It’s the first week of fall and after a snowy end of summer we’re back to some great hiking weather. It’s a great time to head out for a hike, to enjoy the cooler days and take in the gorgeous colours of fall.
The hiking season will be coming to an end soon; our last hike is currently scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend. We have day hikes every Saturday until then, with Coliseum Mountain on September 27, Women in the Woods on October 4 and Coral Creek on October 11.
If you haven’t been on a hike yet this year there’s no better time to try it out. Not sure which one would work best for you? Here’s a quick list of things you need to know about our hikes.
Is Hiking Hard?
We choose our trails to offer a variety of challenges while making sure that they are enjoyable even without any prior hiking experience. Coral Canyon is our easiest option. If you enjoy a walk in the park you’ll love this hike. The views are splendid the entire way and there is minimal elevation gain. At 8km return, we take a leisurely pace on this hike to take in the views along the journey.
Coliseum Mountain is a moderate trail, meaning it has a well-maintained trail with switchbacks but is a little longer with more vertical gain. At 12km return, the pace is a little faster but we still take plenty of breaks to enjoy the views.
Do I Need Special Gear?
Short answer, no. We provide lunch and hiking poles. All we ask that you bring is a good pair of shoes (runners are ok), a small backpack, a water bottle and clothes for the weather. Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so dressing in layers and bringing a rain jacket along is a good idea.
What About Bears?
Like any wildlife, bears can get defensive if they are surprised or feel threatened. By hiking as a group we’re making plenty of noise, ensuring that the bears know we’re coming. We also carry bear spray and bear bangers.
Can I Come On My Own?
Of course. Our fall hikes require a minimum of 2 guests and we can accommodate up to 16. You can join us on your own, or bring a few friends along.