Alex Recommends: The Eldred Valley

BY ALEX YOUNG

My favourite place in Powell River does not pertain to one specific location, but is on the water with my paddle board. During a calm sunny day, I take my board to various locations on the lake or the ocean, and enjoy exploring nature from a new, water’s edge perspective.

The Eldred River is located in the backcountry of Powell River, at mile 35 of Goat Lake Main forest service road. At mile 35, you arrive at the parking lot of the campground where a two-minute walk past the firewood, down a simple trail, leads to the official campground, known as climber’s camp.

The camp here has several spots for tenting as it’s quite flat in its greenness, and from here a beautiful trail leads to the river full of lush green forest and mossy beds that feel like a fantasy world.

WHAT A RUSH: The Eldred Valley, pictured here, and on the previous page.

After a five-minute walk along this trail, you will find yourself at a fork, leading either to the right to the river, or left back up the trail to the forest service road. Going left up the fork, keep your eyes to the forest on the right, as you will see an old red truck which has now been taken over by green moss.

Going right at the fork of the trail however, will lead you to the river. This river is truly an incredible sight to see whether the water level is high or low. Strong river currents have smoothed out the rock and here you can truly sense the pure power of the river current.

In the late summer months, you can swim and use the natural water slides that have been carved out. The water may be cold all year round, but the beauty that is the Eldred River is sure to warm your heart.