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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

What a year. From wild paragliding expeditions across mountains to new stores across Canada, so much happened in 2016 that we had to combine our favourite moments in one place.

### 1. 5 new stores for you
In the span of one year, we opened (or relocated) 5 new stores to better connect and serve you across Canada. Some people even camped out by the front doors the night before we officially opened – amazing.

Check out the new MEC community hubs in [Kelowna](/en/stores/kelowna), [London](/en/stores/london), [South Edmonton](/en/stores/south-edmonton), [Laval](/en/stores/laval) and [North York](/en/stores/north-york).



### 2. You helped us give back
Thanks to you, in 2016 we invested over $3 million dollars as part of our [1% for the Planet](http://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/) partnership to conserve the environment and help people play in the outdoors.

A couple of highlights? Expedition grants are unique to MEC and are focused on funding people who inspire all of us with the ultimate outdoor adventures. One expedition grant helped Benjamin Jordan launch his [paragliding trip from Vancouver to Calgary](/en/article/39-days-in-the-air-paragliding-from-bc-to-alberta), while another supported Madeleine Martin-Preney and crew to complete the first [continuous ski traverse of the Canadian Selkirks](/en/article/shredding-the-selkirks-a-record-setting-ski-traverse).



### 3. Think Outside Summits connected youth to the outdoors
Outdoor Nation is a growing network of collaborators, change makers and adventurers. Each year, we host summits to bring these groups together to pitch ideas on how to get more youth active and outside (along with a healthy dose of camping, music and inspiring speakers). See what [6 amazing outdoor projects](/en/article/coming-soon-6-amazing-outdoor-projects) will be debuting in 2017 as a result.



### 4. Voted top brand in Canada
In 2016, we were honoured to receive two distinctions:

- [#1 brand in Canada](http://www.canadianbusiness.com/lists-and-rankings/best-brands/canadas-best-brands-2016-the-top-25/image/26/), for a second year in a row
- [Most trusted brand](http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/marketing/presidents-choice-mec-tie-for-most-trusted-brands-in-canada/article31993301/) (tie with President’s Choice)



### 5. #goodtimesoutside
We launched a brand new hashtag to celebrate [#goodtimesoutside](/en/article/goodtimesoutside-best-of-december). It’s been pretty amazing to see how and where you’re getting outside – keep the radical adventures coming!



### 6. Fully carbon neutral
As of January 1, 2016, the day-to-day operations of MEC buildings are now carbon neutral. Read more about it [how it works](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/mec-goes-all-in-on-renewable-energy-for-all-of-its-facilities/).



### 7. Ambassadors inspired us
Professional runner and cancer survivor Jim Willett blew us away when he ran his #marathon2marathon this past June. He ran over 1100km to participate in two marathons only a few weeks apart! Follow [Jim on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/optimismninja/).



Professional climber Sarah Hart joined us at Banff Mountain Film Fest and led a ladies-only climbing clinic. As part of the experience, we treated 14 amazing women to a day of climbing, brunch and VIP seating at Banff Film Festival’s Hot Topic Game Changers: Women’s Adventure Storytelling.



### 8. Partners overcame obstacles
It’s important to us to make the outdoors accessible for everyone, which is why we loved seeing photos of our grant to help make these adaptive stand-up paddleboards from our friends at the [British Columbia Mobility Opportunities Society](https://www.facebook.com/BritishColumbiaMobilityOpportunitiesSociety/).



### 9. Members made us proud
We’re so lucky to have so many long-time MECers (dating back 40 years) who reach out to us with photos and memories that make us smile. One example? Here’s a photo of someone 10 years apart, but still wearing the same MEC backpack. **Tear** – they grow up so fast.



Another mini outdoor fan warmed our hearts after we heard he celebrated his third birthday doing a beach clean-up with a dozen of his friends.



This is just a handful of the memorable things that happened in 2016. Huge thanks to everyone who make MEC something to celebrate.



So much happened! Check out our favourite moments in one place, from wild expeditions and new stores to big awards and inspiring members.

MEC’s most memorable moments of 2016 | MEC Blog

MEC’s most memorable moments of 2016

Do you have an [MEC Uplink](/en/search/?text=uplink) in your closet? Plenty of members do. Since its launch almost 8 years ago, the Uplink’s quickly become one of MEC’s iconic products. Originally designed to be a layer for climbing, it’s now a wardrobe staple. You’ll see it on members climbing in Squamish, paddling on Georgian Bay or commuting along Lake Shore Boulevard.

So what makes the Uplink so successful? Turns out, a lot.

*The Uplink trekking at about 12,000ft. in the Zanskar Range of northern India…*





*… snowshoeing on Mount Seymour, BC…*



### The “unicorn” of jackets
“The success of the Uplink has become a bit of a study for us,” says MEC backcountry designer Spring Harrison. “It hits so many sweet spots, from performance and warmth to weight, versatility and price. Lots of research has gone into figuring out how to replicate this for our other pieces we design.”

Members rave about being able to wear it through three seasons. Others love that you can layer it under a more city-style jacket to keep you warm when you’re out meeting friends after work.



Product testing played a huge role in creating the Uplink (as well as other MEC gear). Not many people know that MEC has our own in-house lab for product testing, run by a roster of engineers who poke, prod, stretch, drench and scorch every material long before it hits the shelves.

Once something’s been made into an actual item someone can wear or use, it then goes through a robust field-testing program. MEC Ambassadors, power users and core athletes can test the gear more authentically than any machine – think skiing 100 days or more per year – so we send pieces with them into the wild. For example, the Uplink was tested all over the backcountry in British Columbia, and MEC Ambassador and pro climber Sarah Hart tested multiple versions of the jacket when she was climbing in Patagonia.

And once a product is on the shelves? There’s the continual member feedback via reviews, ask and answer conversation loops on mec.ca, and recommendations from members.



### Cold, hard data
To get even more insights, MEC also conducts pilot projects that may influence the next evolution of a product – or even change the way we test products. We took the Uplink to a special cold chamber to see what we could learn about this type of testing. “The test in the video below gave us a chance to better understand human physiological conditions and gain some increased sense of what does (or doesn’t) influence someone’s comfort,” says Joel Mertens, MEC Material Technologies Integrity Engineer.



Cold Chamber Testing Reel

### The future of the Uplink
“Although it would be silly to the pull the Uplink now – and we definitely wouldn’t – you always need to have a succession plan,” says Spring. When it comes to designing the next round of products, Spring and the other designers are always paying attention to what members have to say.

So with that in mind, we’d love to hear from you. What your favourite MEC products, what pieces are missing in your wardrobe, and what’s your go-to gear? Let us know on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/mec/), [Twitter](https://twitter.com/mec) or [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mec/). Over the next little while, we’ll be profiling some of the most iconic pieces from the MEC label, and will let you in on some of the research and testing they’ve gone through before they hit the shelves.

Expect the Uplink to stick around as one of MEC’s alpine pieces for years to come.



What makes the MEC Uplink a best-seller year after year? Turns out, a lot. See where it’s been, from Zanskar treks to getting tested in a cold chamber.

MEC favourites: the ubiquitous Uplink Jacket | MEC Blog

MEC favourites: the ubiquitous Uplink Jacket

If the idea of spending hours of your hard-won rec time wading through swarms of people sounds like your own private version of hell, I get it. My inability to deal with crowds is the main reason I’ve sought out (and found) some of the best smaller ski resorts in Canada. These sweet spots offer all the enjoyment of the big resorts, but with a fraction of the people – and often, at a fraction of the cost.

[Bundle up](/en), pack your [gear](/en) and hit the road – it’s time to get your ski on.



## White Hills Ski Resort
**Where:** Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador

The unpredictable Newfoundland weather can make it a bit of a trial to visit this ski resort, but when it’s open, it’s pure, powdery bliss. Sure, it’s no BC mountain, but if you’re looking to hit the slopes on the east coast, [White Hills](http://www.whitehillsresort.com/)’ 40km of groomed trails are a welcome retreat.

## Crabbe Mountain
**Where:** Central Hainesville, New Brunswick

Dozens of alpine and Nordic trails (bring your [XC gear](/en/ideal-for/cross_._country-skiing/products/gear/snowsports-gear/ski-gear/c/1507?q=%3Asales-rank)) make [Crabbe Mountain](http://www.crabbemountain.com/) one of the east coast’s premier ski resorts – and the 260-m vertical drop (the largest in the Maritimes) doesn’t hurt either. Once you’re done for the day, the Thirsty Boot Lounge is on-site for you to rest, replenish and take in the evening’s entertainment.

## Calabogie Peaks
**Where:**Calabogie, Ontario (100km west of Ottawa)

At [Calabogie Peaks](http://www.calabogie.com), you can experience the highest vertical drop among all the public ski hills in Ontario. This boutique resort is big on charm, natural beauty and quality trails, with over two dozen runs for different skill levels. I highly recommend staying the night. Their mountain lodge hotel overlooks Calabogie Lake and Little Sand Bay, and you can pop into Black Donald’s pub to enjoy the mountain view while you have a drink.

## Lakeridge Ski Resort


**Where:**Uxbridge, Ontario

This is a personal favourite of mine, and the first place I ever went skiing. [Lakeridge](http://www.ski-lakeridge.com/) is situated in the scenic sprawl of the Oak Ridge Moraine, and offers a wide variety of trails to choose from. The 407 extends right to Lakeridge Road, so it’s an ideal day trip from Toronto. If you want the full Lakeridge experience, head to the cafeteria and dig into a heaping serving of their famous poutine.

## Holiday Mountain
**Where:** La Rivière, Manitoba

[Holiday Mountain](http://holidaymountain.com/) makes the list for a bevy of reasons: it’s a ski resort with on-site accommodations, they offer all-season ziplines and of course, they have amazing skiing and snowboarding. Here you’ll find 11 slopes that cater to skiers of all levels. This place has been open for over 50 years, and the owners know their stuff.

## Castle Mountain
**Where:** Westcastle Valley, Alberta

With a vertical drop of 863m, [Castle Mountain](http://www.skicastle.ca/) allows you to enjoy huge mountains – without huge crowds. The old-school appeal of this gem makes it endearing, but of course, the 79+ trails help. Soak in the resort’s history at the T-Bar Pub & Grill, which serves a full spread of delicious pub fare. I recommend renting one of their ski-in, ski-out condos for the most optimal experience.

## Canyon Ski Resort
**Where:** Red Deer, Alberta

Even though [Canyon](http://www.canyonski.ca/) is Alberta’s biggest non-mountain ski resort, it still makes the cut as a small resort since its hill status renders it less busy than many of the mountain destinations. You can explore over 283,000 square metres of terrain spread out on 18 immaculate runs.

## Shames Mountain


**Where:**Terrace, British Columbia

Looking to take on some serious snow? Ready to explore the backcountry? Then [Shames Mountain](http://www.mymountaincoop.ca/) is just the ticket for you. The mountain itself is nearly 490 vertical metres, and according to *Powder Magazine*, Shames has “one of the deepest, most consistent snow packs in North America.” In fact, guests have had to stay overnight in the resort’s day lodge due to the massive snowfall. But don’t worry, you’ll be in good hands. Something else that’s cool about Shames? It’s run by Canada’s first non-profit community service ski co-operative.

If you’re looking to spend more time on the hills and less time in line, then you’ll want to check out these ski resorts. You’ll find all the natural beauty and many of the technique-building opportunities of the bigger resorts, but you won’t have to cattle-prod your way to a lift to get it.

*Photo credits: Elena Elisseeva / Shutterstock.com, Lukas Gojda / Shutterstock.com, oneinchpunch / Shutterstock.com*



## Related articles
- [How to wax skis and snowboards](/en/explore/how-to-wax-skis-and-snowboards)
- [How to choose downhill skis](/en/explore/how-to-choose-downhill-skis)
- [How to choose and fit ski boots](/en/explore/how-to-choose-ski-boots-and-bindings)



Skip the lift lines and crowds with these lesser-known Canadian ski hills, from big powder at Shames in BC to a day trip from Toronto.

Hidden gems: 8 small ski resorts worth checking out | MEC Blog

Hidden gems: 8 small ski resorts worth checking out

Whether you’re about to go ski touring around snowy peaks in the BC backcountry, travel through lush rainforests in Southeast Asia, or board a plane for a trip on the other side of the country, knowing how to pack efficiently is undoubtedly one of the most useful skills to have.

As senior equipment designers at MEC, James Brittain and Mark Knight are packing experts. They devote one-third of their time to travelling – across Canada and around the world – to visit factories that make our gear, meet with materials suppliers, and scope out new places to explore outside. They’re also the people behind the designs of MEC backpacks (along with tents, sleeping bags and more), and offer up these practical packing tips:

### 


Roll or fold: Packing Tips from MEC Designers

Both James and Mark are advocates for rolling their clothes rather than folding them.

The beauty of this technique is that you can easily stuff these “burrito-shaped packs” – as James calls them – inside items with empty space, like your shoes. Plus it means you can unroll your clothes without them ending up all creased. Mark points out that another advantage of rolling your clothes is that you don’t have to rummage through stacks of folded items to find a specific shirt.

### Store smaller items inside bigger items
Besides your clothes, you can get creative with how you store other items in the empty spaces of your belongings. For instance, on hiking trips, Mark recommends that you stuff your [sleeping pad](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416) or a [storage bag](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/packs%2c-child-carriers-and-stuff-sacs/stuff-sacks/c/1348) inside your [outdoor cookware](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/camp-kitchen/cookware-and-utensils/outdoor-cookware/c/1274). He explains that, “not only does this help eliminate the unused space, it also serves as protection for your pot so it won’t get crushed.”

### Categorize your stuff with packing cubes


To make it easier to find things jumbled in your backpack, use [packing cubes](/en/products/gear/travel-gear/travel-pouches-and-packing-organizers/c/1354). James likes to separate his belongings into different categories for each packing cube: one for electronics, another for first-aid items, a third for cooking utensils and so on. Each packing cube is colour-coded and labelled for clear identification.

Not only does this help you stay organized, it’s also handy in emergency situations when other people might have to sift through your bags to find something fast. Let’s say you get injured in the backcountry, and you’re unable to open your bag and grab a first aid kit. With a properly labelled packing cube, your travel buddy can find the first aid kit with ease.

Mark uses packing cubes with two compartments to separate his clean clothes from his dirty laundry. This is a great way to help keep your fresh t-shirts away from your well-worn socks, and when you get home, you can empty the “dirty” compartment straight into the washing machine.



### Keep everything dry
Travelling to a rainy destination? Mark has these three simple tips to keep your belongings dry:

1. Put a [rain cover](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/rain-covers-and-pack-liners/c/1344) over your backpack. Besides keeping your backpack free of moisture, a rain cover will also help protect your bag from tree branches on the hiking trail.

1. Store vulnerable items in a [waterproof stuff sack](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/packs%2c-child-carriers-and-stuff-sacs/stuff-sacks/c/1348) and then put the sack in your backpack. This will keep your items dry, even when you need to put your bag down on wet, marshy ground.

1. As you’re packing up from a camping trip, put the wet portion of your tent in the outer compartment of your backpack so that it’s exposed to fresh air and can dry more quickly.

Consider these packing tips when prepping for your next trip. You never know how much you’ll want to bring back home, so get creative with how you squeeze in that extra souvenir t-shirt or two.

*Looking for more travel tips? Check out [16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians](/en/article/16-rad-travel-hacks-from-adventurous-canadians).*

*Photo credits: Redshinestudio / Shutterstock.com*



Roll or fold? How do you pack up a wet tent? Use these creative packing tips from MEC experts to make travelling easier.

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros | MEC Blog

Roll or fold? Packing tips from the pros

This is a story of luck and survival in avalanche terrain. I’ve told it before, but after exploring [Avalanche Canada](https://www.avalanche.ca/)’s excellent [Rescue at Cherry Bowl](https://www.avalanche.ca/cherry-bowl/#/intro) feature, I’m sharing it again. Both as a reminder of the role human factors play in backcountry decision-making and in the hope it might alter a single group’s actions or save a life. (If you haven’t explored the extraordinary story of what transpired at Cherry Bowl, just outside Terrace, BC, in March 2013, it’s well worth your time, particularly the embedded video interviews of survivors and rescuers.)

My story started, as all adventures do, with the simple, wholesome desire to have some fun. My good buddy – and expedition partner of fifteen years – suggested we go ski touring. Despite the fact we live in the same small town, busy schedules had prevented us from getting outside together for over a year. To remedy the situation, we picked a day in late February or early March and marked it in our calendars weeks in advance.

The night before our planned departure, a heavy winter storm blew in. By dinnertime, snow was piling up at over an inch an hour, and for the first time, I began to wonder about our plans. Had the commitment been with anyone else, I would have suggested spending the next day at our local ski hill instead of travelling in the backcountry, but there was human history to consider. For years, I’d been the conservative one in our partnership; the one suggesting bailing when things didn’t look or feel right. It had become such a bone of contention that my friend and I began doing less together. This outing was supposed to be a step towards healing that rift, and I knew he’d still be game. I set my alarm for 5:30am.

By dawn, a foot of new snow lay on the ground outside my house. There would be more in the high peaks. The avalanche danger rating was *Considerable* for alpine and treeline – one of the most challenging forecasts to deal with; the same one the skiers at Cherry Bowl had faced – but neither my friend, nor the two experienced skiers he’d invited to join us, seemed concerned. They’d all been out more than me that winter, and lacking the heart for confrontation, I decided I’d bite my tongue. In fact, I decided I’d bite it all day long, and for once, to just go with the flow. It was a mistake that nearly killed me.

The road into the southern Purcells was obliterated beneath a blanket of featureless snow. Just minutes outside town, my friend missed a curve and drove full speed down a farmer’s lane, soft powder billowing over the hood as we drifted to a stop. Even as it happened, I knew it was another warning. We should have turned back, but we didn’t.

An hour-long snowmobile ride along abandoned logging roads brought us to the basin where we planned to ski. Heavy clouds and mist meant we could see nothing. I’d visited the area before in the summer, but never winter. Now I would have to rely on others for their understanding and judgment regarding the terrain both above and below us; we were in that grey zone between the treeline and the alpine.



Even as we attached skins to our skis and tested beacons, the ominous sound of natural avalanches filtered through the forest. Somewhere, in the cliffs above, snow was coming down on its own. First one. Then two. Then three. Surely we weren’t going to ski now? “Not a problem,” someone explained. “We can stick to safe trees.”

Skinning upwards, the trail we cut felt protected, weaving through stands of old-growth draped in old man’s beard. An hour later, as we reached a high ridge, the trees were thinning. In the mist to our left appeared silhouettes of thicker forest. To our right, blowing snow and cloud obliterated what looked like an open slope. “Which way?” shouted my friend, in the lead. “Go right,” came the answer from behind. “Better turns.” I knew it was the wrong call, but said nothing.



We had a quick snack, shared a few sips from a thermos of tea, took off skins, made our plan, and dropped in. Skiing one at a time, we regrouped after just ten turns in a small clump of wind-blown alpine larch. Then the first skier set out again. Soon his faint call wafted up through the mist. “Safe!” I went next.

Six turns in I dragged a hip in the powder to slow speed, and I suspect that is what broke the hillside free. Suddenly, everything in front of me was moving. As far as I could see, the slope was breaking into blocks the size of washers and dryers, tumbling away as puffs of snow rose like smoke. Acting purely on instinct, I managed to make a quick, messy turn away from the chaos. But ahead of me, in the opposite direction, the slope was moving too. Not knowing what to do, I put on the brakes.

Far above, I heard my friend scream, “AVALANCHE!” There was an urgency in his voice I’d never heard in fifteen years of friendship. My skis ground to a stop. I wasn’t moving? The hillside was silent. From below, a muffled cry: “I’m okay.”



It took a moment to piece together what had happened: a massive fracture had ripped across the slope above, 160cm deep and roughly 100m wide. Miraculously, a single vertical finger of snow smack in the middle of the avalanche path had not slid. And that finger extended all the way down from the crown to the point where I now stood. I’ll never know what caused that sliver of snow to stick – micro variations in the terrain or the finger of god – but I was perched atop the only safe island in a swath of total destruction. Had I been skiing just a few metres to either side, I’d have been swept away.

What about the skier below?

Leaping off the snow finger, my skis landed on the rock-hard slide surface below. Side-slipping as quickly as I could, I followed the yells until I spotted him, jammed between two pine trees, buried up to his neck.

“I always stop on the uphill side of trees,” he smiled, still unshaken. It was a decision that probably saved him. By the time I’d dug him out, the other two had joined us.

Below us, the slide had run over 800m to the valley bottom. We followed its path though the old-growth stands where we’d skinned earlier. Far overhead, beyond the reach of our extended poles, was a “high-tide” mark of refuse (branches, twigs, ice) showing the depth of snow that ran through these stands. Below, the slide funneled into a rocky gully, tumbling downwards and eventually spewing across flats below.

I appeared to be the only one shaken. And in my final act of stupidity, I kept skiing with the group that day.

I take full responsibility for the incident. I was the one who didn’t speak up and share my intuition, and in hindsight, my actions appear ridiculous, almost unfathomable. I pride myself on being an extremely conservative decision maker, with many avalanche courses under my belt and twenty-plus years of experience travelling in the backcountry. Why did I remain silent in the face of so many alarms and obvious warnings?



Human relationships and dynamics can exert powerful (and insidious) forces in the backcountry; personal histories, the perception of pecking-orders, the unspoken hierarchy of experience, the desire not to disappoint others, even those we barely know. Anyone who spends time in the mountains will recognize such influences, and I suspect will have wrestled with them at some point.

Following our “near miss,” I found myself returning to the day’s events over and over, trying to understand how to avoid similar situations in the future. Eventually three themes emerged. These lessons don’t encapsulate all the human factors that can influence backcountry decision making, but I think they’re a good starting place. And I made an oath to myself to follow these as best I possibly could. I share them now in the hope they might benefit you or the ones you love:

**Always speak up.**If you have reservations about snow conditions or route decisions, speak without fear. Speak even if you don’t know why you are worried; if it’s just a feeling in your gut. Ignore any concerns about the judgments of others. Speak up because it’s the only way you will learn. Speak up because you care about the lives of the people you’re with. This sounds easy, but anyone who has spent time out there knows it can be challenging.

**Don’t defer to experience and local knowledge**** when it pushes you toward risk**, or a decision that feels uncomfortable. Your opinion and judgment count too. While experience and local knowledge are extremely valuable, they’re not always correct. Other factors can be at play – including overconfidence, overfamiliarity and even the false sense of security that comes from surviving previous bad decisions. Trust your inner voice. (On the other hand, if you ever find experience and local knowledge suggesting you should act conservatively, listen up immediately.)

**Gravitate toward partners who share similar risk assessment,**or even those more cautious than you. Better to find yourself mildly disappointed at the end of the day than continually dragged into situations you don’t like. Travelling with a group with similar ambitions can take all the stress out of a day in the mountains and allow you to enjoy the splendor.



Staying safe in avalanche terrain is an odd mix of science and zen, of collecting facts while simultaneously listening to instinct. It’s a game of constant observation in the search for ultimately unattainable answers. No one can tell you with absolute certainty whether a given slope on a given day is safe or not. You might ski a run where nothing releases, but still have made a mistake. If you walk away from a slope, you’ll never know if you were being wise, or unduly conservative. So instead, the best we can do is stack the odds heavily in our favour.

A solid understanding of snow science, weather patterns, pack history and avalanche dynamics is the starting point. Carrying all the requisite [safety gear](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/avalanche-and-backcountry-safety-gear/c/798) and knowing how to use it further tips the balance in your favour. Proper training via an [Avalanche Skills Training course](http://www.avalanche.ca/training) (AST 1 and 2) and particularly the Companion Rescue Course that saved lives at Cherry Bowl, is critical. Don’t make the same mistakes I did by allowing human issues (pride, ego, time constraints, goal-oriented objectives) to pull even one chip from your stack.

*The right training, plus avalanche and backcountry safety gear can save your life. Get*[everything you need for backcountry trips](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/avalanche-and-backcountry-safety-gear/c/798)* and*[get trained with Avalanche Canada](http://www.avalanche.ca/training)*.*



On any given ski day, avalanche conditions can turn things deadly. MEC Ambassador Bruce Kirkby recounts a near-miss and passes on some valuable lessons learned.

The finger of god: an avalanche story | MEC Blog

The finger of god: an avalanche story

Winters in Edmonton can get pretty cold, with plenty of snowfall blanketing the city. That said, a crisp, white Edmonton landscape offers lots to explore for hikers who don’t mind the frost. Check out these trails for some winter hiking inspiration, along with a few tips on how to make winter hiking easier in Alberta’s capital.

### Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
Less than an hour away from Edmonton, [Miquelon Lake Provincial Park](https://www.albertaparks.ca/miquelon-lake/) has several trails that are well-suited for anyone who’s new to winter hiking. For something short and simple, try the 0.6-km out-and-back trail by Grebe Pond. With a great view of the pond, you just might spot some wetland wildlife along the way. Or if you prefer a longer route, you can walk the 3.7-km Shoreline Path. What’s handy about this trail is that it connects with a few campgrounds, so you can turn a day trip to Miquelon Lake into an overnight stay.

### William Hawrelak Park


Besides hosting events like the Silver Skate Festival, [William Hawrelak Park](https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/parks_rivervalley/william-hawrelak-park.aspx) features lots of open areas that are perfect for winter hiking. Try the Emily Murphy Link, a 1.5-km trail that connects with Emily Murphy Park – this route offers gentle, flat terrain so it’s a nice choice for a relaxing route. Or choose between the Perimeter Loop trail (2.6km) and Inner Loop trail (2km) to get a clear shot of the frozen lake as you make your way around the park.

### Elk Island National Park


Home of the bison traffic jam, [Elk Island National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/elkisland/index.aspx) offers plenty of scenic winter hiking trails. If you’re hoping to do some wildlife watching, winter is a great time to visit as the fallen leaves allow hikers more visibility to see the famed bison and other animals. Check ahead on snow coverage so you can decide which gear – like [snowshoes](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/snowshoeing-gear/snowshoes/c/1418?q=%3Asales-rank) and [traction devices](/en/products/footwear/traction-devices/c/1204) – you’ll need to pack.

Once you’re at the park, enjoy a walk on the Shirley Lake Trail, a 12.5-km loop that leads you through aspen forest and meadows, and past shallow lakes and ponds. Along the way, you might spot some waterfowl, elk or bison so remember to bring [binoculars](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/binoculars/c/900). If you’d rather take a shorter route by Shirley Lake, the 5-km Simmons Trail may be a better fit for you. From the Shirley Lake Trailhead, you’ll make your way through rolling hills and into a few open areas, which are top-notch spots to watch beavers and muskrats. Afterwards, you can warm up with a [tasty beverage](/en/article/7-delicious-ways-to-stay-warm-outside-this-winter) like butter tea or lentil soup.

### What to wear winter hiking


Before you jump outside, make sure you’re wearing the right layers to stay warm without overheating as you start moving. Some tips:

- Start with a [base layer](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/c/1053?q=:sales-rank) and look for seamless or flat-seamed garments that won’t rub against your skin when you put on a backpack.
- Add a mid-layer for insulation. Some options? A [down](/en/ideal-for/backcountry-skiing/products/clothing/jackets/down-jackets/c/1022?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) or [synthetic puffy jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/synthetic-puffy-jackets/c/1020) or a gridded or light-loft [fleece layer](/en/ideal-for/snowsports/products/clothing/jackets/fleece-jackets/c/1023?q=%3Asales-rank&text=).
- Put on a breathable, protective [outer shell](/en/products/clothing/jackets/c/1018/features/waterproof+windproof?filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=snowsports&q=%3Asales-rank&text=) as your top layer. Look for waterproof, windproof fabrics to keep you shielded from snow and cold gusts. If you do start to feel overheated during your hike, it’s easy to unzip your top layer without getting too chilly.
- Wear [hiking boots](/en/products/footwear/boots/hiking-and-backpacking-boots/c/1497) to keep your feet comfortable and dry.
- If there’s fresh snow or icy terrain, be sure to pack [traction devices](/en/products/footwear/traction-devices/c/1204) or [snowshoes](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/snowshoes/c/1418) to get better grip on the ground.

For more tips on what to wear, check out our [guide to clothing layers](/en/explore/clothing-layers) or visit the [MEC Edmonton](/en/stores/edmonton) or [MEC South Edmonton Common](/en/stores/south-edmonton) stores to chat with friendly staff in the know.

*Photo credits: ellobo1 / Getty Images,*[*Kurt Bauschardt*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/kurt-b/5212903961/in/photolist-chqny9-8WDuJv-9ZXLQV-9ZXMaF-a11B3f-9ZXKMt-a11Bdw-8EDCxV-a11Cvm-8uCbQU-8W4AvR-awvXvT-7MS6CH-9ECMfx-aV2U9v-bpJknE-egnnKY-bpJkwm-9Ef7ke-8EXjVG-8EDDwz-8EU8fX-8EU86p-9ZXLH4-fpAnqU-a11CFJ-8uz7T6-a11Bqs-fpm7n4-cKKibo-cCFxLm-a11Ab1-a11BC5-fpAtwm-9ZXKut-cKKbmQ-fpme2v-fpAuWS-fpm3r8-fpAiq3-8uz86k-8uCcAq-8uz8ba-9ZXM2a-cCFxfE-fpAoFq-fpm8b8-fpAq6Q-fpAmXm-fpAte7)*, 2009fotofriends / Shutterstock.com.*



Put on your boots and enjoy a brisk hike on these Edmonton’s trails. Find routes near frozen lakes, in national parks, near bison and more.

The Edmontonian guide to winter hikes | MEC Blog

The Edmontonian guide to winter hikes

An Eastern Canada road trip is a must for serious Canadian adventurers. The variety of experiences is hard to beat, plus you can easily make your way through the area and up the coast on only a few weeks of vacation time. This guide will take you from Toronto up through the rivers and parks of Ottawa and Quebec City before moving onto the southern shores of the St. Lawrence River down to the Bay of Fundy and beyond.

Sounds pretty amazing, doesn’t it? Here are our top picks for your next Eastern Canada vacation.

### Rock climb at Rattlesnake Point


A fairly under-the-radar conservation area in the GTA, Rattlesnake Point offers some of the best rock climbing in Ontario, so you’ll want to pack your [climbing gear](/en/products/climbing/c/301). More than 200 routes are housed in the cliffs and crags of this Halton park, located along the Niagara Escarpment. These routes are great for a [variety of skill levels](/en/article/15-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-climbing). Plus, the views from the top are just as impressive as the climbs, with ancient cedars and turkey vultures populating the valley below.

### Camp in the Thousand Islands


About three and a half hours east of Toronto, the Thousand Islands are a true oasis for anyone who loves the water. You can book a paddle-in site at [Thousand Islands National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/on/lawren/index.aspx) just off the shores of Gananoque. Take your time exploring granite islands and secluded bays before pitching your tent for the night. It’s a scenic spot to enjoy a relaxing morning cup of joe before pressing onward (check out our [coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee) for brewing inspiration).

### Go rafting in the Ottawa River


There’s nothing quite like the rush of whitewater rafting. Head to Canada’s capital to battle the whitecaps of the Ottawa River and maybe soak up some culture, too. If you’re looking to amp things up, consider giving whitewater kayaking a shot – just make sure you pack the proper [waterproof gear](/en/products/watersports/dry-bags-and-waterproof-storage/c/1357). There are a few different companies that have whitewater kayak courses and rafting trips.

### Hike outside Quebec City


Residents of Quebec City are blessed with beautiful parks that combine city and nature into the ultimate mini-getaway. Spend the night in a hostel – you get a discount as a Hostelling International member – before heading to [Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/jac/index.dot?language_id=1), where over 100km of hiking trails await you. The Quebec parks’ free [Park Path Explorer app](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/parc-parcours.dot?language_id=1) is available to help you plan your circuits, and has maps and photographs to guide your explorations.

### Kayak in the Bay of Fundy


While there are plenty of spectacular places to paddle in eastern Canada, sea kayaking is a unique adventure. In the Bay of Fundy, you can paddle among the famous flowerpot-shaped rock formations of Hopewell Rocks, and float past lighthouses and quaint fishing villages. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bald eagles, harbour seals and even humpback whales – and don’t forget to bring your [binoculars](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/binoculars/c/900), along with other items on the [kayak checklist](/en/article/canoe-or-kayak-touring-checklist).

### Bike (or drive) the Cabot Trail


If you’re travelling all the way to Newfoundland (as you should on a proper East Coast road trip) you’ll most likely be making a stop at Cape Breton to board the ferry at North Sydney to Channel-Port Aux Basques. In North Sydney, you’ll be less than an hour from Nova Scotia’s famed Cabot Trail, an accessible and scenic roadway that makes for the perfect side trip. If you have time, you can drive or cycle at least a portion of the trail – just be aware that there aren’t too many paved shoulders so stay safe with [bike lights](/en/products/cycling/bike-accessories-and-add-ons/bike-lights/c/1298).

### Travel through fjords in Gros Morne


Once off the ferry at Channel-Port Aux Basques, it’s just a three-hour-drive north to Newfoundland’s [Gros Morne National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/grosmorne/activ/randonnee-hiking/mgm-gmm.aspx). In a previous list of [Canadian destinations](/en/article/the-bucket-list-for-adventurous-canadians), we recommended climbing the mountain, one of the most epic (and achievable) adventures on the East Coast. But this national park also has a fjord system that you can enjoy from a variety of vantage points, whether you scale the 806-m summit in your hiking boots or take a relaxed boat ride down below.

### Bonus adventure: Climb the Torngat Mountains
With Whistler and the Rockies dominating the Canadian mountain scene, many forget that eastern Canada has impressive mountains, too. For the hardcore adventurer, the [Torngat Mountains](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/torngats/index.aspx) of Newfoundland and Labrador are a must-visit. They can be a little tricky to reach –the national park rests on Labrador’s northern tip – but true mountaineers who love a remote trip will find the Torngat Mountains to be well worth it.

There’s no shortage of possible adventures on an East Coast Canadian road trip. So browse through some [guidebooks and maps](/en/products/travel-gear/books-and-maps/c/922), do a little research and check out whatever piques your interest along the way.

*Photo credits: David P. Lewis / Shutterstock.com, Wally Stemberger / Shutterstock.com, LesPalenik / Shutterstock.com,*[*daryl_mitchell*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/daryl_mitchell/5022664878/in/photolist-8DQthj-9gcQ1T-3brtfs-8LdAhT-HkEYyo-2ReJ7T-6vwtHh-oKpQfg-foR3Q6-9gcW24-pbvv3K-Hsfsx-domNSY-hRmuW-mjydi9-3F4SA-8cP1vw-d1AmHq-xjDTa-6PqPEv-9gfUws-7vtYy1-eCc9pr-5sgyJu-2RjcSY-eCc9EF-fxQoWZ-4Zq29r-8FpWW-foRpwv-3BNQTs-2RjdkQ-rBDihJ-p2TcbC-2ReKjv-LD2C3-KWmz6-k8pznf-7krJp3-8SCEzZ-92AhH6-nD292-7fWmED-92DrvJ-8spE5q-np4iYF-axjod9-7f1PUt-9cNUFG-8BwWum)*,*[*Pablo Sanchez*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/pablosanchez/3154613846/in/photolist-dkLpsN-djdjNY-dkZk7e-dkLpFG-5NLdMU-5NLfts-6LbaNZ-a41W4V-9VTQzw-qm6gZv-p8agwt-qkWAUJ-6LAice-qm6hQZ-9VR1bH-9VQZNv-53zf8Q-qCvk1p-qAe8y1-9VQZTe-oQVxUa-2yPFZK)*, Josef Hanus / Shutterstock.com, Ken Felepchuk / Shutterstock,*[*Emmanuel Milou*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/manumilou/6153078538/in/photolist-6xEZnY-anJ8T1-5RGQzN-p6rfGR-pnEcpi-pY3MBJ-6A3tSU-6A3tKo-f6cLuX-6A3u2Y-6zYmBZ-69Duhu-8CRFk1-6zYmit-4u4PiA-f6skr7-nXJd7-f6c52x-f6rjfy-4u4Pku-69DtYJ-4u4Pfd-4u4Pgq-4u4Peq-Ms3oRL-5RGQM9-Ms3o3w-Ms3ncy-f6d6pc-f6c82H-6zYm6n-4u4Pmw-4tZM9X)



From the Thousand Islands to Gros Morne, make it a trip you won’t forget. See some top picks for your next Eastern Canada vacation.

Must-hit stops on an Eastern Canada outdoor adventure | MEC Blog

Must-hit stops on an Eastern Canada outdoor adventure

A sick feeling of terror threatens to overwhelm my concentration as I painstakingly inch my way forward. A rushing sound fills my head and I can no longer tell if it is the white water just inches below my feet or the surge of blood that my heart is furiously pumping through my body. The skis on my backpack are adding an extra element of imbalance to the already heavy load. My focus intensifies.

Just. Don’t. Slip.

I try to block out any thoughts of failure and consequence. One wrong step could mean at best, a swim down river and at worst, severe injuries, hypothermia and a prolonged rescue. With tiny, hesitant steps I fight to keep my balance on the log that is spanning Windy Creek. When I look up, I can see the three who have already made it over watching me. I look back down, focussing every ounce of strength and attention on crossing this log, our gateway to the final leg of the journey.

I made it, or rather, we made it. Five of us are committed to this adventure – Stephen Senecal and Douglas Noblet from Nelson, Sam McKoy of Pemberton, Mark Grist from Vancouver and myself, mostly based in Revelstoke – the first complete ski traverse of the Canadian Selkirks. This is day 32.

The trip has not been without its challenges: broken skis, bindings, poles, stoves, pumps and boot buckles, plus losing 2kg of food and our only multi-tool to pine martens. We’ve weathered each setback and interruption with (eventual) good humour and laughter. Whether it be watching remarkable sunsets and sunrises, being forced to cross slopes that inspire no confidence, or bushwhacking with skis on our backs, we know that when we catch the eye of any team member we’re more likely to crack a wry smile and break into laughter than we are to swear or feel resentful. This is a rare and precious dynamic to have on a trip of this magnitude, especially with people who had never met before. Somehow the mix of personalities, quirks, strengths and humour has worked out. We are in it together and we find ways to love it no matter what.



The adventure started at Kootenay Pass, and over four weeks we made our way steadily north towards Mica. With approximately 520km+ of distance and 42,000m+ in vertical gain to cover, we had made a conservative estimate of about eight weeks to complete this journey. We cut that time almost in half. The unusually warm spring has been both a blessing and a curse. The April heat wave that forced many other parties to bail on trips in the Selkirks motivated us to travel quickly, and only at night.



We would wake up at midnight, break camp, eat breakfast and be walking by 1:30am, our only light the glow of the full moon or the narrow beam of a headlamp. Despite a disrupted sleep pattern that left us feeling like zombies, our efforts got us through the Southern Selkirks safely, and we were left with memories of the full moon setting as the first light of morning etched itself along the eastern horizon.



The original idea for the traverse came up as a mutual adventure list item between me and Stephen five years ago. For me, it represented a way to explore and connect with the mountain range that I’ve grown up and lived in all my life. Essentially the traverse would link up several smaller traverses that are done with varying amounts of frequency: Kootenay Pass to Nelson, the Kokanee Glacier, Goat Range, part of the Bugaboos to Rogers Pass and the classic Northern Selkirks Traverse.

Finally, during the drive back from a ski trip two years ago Stephen said, “Hey, remember that idea we had for a traverse of the Selkirks? Well, I think I want to do it next spring.” I looked at him and blurted out, “Steve! You can’t do that trip without me!” He looked back at me with a wry smile. “Ok good, ‘cause I think the biggest issue will be finding people to do it with. At least there will be two of us!”



In that moment, we both committed. My heart soared, thinking about the possibility of such a huge adventure dream coming true.

Sixteen months of planning and preparation ensued, along with endless questions and thoughts about logistics. We ended up doing eight food caches; five were roadside and driven to us as re-supplies and three were flown into backcountry lodges along our route.

MEC gave us an expedition grant, which helped enormously with gear and food costs. We pored over maps and Google Earth to look at different route options and contacted as many people as we could to find out about certain sections in more detail. As others committed to joining the trip, they would help where they could. When the day finally came to put the skis on and start moving, a huge wave of relief and excitement washed over me. All the work we had put into this trip was about to pay off.



Over the course of the trip, we learned to adapt to different challenges, whether it was getting up at midnight to avoid the daytime warming or “normalizing” the fact that we were all increasing our risk tolerance with river crossings, alder bashing and sketchy descents with expedition-sized packs. It all became part of the daily routine – “*I wonder what will happen today?”*



Highlights of the trip would include getting to climb our one big peak of the trip (Iconoclast) in a whiteout with two friends who were at Sorcerer Lodge. We had many beautiful camps, but the best were in the alpine where our views were almost 360 degrees looking at the Monashees, Purcells, Selkirks and Rocky Mountains, picking out iconic peaks as our evening trivia.



Despite the fact that we were skiing through a lot of heli-ski terrain, the warm weather had affected the snow so much that powder was a distant daydream.

What stands out for me from this trip is how our incredible mountain community and friends supported us along the way. As we would dip into valleys for food drops or with broken skis or come across mountain huts, we were welcomed with familiar faces, beer and fresh food. It was great to be on the journey as a group of five, but even more rewarding later, when we could share the journey with others and feel the camaraderie of the mountain culture that defines so many of us.



### 

On May 8, 2016, Stephen Senecal, Douglas Noblet, Sam McKoy, Mark Grist, and Madeleine Martin-Preney completed the first continuous ski traverse of the Canadian Selkirks with the help of an [MEC expedition grant](/en/explore/outdoor-impact). Between Kootenay Pass and Mica, they braved headlamp skinning, log crossings and thieving woodland creatures.



A team of five daring Canucks finished the first complete ski traverse of the Canadian Selkirks, but it wasn’t without complications. See pics and the story of their expedition.

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