The best walks and hikes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
4.8
(9)
117
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) features a diverse landscape, encompassing the large Lois Lake reservoir and coastal areas along Jervis Inlet. The region is characterized by old-growth forests of Douglas fir and yellow cedar, with trails offering significant elevation changes. It forms a key section of the Sunshine Coast Trail, providing varied terrain for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
- The most popular hiking route is Inland Lake loop — Inland Lake Provincial Park, an 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This route traverses through old-growth fir and cedar forests.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Stillwater Bluffs Trail, an easy 1.6 miles (2.7 km) path. This trail offers coastal views of the Strait of Georgia and tidal pools.
- Local hikers also love the Lewis Lake Campsite loop from Spring Lake, a 10.3 miles (16.6 km) trail leading through varied forest terrain, often completed in about 5 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) is defined by extensive lakes, old-growth forests, and coastal paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.
- The routes in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 9 reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)'s varied terrain.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
4.6
(8)
40
hikers
13.2km
03:31
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
2.66km
00:45
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
1.85km
00:31
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
16.6km
05:35
800m
790m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
4.63km
01:44
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
Tips from the Community
Tin Hat Hut sits at the halfway point of the Sunshine Coast Trail on the summit of Tin Hat Mountain, with 360-degree views of Powell Lake, the Coast Mountain range, the Strait of Georgia, and Vancouver Island to the west. The hut, built by volunteers in 2011, sleeps 10 and includes a pellet stove, an outhouse, picnic tables, and a fire pit. It’s free to stay on a first-come, first-served basis with no permits required, making it a great overnight destination whether you are doing a day hike or a longer section of the trail.
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Although the trail is short, it’s more rugged than you might expect. The path includes uneven terrain, exposed roots, rocky scrambling sections, and a few steeper spots near the edge, so it requires attention despite the distance. It’s a quick outing overall, but the blufftop scenery and open granite slabs at the end make the effort feel worthwhile.
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At the end of the trail, the forest opens onto smooth granite slabs overlooking calm coastal waters and distant, layered islands. It’s a wide, open perch where you can sit on the rock, watch kayakers glide past, or catch anglers casting into the inlet. The light here is especially beautiful toward sunset, when the water turns soft gold and the silhouettes of the surrounding headlands stand out against the horizon.
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This beach is accessible via a short spur trail off of the Stillwater Bluffs loop. It's not much effort to veer from the main path to enjoy the views over the water.
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Stillwater Bluffs is a popular spot for hikers and photographers to visit, with great views across the Strait of Georgia. The granite cliffs also attract a lot of climbers looking to challenge themselves.
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The Strait of Georgia is what separates Vancouver Island from mainland British Columbia. The coastline on both sides is covered with great views points across the water and surrounding landscapes.
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Nice spot with modern outhouse, bearbox and picnic table at the lake
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The halfway point of the Sunshine Coast Trail, the Tin Hat Hut is an epic 360-degree mountain-top lookout that provides the quintessential view of the rugged mountains, valleys, and lakes that define the qathet back country experience. This hut, built by qPAWS in 2011, is a fully winterized cabin with a pellet stove. Tin Hat Mountain is named for the tin hats that were worn by loggers who were pioneers in the area, and the mountain itself was once home to a fire lookout station, because of the expansive view it provides of all the surrounding forested areas and views of 32 lakes.” https://sunshinecoasttrail.com/plan-your-hike/hut-to-hut/tin-hat/ When we slept there it was very crowded: it is said that the cabin offers place for 10 persons. However we have been 12. You have to carry your own water up the mountain as there is no creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) offers a diverse network of over 10 hiking routes. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy coastal walks to challenging multi-day treks, many of which are part of the renowned Sunshine Coast Trail.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking trails in Area C?
Yes, there are several easy and family-friendly options. The Stillwater Bluffs Trail is an easy 2.7 km path offering coastal views and tidal pools. Another accessible option is the Mermaid Cove viewpoint trail, which is a short 1.8 km hike.
What are some challenging hikes in the Lois Lake/Saltery Bay area?
For a more challenging experience, consider the Lewis Lake Campsite loop from Spring Lake, a difficult 16.6 km trail with significant elevation gain. The region also features sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail, such as the Lang Bay to Saltery Bay section, which involves substantial elevation changes over multiple days.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Area C?
Yes, you can find several circular routes. The Inland Lake loop — Inland Lake Provincial Park is a popular moderate 13.2 km circular trail. Another option is the Tin Hat Mountain loop from Tin Hat Mountain, a moderate 4.6 km route offering panoramic views.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the trails?
The trails wind through magnificent old-growth forests of Douglas fir and yellow cedar. You can also explore various lakes, including Lois Lake, Inland Lake (Inland Lake), and Rainy Day Lake. Coastal views of the Strait of Georgia and Jervis Inlet are prominent, especially from viewpoints like Freil Falls Vista. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as otters, deer, and bald eagles.
Are there any huts or shelters available for overnight stays on longer hikes?
Yes, especially along the Sunshine Coast Trail sections. Notable huts include the Tin Hat Hut, offering an epic 360-degree mountain-top lookout, and the Rainy Day Lake Shelter. Other shelters like Fairview Bay Hut and Confederation Lake Hut are also available.
Can I go swimming during my hike in Area C?
Yes, the region offers several opportunities for swimming. Lois Lake itself is ideal for paddle sports and swimming, with plenty of lake access along its trails. Rainy Day Lake, encountered on more strenuous hikes, also provides opportunities for swimming. Additionally, Mermaid Cove within Saltery Bay Provincial Park is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Is Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) suitable for dog-friendly hiking?
Many trails in Area C are dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially within provincial parks or protected areas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in this region?
The best time to hike in Area C is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is milder and trails are clear. Summer offers warm conditions ideal for swimming in the lakes. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations like Mount Troubridge or Tin Hat Mountain.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Area C?
Parking is available at various trailheads throughout Area C. For trails around Lois Lake, you can often find parking near recreation sites or designated access points. Saltery Bay Provincial Park also offers parking facilities for visitors accessing trails in that area. Specific parking details can often be found on individual trail descriptions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, from serene lake shores and ancient forests to challenging coastal and mountain vistas. The well-maintained sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail and the variety of routes for all skill levels are frequently highlighted.
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