Powell River

• Lodging in this community
• Camping in this community 

History

The river was named for Israel Wood Powell, who was at that time superintendent of Indian Affairs for BC. He was travelling up the coast of BC in the 1880s and the river and lake were named in his honour.

The pulp mill was started in 1912, with a corresponding townsite built. Similarly, large logging companies moved in to take advantage of the huge timber. Brooks, Scanlon Obrien; Bloedel, Stewart and Welch; and Theodosia Logging were but a few companies.

When the British Columbia Credit Unions Act was passed in 1939, a study club organized by local millworkers secured the first charter with a deposit of $48.30. The mill provided a small office space at very low rent in the early years. By 1955, when Powell River Credit Union (now 'First Credit Union') moved into a permanent office, it had over 3,000 members and $1 million in assets.

The pulp mill in Powell River was at one time the largest pulp mill in the world. It has significantly cut back on production and now produces specialty paper for Catalyst Paper Corporation. The subsequent diversification of the local economy led to an increased focus on ecotourism and the arts, in addition to more traditional resources like mining, fishing, and general forestry. In recognition of its strong arts & cultural programs, Powell River was named a "Cultural Capital of Canada" in 2004.

The population of the Powell River Regional District is roughly 20,000. Of this, 12,983 live in the District Municipality of Powell River. Although these numbers have remained static since the 1970s, recent figures indicate that the regional population is showing signs of renewed growth, and may have reached 22,000. The Powell River area is the traditional home to the Sliammon nation, who still reside there to this day.

On October 15, 2005, coinciding with its 50th anniversary of incorporation, Powell River was officially designated a city.

Location

The city of Powell River is located on the south mainland coast of BC. Most of its population lives near the eastern shores of Malaspina Strait, the part of the larger Strait of Georgia between Texada Island and the mainland. It is the seat of the Powell River Regional District. The city is bounded by the Strait of Georgia to the south and west, Lund and Desolation Sound Marine Park to the north, and the Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains with Jervis Inlet to the east. These geographical surroundings explain Powell River's reputation as a remote community, despite a relative proximity to Vancouver and other populous areas of the BC coast.

Places to See

• Saltery Bay

The northern terminal for ferry traffic between Earl's Cove and the Upper Sunshine Coast, Saltery Bay is the launching point to some of the most pristine marine wilderness on the West Coast.

• Saltery Bay Provincial Park

Saltery Bay Provincial Park is among the most beautiful waterfronts in the BC parks system. Its shores are not only the place to see killer whales, seals, and sea lions, they're also a hot destination for scuba divers. Mermaid Cove is where Canada's first underwater statue, an exquisite three metre (10 feet) tall bronze mermaid, known as the Emerald Princess, sits submerged 20 metres (65 feet) beneath the surface, marking one of the many great scuba-diving spots along the coast. The oceanside ramp provides easy access for disabled divers and swimmers.

• Historic Townsite

Designated a National Historic District in 1995, Historic Townsite is one of only a few professionally planned, single-industry towns dating from the early modern period in Canadian town planning that has been caringly preserved and restored by its residents.

• Lang Creek Spawning Channel

Along Hwy 101 to Powell River, the Lang Creek Spawning Channel offers close-up views of pink, chum, coho and chinook salmon as they move through the channel towards their spawning grounds. Waterfowl and bald eagles add to the viewing experience and to understanding the cycle of life in the wilderness.

• Westview

The "heart" of Powell River is located in Westview, the Sunshine Coast's largest community, where you'll find bustling streets of shops, galleries, and all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay. Ocean views are the norm and you'll be surprised by the vast array of ethnic restaurants and accommodations. Located at the northwest end of Westview is Willingdon Beach Municipal Park and Campground. This large park divides the community from the Townsite with lush green forests interlaced with hiking trails.

• Powell River Museums

The Powell River Historical Museum and Archives traces the region's history and development from its first settlers, the Sliammon First Nation. Artifacts include stone weapons, cooking utensils, and intricately woven baskets, in addition to the many artifacts from the 19th and 20th century showing the history of the community's development.

The Powell River Forestry Museum showcases the equipment and history of the town's early logging era with artifacts displayed along the Willingdon Beach Trail.

• Texada Island

Discovered by Spanish explorers in 1791, it was another 85 years before development of Texada's rich mineral assets - iron, gold, and copper - would create a boomtown that claimed the only opera house north of San Francisco. The vibrant economy quickly ousted the white whalers who rendered whale fat at Blubber Bay. Today, the island's wealth lies in the richest limestone quarries in the Pacific Northwest, as well as its beauty and its outdoor recreational opportunities. Many of the island's 1,200 residents commute to Powell River, via the 25-minute ferry ride. If you visit, be sure to look for Texada's 'flower rocks'. They are unique to the island, and are made into eye-catching jewelry.

Things to Do

• Diving

There are many reasons why Jacques Cousteau claimed Powell River's emerald waters were "second only to the Red Sea". The waters here are filled with wild and exotic creatures.

• Mountain Biking

Extreme mountain biking/cycling on the Upper Sunshine Coast is a popular form of recreation, transportation, and sport. The layout of the area offers easy access to any point in the region for both street and off-road bikes.

• Hiking

The Powell River region of the Sunshine Coast has an extensive trail system. From short 20 minute leisurely walks to the 180 kilometre Sunshine Coast Trail, you'll find hikes to suit any level of experience. 

• Fishing

Powell River and the Sunshine Coast is the ideal location for your next fishing adventure. The mild climate and protected waters provide anglers year-round fishing in both fresh water lakes and ocean waters.

Events

• Horse Show and Fall Fair

The annual Agricultural Fair and 4H Horse Show in Powell River. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade ice cream, and fresh-baked goods. Come out and listen to local musical groups, or enjoy the horse show with your family.

• Festival of Trees

Come celebrate the season and cast your vote for your favourite tree. Local businesses decorate and donate Christmas trees and wreaths to the event in support of the Powell River Association for Community Living.

Nearby Communities

Contact Information

Tourism Powell River

Unit 111 - 4871 Joyce Avenue
Powell River, BC V8A 5P4

Telephone: (604) 485-4000
Fax: (604) 485-2822
E-mail: tourism@discoverpowellriver.com
Website: www.discoverpowellriver.com