Must-Visit Trekking and Adventure Spots in British Columbia, Canada
Embark on a journey through British Columbia’s untamed wilderness.
My journey through British Columbia’s diverse landscapes became a breeze.
British Columbia’s vast and rugged landscapes have always called out to the adventurer in me. There’s something exhilarating about the sheer variety of terrain, from towering mountains to tranquil lakes. If you love the outdoors, BC is the place to be, with numerous hiking trails and plenty of adventure spots to choose from. With my Impetro Gear modular backpack, I was well-prepared for every challenge and scenic wonder BC had to offer. Here's a glimpse of five must-visit trekking spots that left a lasting impression.
1. Joffre Lakes: A Journey Through Glacial Beauty
One of my first stops was the stunning Joffre Lakes, known for its turquoise glacial waters. This 7.4 km trail, though marked as hard, rewards you with incredible views at every turn. As I made my way along the trail, the steady incline revealed one breathtaking sight after another. The highlight? Middle of Joffre Lake, where the reflection of the surrounding peaks creates a mirror-like effect on the water.
The best part about hiking here was how well-prepared I felt with my modular backpack. With plenty of gear stowed neatly in its different bags it has with it, I didn’t feel weighed down, even when the trail’s ascent became a bit more intense. Did you know? Over 170,000 hikers visit Joffre Lakes annually, according to BC Parks. If you haven't been yet, add this gem to your list.
2. Saint Mark's Summit: A Breathtaking Vista
Next on my journey was Saint Mark's Summit, a 10 km moderate hike offering sweeping views of Howe Sound. What really stood out about this trail was the ever-changing terrain. Starting with gravel paths, the trail slowly transformed into more rugged sections of roots and rocks, but the hike never felt overwhelming.
As I approached the summit, the panoramic views left me speechless. The vast expanse of blue water against a backdrop of mountains made every step worth it. I used my trusty 33L Mountain pack for this trail, which allowed me to carry all my hiking gear, and was just the right size. The Saint Mark’s Summit is one of those places that offers something new with each visit—whether it’s the changing seasons or the play of light over the landscape. I read that 50% of BC’s residents regularly engage in hiking.
3. Garibaldi Lake: An Alpine Dream
Perhaps the most challenging, but also the most rewarding, was the hike to Garibaldi Lake. This 18.2 km trek pushes your limits, but the pristine lake that awaits you at the end feels like a well-deserved prize. The deep blue waters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, create a serene environment perfect for relaxing after a strenuous climb.
On this trail, I really appreciated the features of my backpack, particularly its X Harness. As I navigated the switchbacks and the varying elevations, the load felt evenly distributed, which made the long hike manageable. The trail is popular, and I couldn’t help but overhear some locals saying that the area receives over 5 ,000 visitors every month during peak season.
4. Stawamus Chief: Conquering the Chief’s Peaks
If you’re in the mood for a shorter, but intense, adventure, Stawamus Chief is the trail for you. Also known as "The Chief," this trail covers 5.8 km of steep stair-like climbs and offers incredible views from three distinct peaks. I opted to climb Peak One and Peak Two, and the view over Squamish made the effort entirely worth it.
Although the hike is technical, requiring some rope-assisted sections, my mountain pack had stowed with walking poles, ropes and carabiners made maneuvering around these tricky spots easier. Its adjustable straps and ergonomic design allowed me to stay comfortable despite the demanding nature of the climb. Over 200,000 hikers attempt to summit The Chief each year, making it one of BC’s most popular challenges.
5. Panorama Ridge: A 28 km Adventure
For those seeking a multi-day adventure, Panorama Ridge is a must. Spanning 28.3 km, this trail is as rewarding as it is demanding. I embarked on this trek over two days, camping under the stars before reaching the ridge itself. The views from the top were absolutely mind-blowing, with glaciers, lakes, and sprawling alpine meadows below.
About the Creator
Emma Liam
I’m Emma Liam from BC, Canada. I love spending time outdoors, hiking, and exploring nature. I enjoy writing about my adventures, capturing the beauty of the trails, and the little moments that make each journey special.
Tiny Lion Cubs Struggle To Keep Up With Mom
In the heart of the African savannah, life is a constant lesson for young animals. Few scenes are as endearing — or as heartwarming — as tiny lion cubs trying to keep pace with their mother. These little bundles of fur face a world full of challenges, from learning to hunt to avoiding dangers, all while depending on the guidance and protection of their experienced mom. Watching cubs wobble and tumble as they attempt to keep up with their mother reminds us that growing up, even in the wild, is a journey full of struggle, determination, and adorable missteps. The Early Days of Lion Cubs Lion cubs are born blind and helpless, usually in litters of two to six. For the first few weeks, they rely entirely on their mother for warmth, food, and safety. Even after opening their eyes and beginning to explore, the cubs are far from independent. The first months are crucial. Cubs learn social cues, hunting basics, and survival skills simply by watching their mother and the pride. But as anyone who has observed them knows, there’s often a huge gap between observation and action. Tiny cubs often struggle to match their mother’s pace, especially when she moves through long stretches of savannah or leads the family on patrols. A Mother’s Role in the Wild For a lioness, raising cubs is a full-time commitment. She hunts, defends her territory, and teaches her young, all while staying alert to predators such as hyenas, leopards, and even rival lions. The cubs, meanwhile, attempt to mimic her every move — often with clumsy yet charming results. A mother lion’s patience is remarkable; she frequently slows down, nudges them along, or stops to ensure no cub is left behind. These moments, while stressful for the tiny cubs, are vital learning opportunities. Struggling to Keep Up: Why It’s So Hard There are several reasons why tiny lion cubs have trouble keeping pace with their mother: Short Legs, Big Steps: Lion cubs’ legs are tiny and their coordination is limited, making it difficult to cover the same distance as an adult lioness. Curiosity: Cubs are naturally curious. A single butterfly or rustling bush can distract them, leaving mom to pause repeatedly. Energy Levels: Young lions tire quickly. Even with frequent naps, the cubs’ stamina is far lower than their mother’s. Learning Through Play: Play is not just fun; it teaches hunting, balance, and social skills. Running off to pounce on a sibling or chase an insect is all part of their education. Despite these challenges, the cubs’ determination to keep up demonstrates their resilience and growing understanding of the wild world. Lessons in Teamwork and Survival Every cub struggling to keep up is also learning crucial survival skills. The journey across the savannah is more than a test of speed — it’s a lesson in: Coordination: Cubs learn how to move efficiently across different terrains. Patience: They begin to understand the rhythms of adult life and the pace required for survival. Social Skills: Staying with the group teaches cubs how to interact with siblings and the pride, which is essential for their future roles. Observation: By following their mother, cubs study hunting techniques, territorial behavior, and predator awareness. Even the moments when cubs stumble or lag behind are essential for their development. These experiences prepare them for independence, which comes sooner than many might expect. The Cutest Moments in the Wild Anyone who has watched tiny lion cubs knows that their struggles are often irresistibly cute. Video clips from wildlife reserves frequently show cubs toddling along, tumbling over each other, or getting distracted mid-step. Observers often comment that these little stumbles reveal personality, determination, and playfulness, making them one of nature’s most heartwarming spectacles. While their mother is serious and focused, the cubs inject a sense of humor and lightness into life on the savannah. Why This Matters The struggles of lion cubs aren’t just adorable — they’re vital for understanding wildlife behavior. Conservationists and animal behaviorists use these moments to study growth patterns, social structures, and survival strategies in lion populations. These observations also highlight the importance of preserving natural habitats. Cubs must learn in a safe environment to survive; habitat loss, poaching, and climate change make these early struggles even more dangerous. Protecting the African savannah ensures that future generations of lions can experience the same lessons and playful tumbles. The Road to Independence Within a year, these tiny cubs will be more agile, faster, and more confident. By the time they reach two to three years old, males may begin to leave the pride, while females often stay and become caretakers themselves. Every misstep, tumble, and lagging moment is part of the journey toward strength, coordination, and independence. Watching them now gives us a glimpse of the challenges they will overcome, and the survival skills they will carry for life. A Celebration of Motherhood Ultimately, these scenes remind us of the incredible bond between mother and cubs. Her patience, vigilance, and teaching are the foundations of their future. The cubs’ struggles highlight the trials of growing up, while their determination showcases the resilience and beauty of wildlife. For those observing, it’s a powerful lesson in care, guidance, and perseverance, not just in lions but in the natural world as a whole. Final Thoughts Watching tiny lion cubs try to keep up with their mother is both entertaining and enlightening. It’s a story of growth, struggle, and resilience — a reminder that even the fiercest creatures start small, learning step by step. These little lions capture hearts while teaching life lessons: patience, determination, teamwork, and the importance of guidance. As they tumble and waddle across the savannah, they show us that growth is a process, one adorable misstep at a time. For wildlife enthusiasts, animal lovers, and anyone enchanted by nature, these tiny cubs are proof that even in the wild, love, care, and persistence are universal truths.
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Microbiota, microbiome or microflora: how to speak correctly and why it is for health.
You've probably heard the phrase, "We are what we eat." But modern science says more precisely: we are also those who live in us. Until 2016, it was believed that there are many times more bacteria in our body than our own cells. The latest calculations by mathematicians show that we divide the body with our microorganisms by about 50/50: about 30 trillion of our cells versus 38 trillion bacterial ones.
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