April 17th, 2019: Spring in Whistler is great for getting outside into the wilderness. Lower elevation trails like Whistler Train Wreck, Cheakamus River, the Flank Trail, Parkhurst Ghost Town, Brandywine Falls and the Sea to Sky Trail emerge from the snowy winter. Few people venture out in April, and you will almost certainly have places like Parkhurst and Cheakamus River to yourself. The often forgotten Flank Trail has and endless number of perfect places for a tent overlooking Whistler far below and Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain directly across.
April 12th, 2019: Pack smart by putting heavier items close to your back and higher up your pack. Be organized and think of keeping important things easily accessible. Having an accessible sweater makes you more likely to not put off your comfort by difficulty in finding it. Familiarize yourself with your gear before you go. Setting up your tent in the living room will ensure you have all the parts and know where to put them. Testing your stove at home will remind you that you almost forgot matches or misplaced a vital part. Also, you are less likely to forget a sleeping pad if you set up everything before packing.
September 26th, 2018: Whistler has a funny tradition that has become known as Sober October & Can't Remember November. The beautiful summer weather finally breaks in late September and by early October the temperatures are plunging close to freezing. A sober malaise grips the town as hundreds of year, or two year long locals move on to their next adventure.. or back to the real world. The rest of us stick it out through the rapidly cooling weather.
A little knowledge before you head out into the wilderness is a good idea. Especially if you are new to hiking or in unknown terrain. Planning a suitable hike is a great first step is having a great hike. Bringing along extra clothing and food is a great idea and having a first aid kit will help you with any troubles you may encounter. Courtesy and hiking etiquette is an important factor as well. Leaving no trace and packing out what you pack in are paramount to keeping the wilderness wild. Clothing, gear and how you pack is not always straight forward and having a checklist to work from will avoid any mistakes in packing.
