
photo: Tourism BC/Insight Photography
Winter officially arrives next week and there is already lots of snow on the Coast Mountains. Dakota Ridge Winter Recreation Area officially opens its season Saturday, December 19. Located on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast, Dakota Ridge offers 12 km of groomed cross country skate and classic ski trails and a network of marked snowshoe trails. This non-commercial winter wonderland is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast and fun for the whole family.
Dakota Ridge is a true wilderness area. Pack-in/pack-out is the rule and there are no shops on the mountain. Instead, the area is patrolled by volunteers who are happy to offer trail advice. There is a warming hut where you can sit by the fire and have a picnic. Restroom facilities are available. There are a number of shops in Wilson Creek at the foot of Field Road (the main access route) who can provide everything you need, from coffee & food to equipment and clothing, for fun in the great outdoors.
The road up the mountain is a maintained forest service road. Therefore, four wheel drive vehicles and chains are required. As an alternative, transportation is available through Alpha Adventures. Sit back and enjoy the ride. Either way, it is only 45 minutes from the ferry.
Dakota Ridge offers very affordable winter fun. One day ski passes are only $10 and snowshoe tickets are $5. There are family and senior discounts and children 12 and under experience all the fun for free. Season passes are also available and a steal for the active user. For details, visit the Sunshine Coast Regional District .
BC's Sunshine Coast is a short 40 minute ferry cruise from West Vancouver's Horseshoe Bay Terminal. BC Ferries operates regularly scheduled sailings carrying vehicles and walk-on passengers. Public transit from the ferry to Wilson Creek at the base of Dakota Ridge is available.
To complete your winter break, the Sunshine Coast Bed & Breakfast, Cottage Owners Association offers beautiful yet affordable accommodations for every taste; whether a stunning ocean view B&B or a cozy family cottage complete with fireplace, our Sunshine Coast accommodations are sure to please. Member accommodations are inspected and must comply with stringent health and safety standards assuring our guests of superb accommodations at affordable prices. Something for Everyone!
For more information, please visit www.bbsunshinecoast.com. Visitors can search by dates, communities and amenities to find just the right accommodation for individual needs.
The Sunshine Coast Bed & Breakfast, Cottage Owners Association represents 125 member accommodations on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast. Our accommodations stretch from Langdale to Lund and from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. Something for Everyone!
Make your winter plans to Dakota Ridge and the Sunshine Coast today!