Backcountry snowboarding isn’t just a winter sport—it’s an unwavering pursuit of freedom, a canvas for creativity, and a pure rush of defying gravity. It’s a fusion of style, skills, and boundless passion. To capture this magic, here’s a short edit of JF Fortin adding his own flair to Whistler’s backcountry.
“There is no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.”
-Ranulf Fiennes
Some people tend to find inconvenience under atmospheric precipitation. They fear to get wet, to get cold, to soak their hair, to ruin their makeup, to get lost in the fog, or to be drown in sadness. Of course I am not talking about getting outdoors during a severe natural disaster. I’m insinuating getting outside and benefitting from the fresh air while the sky is grey, the temperature is chill and raindrops fall from the clouds. We don’t need to be kids to fill in warm clothes, a waterproof jacket and rubber boots. Adults can also find amusement in jumping in puddles and mud under a drizzle or a heavy downpour. At least, I do. I enjoy those simple pleasures and as childish as it sounds, it makes me happy: It makes me present in the moment.
February has been a rather rainy month in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor with chill winter air sweeping through the valley. Warmer days are in the forecast, and since spring is around the corner, with unpredictable weather, it’s important to remember that it is not a rainy winter day that should cancel our outdoor adventures. I made a list of 5 free winter outdoor activities you can do in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor on a rainy day :
Chase waterfalls
The Sea-to-Sky Country offers 5 stunning waterfalls: Shannon Falls, Brandywine Falls, Alexander Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Nairn Falls. Most of them are just a short hike from the parking lots, allowing you to wind through magical and impressive rainforests before accessing impressive rushing and crashing cascades. There is nothing I like more than walking through a forest under the rain. There is something so soothing about the sound of the rain falling through the tall trees, the freshness of the air and the scent of the earth soaking every drop. There is something so relaxing and purifying about standing at the bottom of a waterfall, breathing the pure air, and feeling the mist of the water pouring vigorously in front of us.
Squamish welcomes a significant number of wintering bald eagles from all over the Pacific Northwest each year. They congregate along the Squamish and Cheakamus Rivers to feed on salmon carcasses. It is a great spectacle to observe them perched in the trees, or flying gracefully above the water. The large gathering of eagles is prominent from December to March.
We are spoiled with two incredible, natural and road-accessible hot springs. Key Hole Hot Springs are found 100 km from Whistler, down Pemberton Meadows and up the Upper Lillooet Service Road. Sloquet Hot Springs are located about 142km from Whistler, and most of the drive is on the In-Shuck-Ch Forest Service Road, a gravel road along Lillooet Lake (be aware that snow might cover the road up to Sloquet. Watch the road conditions before you head up). What’s better than to soak in the warmth of mineral-rich pools, tucked into the wilderness, while the rain falls over your head.
If you have a cross-country bike, you are up for a treat. The Sea-to-Sky Corridor has an extensive trail network to explore, rain or shine. Squamish has the best spots to bike in the winter, due to its lack of snow at lower elevation. While mostly sheltered by the thick trees, you can find challenge in pedaling up and down muddy and wet surfaces. There is something cleansing about biking under the rain through the rainforest. A sense of pure joy and freedom.
If you can’t find any friends willing to embrace the rain with you, why not drop in at your local shelter and see the possibility to walk a dog? Dogs don’t complain about being wet or cold. They wear the warm fur and will wag their tail at the idea of playing in puddles and mud with you. Not only does it allow you to get outside and get some fresh air, but you are also helping a furry friend to stretch its legs. Dog shelters welcome responsible dog lovers to apply as volunteers and drop in to take a dog for a walk.
So next time you see the rain, dress properly, wear the right attitude, and embrace the weather. Trust me, bad weather often looks worse from a window. So get out there and get wet!
What do we truly need in life? Shelter, food, water, clothes, love, and safety. These are the fundamental biological needs of a human being. However, the modern world has added a troubling item to this list: money. Money has created a society driven more by desires than necessities, fostering consumerism, a relentless pursuit of wealth and power. But does money truly enrich our lives?
While most associate wealth with material abundance, overflowing bank accounts, and financial prosperity, I hold a different belief. True richness is not measured solely in monetary terms; it’s a quality of life. The mere act of being alive on this planet is a gift of immeasurable wealth, and money is but a fleeting illusion. In reality, money often leads to unethical and immoral behavior, diverting our attention from living a fulfilling and meaningful existence.
Last summer, I made a significant change in my life by purchasing an RV. I had grown weary of paying exorbitant rent and perpetually struggling with financial matters. Little did I anticipate how profoundly it would transform my life. In fact, it made me richer. Here’s how:
I have time to appreciate the little things
I now have the time to enjoy life’s small pleasures. When I downsized my life to reside in a trailer, I experienced an overwhelming sense of relief. I parted ways with unnecessary possessions, retaining only the essentials. Simple activities like long hot showers, laundry, and TV have become luxurious indulgences. Grand dinner parties have given way to outdoor gatherings, and my extensive wardrobe has been replaced by a modest selection of clothing. The act of owning less has heightened my appreciation for what I possess. Everything beyond those essentials is a luxury. This lifestyle has taught me that I am content with what I have. It has deepened my appreciation for life’s intricate details, encouraging me to slow down, relish the scent of fresh air, and admire the beauty surrounding me. It has nurtured gratitude in my heart.
Downsizing hasn’t felt so good, considering all this immense and stunning backyard I get in return. Far from the city lights, I can see the sky so starry on clear nights. Would you stay in a 5-billion-star resort like this one?
I have the ability to live wherever I want
Living in a trailer allows me to lead a day-to-day existence, unburdened by mortgages or leases. I have the flexibility to hit the open road, select a new backyard, or anchor down for a while as I please. This freedom to move at will means I am not bound to any specific location and can live life on my own terms.
I hiked it, I flew above it, and now my home is parked beside it. Yet, I cannot express the feeling I get each time I admire nature performs around this pinnacle of volcanic rock. Couldn’t be more grateful to have the view of the mighty Black Tusk right from my window. Love this backyard!
I am debt free
Embracing minimalism has translated into more money in my pocket. Within a few months, I successfully paid off a long-standing travel debt that had lingered for years, a feat I couldn’t accomplish with steep rent expenses. Residing in a trailer has significantly reduced my living costs. Additionally, I drive a used car that I purchased outright, just like my trailer. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, I’ve reduced my expenses to essentials like campground fees, cell phone, and car insurance. As a result, I now spend less than I earn and have managed to accrue savings that bring me closer to my dreams. The freedom of being debt-free and financially stable is truly liberating.
My shelter, my ride and my company. This is home, and I have all I need.
I choose experiences over possessions
With fewer possessions to maintain and the absence of a demanding, stress-inducing job solely for bill payment, I’ve gained the gift of more free time. This precious time allows me to be with the people I love, strengthen my bond with my dogs, embrace the outdoors, engage in creative pursuits, and wholeheartedly pursue my passions. With increased financial freedom and abundant free time, I’ve been able to travel more frequently, embark on adventures, and relish life to the fullest.
Spending a day in my backyard.
I own less, but I gain more
Owning fewer possessions has opened the door to a richer life. Living off the grid provides me with a chance to connect more closely with nature. Residing in a natural environment is not only renowned for reducing stress and enhancing happiness and physical well-being but also grants me a remarkable and extraordinary backyard that stretches out to the majestic Coast Mountains. While my dwelling may be a compact trailer, my backyard is an expanse of tranquility, inspiration, and grandeur.
One of the privilege of living off grid is to have an immense playground to ourselves.
Wealth is a matter of perspective. I genuinely hold the belief that money alone doesn’t determine our richness. True success goes beyond the confines of monetary wealth. In reality, happiness stands as the key to genuine success. When you learn to value life’s small pleasures, allocate time for self-care, treasure love, kindness, gratitude, and compassion, cultivate social bonds and family connections, live within your means, and embrace minimalism to live life to the fullest, I believe you unearth the genuine essence of existence.
Once you recognize that desire is distinct from necessity, you embark on an authentic way of living. Finding contentment and joy in what you have, I consider that the ultimate wealth one can attain.
In this very place, nestled within the wilderness, I have everything I need. This way of life brings me nearer to nature and to people, affords me more time to engage in my passions, concentrate on dreams and aspirations, and forge a connection with my inner self. For me, this is true wealth.
In 2015, I chose not to travel overseas in order to save money and focus on other projects. It was a tough decision, since I have been travelling around the globe annually for the past 14 years. It was something I had to do, in order to financially get back on track and work on my future. But not travelling doesn’t mean not exploring. I am fortunate to live in an area that offers such an incredible playground. So at the beginning of the year, I challenged myself in doing at least 20 adventures around the beautiful Pacific North West.
#19. Night iceskating under the full moon at Joffre Lakes.
But the most amazing adventure of the year:
#20. I bought my first home (on wheels)! I am now living off the grid, a lifestyle I’ve always dreamt about.
It is important to pause once in a while and look what’s around us. We don’t always have to travel across the globe to explore new paths and be treated with incredible views. Beauties are within reach and waiting to be discovered. And sometimes, it is the people who tag along, our home buddies, furry friends or family that make the journey worth of all beauties.
I am excited for 2016. I am well-rested, projects in hand and ready to move mountains! I wish you all a safe journey to the new year, filled with new beginnings, new dreams and new adventures!
Winter solstice is still a couple of weeks away, but the days are already colder and snow covers the grounds here in the mountains of Whistler. It was such a nice day today, and such an enjoyable morning walk with the pups. I love how I can just open the door of my trailer and walk the trails through the forest. And the views are simply stunning.
Owning a RV is in all a project and adventure. As newbies of the RV culture, there is so much to learn, especially with winter around the corner. Depending on how El Nino will affect our region this season, it is prudent to expect lots of heavy snowfall. Plus, we are sitting on an edge, offering pristine views of the mountains, but also exposed to cold wind swirls. To have our RV ready for winter, there are a few things we need to do.
Skirting
Building a skirt to the bottom of the RV will break the wind from cooling the underside of the trailer and can help to keep the rig warm. You can purchase a skirt if your trailer didn’t come with one, or you can build one. We wrapped the bottom of the trailer with foam boards to create an insulation. Then we secured them with plywood. We heard that keeping a space heater works wonderfully as well, to keep the bottom of the trailer warm as well as to prevent the tanks, pipes and hoses to freeze. When snow comes, we will tuck the skirt bottom with snow to give it an igloo effect. Now we just have to watch for rodents!
Roofing
We haven’t quite decided what we will do with the roof. As we aren’t staying at one place permanently, we can’t built a shelter on top of our flat roof to allow the snow to slide off. We also heard that tarps are a no-no. However, we will make sure that we keep shoveling the snow carefully and hope for the best!
Water Hose and Sewer Pipes
We wrapped the water hose and pipes with thick blankets. We heard that heating pads and 40-watt bulbs work well. We will also put an electric heater under the trailer to create heat flow and protect tanks and pipes from freezing.
Windows
We placed shrink film on the insides of the windows to help eliminate cold drafts and reduce condensation.
Condensation
Cooking, washing, showering or even just breathing create condensation. We haven’t had any issue with it yet, but it is something to be aware of, especially living with 2 adults and 2 dogs. When cooking, we always use the stove fan and open up the roof vent. It would be the same thing for showering however, we chose to shower at the campground facilities instead (their showers are amazing!). We might get a dehumidifier for the winter, depending on the level of condensation.
Heat
We chose to use electric heaters to keep the place warm. Electric heaters don’t create moisture and warm up the place pretty quick. We have an electric fireplace that we use when we are here, and at night and during the day we leave an electric oil heater on. Depending how cold it gets this winter, we will try not to use the propane furnace too much as it will get expensive and is bad for moisture. Be sure to read and follow all your heaters warnings and rules. Also get a carbon monoxide detector. Stay warm but mostly be safe!
We are excited to spend a winter in our new home on wheels. Even though it is quite some preparation to get ready for the cold months and still lots to learn, we cannot wait to wake up to nature, wearing its white and sparkly robe, and go for hikes, snowshoe, nordic ski and sled right off our door steps!
The season has changed, leaving place to the cool and crisp air of autumn. Summer has been absolutely crazy, in so many good ways, with work, and camping and adventuring every weekend. But I am now looking forward to quiet days at work, cozy wool sweater weather and wrapping my hands around hot teas and good books. But the one thing I really love the most about fall is the cool mornings and glorious sunny afternoons. I am looking forward to get outside and embrace the fresh autumn air with my dogs.
Even if many trails are open year-round, I find that autumn is the best season to hike: no crowds, no bugs, no heat. Plus, it’s the time of the year where nature wears its best colours and its unique fragrance. Here are 5 incredible hikes to do with your furry companions this fall in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor:
Skywalk Trail- NEW!
There is a new trail in town! Built by volunteers from The Alpine Club of Canada, The Skywalk Trail was completed at the end of August 2015 and offers a stunning and scenic hike that starts in Alpine Meadows and leads to the north of Rainbow Mountain. This 14km round-trip trail goes up along 19 mile creek, passing beautiful waterfalls before entering into alpine meadows resting at the foot of an ancient glacier. After scrambling over some rocks, the trail leads up to Iceberg Lake, a beautiful green opaque lake sitting at 1600m, with an ice cave resting on its shore. The trail goes further up to Screaming Cat Lake and loop back to the starting point.
While the trail is limited to foot traffic only, there haven’t been any restrictions for dogs. Remember to respect others by being a responsible owner and keep your dogs under control. Thank you to the volunteers at Alpine Club for this great job on building by hand this trail and offering us the privilege to explore our backyard in such a way. This is a true Whistler experience!
Stawamus Chief
Located in the town of Squamish, the Stawamus Chief, commonly known by locals as The Chief, offers a steep but short 3-hour round trip hike atop of the 700 massive granite cliffs. There are 3 summits, the highest being at only 1.8km, all offering scenic views of Howe Sound and the town of Squamish. There is a lot of traffic on this trail and sections with steep cliffs, so always keep your pooch close by.
Sea-to-Sky Trail
The Sea-to-Sky Trail runs 180km from the waterfront of Squamish all the way up to D’Arcy. There are many scenic spots to see along this non-motorized trail, from cascading waterfalls, to raging rivers, to suspended bridges, and pristine lake views. Wether you are biking, walking, running or hiking, your four-legged friend will be ecstatic to run beside you.
Joffre Lakes
A very popular and must do hike. Joffe Lakes Provincial Park is situated north of Pemberton, up the Duffey Road. There are 3 lakes, the upper one located at 5 km. The trails are well-maintained and enjoyable to ascend, although the last part between Middle Lake and Upper Lake is a bit more challenging. The reward is worth the sweat: pristine turquoise waters and rugged Coast Mountain scenery. Your pooch will be happy to pose for a photograph with such a background.
Rorh Lake
Nestled near the Marriot Basin on an alpine bench, just a few minutes north of Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Rohr Lake is a beautiful and uncrowded hike. It is an ideal environment for the dogs, where they can sprint through steep trees and run freely in the alpine meadows. The hike is short (3-4hours one-way) but steep, rough, rocky, muddy and wet. Also, due to the unpopularity of the hike, the trail isn’t well-marked, so read the direction properly before heading up. Rohr Lake is beautiful and clear, and the peacefulness of the place is worth every efforts.
As I walked in the illuminated streets of my neighbourhood, trying to digest the over consumption of sausage stuffing and other Christmas festive dishes, a maple whisky and eggnog in one hand, and my dogs on a leash in the other, I filled myself with Christmas Spirit.
It was Christmas night and the crescent moon glittered in the sky full of stars. It snowed the previous evening, as it always does the night before Christmas, leaving a white sparkly robe on every tree, and a frosty glaze on every roof. The scents of firewood burning through the chimneys blended with the fresh and crisp air. Houses decorated with flickering and twinkling lights lit the dark streets of magic.
I couldn’t help but glimpse through the home windows. Families gathered in the living room, watching the fire crackling, playing games or chatting. Some were still around the table, stretching a long Christmas dinner.
I started to think about my own family, my friends back home, my friends here, and the people I met during my travels. I am so fortunate to have such wonderful people in my life, and I believe this is the greatest gift life has given me.
I returned to my little mountain home. My dogs panted their way back, satisfied of their evening walk. My friends haven’t move from their cozy seats beside the Christmas tree, still struggling to breath from a stuffed belly. The house smelled like good food and spices. I sat amongst my loved ones, my cheeks, nose and heart warming up to the comfort of my home.
I don’t want anything for Christmas. I already have everything I need. And I hope you do too.
Footloose Diary 