Is elevation gain more important than distance?
Often yes. A 10 km trail with 1,200 m of gain will feel far harder and take much longer than a 15 km trail with 200 m of gain. In the North Shore, Chilliwack Valley, Golden Ears, and Sea-to-Sky regions, elevation gain is usually the dominant factor in how tough a hike feels. Plan around total climb as much as total distance.
Back to Frequently Asked Questions