Canada Archives - Backpacking Light

Field Notes: The Fryatt Valley Hike

Aug 20, 2019 by Emylene VanderVelden

My Fryatt Valley Hike trip report – photos, gear notes, planning and prep.

Podcast 009 | The Sun is a Compass

Mar 27, 2019 by Backpacking Light

In this episode, we talk to Alaskan writer, biologist, and adventurer Caroline Van Hemert. Caroline is an ornithologist who, along with her husband Pat, undertook a 4,000-mile human-powered journey from Bellingham Washington to Kotzebue, a small town high above the arctic circle.

Case Studies: Using Google Earth to Plan Wilderness Trips

Jun 3, 2018 by Luke Schmidt

This article presents some case studies of using Google Earth for wilderness trip planning, with a presentation of my process and lessons learned.

Vancouver Island: Trauma on a West Coast Trail Backpacking Trip

Apr 8, 2018 by Emylene VanderVelden

Vancouver Island and I are on a collision course for a rematch. Here’s a story about my recent trials on a West Coast Trail backpacking trip.

The Skyline Trail: A Canadian Rockies Gem

Dec 28, 2017 by Emylene VanderVelden

The Canadian Rockies are full of backpacking opportunities which are well-traveled but secluded. One scenic route is the Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. I have had the benefit of backpacking many of the trails in the Canadian Rockies. However, I have never managed to make it out to the Skyline Trail. Also, the limited number of backpackers permitted on the trail at one time ensures a relatively private trip, and the elevation of the trail provides unparalleled views.

Mountains, Waterfalls and Rivers: Exploring Monkman Provincial Park, British Columbia

Dec 17, 2017 by Luke Schmidt

So when Ben texted me that he and two other guys had lined up a brand new “epic” trip in Monkman Provincial Park, British Columbia, I probably should have thought about what I was getting into. But I was up for some excitement so I joined the trip.