February’s Vancouver Hike of the Month: Jug Island Beach

Jug Island in Belcarra Park near Vancouver

The view of Jug Island from Jug Island Beach. Photo: HappiestOutdoors.ca

This short and easy hike in the Belcarra neighbourhood follows a peninsula before emerging at a remote beach. The trail stays in the beautiful and mossy temperate rainforest the entire way, making it a great destination for a rainy or cloudy February day. A viewpoint in the middle and the beach at the end give you a close-up look at the coastline, a rarity on Vancouver’s mountain-dominated hikes.

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February’s Vancouver Hike of the Month: Jug Island Beach

On Belay! – 2018 Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show

Dream big! Ignite your passion for the outdoors at the 2018 Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show. BC’s largest showcase of outdoor gear and adventure travel experiences comes to the Vancouver Convention Centre, March 3rd and 4th. Whether you are a paddling enthusiast, a scuba diver, a nature photographer, a hardy road cyclist or someone seeking an adventure travel destination, the Outdoor Show is guaranteed to capture your imagination.

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On Belay! – 2018 Outdoor Adventure and Travel Show

Stepping Out at 1001 Steps

Fishing from the shore at 1001 Steps Photo: Rob Weiss

I didn’t count, but as I descended the bluff side stairway in Ocean Park towards the beach I was confident there were close to 1001 steps, at least my knees seemed to think so. In truth, this fantastic zig-zag staircase consists of only 284 steps; all of them are marvellous. Dropping 40 metres from the trail head to the ocean, the pathway offers a short trek through a natural area to the beach, with peekaboo ocean views of Boundary Bay across to Point Roberts.

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Stepping Out at 1001 Steps

Vancouver – BC’s Self-Propelled Adventure Capital

Photo: Rob Weiss

Victoria may be the capital city of our gorgeous province, but I contend Vancouver is the Self-Propelled Adventure capital of Super Natural British Columbia.  What do I mean by self-propelled adventure? In truth, there are no rules or classifications, however, to be recognized as a self-propelled adventurist, you must embark on a journey that is solely human powered.  Bike, hike, paddle, run, walk, glide, or skate. The only limit is your imagination, and maybe your fitness level.

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Vancouver – BC’s Self-Propelled Adventure Capital

For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

Birding at the Maplewood Flats Conservation Area Photo: Rob Weiss

Affectionately known by locals as Maplewood Flats, the Maplewood Conservation Area in North Vancouver is an ideal destination for a rainy day walk.  Managed by the Wild Bird Trust of BC, this wonderful natural area along Burrard Inlet near the base of the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge, is home to over 230 species of birds and features 3km of easy walking trails to explore.

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For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

Golden Ears – “The Mountains are Calling, and I Must Go”

View of Golden Ears from Langley Photo: Wikimedia Iykkelige

Gazing at the North Shore mountains, I am often reminded of John Muir’s famous  and beloved quote, “The Mountains are calling, and I must go.” This simple, yet inspirational message, says it all!  When listening to Muir’s call and seeking mountain adventures Vancouverites look first to the North Shore Mountains. Then eyes will turn to the majestic Sea to Sky corridor.  However, directing the compass east points explorers to a wonderful outdoor playground known as Golden Ears Provincial Park.

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Golden Ears – “The Mountains are Calling, and I Must Go”

Vancouver and The Great Trail

English Bay Sunset Photo: Rob Weiss

Canadian Pride!  Granted Hockey supremacy may come to mind when you ponder Canadian pride, but did you know Canada is home to the greatest and longest recreational trail in the world? It’s true! Our country can proudly boast a coast to coast route featuring 24,000 kilometres and 15,000 communities all linked by one amazing trail rich in adventure, discovery and majestic beauty.  From urban streets and greenways to the rugged backcountry wilderness of the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian Shield, The Great Trail promises to showcase the beauty, vastness and diversity of our nation.

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Vancouver and The Great Trail