Inlet locations.

My father sent me the link and the footage is incredible. It was taken by a kayaker from Demshitz, a trio of whitewater adventure kayakers who paddle and surf locations like the Skookumchuck Narrows Rapids, and have created a film called “Demshitz the Movie” about extreme kayaking.

They were at the rapids to play in the surf and got a very graphic reminder of why these rapids are so dangerous, whether you see standing waves or not. The whirlpools themselves have claimed boats and lives over many years and this footage shows how treacherous it is going through them at any other time than absolute slack tide and how minor movements and constant water force can overcome even the mightiest of Inlet warriors, the sturdy tugboat.

The tide was approaching slack but it was still a good 40 minutes away from flat calm – as much as the Skookumchuck can ever be.

A good visual for anyone interested in the wild power of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most visited attractions. That’s why it’s worth the hike!

To time your walk to coincide with peak tidal movement and best viewing, visit the Sechelt Visitor Info Centre’s online Skookumchuck Schedule. NOTE: Ensure you are reading the current year’s tidal information.

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