The qathet Parks and Wilderness Society (qPAWS) is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to the conservation of natural areas and the development and maintenance of recreational trail corridors on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. Registered under the business number 890270994RR0001, qPAWS was originally founded in 1992 as the Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society and has since played a pivotal role in protecting old growth forests and connecting wilderness areas through trail systems[2][3].

History and Mission

qPAWS was established in 1992 by a small group of outdoor enthusiasts concerned about the rapid disappearance of accessible old growth forests in the Upper Sunshine Coast region. Their initial goal was to create a network of protected areas linked by forested trail corridors to conserve wilderness and provide recreation opportunities. Over time, the society grew to include approximately 500 members who contribute in various ways including financial support, trail and hut building, maintenance, and advocacy for environmental protection[2].

Sunshine Coast Trail

A cornerstone achievement of qPAWS is the creation and ongoing stewardship of the Sunshine Coast Trail (SCT), a 180-kilometre backcountry hiking trail stretching from Sarah Point in Desolation Sound to Saltery Bay. The trail traverses diverse landscapes such as coastal shorelines, creeks, lakes, old growth forests, and mountaintops, offering hikers immersive experiences in the region’s rich flora and fauna. The SCT is notable for being Canada’s longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, featuring 14 huts with additional huts planned, and is free to use. This trail is recognized as a premier outdoor adventure destination in North America[2][4].

Activities and Community Engagement

qPAWS actively engages volunteers who assist with trail maintenance, construction projects, and organizational roles such as marketing and event planning. The society also advocates for the protection of green spaces along the trail corridor and in the broader region. Donations to qPAWS support the upkeep and enhancement of the Sunshine Coast Trail and related conservation efforts[2][4].

Recognition

Eagle Walz, a key figure in the development of the Sunshine Coast Trail and qPAWS efforts, was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow Award by the Rotary Club of Powell River in 2012. This award recognized his more than 20 years of dedication to building and protecting the SCT and surrounding wilderness areas, highlighting the community impact of qPAWS’s work[2].

Through its commitment to wilderness preservation and outdoor recreation, the qathet Parks and Wilderness Society remains a vital steward of the Sunshine Coast’s natural heritage, fostering sustainable access and conservation for future generations.