Preparation & Safety

We’re not licensed guides or certified first-aid providers—just fellow trail companions who know these routes well. You’re responsible for your own safety and well-being, but we’re happy to help whenever we can.

Permits, Park Regulations & Waiver

  • Required Permits: Obtain any day-use or park permits (e.g., BC Park Day Use Pass) before arriving.
  • Park Rules: Respect fire bans, dog policies, trail closures, and posted signage.
  • Parking & Vehicle Security: Only park in permitted, safe areas—obey local bylaws and never leave valuables in your vehicle.
  • Waiver: Bring photo ID and sign our waiver before the hike begins.

Before You Arrive

  • Weather & Air Quality: Check the forecast, wildfire smoke levels (e.g., BC Wildfire Service), and be ready to adjust or cancel.
  • Share Your Plan: Tell a friend or family member your hike details—trail name, start & end times, and who’s attending.
  • Gear & Supplies:
    • 2 L of water (more in hot weather) & high-energy snacks
    • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
    • Layers (rain shell, warm mid-layer)
    • Sturdy, broken-in footwear & backup socks
    • Personal medications (e.g., EpiPen, inhaler)
    • Whistle or signal mirror
  • Communication Backup: Cell coverage can be patchy—consider a satellite messenger or offline GPS maps.

Using Our GPS Maps

One of the most valuable resources on trail is a GPS-enabled device (iPhone, Android, Garmin, etc.). We offer free GPX logs for almost every trail in our database—grab yours while you’re online. Our website also includes full trail metrics (distance, elevation gain & loss).

Import our GPX into AllTrails (or your favorite app) and download the route for offline use. In a worst-case scenario, if you get separated, you’ll still have a digital map—but always carry a printed copy, too. Using our maps is at your own risk. Read our GPS Maps FAQ for instructions.

Proper Attire

Wear clothing suited to the activity, season, and sudden weather changes. Waterproof your boots, bring backup socks, and pack an emergency poncho. Expect ice or snow? Microspikes and poles are lifesavers. Break in new boots around town before hitting longer trails.

Adequate Gear & Supplies

Hiking is strenuous—be well-rested, nourished, and hydrated. Even if you know the trail, carry a compass or GPS with offline maps in case you get separated. Always bring a personal first-aid kit and pack only what you need to avoid exhaustion.

Fitness & Experience Recommendations

  • Assess your fitness honestly and choose hikes that match your ability.
  • Review trail metrics (distance, elevation gain/loss) and plan ~3 km/hr pace.
  • Hike groups are limited to 12 participants per host or map holder for safety and cohesion.
  • Turnaround and cutoff times may be enforced by leaders.

ID & Personal Info

  • Photo ID & BC Health Card: Required for waiver signing and emergency care.
  • Emergency Contacts: Save them on your phone’s lock screen for quick access.
  • Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for adventure activities.

Local Emergency Contacts & Resources

Additional Just-In-Case Kit

  • Headlamp or flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Emergency bivvy or lightweight tarp
  • Waterproof matches, lighter & tinder
  • Multi-tool or knife
  • Extra socks (for water crossings/blisters)
  • Toilet paper & hand sanitizer

On the Trail: Roles & Etiquette

  • Lead & Sweep: We set the pace up front (“lead”) and someone stays at the back (“sweep”) so no one gets left behind.
  • Buddy System: Pair up—look out for each other’s needs, pace, and morale.
  • Regular Check-Ins: Pauses every 30–45 minutes for rest, hydration, and headcounts.
  • Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in, respect wildlife, and stay on the trail.

Emergency Situations & How We Respond

If something goes wrong, here’s how we handle it—and what you can do to help.

Medical Issues

  • Minor Injuries: Blisters & scrapes—clean, bandage, and rest as needed.
  • Sprains/Strains: RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation).
  • Dehydration/Heat Exhaustion: Seek shade, sip water slowly, apply cool cloths, and rest.
  • Hypothermia/Cold Stress: Add layers, share body heat, and drink warm fluids.
  • Allergic Reactions: Use your EpiPen immediately and call 911.
  • Serious Injury: Stabilize ABCs, apply pressure to bleeding, splint fractures if trained, call 911 (or satellite messenger) with clear location details.

Missing or Separated Hiker

  • Stop the group and take a headcount.
  • Retrace steps for 10–15 minutes while calling their name.
  • If not found, call 911—provide last known location, description, and time last seen.
  • Keep the rest of the group together in a safe spot.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Bears: Stay calm, group up, back away slowly; use bear spray only if threatened.
  • Cougars: Appear large, maintain eye contact, back away—never run.
  • Snakes: Give several meters of space; watch your footing on rocks & logs.

Weather & Environmental Hazards

  • Thunderstorms: Avoid ridgelines & tall trees; descend to lower terrain.
  • Flash Floods: Never cross fast-moving water—find a safer route or turn back.
  • Smoke & Poor AQI: Shorten or postpone hikes if air quality is unhealthy.
  • Snow & Ice: Use traction devices, poles, and know your turnaround points.

Other Hazards

  • Insect Bites & Stings: Carry repellent; treat with cold pack & antihistamine.
  • Sun Exposure: Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes; rest in shade.
  • Navigation Errors: Follow blazes/cairns; carry map, compass, or GPS backup.
  • Group Fatigue/Conflict: Speak up early if you’re struggling—teamwork ensures safety.

After an Incident

  • Fill out a brief incident report: what happened, when, who was involved, and actions taken.
  • Notify emergency contacts if professional aid was needed.
  • Debrief at the trailhead—share lessons learned and update protocols.

Post-Hike Check-In

Please send a quick “I’m home safe” message when you return so we know everyone made it back.

Your Personal Checklist

  • Photo ID & BC Health Card
  • Emergency contact info on lock screen
  • Fully charged phone + portable battery
  • Whistle or signal mirror
  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Extra food, water & layers
  • GPX track downloaded & printed map
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Emergency bivvy or tarp
  • Waterproof matches, lighter & tinder
  • Multi-tool or knife
  • Extra socks, toilet paper & hand sanitizer
  • Proper attire & footwear
  • Permits & signed waiver