These last couple of months have been very rainy here in Vancouver, BC, so as soon as we get a break from the rain we go outside! And I did just that; I packed my bag and headed up to a local mountain, Mount Seymour. I was so excited to get out for a hike after all the weather storms. Because of all the rain in the city over the last few months it’s an early season for snow – I absolutely love the winter months because they are always so magical!
As I started my hike it was misty with a bit of fog and the sun was trying to pop out. Now the last time I went for a hike was back in September, so I was taking it slower than I normally would – I was mostly admiring the dusting of snow perfectly placed on the trees and listening to the ravens talk to each other. Alright back to the hike, I continued upwards slowly but surely. I made it to Brockton Point which is about the half way mark of this hike. It was still cloudy and you still couldn’t see a view of the city – I was starting to feel a little sad.
My intention was to hike up to Pump Peak however it was getting super foggy and the clouds were rolling in faster and darker making it a little harder to see the trail and the trail markers. At this point I decided to stop here and eat my snack before heading back down. It so important to know when to turn around because the weather in the mountains is unpredictable and I didn’t want to take any chances of getting lost if I went any further.
After eating my yummy berries & cherries protein bar I packed up my bag, strapped on my head lamp, and headed back down the mountain. Even though I didn’t accomplish the hike I wanted in the right weather conditions, I am just very happy I was able to get outside and enjoy the fresh air in the time that I had before it gets stormy again!
What I wore
The STRIKA II in the colour Space Stripe Combo
This long sleeve shirt was very soft and wicked away any moisture throughout my hike. I loved that it had a criss-cross neck line – the perfect in between to keep your neck warm but without constricting it. For this top I sized down and am wearing an XS because I wanted a more fitted fit, so if you’re looking for a more looser fit I’d definitely size up.
The LEKKA in the colour Zaffre
This tunic vest was the perfect way to stay warm but still not get too hot while you are hiking. I loved everything about this insulator! Firstly, the side two-way zipper allows for easy access to get on and off and allows you to adjust the zipper so you are able to maneuver while hiking. Secondly, the kangaroo pocket in the front was the perfect place to keep your phone or your snacks for easy access when hiking without having to take your backpack off and on. And lastly, I loved the length of this insulator as it kept my body heat regulated while not overheating when I was hiking (not to mention I was able to sit without my bottom freezing!)
*For reference I’m 5’5” and typically wear a size small but for these pieces I am wearing an XS (if you are in between sizes, I recommend sizing down).
Trail Stats
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Location: Mount Seymour Provincial Park in North Vancouver, BC
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Distance: 7.1 km round trip
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Elevation Gain: 474 m
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Time: 1.5 hours round trip
Remember when recreating in the backcountry to make sure you carry the 10 essentials plus micro-spikes for the winter, leave a trip plan with your emergency contact, leave no trace, and most importantly have fun!
Happy hiking!
Follow along Aishah’s adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyitsaishah
