Chapman Creek via Brookside Park

Chapman Creek via Brookside Park in Sechelt is a short coastal forest wander that feels more adventurous than the stats suggest. At 5.3 km with only about 98 m of gain, it sounds like a casual stroll, but recent blowdowns and a steeper finish keep things interesting. If you like a bit of route-finding and don’t mind scrambling over a few trees, this trail delivers a fun hour-plus along one of the Sunshine Coast’s favourite creeks.

The route loosely follows Chapman Creek from Brookside Park, winding through mossy second-growth forest with nurse logs, big ferns, and plenty of shade. You’re in earshot of the water most of the time, with side views down to the creek and chances to spot salmon in season. Some hikers turn it into a bigger loop by exiting through nearby residential streets and dropping to the waterfront at Davis Bay for a change of scenery.

Current conditions on Chapman Creek via Brookside Park are a bit rough in spots: expect lots of fallen trees to climb over or detour around, a few washed-out sections that have been rebuilt, and one notably steep, rope-assisted climb near the upper end that feels more “moderate” than “very easy,” especially in the wet. The trail can be muddy after rain and it’s occasionally confusing where people have created side tracks around blockages, so download a map and give yourself time to backtrack if needed. This Sechelt trail is hikeable year-round, but the ropes, roots, and slick slopes are best tackled in dry weather and with decent footwear.