© 2018 HA Photography

By Maria Doty

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Spend the day exploring Saysutshun

Jul 18, 2022 | 9:35 AM

NANAIMO – Fascinating and important history, lots of active pursuits to choose from, delicious food options and the chance to see one-of-a-kind wildlife, Saysutshun offers everything for the perfect summer get-away.

Saysutshun, formerly known as Newcastle Island, is just a seven-minute passenger-only ferry ride from Maffeo Sutton Park (ferry schedule). The island offers visitors an incredible natural setting rich in culture where outdoor activities abound.

Home of the Snuneymuxw People, Saysutshun is a sacred village site that now offers interpretive walking tours led by Knowledge Keepers to educate visitors about the incredible historical significance of the island — with less focus on the commercial and industrial significance of the place.

Ancestors of the Snuneymuxw People used the island to train and prepare themselves physically, mentally and spiritually for ceremonial events and hunting. Some were also sent to Saysutshun for teachings about healing, traditions and history of the island.

The area is known for its healing, preparation and transformation properties, with the name “Saysutshun” referring specifically to the island’s use as a place of preparation.

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Ancestors of the Snuneymuxw people used the island to train and prepare themselves physically, mentally and spiritually for ceremonial events and hunting. Some were also sent to Saysutshun for teachings about the island’s healing, traditions and history. 

© 2018 HA Photography

Not only steeped in culture, Saysutshun also offers tons of outdoor activities for everyone.

With 22 kilometers of beautiful trails, visitors can explore the unique beauty found throughout the island without worrying about the area being overcrowded. Numerous picnic and small group gathering locations are ideal spots for meeting up with friends and family against an incredible natural backdrop.

There are playgrounds for kids to interact with each other. Nature lovers will be thoroughly impressed with strolls along the beautiful shoreline and tidal pools. And a rental outlet stocked with kayaks, bikes and SUPs allows visitors to explore the area without having to worry about transporting their equipment to the island to partake in all the outdoor fun. 

The native wildlife is truly breathtaking. Birds that inhabit Saysutshun include cedar waxwings, sparrows, hawks, eagles, owls  and waterfowl. Sightings of marine mammals playing in the water close to the island’s shores are not uncommon and include orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, harbour seals and porpoises.

But perhaps the most remarkable animal that calls Saysutshun home is an elusive ‘Spirit Raccoon’.

The striking animal with a golden white coat, courtesy of a recessive gene, can sometimes be spotted on the beach at dusk and dawn looking for food. The spirit raccoon has long been considered a mythical animal in Saysutshun; ask to hear the traditional Snuneymuxw story of how the  Saysutshun raccoon got his white coat when you visit!

© 2018 HA Photography

With so much to do, visitors are bound to work up an appetite, and Saysutshun’s food offerings do not disappoint.

One option is to enjoy a meal in or around the Pavilion from the Saysutshun concession stand offering tasty snacks and staples such as burgers, fries, wings, ice cream and more — view the menu here. Of course, if you want to pack your own food and enjoy it at one of the picnic areas, you are more than welcome. 

Start planning your get-away today! saysutshun.ca