Enjoy new tent platforms, picnic table on the Sea to Sky marine trail

The BC Marine Trails Network has announced the successful completion of the first phase of its 2024 Howe Sound projects. This phase also involved the construction of three tent platforms and a picnic table at the Thornbrough Channel Recreation Site and two at the Zorro Bay Recreation Site.

This marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to enhance paddlers’ outdoor experiences. Both sites are part of the more expansive Sea to Sky Marine Trail.

“The Sea to Sky Marine Trail quickly immerses the paddler in a unique remote experience. Volunteers have built a network of campsites equipped with composting toilets, picnic tables, bridges, and tent platforms, providing comfort amid wilderness,” said Paul Grey, President of BCMT.

The upcoming work includes the replacement of steel bear caches with new aluminum models.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Sea Kayak Association of BC (SKABC) and BC Marine Trail, funding was secured for the project through the Destination Development fund, together with a 30% matching grant from the Trans Canada Trail. The Destination Development Fund, from which BCMT received a total grant of $26,136, was made possible through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

These grants enabled the hiring of a backcountry contractor to carry out the construction of the platforms. Beginning on March 12, SKABC’s dedicated club Treasurer, Nick Heath, accompanied contractor Todd Nichols to Thornbrough Channel and Zorro Bay to review platform locations, BC Marine Trail said in a press release.

Todd Nichols, who previously constructed three tent platforms at Zorro Bay and five recreation site composting toilets, led the construction efforts. Utilizing innovative methods, Todd and his crew transported platform lumber as a raft behind an inflatable from Britannia Beach to Zorro Bay, where they successfully built two platforms and added a hand/guardrail to the access trail wood stair.

They then proceeded to Thornbrough Channel, delivering materials in two loads via Mercury Transport from Horseshoe Bay. Despite logistical challenges, the team efficiently completed three platforms alongside a stunning solid table, showcasing breathtaking marine views. The work was finished on March 18, 2024.

Paddlers are invited to explore these newly constructed tent platforms, offering an enhanced outdoor experience in Howe Sound. Steve Best, SKABC’s Howe Sound Marine Trail Steward, cautions that “Howe Sound is a body of water that has to be treated with respect. Make sure that you have the appropriate paddling skills, and pick your weather with care.”

While sites are free to use, support for future projects is appreciated through membership with BCMT. Membership not only supports further trail development but also First Nations engagement and stewardship initiatives. BCMT requests that marine recreationists along the coast adhere to their Code of Conduct to ensure responsible and sustainable practices.

A detailed, interactive map of BCMT sites, including Zorro Bay and Thornbrough Channel, is also available on the website. The BCMT is grateful to Todd Nichols and his team, grant writers, and volunteer stewards whose dedication and expertise have contributed to the realization of this project, bringing a touch of paradise to our community.

For more information about BCMT, please get in touch with Sam Cutcliffe at (902) 213-3039 or scutcliffe@bcmarinetrails.org. For more information about the recent tent platform construction, the history of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail, or the SKABC, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Steve Best at (604) 828-0272.