They're irresistible. The forests of the Sunshine Coast tantalize, tempt and
taunt both avid outdoor enthusiasts and casual hikers. And on this sunny
afternoon in early spring, we walked the Gwendoline Hills section.
Traces of a late snowfall still eluded the warming sun but this did not impede
our footing on the well-worn trail. The Gwendoline Hills, on the north end of
the Sunshine Coast near Lund, run north-south along the Malaspina Peninsula and
overlook the Okeover (oh-koh-ver) Inlet. This area represents the essence of
the Sunshine Coast Trail with its old growth forests and spectacular views.
A map is indispensable for locating the many access points of the Sunshine
Coast Trail. We drove up a dirt road that came within 1km of the south end of
the Gwendoline Hills then set out on foot with water, snacks and bear bells.
The Trail is identified with red markers on trees and is fairly obvious and
easy to follow. We headed north into the Hills at an easy pace breathing the
purified air of the majestic wooden wardens, keepers of the Hills. Ancient
beyond lifetimes, they looked down on us silently, unbothered by our intrusion.
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In short time we too were looking down. Okeover Inlet lay way below us dyed in
shifting blues, a ripple in the carpet of green embankment, fishing boats and
oyster farms mere dots on the edge of our imaginations. Distant bays and
islets were sources of curiosity and speculation. Beyond, the mountains of the
Bunster Range competed for our attention still retaining their white winter
caps as they bounded eastward beyond our vision.
Like an open window in a stuffy room, the sea breeze revived and enlivened. We
sipped and nibbled in awe, humbled by the stunning beauty. Energized by our
snacks, we captured a fraction of the wonder on camera before beginning our
hushed and contemplative trail home. A mere three-hour hike yet we all slept
soundly that night.
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