These are some of the questions that we have been asked. If you have a question and don't see it on this list, feel free to Contact Us.
About Vancouver Trails
Are the distances and times on Vancouver Trails round-trip or one-way?
How reliable is the information on Vancouver Trails?
How can I download all the maps and use them in my GPS device?
Can I reserve a picnic table at one of the parks through this website?
Planning Your Hike
How do I choose a hike that’s right for me?
How far can I realistically hike in a day?
Should I file a trip plan before I go?
Where can I check current weather and mountain forecasts?
Trail Difficulty and Ratings
What difficulty ratings does Vancouver Trails use?
What should I expect from an “Easy” trail?
What makes a trail “Difficult”?
Is elevation gain more important than distance?
What if a trail feels beyond my ability once I’m on it?
Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Is it safe to rely on my cell phone in the mountains?
What should I do if I get lost?
How much water should I bring?
What should I do in a medical emergency on trail?
Gear and What to Bring
What should I pack for a typical Vancouver day hike?
Do I need hiking boots or are trail shoes enough?
How do I choose the right hiking boot?
How should I dress for a rainy day on the coast?
How do I stay warm and dry in the mountains?
Seasonal Hiking and Trail Conditions
Can I hike year-round near Vancouver?
When is “hiking season” in the alpine?
What gear do I need for winter and shoulder-season hikes?
Can I hike when it’s raining near Vancouver?
Which trails are snow-free in winter?
Wildlife Safety
Will I see bears on Vancouver-area trails?
What should I do if I see a bear?
Will I see a cougar on a Vancouver area hike?
What other wildlife should I be aware of?
Transportation and Access
Which trails can I reach by public transit?
What should I know about driving to trailheads?
Which trails require a day-use pass or reservation?
Are there wheelchair or stroller accessible hikes?
Can I car-camp at or near popular trailheads?
Dogs on Trails
Which trails do not allow dogs?
How do I keep my dog safe on the trail?
Backcountry and Overnight Trips
Do I need a permit to camp in the backcountry?
What is the difference between a day-use pass and a camping reservation?
What’s the most accessible overnight backpacking trip?
Where can I get water in the backcountry?
Trail Etiquette and Leave No Trace
What are the Leave No Trace principles?
What should I do with my trash?
How do I handle bathroom needs on the trail?
Who yields to whom on the trail?
Is it okay to play music on the trail?
Why shouldn’t I cut switchbacks?
Getting Started as a Beginner
I’ve never hiked before. Where should I start?
What’s a good progression of beginner hikes?
Do I need to be in great shape to start?
What mistakes do new Vancouver hikers most often make?