Backpacking

A last-minute early summer adventure to one of the most popular hiking areas in Washington – The Enchantments

As a woman hiking, camping, and backpacking by myself I often get asked  “You’re going alone?” This question is usually said in an incredulous voice. Yes, I do. “But aren’t you scared?” No, I’m not afraid. In fact, I’m free.

A lot of trails near Vancouver are very popular. A lot of them are Instagram famous. Some of these trails are good to do once. Experience it, enjoy it, and then find the less beaten path. Elfin Lakes is worthy of the hype and fame. However those who only visit for a day are missing out on the real wonder of this place.

My first backpacking trip this year revealed that I’m not in the same shape I was last year by this time, mentally or physically. Read on to find out what I learned from this shakedown hike.

September is one of my favourite months for hiking. I often visit the local areas that I avoid during the peak of summer. The trails are quieter, the air is cooler, and there aren’t any bugs! The weather this past month was so fantastic that I actually managed to convince my hubby to join me for a couple overnights. Our first overnight was on the Chain Lakes Loop at Mount Baker. 

I had only been home from the PCT for about a week before I started thinking about what we could do for Labour Day weekend. I got the all clear from my physio to hike again and chose the Heather Trail in the north end of Manning Provincial Park. We could drive up to about 6000 feet and start the trail in subalpine meadows. We’d keep our mileage low and take it easy on the trail.

I’ve had a number of hikers and non-hikers alike ask me what my routine is like when I’m on trail. I figured I’d share some of the details here, including morning stretches, ways to keep your brain busy, and my daily schedule.

Today I hit the trail. Not just any trail, but THE trail. The Pacific Crest Trail. The first multi-week trail I ever heard about. The trail that seemed like an impossible challenge. The trail I figured I’d never have time to do. I got the kernel of an idea, and have built on it until it has become my reality. So today I step out on a journey to complete the first half of the 500-mile Washington section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Many beginner backpackers start out with pre-packaged freeze-dried meals from their local outdoor stores. However they quickly realize how pricey and unsatisfying those meals can be. When I started backpacking I had the added challenge of wanting to follow a vegetarian diet. It wasn’t long before I was looking for alternate ideas of inexpensive, easy to make, tasty, and healthy backpacking meals.

Ever wondered how a thru-hiker eats or how to plan for your own longer backpacking trip? Over the years my trips have gotten longer plus I’ve had to figure out to maintain a healthy diet, take in enough calories and protein while keeping the overall food weight down. Click through to find out more!