One of the greatest natural spectacles in British Columbia occurs here twice daily as the tide changes and the flow of saltwater switches, reversing the direction and power of these incredibly turbulent rapids. The difference in water levels between one side of the rapids and the other sometimes exceeds three metres (9 ft) in height, with 200 billion gallons of water flowing through the narrows connecting Sechelt and Jervis Inlets. The rapids are famous for their spectacular whirlpools and, for extreme kayakers and divers, "Skook" is one of the great whitewater wonders of the world, attracting thrill-seekers from across the globe. The flow of the Skookumchuck ("strong water" in Chinook) can reach up to 17 knots in spring and summer.

Low tide wonders
At low tide, these waters display astonishingly colourful and varied forms of marine life. Giant barnacles, colonies of starfish, sea urchins and sea anemones thrive in the nutrient-rich waters, whose strong tidal currents deter predators and enable the resident creatures to grow to extravagant sizes.

Skookumchuck Provincial Park
The 40-hectare park provides an easy 4 km. (2.5 m) hike from the parking lot at Egmont that is a delight in itself, through lush ferns and verdant forest along a path that is comfortable to walk and well maintained. Amenities include safe, fenced viewing areas and public toilets at both ends of the trail.

In order to fully appreciate this natural phenomenon, plan your visit to coincide with the tide change. The most dramatic motion, when billions of gallons of water are sucked into cavernous whirlpools and whipped up into standing waves, occurs an hour after slack tide when the ocean is rising. Local Visitors Info Centres can provide best viewing times and a helpful tide booklet is available at retail outlets.

Getting there
Following Hwy. 101 north past Sechelt and Madeira Park take Egmont Road for approximately 6 km (4 mi) to the parking lot. Egmont Road is one km (.7 mi) south of the Earls Cove ferry terminal.