Opinion: This was not a fun hike. "Rocks, roots, and misery" was our tagline. True, we picked a bad day to do it, hoping the clouds would lift but they never did. We also did it as an out and back ensuring we were subjected to the gruelling ascents and descents in each direction. I … Continue reading Mount Elsay, 27 Aug 2022
Opinion: One of the few truly easy hikes near Vancouver with excellent trails. Although it's not dramatic or exciting, the forest greenery is soothing and at the right time of year, there's a pretty good flower show, including a selection of lesser-known blooms. Today, it was a perfect recovery hike for me and it felt … Continue reading Alice, Edith, and Fawn Lakes, 18 Jun 2022
Opinion: One of my favourite fallback areas to explore, especially when I'm out of other ideas or options. An easy hike in to the lake, although good camping spots are at a premium (especially when conditions are as damp as they were at the time of our trip), with several great destinations to visit. A … Continue reading Blowdown Lake, 2-3 Oct 2021
Opinion: Vancouver's beaches are our go-to place for most of our dose of fresh air in the city. Extending the trip around to Wreck Beach and returning via Pacific Spirit Park turns what is usually a casual beach wander into a more demanding endeavour. Hiking along the cobbles and shingle is great practice for trips … Continue reading Jericho to Wreck Beach, 2 Apr 2022
Opinion: A really nice little hike to a spectacular waterfall. Steep in places and you definitely need microspikes when it's icy. Highly recommended! FactWe parked on Anson Place, a short dead-end road with a large turning circle. Be aware that the trail crosses the railway line and private property so please stick to the trail … Continue reading Place Creek Falls, 8 Dec 2021
Opinion: Where else do you go on a sunny winter's day? Today's trip to Mount Seymour only reinforced my opinion that it is the best North Shore peak to visit in the winter, especially on a sunny, clear day after a major storm. Of course, many other people think that too so it's not a … Continue reading Tim Jones Peak, 9 Jan 2022
Opinion: Possibly my least-favourite North Shore hike, at least in the summer. But when the snow is right and the weather isn't good enough to tempt you up to a better summit, it can be a fine way to get some fresh air and exercise with a pretty good view at the end. However, I … Continue reading St Marks Summit, 29 Jan 2022
Opinion: Well, the snow was terrible and the trail was crowded but we managed to find some quiet moments and spent some much-needed time in unexpected sunshine. Despite its modest stats, it's still a workout with all the ups and downs in each direction, and the view is great. The biggest downside is the long … Continue reading Dog Mountain, 15 Jan 2022
Opinion: When you have only two hours of parking and need something easy to stretch your legs, the trails in Lynn Headwaters regional park are a great option. Not much to see on a rainy day, but the creek offers some open sight-lines as respite from the dense forest. Fact: We parked near the End … Continue reading Lynn Creek, 13 Nov 2021
Opinion: I quite like this trail for a quick but not too tough workout, the main downside being the cost of entry. Some superb views and great terrain to explore. Extending it with the Neverland Loop is fun, though I recommend following the suggested (counter-clockwise) route to avoid a tricky descent. Watch for those trail … Continue reading Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail, 12 Sep 2021
Being. Outdoors. 