There’s a reason they call it beautiful British Columbia—because it is. With an abundance of natural beauty including lakes, rivers, coastline, islands, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean, it’s a great time to take a hike, literally!
No matter where you decide to venture, you’re going to need a good, comfortable pair of shoes. The right shoes and socks can make all the difference between an enjoyable walk basking in nature, and desperately wanting to go back to the car, or asking “how much further?”
Treat your feet well. Get shoes that fit your feet properly and offer the right type of support for the level of outdoor activity you plan to do and opt for a pair that can handle getting wet (this is the Pacific Northwest, after all). The team at Blackwell Supply Co. will be happy to help you find the right hiking shoes (pssst…the Blundstones are great!). And while you’re at it, look into getting a nice backpack to carry your hiking gear, like the one below!
Layer up! While it can be tempting to throw on shorts and a tank and hit the trails, especially when it’s bright and sunny out, make sure you’re prepared for the weather to change. Depending on the length of your hike and your final destination you may want to bring a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt with you to stay warm—plus this can protect you from sunburns and bug bites. And don’t forget a hat and sunglasses, while you’re at it.
Bring the right equipment. Pack light snacks, a cute water bottle, charge your cell phone completely, and always let someone know where you’re headed and when you’ll be back. Ready to up your hiking game? Consider a walking pole. Believe it or not, walking with poles offers numerous benefits like better balance and stability on trails, and can also improve posture and even strengthen your muscles when used correctly. Plus, collapsible poles make it easy to pack and store them when not in use. Walking poles and other hiking gear is available at your one-stop-hiking-shop, Mountain Warehouse!
Get a pass. Some provincial parks require you to have a pass for use. Save yourself the time and potential disappointment and check out the BC Parks website before you head out.
Don’t forget your camera! No matter where you’re headed, there’s so much gorgeous scenery and breathtaking landscapes that you’re sure to want to snap a few pics. If you’re already a shutterbug consider getting a new lens or equipment that will help you up your outdoor photo game and a case that can stand up to it all. Or go for binoculars and get a good look, from a safe distance, at the local critters that call BC home. The great thing is…you can get all your tech gadgets at Kerrisdale Cameras!
Wherever you go, and whenever you do, dress right, plan ahead and remember the cardinal rule of spending time outdoors: take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, and kill nothing but time. Happy hiking!
