Skookumchuck is a classic surf wave found at the Skookumchuck Narrows tidal rapid in the Sunshine Coast region of southwest BC. This wave, formed when a rising tide tries to squeeze its way through the narrows into Sechelt Inlet, is everything from a small rolling wave to a foaming beast good for throwing any trick, and everything in between. Really, there's not a lot to say about Skooks aside from it's a great place to hang out, even if you're not a hard core play boater.
Here is some basic info to plan a trip there. Skookumchuck is found at Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park near the town of Egmont on the Sunshine Coast. You can only access the Sunshine Coast by ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Egmont is a small town with not much more than a pub and a general store. There is camping nearby. The wave forms on a flood tide when the current is greater than 11 knots. It is appropriate for intermediates at lower tides (11-12 knots) while advanced boaters will enjoy it more in the 13-16 knot range. On the higher end (15-16 knots) the wave will green out during the flood cycle. 12-15 is generally seen as optimal. The run out can get pretty heavy on large tides. You can get to the wave by either paddling out from Egmont or by hiking along a well maintained trail. Both options take about 1 hour.
Useful links:
Skookumchuck Tide Chart - Information about Skookumchuck Narrows. Includes a link to viewing times. XL flood tides are when you should go.
Skookumchuck Current Predictor - A tool to forecast the expected current speed. 12-15 is the optimal range.
There are other things to check out in Egmont, particularly places to stay, so do some research if none of this works for you.
