Recreation on Salt Spring
Salt Spring Island is the largest of the Gulf Islands at 185 sq. km. It is also the most geographically diverse, containing several mountain peaks (highest point is Mount Bruce at 709 m or 2325 ft.), valley farmlands, and many freshwater lakes. This variety offers many opportunities for recreational activities.
Ocean kayaking and sailing are very popular with young and old alike. Local kayaking centres offer lessons for neophytes, daily rentals as well as guided sunset and full moon paddles. Salt Spring Island has an active private Sailing Club, and a Sailing School provides instruction on sailing and basic navigation skills. The many marinas offer mooring for visiting boats as well as local sailors.
Fishing and canoeing are popular on the freshwater lakes such as St. Mary Lake, Stowell Lake, Cusheon Lake and Weston Lake. In addition, the ocean provides ample opportunities for saltwater fishing. Swimming is also a common activity both at ocean and lake beaches. A list of Salt Spring beaches including a complete description of every beach can be found at the Market web site.
Hiking is a year-round activity for both local residents and visitors. The island has a number of popular trails some leading to spectacular viewpoints such as Mt. Maxwell (602 m-1975 ft.). Baines Peak on Mt. Maxwell was for many years a popular hang gliding location, but that has now moved to Mt. Bruce. Other hiking destinations include Mt. Tuam (609 m-2000 ft.) and Ruckle Park, the oldest continuously operating family farm in BC, which was established in 1874. Over 1000 acres of the original farm including 11 km of shoreline is now a provincial park with walk-in campsites beside the ocean and beautiful trails.
Two golf courses on Salt Spring offer plenty of opportunities for great golf games. In addition, Blackburn Meadows Golf Course boasts of being the only organic golf course in Canada!
With scenery this maginifcent and a climate this mild, the list of activities keeps on growing - tennis, horseback riding, bird watching, disk golfing, soccer, baseball, cycling. There are also opportunities for indoor recreation such as bowling, billiards and even an indoor rock climbing wall. There's something for everyone!
