Find a Trail
Hiking Basics 101
Picture yourself finally ascending the summit after many hours of intense gut-wrenching alpine hiking straight up the steep side of a mountain. You are drenched in sweat. You can't see straight and your limbs are numb and shaking. But that's okay.. it means you've earned it and that experience simply comes with the territory. The view from up here is worth every moment.
Trek through this session to acclimatize yourself with the basic hiking tips and have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Essentials covered in this session:
- What to do before you venture outdoors for a hike
- The necessary gear that you should bring along
- How to navigate around a Vancouver area hiking trail
Before you head out for a hike
Because of the varying geography, terrain and elevation throughout areas of Metro Vancouver and the South Coast of British Columbia, it's possible that you could be experiencing significantly different weather conditions compared to someone only 15 kilometers away. For example, it could be snowing up on the peak of Grouse Mountain while residents of Richmond are enjoying a balmy afternoon under the sun. Environment Canada has gone as far to formally divide the region into five distinct weather regions or microclimates. This also means that the weather could take a sudden and dramatic turn for the worst.
As a budding Mountain Guru, it's important that you familiarize yourself with the risks and dangers of hiking and take the time to adequately prepare before heading out into the backcountry.
- Check weather conditions and dress accordingly. Is rain in the forecast?
- Set realistic expectations on when you will finish. Will there be adequate daylight for you to complete your hike?
- Let someone else know where you are going and when you are expected back. Even though many Vancouver hiking trails are often ripe with traffic, you may find yourself alone on the trail with the nearest person several kilometres away.
- Hit the washroom one last time (you never know). While not a safety concern, this certainly makes any trek more enjoyable.
- Make sure your cell phone is charged.
- If driving, check that there is enough fuel in your car for the trip back to civilization. If you're taking transit, check that you have the right bus fare needed.
A lot of hiking safety is learning from experience -- but learn from the Mountain Guru's and save yourself the grief. An inexperienced hiker, could easily misjudge the amount of time it would take to finish a trail. By the time the time you return to your car, the sun may have nearly set and the park gate closed and locked for the night.
Necessary gear to bring with you
It's easy to downplay what gear you should bring with you when hiking. After all, how often do you fill a backpack full of equipment when you head out for an afternoon jog or to the grocery store? However, the forest can present many unexpected surprises. If an emergency should happen, you'll likely not regret the extra effort spent preparing in advance.
On the other hand, avoid getting carried away with packing unnecessary novelty items that put a strain on your back -- and wallet.
Here's a back-to-basics list of essentials:
- Map
- Hiking shoes with good tread
- A change of socks
- Fluids (electrolyte mixes or coconut water are great for staying hydrated)
- Ultralight med kit
- Headlamp
- Bear spray
- Cell phone
- Energy bar (Mountain Guru recommends staying away from the high-fibre on long hikes..)
- Lighter
- Watch
- Whistle
- Loose change
Tip: Preserve your cellphone battery by turning it on airplane mode when it's not in use and you are out of range of cell towers. Often a phone battery will drain faster when it is constantly searching for a signal.
Navigating Vancouver hiking trails
Local trails were first traveled at differing times throughout the Lower Mainland and British Columbia's history. Some formed during the early days of settlers and logging, while others are recent additions intentionally built as part of area plans. As a result, many of trails take on their own unique characteristics and personality -- and provide great insight into the history of the area.
That also means how navigate your way along trails will vary. Around Vancouver, you'll find trails that are paved, on elevated boardwalks, gravel or dirt -- or any combination of the above. Add to that, the types of markers and signage ranges.
Most trails have some form of marker or signage within view at all times. Look for trail markers at eye level on trees and signage on wooden poles. In parks where there are multiple trails that branch off or criss-cross each other, the markers are typically colour coded or have a different shape.
Over the years, many Good Samaritans have taken upon themselves to wrap neon ribbon around tree trunks or branches in areas where the path is not clearly marked.
Tip: When you first embark on your trek, make note of the trail marker's shape, colour and any other distinguishing features. Keep on the lookout for markers at all time through the hike. If the markers change, be prepared to backtrack and make sure you haven't ended up of course.
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