Safety
safety basics
Disclaimer. Hike Vancouver is a general guide. Figures are approximate and conditions change daily. You are responsible for your own safety. Check the official land manager before you go.
every trip
- Make a trip plan and leave it with someone. AdventureSmart has a free one.
- Carry the Ten Essentials, including a light, extra layers, food, water and a map.
- Start early. North Shore trails get dark fast in the trees.
- Turn back if the weather changes or you are behind schedule.
- Snow can stay on North Shore and Sea-to-Sky trails into July. Winter routes may cross avalanche terrain; check Avalanche Canada.
- In an emergency call 911.
passes
BC Parks requires free day-use passes at some parks in busy seasons. In 2026 that included Joffre Lakes, Garibaldi and Golden Ears in summer, and Mount Seymour in winter. See BC Parks day-use passes.
