So where do I start?

I get asked this question all the time, from people who want to go on "adventures" but have no clue where to start.

If you are lucky enough to live in BC, you probably don't have to go far. You don't need any special training to enjoy the outdoors. Get a good pair of shoes or hiking boots, and start small!

I own a couple of books entitled such things as "The Best Hikes and Walks in Southwest British Columbia," etc. They're really great resources. Some of the hikes I had already come to know and love, but many were (and still are) brand new to me. Books are great because you can flip through and find ones that look interesting according to length, difficulty, region, etc.

And of course, there is also the internet. There are many trail blogs out there where people will share their experiences on certain hikes. (Two of my favourites are trailpeak.com or clubtread.com.) That's the great thing about the hiking community; they're generally really helpful people.

If your goal is to be completely self-sufficient for multiple day trips, it's probably not going to happen right away. Borrow what you can, and make wish lists of what you still need. (A lot of stuff can be bought second-hand.) Nobody wants to be that camper who has price tags still attached to their all brand-new equipment.

In the meantime, go outside and test your limits. See a hill? Climb it! Ask around to find some good local hikes. It all starts with making a conscious decision to get out there and do it. The memories you will make, and the benefits to your health will make even less-than perfect trips well worth the effort.

Happy Adventuring!!