RECREATION SITES AND TRAILS BC

SEA TO SKY MARINE TRAIL CONCEPT PLAN

Prepared by 01 May 2014 Gordon McKeever Project Manager - Sea to Sky Trail gordon@SeaToSkyTrail.ca 604-932-1343 for

with significant support from

and

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Table of Contents

Overview Page 2 Needs and Expectations of Sea Kayakers Page 6 Marine Trail Access Points Page 8 Existing Provincial Parks Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park Page 11 Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park Page 13 Porteau Cove Provincial Park Page 15 New Recreation Sites Page 17 Ramillies Channel Page 18 Latona Passage Page 24 Bain Creek Page 28 Thornborough Channel Page 32 Islet View Page 36 Zorro Bay Page 41 Friday Night Page 45 Marine Trail Distances Between Sites Page 49 Picnic Sites and Safe Landfalls Page 50 Construction and Funding Model Page 52 Operating Models and Expansion Opportunities Page 56

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Overview

The concept of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network started with the need to connect the Sea to Sky Trail land route’s southern terminus in Squamish with the Trans Canada Trail in West Vancouver. Developing a connecting land route to Sea to Sky Trail standards was too hard as the east side of Howe Sound is mostly cliffs over water with the railway and Highway 99 dominating the lowest elevations. The alternative was a water route. As the concept evolved it became apparent that this was much more than just a solution of convenience. For many years recreational use of Howe Sound waterways has been much less than other local bodies of water. The pollution from some specific sources such as the Britannia Beach mine site, the Woodfibre pulp mill and the chemical plant in Squamish had contaminated the waters to a serious extent. As these sources were addressed the ecosystem began to rebound. The presence of pods of dolphins, grey whales and orcas highlight the recovering health of the marine environment. This created the opportunity to develop a major new recreational amenity in Vancouver’s favorite back yard.

A Marine Trail is not a single linear route but rather a network of options. Kayak travel is slow and Howe Sound is very big. With paddling speeds of four to eight kilometres per hour (or slower with big headwinds) the journey the length of the Sound is a multi-day event. There are currently only three water accessible camping sites: Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park on Gambier Island, Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park on Keats Island and Porteau Cove Provincial Park on the eastern shoreline.

The most crucial task was to create new water accessible campsites located within a

reasonable distance of each other. Days of field research, supported by the SLRD, Recreation Sites & Trails BC and the BC Marine Trails Network Association, identified several potential sites.

Following the surveying and inventory of the campsites, Recreation Sites and Trails BC took the lead on trying to secure them. To date seven of the candidates have passed through the stakeholder referral process and are moving through to be established as new waterfront Recreation Sites.

Overview (cont)

The Sea to Sky Marine Trail is a multi-jurisdictional project. There are at least ten significant stakeholders, mostly provincial, regional or local governments and many other interests throughout the network. The major Stakeholders would include:

• Recreation Sites and Trails BC – the seven new Recreation Sites • BC Parks – Halkett Bay, Porteau Cove and Plumper Cove Provincial Parks • Squamish Nation • Squamish-Lillooet Regional District – Area D – Two Recreation Sites along the north-

western shore of Howe Sound • Sunshine Cost Regional District – Area F – Five Recreation Sites along the western shore

of Howe Sound and Gambier Island • District of West Vancouver – Horseshoe Bay access point • District of Squamish – Oceanfront access point • Town of Gibsons – access point • Bowen Island – Snug Harbour access point • Trans Canada Trail Foundation – this Marine Trail is part of their national project • BC Marine Trail Network Association - this Marine Trail is part of their provincial project

It would facilitate the completion of this project if each of the above agencies would assign

a point person on staff to act as the contact for reviewing and approving matters relating to the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network. A smaller working group would be set up to monitor and direct activities more closely. The cost to develop the Marine Trail is relatively low, especially considering the significant recreational amenity that will result. Unlike a land route, there is no trail to build. Some minor improvements to the new Recreation Sites, some signage and a website will see it up and running. The benefits to the communities and the local economies throughout the network will deliver a very high return on this a small investment. The community access points to the network and the Provincial Parks along the route will see no additional costs beyond some signage, as the services and facilities required are already in place and operating. The improvements to the new Recreation Sites are relatively minor: installing some signage, improving the beach landfall at some sites and clearing a small amount of camping space. It is proposed that these sites be presented as rough and un-serviced. A lack of potable water and toilets are conditions that sea kayakers are very used to and comfortable with. The following pages will delve into the project in greater detail. It is hoped that the value of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network will become self-evident.

Overview (cont)

Sea to Sky Trail Concept Plan Southern Howe Sound Sites

Overview (cont)

Sea to Sky Trail Concept Plan Northern Howe Sound Sites

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Needs and Expectations of Sea Kayakers

Sea Kayakers, like back-packers, are a very self-sufficient lot. Similarly, they tend to have a high respect for their environment and treat it appropriately.

Another commonality is the relatively slow pace of travel. Kayak travel is generally close

to a walking pace, four to eight kilometres per hour depending on the wind and the currents. Really aggressive winds can drop speed further. With this in mind the objective was to ensure camping sites located within eight to twelve kilometres of the next sites. Distance is not purely linear, as paddlers tend to keep fairly close to coastlines except when crossing channels or larger bodies of water.

To assess the effective location of camping opportunities a maximum distance of sixteen

kilometres was set (a BC Marine Trails safety distance), as four hours of paddling is enough of a day’s work for most people of reasonable fitness.

All of the campsites on the Sea to Sky Marine Trails network have at least two other

campsites within the sixteen kilometre limit. Most have several more choices. A Marine Trail is not a single linear route but rather a network of options. This is

appropriate to create the flexibility required to meet the needs and wants of the paddler and to allow them to respond to the conditions of the day.

Knowledge of tides, winds and weather specific to their days of travel is essential to the

safety and enjoyment of their journey. Packing a kayak or canoe well is important for several reasons. Most of the time there are

no amenities or resources where they land for the night. The contents of the kayak have to meet all the needs of food, shelter, etc. It is very common to have no potable water at the campsites. Two litres per person per day is the rule of thumb, more if required for cooking.

Needs and Expectations of Sea Kayakers (cont)

Toilets at the campsite are also scarce. A trowel is an essential part of the kit. With this in

mind, the rough un-serviced nature of the new Recreation Sites is not a big issue. The BC Marine Trails Network follows Leave No Trace principles while camping. One thing that a kayaker does need is a safe landing site. Beaches that are sandy, pebbled or even consist of small rocks are generally no problem. Large slippery rocks can be a hazard. Five of the seven new Recreation Sites have rocky approaches. The solution is a landing trough. A landing trough is 1.5 to 2 metres wide, cleared of large rocks for the entire length of the intertidal zone (to accommodate various tides). It doesn’t have to be perfect, just better. Every effort will be taken not to minimize changes to approaches.

Mick Allen, a BCMT director, examining a landing trough on Anvil Island.

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Access Points

While there are a number of access points for kayaks and canoes to the waters of Howe Sound and the Sea to Sky Marine Trails Network, five major access points have been identified, below. Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver

• The connection point with the rest of the Trans Canada Trail • Government Wharf • No kayak rentals in Horseshoe Bay but operators on the North Shore will deliver a kayak

to the Government Wharf • Pay parking available • Potable water is available • Public washrooms are available • Restaurants & shopping available nearby • Marine Trail campsites within 16 km (16 km is a safety distance as set by the BC Marine

Trails Network Association) o Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park – 11.0 km

Snug Cove, Bowen Island

• Government Wharf • Kayak rentals are available next to the Government Wharf • Street parking available • Potable water is available • Public washrooms are available • Restaurants & shopping available nearby • Marine Trail campsites within 16 km

o Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park – 9.2 km o Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 15.0 km

Access Points (cont)

Gibsons, Sunshine Coast

• Government Wharf • Kayak rentals are available with direct water access • Street parking available • Potable water is available • Public washrooms are available • Restaurants & shopping available nearby • Marine Trail campsites within 16 km

o Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park – 2.5 km o Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park – 15.7 km

Porteau Cove Provincial Park

• Public Boat Launch • No kayak rentals are available • Free parking available • Potable water is available • Public washrooms are available • No restaurants & shopping available nearby • Camping available • Marine Trail camp sites within 16 km

o Islet View Recreation Site – 5.2 km o Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 5.8 km o Thornborough Channel Site – 9.3 km o Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 10.3 km o Friday Night Recreation Site – 14.0 km o Bain Creek Recreation Site – 14.8 km o Latona Passage Recreation Site – 15.9 km

Oceanfront Lands, District of Squamish

• The connection point with the Sea to Sky Trail land route to the north • Currently there are no public boat launch facilities but the Squamish Oceanfront

Development Corporation Master Plan calls for a phased development of the Oceanfront Lands over a twenty year period. The Master Plan allows for public parks and water access.

• Limited kayak rentals are available • Street parking available • Potable water is available • Public washrooms are available • Restaurants & shopping available nearby • Marine Trail camp sites within 16 km

o Friday Night Recreation Site – 4.2 km o Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 13.9 km

Access Points (cont)

Squamish Oceanfront Development

EXISTING

PHASE 1

YEAR 20 FINISHED DEVELOPMENT

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Existing Provincial Parks – Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park

Located on the south-east corner of Gambier Island this 309 hectare park (19 ha foreshore) is easily reached from Horseshoe Bay and within 16 km of Gibsons. For many paddlers this will be the southern first stop as they explore the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network. The park is open year-round. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 8.7 km • Bowen Island Snug Cove (access only) – 9.2 km • Horseshoe Bay (access only) – 11.0 km • Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park – 13.1 km • Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 15.3 km • Gibsons (access only) – 15.7 km

Approach:

• A wharf provides water access to the park. Kayaks can be beached below the camp sites Camping:

• Three walk-in campsites with picnic tables Amenities:

• No potable water is available in the park • One pit toilet is located near the camp sites and wharf • Excellent hiking. A 5 km trail climbs Mt Artaban to 360o views of Howe Sound

Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park (cont)

Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Existing Provincial Parks – Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park

Located on the north-west side of Keats Island this park is a short paddle from Gibsons. This 66 hectare park operates year-round. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Gibsons (access only) – 2.5 km • Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park – 13.1 km • Latona Channel Recreation Site – 15.9 km

Approach:

• The beach is mostly pebble with some sand. Kayaks can be beached below the campsites Camping:

• Twenty walk-in campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. Firewood can be purchased from thee Park Facility Operator

Amenities:

• A hand pump in the campground provides water (not operating mid-September to mid-May)

• Four pit toilets are located near the camp sites and wharf area • Hiking trails are available. The Keats Landing foot ferry terminal is 3 km away

Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park (cont)

Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Existing Provincial Parks – Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Located mid-way between Horseshoe Bay and Squamish on the eastern shore of Howe Sound this popular park is available for camping year-round. This 456 hectare park (52 ha of foreshore) offers both camping and access to the heart of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail Network. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Islet View Recreation Site – 5.2 km • Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 5.8 km • Thornborough Channel Site – 9.3 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 10.3 km • Friday Night Recreation Site – 14.0 km • Bain Creek Recreation Site – 14.8 km • Latona Passage Recreation Site – 15.9 km

Approach:

• The beach is pebble and sand. Kayaks can be beached below the walk-in campsites. • There is a public boat launch available for access to the Sea to Sky Marine Trail.

Camping:

• Forty-four vehicle accessible sites and 16 walk-in (paddle-in) sites with benches and communal fire rings. Reservations are available (and recommended) from mid-April to mid-October.

Amenities:

• Water taps are located in the campground area. Showers are available (not winter) • Pit and flush toilets are available in the campground area. Pit toilets only in winter

Porteau Cove Provincial Park (cont)

Porteau Cove Provincial Park – Walk-in campsites beach

Howe Sound Marine TrailMap Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Overview_Map.mxd

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092G073092G074

092G032092G034

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092G042

092G054

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

REC169890 - Friday NightREC169892 - Harbour View

REC169894 - Zorro BayREC169896 - Islet View

REC169898 - ThornboroughREC169900 - Bain Creek

REC169902 - Latona PassageREC169906 - Ramillies Channel

Overview Map

Date: 10/06/20131:250,0000 5 102.5

km

Recreation Tenures

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites - Ramillies Channel Of all the new Howe Sound Recreation Sites the Ramillies Channel site is the crown jewel. Located on the eastern shore of Gambier Island this is the most centrally located site in the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network. The three beaches are almost entirely pebbled for the complete length of the intertidal zone, making for a safe and easy landing regardless of the tides. The middle of the three beaches has a mossy bench above the high tide zone, perfect for camping. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 6.6 km • Halkett Bay Marine Park – 8.7 km • Bain Creek Recreation Site – 9.2 km • Islet View Recreation Site – 9.8 km • Latona Passage Recreation Site – 9.9 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 10.3 km • Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 14.4 km • Bowen Island Snug Cove (access point only) – 15.0 km

Approach:

• Excellent – pebbly beaches the length of the intertidal zone Camping:

• Southern Beach – steep upland directly above high tide line – no camping • Middle Beach – mossy bench above high tide line – potential for three or four campsites • Northern Beach – potential to create some additional campsites

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site (cont)

Amenities:

• Ephemeral stream near middle beach camping. No reliable water • No toilet facilities

Comments: Of all the sites, this should be one of the most popular. It may be worth exploring the possibility of a constructing a pit toilet here. Discussions have been held with the Gambier Island Conservancy about construction of a trail to connect with the existing Gambier Island trail system.

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site (cont)

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – middle beach

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – Northern Beach

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site (cont)

Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – middle beach

PID

PID 015890252

PID 026162547

PID 026162563

DL 1257

DL 3110

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:10,0000 100 200 300 40050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

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SKY PILOT

Seaside Park

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Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

FridayNight

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

Tenure # REC169906

Ramillies Channel (Gambier) Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 9 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169906 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSC

TSA : 39LAND DISTRICT : Sunshine CoastForest District

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158940BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.054

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 29.595

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169906 (29.595 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 474796, 5484166

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Latona Passage This Site is located on the north-west shore of Gambier Island in the very sheltered McEnry Cove. Proximity to Other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Bain Creek Recreation Site – 2.5 km • Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 7.1 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 9.9 km • Islet View Recreation Site – 13.2 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 15.9 km • Plumper Cove Marine Park – 15.9 km

Approach:

• A good beach of small and medium-sized rocks throughout the intertidal zone Camping:

• Good potential to develop camping sites in the upland Amenities:

• No fresh water apparent at this Site • No toilet facilities

Comments: This is the closest Site to the Gibsons access point (16.4 km) and within 16 km of both Plumper Cove Marine Park and Porteau Cove Provincial Park.

Latona Passage Recreation Site (cont)

Latona Passage Recreation Site

PID

PID 015792820

PID

015785190

01728

38

LEASE

INDUSTRIA

L

0295534LE

AS

EIN

DU

ST

RIA

L

DL 6057

DL 6945

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

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Douglas Bay(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

Tenure # REC169902

Latona Passage (Gambier) Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 7 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169902 (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSC

TSA :LAND DISTRICT : Sunshine CoastForest District

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158934BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.053

SCALE : 1:10000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 1.853

UTM : 10NAD : NAD83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 23, 2012

Legend

(1.853 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 468592, 5485648

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Bain Creek Bain Creek Recreation Site is located on the west shore of Howe Sound between Port Mellon and McNab Creek. It features a rocky approach with suitable upland for clearing camping sites. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Latona Passage Recreation Site – 2.5 km • Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 5.5 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 9.2 km • Islet View Recreation Site – 11.8 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 14.8 km

Approach:

• Rocky beach will require construction of a landing channel Camping:

• Good opportunities in the upland Amenities:

• Flowing groundwater available nearby • No toilet facilities

Comments: This is currently the most southerly Site on the western shore of Howe Sound. Gibson is approximately 18 km south. If another Site was secured midway between the two there would be better access to the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network from the Gibsons access point.

Bain Creek Recreation Site (cont)

Bain Creek Recreation Site

PID

PID

008

0752

04

0207803

RIGHT-OF-WAY

UTILITY

0271881RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

DL 3355

DL 2854

R/W Plan RP4951

DL 6655

DL

334

3

DL

6621

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

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Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

BainCreek

Tenure # REC169900

Bain Creek Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 6 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169900 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSC

TSA : 39LAND DISTRICT : Sunshine Coast ForestDistrict

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158933BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.053

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 4.599

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169900 (4.599 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 468760, 5487931

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Thornborough Channel This Site is centrally located on the west shore of Howe Sound north of Gambier Island. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Bain Creek Recreation Site – 5.5 km • Islet View Recreation Site – 6.0 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 6.6 km • Latona Passage Recreation Site – 7.1 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 9.3 km • Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 10.5 km • Halkett Bay Marine Park – 15.3 km

Approach:

• A rough rocky beach that will require clearing a landing trough Camping:

• Limited potential to develop camping sites due to steep upland. Campsites above the high tide line can be developed. This Site will likely only have one or two campsites

Amenities:

• No fresh water apparent at this Site • No toilet facilities

Comments: The central location of this site is its best asset

Thornborough Channel Recreation Site (cont)

Thornborough Channel Recreation Site

PID

0207803RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

0271881RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

DL 6658DL 3060

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

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McNabCreek

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Anvil

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Britannia

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Seaside Park

TETRAHEDRON

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Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

ThornboroughChannel

Tenure # REC169898

Thornborough Channel Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 5 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169898 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSC

TSA : 39LAND DISTRICT : Sunshine Coast ForestDistrict

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158931BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.054

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 7.62

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169898 (7.62 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 473658, 5489189

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Islet View This is another premium site. The beach is rough but there is an excellent cleared area for camping and is the most accessible site from Porteau Cove. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 4.6 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 5.2 km • Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 6.0 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 9.8 km • Bain Creek Recreation Site – 11.8 km • Latona Passage Recreation Site – 13.2 km • Friday Night Recreation Site – 14.0 km

Approach:

• Very rocky beach; it will require construction of a landing channel. There is a sandy base under the rocks

Camping:

• Excellent existing campsite Amenities:

• No fresh water at this Site • No toilet facilities

Comments: This Site is very central within the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network and is bound to be very popular.

Islet View Recreation Site (cont)

Islet View Recreation Site

Islet View Recreation Site (cont)

Islet View Recreation Site Campsite

PID

2407357LICENCECOMMERCIAL RECREATION

0207803RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

0271881RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

DL 6659

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

A

B E R

C

MTN

M

McNabCreek

c

A

WROTTESLEY

Anvil

AP

CAPILANO

S

R

t

G

MT

I

WA

el

C

Minaty Bay

Britannia

A

MTN

Point

I

Woodfibre

L

Port Mellon

Y

R

I

r

I

Porteau

Beach

SKY PILOT

Seaside Park

TETRAHEDRON

c

N

h e

M I

Ekins

U

Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

IsletView

Tenure # REC169896

Islet View Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 4 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169896 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSC

TSA : 39LAND DISTRICT : Sunshine Coast ForestDistrict

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158929BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.054

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 4.973

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169896 (4.973 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 478606, 5492266

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Zorro Bay The greatest value of this Site is its northerly location and connectivity with Squamish. Located on the western shore of Howe Sound this Recreation Site includes the public wharf at Zorro Bay and the shoreline for approximately 300 metres to the north. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Islet View Recreation Site – 4.6 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 5.8 km • Friday Night Recreation Site – 9.8 km • Thornborough Channel Recreation Site – 10.5 km • Squamish (access only) – 13.9 km • Ramillies Channel Recreation Site – 14.4 km

Approach:

• A rough rocky beach that will require clearing a landing trough Camping:

• Good opportunities to clear campsites in the upland Amenities:

• No fresh water apparent at this Site • No toilet facilities

Comments: The Site has fairly significant cabin development to the south of the headland at the wharf. Efforts must be made to isolate the camping from the cabins.

Zorro Bay Recreation Site (cont)

Zorro Bay Recreation Site

PID

015

7945

55

PID 008489734

PID

011

9198

68 PID 005051304

PID 008489971

PID 008489882

PID 008489904

PID 008489866

PID 008489939

PID 008021112

PID 008489980

PID 008489831

PID 008489947

PID 008489815

2407357LICENCECOMMERCIAL RECREATION

0207

803

RIG

HT-

OF

-WAY

UT

ILIT

Y0271881RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

DL 2077

DL

6660

DL

245

2

DL 5618

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

A

B E R

C

MTN

M

McNabCreek

c

A

WROTTESLEY

Anvil

AP

CAPILANO

S

R

t

G

MT

I

WA

el

C

Minaty Bay

Britannia

A

MTN

Point

I

Woodfibre

L

Port Mellon

Y

R

I

r

I

Porteau

Beach

SKY PILOT

Seaside Park

TETRAHEDRON

c

N

h e

M I

Ekins

U

Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

ZorroBay

Tenure # REC169894

Zorro Bay Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 3 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169894 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSQ

TSA : 31LAND DISTRICT : Squamish ForestDistrict

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158928BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.064

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 4.326

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169894 (4.326 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 481324, 5494503

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

New Recreation Sites – Friday Night The north end of Howe Sound has very few camping opportunities. The eastern shore is very developed and the western shore is mostly cliffs. The purpose behind securing this site was to create an entry to the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network from the Squamish access point. It is within an hour or so of paddling time from Squamish. Proximity to other Camping & Access Sites (within 16 km):

• Squamish (access only) – 4.2 km • Zorro Bay Recreation Site – 9.8 km • Islet View Recreation Site – 14.0 km • Porteau Cove Provincial Park (access and camping) – 14.0 km

Approach:

• Very rocky beach; will require construction of a landing channel Camping:

• Good opportunities in the upland Amenities:

• No fresh water at this Site • No toilet facilities

Comments: This is the most northerly Site. Entry into the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network from the Squamish access point would be improved if an additional Recreation Site was secured between Friday Night and Zorro Bay.

Friday Night Recreation Site (cont)

Friday Night Recreation Site

PID 015794598

0337433RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITY

0207803

RIGHT-OF-WAY

UTILITY

2407357LICENCECOMMERCIAL RECREATION

0271881RIGHT-OF-WAYUTILITYR/W Plan 17775

DL 6672

Marine Trail Proposed Site

Land Title Outline

Private Land

Survey Parcel (District Lot)

Land Tenures

Lease

Licence

Reserve/Notation

Right of Way

Howe Sound Marine Trail

1:5,0000 100 20050

Meters

Map Source: Marine_Trail_Sites_Nov20_2012.mxd

A

B E R

C

MTN

M

McNabCreek

c

A

WROTTESLEY

Anvil

AP

CAPILANO

S

R

t

G

MT

I

WA

el

C

Minaty Bay

Britannia

A

MTN

Point

I

Woodfibre

L

Port Mellon

Y

R

I

r

I

Porteau

Beach

SKY PILOT

Seaside Park

TETRAHEDRON

c

N

h e

M I

Ekins

U

Douglas Bay(Gambier)

LatonaPassage

(Gambier)

BainCreek

ThornboroughChannel

IsletView

ZorroBay

HarbourView

RamilliesChannel

(Gambier)

FridayNight

Tenure # REC169890

Friday Night Rec Site

Date: 20/11/2012 Page 1 of 9

EXHIBIT A

MAP OF : REC169890 - SIT (shown in bold black)

FOREST REGION : RCOFOREST DISTRICT : DSQ

TSA : 31LAND DISTRICT : Squamish Forest District

PULPWOOD AGREEMENT : MGT UNIT TYPE :MGT UNIT NO :

ESF SUBMISSION ID : 1158923BCGS MAPSHEET NO : 92G.064

SCALE : 1:20000 at A SizeArea (Ha): 2.961

UTM : 10NAD : NAD 83

DRAWN BY : FTADATE : Nov 20, 2012

Legend

REC169890 (2.961 Ha)PofC1 UTM10 484175, 5502658

130800 STST Marine Trail distances.xlsx 04-04-14 1:05 PM

Sea to Sky TrailHowe Sound Marine Trail

Distances to Campsites (kilometres)0 to 12 12 to 16 16-20 20 to 25 +25

NOTE: Distances are approximate as routes generally follow shorelines and minimize channel crossings (especially when crossing ferry routes).

Horse

shoe

Bay

Snug

Cov

e

Gibso

ns

Plum

per C

ove

Halke

tt Bay

Ramill

ies

Lato

na

Bain

Cree

k

Thor

nbor

ough

Porte

au C

ove

Isle

t Vie

w

Zorr

o Bay

Frid

ay N

ight

Squa

mish

Horseshoe Bay access ~ 4.9 23.5 21.5 11.0 18.5 +25 +25 24.1 22.1 +25 +25 2 +25 +25 n green = 2

Snug Cove Bowen Island access 4.9 ~ 21.0 18.0 9.2 15.0 24.9 24.2 21.6 22.8 +25 +25 2 +25 +25 n green = 3

Gibsons access 23.5 21.0 ~ 2.5 15.7 22.0 16.4 18.0 23.5 +25 +25 +25 2 +25 +25 n green = 2

Plumper Cove Marine Park 21.5 18.0 2.5 ~ 13.1 21.0 15.9 17.3 22.6 +25 +25 +25 2 +25 +25 n green = 3

Halkett Bay Marine Park 11.0 9.2 15.7 13.1 ~ 8.7 18.6 17.9 15.3 16.5 18.5 23.1 2 +25 +25 n green = 6

Ramillies Channel Rec Site 18.5 15.0 22.0 21.0 8.7 ~ 9.9 9.2 6.6 10.3 9.8 14.4 23.8 +25 n green = 8

Latona Passage Rec Site +25 24.9 16.4 15.9 18.6 9.9 ~ 2.5 7.1 15.9 13.2 17.8 +25 +25 n green = 6

Bain Creek Rec Site +25 24.2 18.0 17.3 17.9 9.2 2.5 ~ 5.5 14.8 11.8 16.4 +25 +25 n green = 5

Thornborough Channel Rec Site 24.1 21.6 23.5 22.6 15.3 6.6 7.1 5.5 ~ 9.3 6.0 10.5 20.0 23.2 n green = 7

Porteau Cove Provincial Park 22.1 22.8 +25 +25 16.5 10.3 15.9 14.8 9.3 ~ 5.2 5.8 14.0 18.2 n green = 7

Islet View Rec Site +25 +25 +25 +25 18.5 9.8 13.2 11.8 6.0 5.2 ~ 4.6 14.0 17.2 n green = 7

Zorro Bay Rec Site +25 +25 +25 +25 23.1 14.4 17.8 16.4 10.5 5.8 4.6 ~ 9.8 13.9 n green = 6Site needed south of Woodfibre +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 18 3 21 7 20 3 14 5 12 5 8 5 4 5 5 3 9 5Friday Night +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 23.8 +25 +25 20.0 14.0 14.0 9.8 ~ 4.2 n green = 4

Squamish access +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 +25 23.2 18.2 17.2 13.9 4.2 ~ n green = 2

NOTES: Paddling speed generally ranges from 3 to 7 km/hour depending on wind, currents and paddling strength & skills.Distances greater than 16 km in a single day can be quite challenging to many paddlers.Distances above are approximate and generall follow close to the shoreline except when crossing channels.

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Rest Sites and Safe Landfalls

The official elements of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail are the five Access Points, the three Provincial Parks and the seven Recreation Sites. Signage and any infrastructure investments would be limited to these sites.

However, kayakers may wish to break their day’s journey for a rest or could find

themselves needing temporary shelter due to inclement conditions. It is proposed that the website would list a number of potential stop-over sites and/or safe emergency landfalls. These sites are viable landings but were inappropriate for Recreation Sites, usually because of private land above the high water line. These sites would be listed with a caveat that, while the exposed land below the high tide line is public land in Canada, the paddlers should not trespass above this line and should be respectful of the adjacent properties. The following page demonstrates some of the potential sites for this list.

Rest Sites and Safe Landfalls (cont)

Examples of rest sites and safe landfalls

Construction and Funding Model (cont)

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Construction and Funding Model

The Sea to Sky Marine Trail network consists of the following element: five Access Points, three Provincial Parks and seven new Recreation Sites, which will be governed by a multitude of stakeholders. Signage and any other infrastructure investments costs should be shared amongst these parties.

The development costs of this project are relatively very low, especially considering the

lasting community legacy it will represent. Unlike a land route, there is no trail to build. Because Access Points and Provincial Parks are independently operated costs will be lower. It is also recommended that the seven new Recreation Sites operate as rough, un-serviced Sites with no additional amenities. Sea kayakers are a very self-sufficient lot and generally very respectful of their environment. A lack of potable water and toilet facilities is the norm, not the exception. The cost-generating components during the development of this project would be limited to signage, clearing landing troughs at some of the new Recreations Sites and constructing and hosting a web site. The stakeholder list would include:

• Recreation Sites and Trails BC – the seven new Recreation Sites • BC Parks – Halkett Bay, Porteau Cove and Plumper Cove Provincial Parks • Squamish Nation • Squamish-Lillooet Regional District – Area D - Recreation Sites at Zorro Bay and Friday

Night • Sunshine Cost Regional District – Area F – Five Recreation Sites along the western shore

of Howe Sound and Gambier Island • District of West Vancouver – Horseshoe Bay access point • District of Squamish – Oceanfront access point • Town of Gibsons – access point • Bowen Island – Snug Harbour access point

Construction and Funding Model (cont)

• BC Marine Trails Network Association – the same recreation campsites, stopovers and access points will also be part of their trails network

• Trans Canada Trail Foundation – this Marine Trail is part of their national project Infrastructure Needs

Development cost generators, site by site, would include:

• Horseshoe Bay access point o Signage near the Government Wharf

• Snug Harbour access point o Signage near the Government Wharf

• Gibsons access point o Signage near the Government Wharf

• Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park o Signage near the wharf

• Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park o Signage near the docks

• Porteau Cove Marine Provincial Park o Signage near the boat launch slip

• Ramillies Channel Recreations Site o Signage o Campsite clearing

• Latona Passage Recreations Site o Signage o Campsite clearing

• Bain Creek Recreations Site o Signage o Clear landing trough o Campsite clearing

• Thornborough Channel Recreations Site o Signage o Clear landing trough o Campsite clearing

• Islet View Recreations Site o Signage o Clear landing trough o Campsite clearing

• Zorro Bay Recreations Site o Signage o Clear landing trough

• Friday Night Recreations Site o Signage o Clear landing trough o Campsite clearing

Construction and Funding Model (cont)

Signage Content and Design Signage should include:

• A common theme echoing the Signage Design Plan developed for the Sea to Sky Trail project

• A new logo should be designed, based on the Sea to Sky Trail logo with the word “MARINE”, in blue, inserted between the words “SEA TO SKY” and “TRAIL”

• Where appropriate the BC Marine Trails Network logo and the Trans Canada Trail logo would also be included to indicate the common interest

• A Howe Sound map needs to be developed showing the access points, stopovers and camping sites

• A cautionary note should be included at the access points advising the potential users of the possible risks associated with paddling in Howe Sound and the need for the users to make themselves familiar with the tides, currents and anticipated weather conditions then proceed using their own judgement at their own risk

• Camping “Dos and Don’ts” should be posted at the Recreation Sites explaining the un-serviced nature of these sites

• The stakeholder partners (and perhaps any significant sponsors) should be recognized through the signage program

• Signage should include the Sea to Sky Marine Trails Network website URL • Working in collaboration with the Squamish Nation a series of interpretive signage for the

Provincial Parks and the Recreation Sites should be developed as part of their Place Naming and Recognition program and a celebration of their deep history with this body of water

Recreation Sites Landing Troughs & Campsite Clearing

The five Recreation Sites that will require landing troughs will likely require approval from the Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The lead agency for this process, and the coordinator for this work, should be Recreation Sites and Trails BC.

The landing troughs should be a maximum of 2 metres wide and clear of large rocks for

the length of the intertidal zone. They do not have to be perfectly cleared, just a significant reduction in the hazard of landing on a slippery, rocky shore.

Web Site Content

The Sea to Sky Marine Trail website should include:

• Maps of Howe Sound showing access points, stopovers and camping sites • Details of the various camping sites and distances to the next sites • A cautionary note advising the potential users of the possible risks associated with

paddling in Howe Sound and the need for the users to make themselves familiar with the tides, currents and anticipated weather conditions (including links to the relevant sites) then proceed using their own judgement at their own risk

• Camping “Dos and Don’ts” explaining the un-serviced nature of the Recreation Sites • Links to the relevant Provincial Parks for details about camping fees, reservations, etc • Picnic sites and safe landfalls should be identified with appropriate cautionary information

Construction and Funding Model (cont)

• The site should include downloadable GPX files for GPS systems and KMZ files for Google Earth

• The stakeholder partners (and perhaps any significant sponsors) should be recognized on the website

• The Sea to Sky Marine Trail website should be mutually linked to the BC Marine Trails Network website and the Trans Canada Trail website

Funding Signage Design and Fabrication A contractor should be engaged to design the signs, overseen by a working group with representatives from Recreation Sites and Trails BC, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, the Sunshine Coast Regional District and (as appropriate) the Squamish Nation. The remaining stakeholders, including BC Parks, the District of West Vancouver, the District of Squamish, the Town of Gibsons and Bowen Island would be advised as the signage program evolved specifically regarding the signs to be placed within their jurisdictions. The BC Marine Trails Network Association and the Trans Canada Trail would also be kept informed as the program was developed. Final approval would be sought from all stakeholders as appropriate for the signs to be placed within their jurisdictions. The funding sources for the signage design and fabrication is yet to be determined. Grants and/or sponsorship should be sought. Signage Installation The cost to install the signs, once fabricated, at the access points should be borne by the appropriate local governments. The cost to install the signs, once fabricated, in the Provincial Parks should be borne by BC Parks.

The task of installing the signs at the Recreation Sites should be coordinated by Recreation Sites and Trails BC. The funding sources for the installation of these signs is yet to be determined. Grants and/or sponsorship should be sought. Recreation Sites Landing Troughs & Campsite Clearing

The task of clearing seven campsites the landing troughs at the five Recreation Sites should be coordinated by Recreation Sites and Trails BC. The funding sources for this work is yet to be determined. Grants and/or sponsorship should be sought. Sea to Sky Marine Trail Web Site Construction and Hosting A contractor should be engaged to design the website, overseen by a working group with representatives from Recreation Sites and Trails BC, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and the Sunshine Coast Regional District. The remaining stakeholders, including the Squamish Nation, BC Parks, the District of West Vancouver, the District of Squamish, the Town of Gibsons, Bowen Island, the BC Marine Trails Network and the Trans Canada Trail would be advised as the website evolved and final approval would be sought from all stakeholders before launch.

Construction and Funding Model (cont)

The funding sources for the website design and construction is yet to be determined. Grants and/or sponsorship should be sought. Due to the multi-jurisdictional nature of this project it is difficult to determine the model for the “ownership” of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail; specifically who should be responsible for hosting and maintaining the website.

A working group with representatives from Recreation Sites and Trails BC, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, the Sunshine Coast Regional District would probably be most appropriate to resolve this issue.

Sea to Sky Marine Trail

Concept Plan

Operating Models and Expansion Opportunities

Once development is complete the operating model for the physical aspects of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network can be fairly simple: Recreation Sites and Trails BC will look after the recreation sites, BC Parks will look after their three parks and the municipalities will look after their waterfront. The signage files could be shared so replacements can be made over time and everything keeps going on.

The challenge is developing the model for the product, specifically as embodied in the

hosting, maintenance and marketing of the website. The URLs www.SeaToSkyMarineTrail.ca and www.SeaToSkyMarineTrail.com have been

secured for a year. Ownership could easily be relinquished once a model of management has been developed.

One option is to hand all the information over to an organization such as the BC Marine

Trail Networks (www.bcmarinetrails.org). The main vision of the BCMTNA is the creation of a marine network of access points and campsites along the coastline of British Columbia. Their vision and goals align well with the Sea to Sky Trail network.

The BCMTNA currently maintains a state-of-the-art map, a paddling sites page (accessing

the map database), a first-stop paddling resources page and a company directory. Their excellent website would be a significant resource for the Sea to Sky Trail network. They also have an extensive associate membership base (1200+) and relationships to other organizations, such as, the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC.

The BCMTNA could create a separate ‘Sea to Sky’ paddling area on their mapping system

in order to highlight this special section of the Trans Canada Trail. This organization and their excellent website would certainly be a significant resource for the Sea to Sky Marine Trail, but perhaps not the lead agency.

Operating Models and Expansion Opportunities (cont)

Likely the appropriate solution would be to put together a tourism focused coalition of stakeholders to manage the site. Representatives from Sunshine Coast Tourism, Tourism Squamish and the appropriate organizations for West Vancouver and Bowen Island could ensure that the site remained current, relevant and well marketed. Just who would host, maintain and market the site could be sorted out around that table. Opportunities to Expand and Improve the Product

Southern Extension

The original intention was to connect with the Trans Canada Trail in Horseshoe Bay on the

North Shore’s Spirit Trail. If the land route through West Vancouver is too hard to develop in a timely way the Sea to Sky Marine Trail could easily be extended as far as Ambleside Park (approximately 16 km by water from Horseshoe Bay). Venturing into Burrard Inlet can cause problems but outside the Lions Gate Bridge is open water. Access Point opportunities along this route have not been explored in detail but rest stops and kayak launching points are available.

Improve Gibsons Access There is a dearth of easily accessible marine camping sites from Gibsons, other than Plumper Cove. If additional sites could be secured on the north shore of Bowen Island and/or along the western Shore of Howe Sound south of Port Mellon or the eastern shore of Gambier Island entry to the Sea to Sky Marine Trail network would be significantly improved. Improve Squamish Access

Similar to Gibsons, there are insufficient marine camping opportunities at the north end of

Howe Sound. Another site on the western shore of Howe Sound south of Woodfibre would improve Squamish’s access to the network. If a camping site could ever be developed at Minaty Bay (just south of Britannia Beach) it would vastly improve the connection with Porteau Cove and the wealth of sites mid-Sound.

BC Marine Trails Network The BCMTNA will be submitting site work that will align with the goals of the Sea to Sky project. They have already inventoried and surveyed dozens of sites on the South Coast Mainland Region. The BCMTNA and Sea to Sky Marine Trail organization should work together on future endeavours.

Operating Models and Expansion Opportunities (cont)

AREAS OF OPPORTUNITIES TO IMPROVE MARINE TRAIL NETWORK

WITH ADDITIONAL CAMPING SITES

(Red Polygons)