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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

At MEC, we love the outdoors. But we also recognize that it isn’t always the most accessible or equitable place. So last year, we launched [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits) – annual grants to support 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups getting more folks outside. 

“Recreating outdoors can be intimidating, exclusive and cost prohibitive, whether it be due to safety, gear requirements or perceived experience level,” said Nicola, Colleen and Jessie from The Monthly Cycle, one of last year’s Queer Gear Kits recipients. “Ironically, it’s some of these systemic barriers that make the act of going outside all the more important to the wellness of different groups!” 

With 64 applicants in its inaugural year, it was incredibly tough to choose among all the great candidates. Congrats to Edmonton 2 Spirit Society, UBC CampOUT! and The Monthly Cycle – the 2022 recipients doing incredible work in their communities. Read on to learn about their outdoorsy plans.  

## Want to apply for 2023 Queer Gear Kit grants? 

We’re opening Queer Gear Kits grant applications again, and we’re beyond excited. Spread the word if you know any groups that would be interested. **Grant applications are open June 1 to 30, 2023** (we’ll contact recipients in August).  

## Edmonton 2 Spirit Society 

[Edmonton 2 Spirit Society](https://e2s.ca/) (E2S) is an intergenerational non-profit organization that was built upon a foundation laid by other 2 Spirit leaders doing the same work in earlier years. They work with 2 Spirit and Indigenous Queer, Trans and Intersex people (2SIQTIP) and their kinship circles to ensure safer and more inclusive access to social, cultural and ceremonial support.  

*Cheyenne (they/them), Interim Executive Director of Edmonton 2 Spirit Society let us know what they’ve got planned:* 

**How will your group use the Queer Gear Kits grant?**

We’re aiming to use the kits to engage in land-based cultural activities that center 2SIQTIP and their kinship circles. There’s a distinct lack of 2 Spirit led and operated culture camps in and around amiskwacîwâskahikan, colonially known as Edmonton, and E2S hopes to develop programming to address this need. We have big dreams of hosting hide tanning camps, fasting ceremonies, and 2 Spirit regional gatherings, all of which will make use of the items in the Queer Gear Kits.  

> This grant will support our endeavors to bring 2SIQTIP community members outdoors and onto the land in more inclusive settings.  

**Why was the Edmonton 2 Sprit Society interested in this grant?**   

For many urban 2SIQTIP individuals, it can be difficult to access land-based activities that are inclusive of gender and sexual diversity. Connection to the land is such an integral part of many Indigenous communities however this was disrupted due to colonial processes. We wanted to apply to support future programs aimed at repairing our connection to the land. 

## UBC CampOUT 

Based in Vancouver, [CampOUT!](https://campout.ubc.ca/) is an annual leadership and community development program that brings 2SLGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 14 to 21 together in an outdoor summer camp environment. They’re committed to removing financial barriers so all interested individuals can experience the outdoors, gain leadership skills, grow awareness of social issues, access critical health literacy resources and return to their home communities with networks of support.  

*Anna (she/her), Camp Director of CampOUT!, let us know what’s coming up:* 

**How will CampOUT use the Queer Gear Kits grant?**  

This year will be our first full capacity in-person camp since 2019, and we’re excited to offer a tenting program alongside the cabin experience. We’ll have 60 campers, 5 cabins, and a bunch of MEC tents! For campers that would like to try sleeping under the stars, we’ll be able to offer them tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats and their very own cabin leader to really get that campy experience while at CampOUT! Our goal is to aid campers in gaining the skills and confidence they can use to continue to create camping shelters year-round. 

**What’s something you wish more people knew about your group?**  

While there are lots of pay-for-service outdoor camping opportunities for youth, it’s important to us that CampOUT! does not have financial barriers.  

> For 2SLGBTQ+ youth, a price tag on a program may prevent a young person from even talking to their parent/caregivers about it.  

Campers have dubbed our supporters their faerie/fairy godparents making this program accessible to queer, trans, Two-Spirit, and questioning youth regardless of their economic situation or if their families value an inclusive leadership program for 2SLGBTQ+ folks. 

## The Monthly Cycle 

[The Monthly Cycle](https://www.instagram.com/themonthlycyclehfx/) organizes monthly social rides for women, trans, femme and non-binary riders in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Since starting in 2021, they’ve offered group rides and supplementary workshops that promote the idea that cycling can (and should be) fun, safe and inclusive. The mission of The Monthly Cycle is to welcome, encourage and uplift riders that are underrepresented in cycling, and to foster a safe space for building confidence on two wheels.  

*The Monthly Cycle’s three organizers – Nicola (she/her), Colleen (she/her) and Jessie (she/her) – shared more:* 

**How will the Monthly Cycle use the gear from this grant?** 

The gear will primarily be used to support our riders during the annual Full Moon Campout, our beginner-friendly bikepacking trip that occurs each fall. Last year, 23 folks – most of whom had never tried bikepacking – rode 35km of coastal gravel trails to a beautiful provincial park to camp.  

These trips are preceded by a workshop where riders can ask questions about bike-powered adventures in a safe space, and donated and borrowed gear can be distributed so attendees can trial pack and ride their rigs. We’re also in the process of establishing our own TMC gear library that can serve our community year-round, and the amazing gear we secured through this grant is helping us get there! 

**Why is getting outside so important to the folks in your group?**  

We believe that everyone should be able to experience the joys of self-supported travel. Sadly, the reality is that the barriers to cycling are disproportionately experienced by queer women, trans (men and women), femme and non-binary riders. We’re slow-rolling the patriarchy, one group ride at a time. 

> We’re committed to breaking systemic barriers down with the provision of a safe, inclusive space to build confidence on two wheels. 

*Huge thank yous to all the groups building outdoor communities from coast to coast. We can’t wait to hear about your plans in this year’s [Queer Gear Kits applications](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits).*

See how awesome groups across Canada are using grants to get outside.

Meet the 2022 Queer Gear Kit recipients

You know it’s going to be a great night when the event sells out in a record-breaking 1.5 hours – huge!  

MEC and Edelrid were pumped to welcome Tommy Caldwell back to Vancouver to meet the climbing community – and this time, he brought company. Canadian climbing legend Sonnie Trotter joined Tommy onstage for stories of climbing adventures and misadventures, and MEC Ambassadors [Emma Contaoe](/en/explore/emma-contaoe) and [Sean McColl](/en/explore/sean-mccoll) hosted the evening.  

Check out the highlights from Tommy and Sonnie’s slideshow below, including tales of choss, a high-elevation lawn chair and lots more. 

All event proceeds went to the Climbers’ Access Society of British Columbia – **$6,552** in total. 

Evening talk with Tommy Caldwell and Sonnie Trotter at MEC Vancouver

## Major thanks 

It was great to welcome the climbing and outdoor community to our store, including Van Queer Climbers, Squamish Access Society, Vancouver Climbers Association and [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada). A big thank you to our event sponsors too: Edelrid, Athletic Brewing, Humblebee Meadery, Strait & Narrow Cocktails, and Brewhall.

## The story of choss: Mount Louis, 2011 

Tommy’s first trip to the Canadian Rockies was to Mount Louis with Sonnie in 2011. “I know the Rockies well, it’s just like Switzerland!” Sonnie told him. Their plan? Bolt a new route in early season. The reality? Dodging rockfall, choss, being showered with debris, more choss, and leading snowy pitches in July for the full Rockies experience. 

*Photo: “Our $35 portaledge for Mount Louis: a lawn chair and umbrella from the hardware store,” said Tommy.* 

After a couple days of putting the up the route – including shivering through an all-night bolting mission – Tommy and Sonnie rolled back home at 4am. The overall result was The Shining 5.13+, a magnificent 15-pitch bolted route that’s been climbed every summer since. “We’re pretty psyched we made it happen,” said Tommy, “but it was definitely not like Switzerland.” 

*Photo: Mount Louis ended with a long night after a full Rockies experience.* 

## Petrified peanut butter: Malta, 2012 

“Our goal with Malta was some real adventure limestone climbing,” said Sonnie. He and Tommy headed to Gozo with visions of boat-access trad missions on cliffs with dramatic coastal scenery. Dreaming of epic photos, they lined up photographers to capture their limestone quests for a Black Diamond catalogue. The only problem? “The rock was totally rotten,” said Sonnie, “like petrified peanut butter.” 

*Photo: All that soft rock meant getting creative. In this abandoned rock quarry, “The cracks were the perfect size for fingerlocks and handjams,” said Sonnie.* 

After failed anchor attempts in garbage rock and a quarry ascent, they kept hunting on the north side of the island. Success: an absolutely splitter roof crack they could access by rapping through a tight Tommy-sized chimney. Deafening waves and winds crashed into the wall as they bolted anchors in “the softest rock known to humankind – not recommended.” Bundled up in toques and puffers, it seemed a bit surreal that off in the distance, people were sunbathing on the shore.   

*Photo: “We found some bolted sport routes at one point and must’ve been 50ft. above the ocean when a huge wall of seaspray shot up,” said Tommy.* 

## The climb that got away: Mount Stephen, 2013 

The first sign that this plan might go a little sideways? The heat. Tommy and Sonnie set out on a 3-hour slog up a moraine on their attempt to Mount Stephen, which happened to be the first day of a 4-day heatwave.  

*Photo: Anticipating choss on Mount Stephen, Sonnie deployed a high-tech belayer protection system. “The hockey pads were not discussed beforehand,” said Tommy.*  

With the rising temps, waterfalls roared, rockfall was everywhere and the mountain came alive. On their approach to the main wall, a massive rockfall came down from 1500ft. above. Huge pieces and shrapnel whizzed so close they could feel wind rushing by. “Rock was reverberating everywhere,” said Sonnie. “My wife was 6 months pregnant at the time and I thought – I’m done with this climb. Game over.” 

*Photo: A break in the shade before the rockfall.* 

Back at the safety of the parking lot, they felt a sense of truce… along with the feeling of wondering what all the fuss was about now that the danger was way behind them. “Maybe there’s a way to do it safely,” Tommy pondered aloud onstage. Sonnie laughed and looked at him, “Well, what are you doing this summer?” 

## Best Q&A of the night 

As always, the MEC crowd didn’t disappoint. A few of our favourites that Tommy, Sonnie, Emma and Sean answered: 

**What does greatness mean to you?**  

Phew, a heavy-hitter early on. “I think greatness is something that’s perceived by others, not by yourself,” said Tommy. “I mean, even I have imposter syndrome and I somehow became an unintentional movie star.” 

**How do you achieve success in the adventure film industry?** 

“I lived in a truck for 10 years eating peanut butter sandwiches for dinner before I ever made a dollar,” said Sonnie. “My plan was to live like that until I was 30 – I was committed to that life, then met people in the industry along the way.” 

**What’s your mantra?** 

“Trust the process,” said Sean.  

**Most memorable climbing meals?** 

“For ages, it was canned peaches and GORP. I didn’t even bring a stove,” said Tommy. “When I was working on Dawn Wall, I realized I had to fuel my body. Since it was cold like a fridge, I could bring basically anything – bagged kale, hard-boiled eggs, canned salmon.” 

**What would you tell your 21-year old self?**  

“You are already enough,” said Emma (followed by a big round of applause from the crowd on this one). 

**Most importantly… where is the lawn chair now?** 

Reports are hazy, but the running theory is “somewhere in Colorado.” If anyone has leads, let us know – maybe it’ll make an appearance at a future Tommy and Sonnie slideshow near you. 

*Thanks again to everyone who made this night such a blast. Stay tuned for more climbing events coming your way.*

Climbing adventures and misadventures, plus a full video recap of the event.

Stories from an evening with Tommy Caldwell and Sonnie Trotter

It’s Earth month! This April, MEC and our partners are celebrating with creative initiatives you can get in on. Find out how to recycle your old climbing rope, upcycle your unwanted socks, and take action for our favourite planet. Plus, climbing legend Tommy Caldwell is coming back to MEC for an event to chat sustainability and climbing – and this time, he’s got climbing company. 

## Climate action in action 

MEC is setting out on our most challenging expedition yet: uniting external partners in the outdoor industry and empowering our own business to create lasting change in the climate crisis. We’re pushing ahead with a new commitment to reduce our emissions in line with climate science targets. The goal? Reduce our emissions 55% by 2030 and 90% by 2050. 

This is a big step for us. There’s a ton of data and planning behind these targets, and they’ve been submitted to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for validation. Check out our climate action plan to see how we’re going to make it all happen. 

## Recycle your climbing ropes 
**When: April 13 – May 31** at all MEC stores, except Hudson’s Bay locations 

New for 2023, Sterling Rope is launching their dynamic [rope recycling program](https://sterlingrope.com/rope-recycling-program) in Canada at MEC. It’s a very cool program that gives old ropes new life. Some ropes get upcycled into things like dog leashes or bag handles. Others are melted or ground down into nylon pellets to be turned into carpet fibres, fleece, skateboards and dog toys.  

If you have dynamic climbing rope that’s dirty, damaged or ready to retire, this is your chance to get it out of your garage or gear closet and put it to work in a new way. Any brand is accepted, as long as it’s dynamic (not static) climbing rope. Coil or bind your rope (no flaked and loose ropes, please) and drop it off in the big Sterling Rope Monster Box at MEC stores. 

## Recycle your old socks
**When: April 6 – 30** at all MEC stores 

Only 12% of clothing materials end up getting recycled. It’s time to change that. The [Smartwool Second Cut Project™](https://smartwool.ca/en/second-cut-project.html) is back in Canada to recycle your old socks into new gear. Last year, this project was incredibly sock-ccessful, with over 650,000 socks collected for recycling in North America.   

Drop off unwanted socks at your local MEC store; look for the Smartwool Second Cut Project bins. All socks are welcome, as long as they’re clean: all brands, all colours, all materials, all conditions (single socks are good too). Smartwool will give these socks new life as a new Second Cut™ Project Hike Sock – nice! To date, the Second Cut Project has kept over 24,900kg (55,000 lb.) of material out of landfills.  

Smartwool: The Second Cut Project Hike Sock

## Tommy Caldwell, Sonnie Trotter and Edelrid at MEC 
**When: April 26** at MEC Vancouver, tickets go on sale on April 13 

The legend is back. Join MEC and Edelrid as we chat about climbing access, climate advocacy, and adventures with Tommy Caldwell and Sonnie Trotter. Expect another sold-out show with stories, drinks from local sponsors, community groups, and epic prizes – all hosted by MEC Ambassadors [Sean McColl](/en/explore/sean-mccoll) and [Emma Contaoe](/en/explore/emma-contaoe). 

Mark your calendar for ticket sales (they go fast) and keep an eye on [@mec](https://www.instagram.com/mec/) for ticket giveaway contests. 

## Hot Planet, Cool Athletes: student education 

Want to empower the next generation of climate advocates? [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada) (one of our MEC Outdoor Impact partners) offers a free climate change education platform for students and teachers across Canada.  

[Hot Planet, Cool Athletes](https://www.protectourwinters.ca/hot_planet_cool_athletes) helps high school students be climate leaders through educational videos, presentations from top Canadian athletes, a huge bank of teacher resources and sustainable student challenges. It was developed in partnership with the University of Waterloo Interdisciplinary Centre on Climate Change. 

MEC was a founding partner of Protect Our Winters Canada, and we’re proud to keep investing in their advocacy work, and programs like Hot Planet, Cool Athletes, that unites people to make change.  

## Protect 30% of Canada’s wild spaces by 2030 

MEC Outdoor Impact’s key national conservation partner is the [Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS)](/en/explore/canadian-parks-and-wilderness-society). They’re on a mission to protect 30% of land and water in Canada by 2030, and they’re partnering with Indigenous organizations and communities to support and advocate for Indigenous-led conservation initiatives. 

How can you help? Join the “We Can’t Wait” campaign and [take action on the CPAWS website](https://cpaws.org/wecantwait/). Lend your voice to campaigns at the national level or through your regional CPAWS chapter, such as supporting the Pessamit First Nation to protect the Pipmuakan in Quebec, defending the Great Bear Sea in BC, and protecting the Seal River Watershed in Manitoba.   

Take action to protect 30% of land and ocean in Canada!

## Keep an eye out for more sustainable materials 

Earth Month is a great time to learn about what goes into materials. Check out a few highlights of more sustainable materials landing at MEC this season. Remember: if you’re buying new gear, make sure it’s built to last. 

#### More warmth, less waste 

The [MEC Mountain Blanket](/en/product/6019-759/mountain-blanket) is made with leftover fabric from sleeping bag production to squeeze everything we can out of giant fabric rolls. 

#### Triple-whammy 

Not just one, but three ways to improve materials: the [MEC Boundary Light Down Jacket](/en/search?q=boundary%20light) has bluesign®-approved fabric, recycled content, and certified responsible down. 

#### Made from leftover backpack fabric 

The [MEC Waste-Less Tote Bag](/en/product/5043-242/waste-less-tote-bag-20l) is made with fabric salvaged from MEC backpacks to keep scraps out of the landfill and reduce our footprint. It’s incredibly durable too. 

#### Keeps you rolling smoothly 

[MEC Bio-Cycle 1L Chain Cleaner](/en/product/4013-718/bio-cycle-1l-chain-cleaner) is a water-soluble, biodegradable degreaser to clean gunk off your bike chain for smoother rides all year long. 

Keep an eye for even more info about more sustainable choices in the world of outdoor gear – we’ve got a full guide coming soon for Earth Month. 

See what’s happening this April, from climbing rope recycling to climate action plans.

What’s going on for Earth Month

As the weather warms, it’s time to zip-off for spring. With 10 zippers and 32 configurations, the new MEC Zip Line Pants boldly go where no hike pants have gone before. Change with the weather, wade across rivers and maximize your vitamin D absorption with hyper-technical features and breathtaking versatility.

Pre-hike trailhead stretch? Go Knee Huggers Mode to get that unrestricted deep lunge. 
Sweating it out to the summit? Go advanced with Thigh Breezers mode and embrace that view.

And when you want to carry the detached layers, the patented clip-on DingleDangle System has you covered.

MEC Zip Line Pants

Looking for more styles and less zippers? 

With 10 zippers and 32 configurations, the new MEC Zip Line Pants boldly go where no hike pants have gone before.

Meet the MEC Zip Line Pants

The news is out and it’s something to celebrate: MEC has officially partnered with The Lady Alliance Foundation to help change the face of leadership in the outdoors. What does that mean for you? A series of **awesome events in March**, an even bigger **outdoor scholarship program**, and more **fantastic plans for women+ in 2023**. With International Women’s Day on March 8, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.   

Learn more about what’s coming, sign up for events, and get to know Kieren Britton, founder of The Lady Alliance.  

## What’s The Lady Alliance Foundation?  

The Lady Alliance Foundation is an inclusive organization that supports women+, non-binary adventurers and allies in the outdoors. It started as an online social community and grew into much more: adventures, retreats, courses and local chapters across Canada. In 2022, The Lady Alliance launched a scholarship program for backcountry skills – everything from avalanche safety training and wilderness first aid to swift water rescue and hiking guide certification.  

MEC has been working with The Lady Alliance for years, and we’re stoked to welcome them as an official partner as part of our [Outdoor Impact program](/en/explore/outdoor-impact). Our support will provide gear donations to their program leaders and fund scholarships to help more folks develop outdoor skills.   

> “It’s so exciting to finally officially be a non-profit and offer scholarships to incredible people who seek to learn, grow and create more community experiences in the outdoors.” – Keiren Britton, The Lady Alliance founder 

## The Lady Alliance events on March 8  

Celebrate International Women’s Day with The Lady Alliance chapters across Canada. All events are low-cost or free – sign up at the links below. Don’t see your location on the list? The Lady Alliance is growing and there might be a [local chapter](https://theladyalliance.com/adventurer-access/local-chapters/) near you with other events happening in 2023.   
  
### British Columbia

- **Vancouver**: [Social climb night at MEC Vancouver](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/vancouver-chapter-social-climb-night-mec-tickets-557062497927)  

- **Kelowna**: [Social climb night at Gneiss Climbing](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/kelowna-chapter-social-climb-night-tickets-557069869977)  

- **East Kootenays**: [Social climb night at ARQ Mountain Centre](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/east-kootenay-chapter-social-climb-night-tickets-557549945897)  

- **Victoria**: [Sunset hike at Mount Doug](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/victoria-chapter-sunset-hike-tickets-557550908777)  

- **Campbell River**: [Social climb night at On the Rocks](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/campbell-river-chapter-social-climb-night-tickets-557550748297)  

- **Quesnel**: [Sunset hike to the bluff](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/cariboo-mountains-chapter-sunset-hike-tickets-557555582757) 

- **Blind Bay**: [Sunset hike on Mount Baldy](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/shuswap-chapter-sunset-hike-tickets-557553085287)

### Alberta

- **Calgary**: [Sunset hike at Weaselhead Flats](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/calgary-chapter-sunset-hike-tickets-557551069257)  

- **Edmonton**: [Social climb night at Boulders Climbing](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/edmonton-chapter-social-climb-night-tickets-557551360127)

### Saskatchewan 

- **Saskatoon**: [Social climb night at Grip It Climbing](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/saskatoon-chapter-social-climb-night-tickets-557551831537)   

- **Parkland/Yorkton**: [Sunset cross-country ski night at Deer Park Golf Course](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/parkland-chapter-sunset-ski-tickets-557556445337)

### Ontario 

- **Toronto**: [Social climb night at MEC Toronto](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-chapter-social-climb-night-mec-tickets-557037071877)

### Yukon 

- **Whitehorse**: [Sunset hike at Wolf Creek](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/yukon-chapter-sunset-hike-tickets-557553526607)  

## Get to know Kieren, founder of The Lady Alliance Foundation  

Kieren loves to dream of the ridiculous and make it a reality. Whether it’s cycling across Canada or converting a school bus into a full-time home, there’s nothing she enjoys more than testing the limits.   

**What’s your top memory with The Lady Alliance?**  

I have so many incredible memories. From touring in the backcountry taking our AST1 together to traveling across Canada hosting film festivals – the adventures have been endless. But my favourite? When I see long-lasting friendships formed from our meetups, like two members travelling Europe together after meeting at one of our long weekend retreats, or people becoming workout buddies, dog walking buddies or everyday best friends. 


**Number one outdoor tip?**  

Be bold, start cold. And always carry your warm layer and extra snacks for lunch break.   

**What does International Women’s Day mean to you?**  

To me, International Women's Day has started to mean less about the binary of “woman” and more about the recognition of the barriers that so many people overcome to redefine what success means to them outside a patriarchal capitalist culture. I have an immense privilege in having a binarily-labeled day recognizing who I am and the barriers I might experience. But the more I look at International Women's Day, the more I see it as a way to disrupt the system and accelerate equity overall.

*Thanks, Kieren! Can’t wait to see how 2023 unfolds with The Lady Alliance – hope to see everyone at the events.*  

Learn about MEC's partnership with The Lady Alliance.

This New Outdoor Alliance Is Something To Celebrate

This new outdoor alliance is something to celebrate

MEC and [Avalanche Canada](/en/explore/avalanche-canada) go way back – all the way to 2001, when we first started supporting their programs to educate more people about avalanche safety. Fast forward a couple of decades, and we’re pumped to partner with them on their latest initiative: the MEC Avalanche Safety Grant.  

This grant provides Avalanche Canada Training courses to four organizations serving IBPOC (Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour) communities. 2022 was the second year this grant has been offered, and we’re super excited to announce this year’s recipients. Each group is organizing an Avalanche Skills Training course with the provider of their choice for up to eight of their members:  

- [Indigenous Women Outdoors](https://www.indigenouswomenoutdoors.ca/our-team): a non-profit that helps First Nations women and non-binary folks reconnect to their traditional territories and Indigenous roots through backcountry sports in the Sea-to-Sky area. 

- [Mountain Mentors](http://www.mountainmentors.org/): a non-profit in the Sea-to-Sky area with the goal of creating backcountry spaces where everyone belongs and can safely participate. 

- [The Howl Experience](https://www.experiencehowl.com/): provides alternative outdoor education programs in the Rocky Mountains for Indigenous, low-income, and marginalized youth. 

- [Zero Ceiling](https://zeroceiling.org/): Based in Whistler, this group aims to end youth homelessness in BC. They provide opportunities for marginalized young adults to develop skills, confidence, and connections through mountain recreation. 


We support this grant as part of our MEC Outdoor Impact program, which aims to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces, and grow the communities of people getting active outside. As part of all this good stuff, we aim celebrate and encourage inclusivity in the outdoors through community support.  

“We've put a larger focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the work we do with our national partners, which includes co-developing grants available to IBPOC-led organizations and supporting DEI training and development at partner organizations,” says Caitlin Brown, MEC Community Manager. “This grant is an example of how, together with Avalanche Canada, we’re striving to make the outdoors more inclusive.”  

The MEC Avalanche Safety Grant was established to provide greater access to outdoor opportunities for racialized Canadians. Backcountry Access (BCA) also contributed to this initiative by providing two boxes of safety gear, each with eight sets of avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes.  

“Avalanche Canada recognizes that some groups face disproportionate barriers in accessing winter backcountry pursuits in Canada,” explains Gilles Valade, Executive Director of Avalanche Canada. “We are very impressed with the work being done by these four organizations and are grateful to partner with MEC to provide them with avalanche safety education.” 

Congrats to this year’s grant recipients – it’s awesome to see the work you’re doing outdoors. 

*Top photo: One of the 2021 MEC Avalanche Safety Grant training course recipients in action, with K8 Mountaineering group learning skills for the winter backcountry. Photo credit: Leanne Allison*

We’re proud to announce four organizations serving IBPOC communities.

Introducing This Year’s MEC Avalanche Safety Grant Recipients

Introducing this year’s MEC Avalanche Safety Grant recipients

What’s the best kept secret about backcountry hut trips? It’s not just about the skiing. 

“People who’ve done multiple hut trips will all tell you: getting to the hut is only half the fun,” says the [Alpine Club of Canada](/en/explore/alpine-club-of-canada) (ACC), which operates the largest network of backcountry huts in North America. “It’s easy to visualize a backcountry trip as being all about the skiing, and to think of the hut as just a place to sleep, eat and dry out gear. Truth is, time in the hut with family and friends are some of the most memorable parts of a trip.” 

We couldn’t agree more. And hey, if hut memories are topped off with skiing a few lines of cold blower pow, all the better. 

To help you prepare, we called in MEC Ambassadors [Bruce Kirkby](/en/explore/bruce-kirkby) and [Yuki Tsubota](/en/explore/yuki-tsubota), along with folks from the ACC for tips on how to plan, how to book, and the number one item to bring outside of ski gear. 

## Prepare your party 

First up: assemble a group of compatible people – you will be sharing a cozy space, after all. “Make sure it’s people you want to hang out, cook and live with, not just ski with,” the ACC says.  

Along with being fun, ski-loving folks, it’s essential that everyone has taken an Avalanche Skills Training (AST) program. Start with courses through [Avalanche Canada](/en/explore/avalanche-canada); MEC is proud to be the primary sponsor of their training program. Afterward, practice using your [safety gear](/en/explore/avalanche-safety-gear-and-training) and skills with your group. Research where you’re going and know the conditions too.  

Fresh to the backcountry? Get an [introduction to avalanche safety](https://www.avalanche.ca/start-here) with Avalanche Canada, or check out their online tutorial, [Avy Savvy](https://avysavvy.avalanche.ca/en-ca), before taking an AST course.  

> “Rather than heading out with an entire group of first-timers, ensure there are some backcountry veterans along. Equally important, make sure the entire group’s risk tolerance and goals align.” – Bruce 

## Book early 

Hut reservations can fill up fast. Start planning a few months in advance if possible. Tip: ACC members can book huts before non-members, and they save about $10 per night as well. “Know the cancellation policy for each hut,” Yuki says. “I find it can make it a bit easier to plan in advance without being locked in, especially when you have a larger group of people.” Organize everyone’s details (names, contact info, membership numbers) before you book the hut. 

Because hut trips generally have to be booked so far in advance, have a range of objectives in mind. “If weather and avalanche conditions don't cooperate,” said Bruce, “you should have safe options that are amenable to the entire group – rather than find yourself dragged into unsafe conditions because of plans made months earlier.” 

*Photo: The Alpine Club of Canada, Bill Putnam (Fairy Meadow) Hut*

> “ACC membership is open to everyone, so if you’re booking a hut for four or five nights, the membership pays for itself.” – ACC 

## Get a little gourmet 

If you’re not focused on going ultralight, skip the dehydrated meals and bring real food. We’ve heard of some epic hut meals, from a full turkey dinner at the Wendy Thompson Hut to backpacks of cheese fondue for twenty.  

Shared meals with your group are awesome. Put together a Google doc to divvy up food duty (it also means you don’t have to cook every night). Also bring plenty of coffee and snacks, plus extras to share. “I can only handle so many bars and sweet stuff during the day,” said Bruce, “so I always have a bag of nuts, and a bag of landjaeger and cheese handy.”  

*Photo: The Alpine Club of Canada, Conrad Kain Hut*

> “My staple hut meal is Annie’s mac and cheese with a can of tuna, but I really want to try some of Colin Yen's @campwithcol recipes this season.” – Yuki 

*Photo: Kathy, MEC staffer on a trip to Battle Abbey Backcountry Lodge*

## Know your hut etiquette 

Short version: pitch in, be respectful, and carry out all your unused food. Being a good hut visitor and roomie makes a huge difference to everyone having a good time. Hut etiquette is such a big deal that the ACC put together a [two-part blog](https://blog.alpineclubofcanada.ca/blog/2019/1/28/your-voice-on-hut-etiquette-pt1) series of stories and tips from their members. A few key ones:  

- **Give a warm welcome**: When new people arrive, show them the ropes: how to get water, where food goes, and helpful tips. 

- **Pitch in with hut chores**: Fill the water buckets, carry firewood, clean up dishes that aren’t yours. It’ll all come back to you. 

- **Respect bedtime**: “I'm all for people staying up late but do it in a respectable manner,” says Yuki. “There's nothing worse than starting an early ski day tired from not getting a good sleep.” 

> “Once it’s dark, grab your puffy jacket and camera and step outside. If the night sky is clear, it will be worth every effort. Hut pics at night are amazing too.” – Bruce  

*Photo: The Alpine Club of Canada, A.O. Wheeler Hut*

## Bring the right gear 

Use our [backcountry ski touring checklist](/en/explore/ski-touring-checklist) to cover all your basics, safety and technical gear. Then plan your comfort zones: stuff to bring for hanging out at the hut. A few tips from hut pros: 

- **Hut booties**: “The number one item for any hut trip in any season is [hut booties](/en/product/5055-859/hut-booties?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=mec&colour=Obsidian),” says the ACC. They’re like sleeping bags for your feet and top everyone’s list of comfort items.  

- **Cozy PJs**: “I bring cozy long underwear tops and bottoms (generally [MEC T2 Base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273/warmer)) to use exclusively as pyjamas,” says Bruce. 

- **Games**: Easy to carry games are a great way to meet people and hang out. Some faves? Bananagrams, Pass the Pigs, Monopoly Deal, Uno or travel cribbage. 

- **Creature comforts**: Like hand sanitizer, a face mask, ear plugs and toilet paper. 


## Want to know more about ACC huts? 

MEC has been partners with the ACC for ages, and our annual funding supports diversity and inclusion programs, ACC grant programs, and the operation and maintenance of the ACC’s hut network. We asked the ACC for a few hut tidbits to help you plan your winter and summer trips (yep, huts are great for hiking too!): 

- **Heats and eats**: All ACC huts have mattresses as well as cooking and eating utensils. Most have stoves (with fuel) and are heated, with firewood or propane provided.

- **Most remote**: Glacier Circle Cabin in the Dawson Range of Glacier National Park. Access is a full day’s travel across the Illecillewaet Glacier and requires mountaineering skills. 

*Photo: The Alpine Club of Canada, Glacier Circle Cabin*

- **Most accessible**: A.O. Wheeler Hut at Rogers Pass is a short walk from the parking lot in summer. 

- **Largest to smallest**: Conrad Kain Hut in the Bugaboos sleeps 35 people, Sapphire Col Hut in Rogers Pass sleeps just 4.  

*Photo: The Alpine Club of Canada, Sapphire Col Hut*

- **Best outhouse view**: [Castle Mountain](https://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/web/ACCMember/Huts/Castle_Mountain_Hut.aspx) is summer-only, and is too good not to mention. Picture an outhouse close to the edge of a 1,000-foot cliff with 180-degree views north and south up and down the Bow Valley. 

Happy hut trips! 

How to plan, how to book, and the number one item to bring outside of ski gear.

How to plan a backcountry hut trip

On the hunt for a new backcountry touring pack? We’ve got just the one – and it’s officially an award winner. Backcountry Skiing Canada just named the MEC Tour 32 Backpack as [Gear of the Year](https://www.backcountryskiingcanada.com/MEC-Tour-32-Backpack) and we couldn’t be more stoked.  

Designed for in and out adventures, the Tour 32 Pack is lightweight, durable and water-resistant with all the features you need for skiing, boarding or snowshoeing. It’s also a homegrown design, created by MEC Label equipment designer Joel Forsyth. Our in-house design team is small but mighty, so it’s awesome to be recognized for the outdoor gear they’re creating. 

>"The Tour 32 is my favourite ski touring bag to date." – Backcountry Skiing Canada team 

When he’s not designing packs (or tents or sleeping bags or panniers), MEC Label designer Joel is out in the mountains testing them. And it’s during development and testing that the Tour 32’s features came to life. “When we first started this pack project,” Joel told us, “we had briefs for a 32L and a 45L pack. Through the development, it soon evolved into one pack that could expand to suit both volumes – so you only need one pack in your gear closet.” 

*Above: Joel field testing a prototype of the MEC Tour 32 Pack on a BC backcountry trip.*

## What makes this pack great 

It’s got all the usable features you need without weighing you down. Some of the top reasons why it’s been a hit so far: 

**The expanding storage.** This 32L pack has a zippered top lid, plus the option of another 10L of storage with an expandable roll-top closure.  

>“I was skeptical of the unorthodox top access but after a few days in the field I am totally impressed by the design… the ability to quickly stash snowy crampons and skins separately in between the top lid and the roll top is a neat feature.” – Backcountry Skiing Canada team 

**The versatility:** It can carry skis (A-frame), snowshoes or a snowboard, ice axe and trekking poles. There’s a stowable helmet carrier too. Straps stash away when you’re not using them to give it a nice clean look. 

**The roomy safety gear pocket:** It’s quick and easy to get to your avalanche safety gear – just zip open the front pocket. There’s plenty of space; the Backcountry Skiing Canada crew noted that “snow saws, skins and even a small ice axe can fit as well without having to cram them in.” 

**The comfort.** Main access to the pack is through a rear-entry molded back panel. Since it doesn’t have stiffeners, field testers mentioned how comfortable they found this pack to carry. “We chose a rear-entry design to make transitions from hike to ski easy and efficient,” Joel said. “Plus, you don’t have to constantly put your back panel and shoulder straps in the snow where they’d ice up.” It’s also cinchable, so you can tighten it up for comfortable turns on the descent. 

**The value.** One of the goals of MEC Label is to make high-quality backcountry gear at prices that don’t break the bank. The Tour 32 pack is quite possibly one of the best feature sets for price out there. It’s also made from bluesign® materials for reduced environmental impact. 

Huge congrats to our design team! Find out more about why it made [Gear of the Year](https://www.backcountryskiingcanada.com/MEC-Tour-32-Backpack) from Backcountry Skiing Canada.   

Backcountry Skiing Canada just named the MEC Tour 32 Pack as Gear of the Year and we couldn’t be more stoked.

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