Before You Go: Your Go-To Guide for a Safe and Enjoyable Outdoor Experience
The mountains are calling, but adventure comes with responsibility. Each year, countless hikers head into the backcountry unprepared, leading to injuries, search and rescue missions, or worse. Backcountry safety isn’t just about protecting yourself — it’s about protecting the teams who risk their lives to save others. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring you make it home safely.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Do your homework. Check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and daylight hours before you head out. Many trails, especially at higher elevations, remain snow-covered well into the summer. Websites like AllTrails, Parks Canada, and the Washington Trails Association (depending on where you’re going) are excellent resources for up-to-date information.
Ask yourself:
Is my gear appropriate for the conditions?
Am I physically ready for the challenge?
Do I know how to navigate the trail?
Preparation isn’t just smart; it’s essential.
TELL SOMEONE YOUR PLAN
Always leave your itinerary with someone you trust. Include details like where you’re going, your planned route, who’s with you, and your expected return time. If something goes wrong, search and rescue will know where to start looking. It’s a simple step that can save precious time — and lives. A quick text or using tools like BC AdventureSmart’s Trip Planning App could be a lifesaver if things go sideways.
PACK SMART
Even on a short hike, it’s important to bring the essentials.
Water and snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is critical.
Extra layers: Weather can change in an instant. Be prepared for rain, wind, or an unexpected overnight stay.
Navigation tools: Carry a map, compass, or GPS. Don’t rely on your phone alone.
First aid and emergency supplies: A small kit, a whistle, and a flashlight with extra batteries can be lifesavers.
For longer trips or remote areas, consider carrying a satellite communication device to call for help if needed.
CELL RECEPTION IS UNRELIABLE
Don’t count on your phone in the backcountry. Signal is often nonexistent in mountain valleys or dense forests. Bring it along, but plan as if you won’t have service. Your safety should never depend on a bar of reception.
BE AWARE OF WILDLIFE
Bears are a part of BC’s wilderness, but encounters are uncommon. The best way to avoid trouble is by taking preventive steps: hike in groups, make noise along the trail, and store all food and scented items securely—either in a bear vault or out of reach. A fed bear is a dead bear; when they associate people with food, they lose their natural fear, which can lead to aggressive behavior and, sadly, the bear being put down. Let’s do our part to keep them wild and safe.
If you spend enough time in the backcountry, there’s a good chance you’ll eventually see a bear. While most are shy and prefer to avoid humans, they may act defensively if surprised or feel threatened. To reduce your risk:
Make Noise: Especially in areas with dense brush or near rushing water where visibility and sound are limited.
Assess the Situation: If you spot a bear, stop and evaluate. Are there cubs or a food source nearby? If the bear hasn’t noticed you, slowly back away or give it plenty of space as you continue on.
Defensive Behavior: If the bear is huffing, stomping, or bluff charging, it’s likely telling you to back off. Stay calm, speak softly, avoid eye contact, and slowly increase the distance between you.
If a bear is approaching quietly, stay alert. It could be curious, testing dominance, or worse, seeing you as prey. In this case:
Stand tall and firm, talk loudly and assertively, and try to deter it.
If it continues toward you, prepare to fight back. Make yourself look large, yell, and use bear spray as a deterrent.
Bear attacks are rare, but it’s always wise to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Staying aware and proactive can make all the difference in these encounters.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Our wild spaces are more than just beautiful backdrops for adventure — they’re delicate ecosystems that need our care. Practice Leave No Trace principles, follow local regulations, and resist the urge to damage or disrupt the environment for the sake of a photo. By protecting these places, we ensure they remain a source of inspiration and a thriving habitat for plants and animals for generations to come.
Respect the wilderness by following the 7 Leave No Trace principles:
Plan ahead: Know area regulations like fire bans or seasonal closures.
Stick to durable surfaces: Stay on trails and camp on rock, gravel, or dry grass.
Pack it out: All trash, food waste, and hygiene products should leave with you.
Protect what you find: Don’t take rocks, plants, or artifacts.
5. Minimize campfires: Use a stove for cooking or follow established fire rules.
Respect wildlife: Watch from a distance and avoid sensitive times like nesting or wintering.
Be considerate of others: Share the trail and keep noise levels down.
PLAN FOR THE UNEXPECTED
Even the best-laid plans can go sideways. Weather can turn, injuries can happen, and getting lost is always a possibility. By preparing for the unexpected, you’re not just protecting yourself — you’re respecting the environment and the people who might come to your aid.
For more backcountry safety tips, visit AdventureSmart, North Shore Search & Rescue, or Get Bear Smart. With the right knowledge and preparation, your adventures will be safe, sustainable, and unforgettable.
Happy Adventuring!
