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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

[Intense Cycles](/en/brand/intense/products/gear/bikes/c/854?q=%3Asales-rank&text) recently released their 2017 lineup, including the totally new [Recluse](/en/product/5051-554/Recluse-Pro-Bicycle). Purpose-built to satisfy the all-mountain category, the Recluse is more aggressive than the [Intense Spider 27.5](/en/product/5051-547/Spider-Pro-Bicycle), while offering slightly tweaked geometry from their full enduro machine, the Tracer 275c. Intense Cycles rider and World Cup athlete Forrest Riesco has been trying out the 2017 Recluse. We caught up with him to talk riding, goals, personal preferences and – of course – the bike.



##### Tell us a little bit about yourself – who are you?
I’m a 22-year old mountain biker who loves racing bikes.

##### Where are you from?
I was born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, and grew up in the small town of Gibsons, BC. I’m still there, with no plans of moving yet.



##### Who do you ride for?
I ride for myself, and for the love of it! I’m also fortunate to have sponsorships from Intense Cycles, [Kali Protectives](/en/brand/kali/products/gear/c/gear?q=%3Asales-rank&text), FOX Suspension, [Ryders Eyewear](/en/brand/ryders-eyewear/products/gear/c/gear?q=%3Asales-rank&text=), [Race Face](/en/brand/race-face/products/gear/c/gear?q=%3Asales-rank&text=), [Maxxis](/en/brand/maxxis/products/gear/c/gear?q=%3Asales-rank&text=), Gamut, Atlas Braces and Birzman.

##### What have you been riding for the past season?
The Intense Cycles Tracer 275c Palmer Edition trail bike, and an Intense Cycles M16 DH bike.

##### What stood out when you rode the new Recluse?
The Recluse’s longer top tube length felt really nice on the trail. Since I’m tall, the extra reach combined with a slack head tube angle made for a much more comfortable bike at speed.



##### How does the Recluse differ from your Tracer 275c?
After a season on the Tracer 275c, stepping onto the Recluse felt really comfortable. The longer top tube was a huge benefit on the trail for a guy my size, and the Recluse was amazingly nimble. The head tube angle is a 0.5° slacker on the Recluse than the Tracer, yet it’s also got a steeper seat tube angle. So even though the Recluse has less travel, it felt just as capable on the descents, and actually was more comfortable on the climbs than my Tracer.



##### Your favourite trails?
My favourite race track is the [Mont-Saint-Anne](http://mont-sainte-anne.com/en/summer/mountain-bike/) World Cup course in Quebec. I look forward to racing it every year. On the [Sunshine Coast](http://www.trailforks.com/region/sunshine-coast/), I have some of the best trails in the world at my doorstep. Some favourites near home include the trails around Roberts Creek, like [Mach Chicken](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/mach-chicken/). Lately the work being done at [Sprockids](http://www.trailforks.com/region/sprockids/) has been amazing, so I’ve been spending a lot of time in there.

##### What’s your biggest goal for 2017?
My main goal is to maintain top 20 results on the World Cup downhill circuit.

##### Your current go-to “ride really fast” song?
I listen to a lot of rock and alternative. Lately I’ve been listening to Metric quite a bit.



##### Breakfast on race day?
I keep it simple and go for oatmeal with almond milk and a dollop of peanut butter. I usually have some fruit too.

##### Favourite post-ride recovery beverage?
Coconut water.

##### First mountain bike ever?
A Norco Mini Mountaineer – which was awesome – but my first bike with suspension was a Giant Yukon.

##### What’s inspiring you these days?
The fact that the riders on the World Cup continue to pour their heart and soul into racing, and also travelling the world. It’s amazing to get to compete among so many driven athletes.



See more of the Recluse, along with the other bikes in the new [2017 Intense Cycles fleet](/en/brand/intense/products/gear/bikes/c/854?q=%3Asales-rank&text=).



The 2017 Intense Cycles line-up is unleashed. Get a first look at the totally new Intense Recluse with one of Canada’s fastest downhill riders.

Bike review: 2017 Intense Recluse with Forrest Riesco

Bike review: Intense Recluse with Forrest Riesco

When you’re training for a half marathon or full marathon, long runs are a huge part of your run schedule (and your weekend). But they’re also a great training tool even if you don’t have a big race planned.

Learn how to run long safely, how far to run depending on your goals, what makes these runs so important and more. Hosted by Michael Doyle, editor of *Canadian Running Magazine*.

#### Long runs: the awesomeness of the long distance runner


MEC/Canadian Running video series - Episode four: The Long Run

#### Planning a long run? Be prepared with:
- [Running vest or belt](/en/products/packs-and-bags/running-packs/hydration-vests-and-belts/c/1231) to hold your fuel
- [Electrolytes](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/drinks/energy-and-recovery-drinks/c/1176) to add to your water
- [Energy gels and chews](/en/products/run-and-fitness/training-food-and-drinks/energy-gels-and-chews/c/1179) (have you tried the [maple syrup gel](/en/product/6022-523/reboost-maple-gel?colour=NO_COLOUR) yet?)
- [Headphones](/en/products/electronics/audio-and-video-electronics/earphones/c/1138) to listen to podcasts and music

#### Watch more in the Be a Better Runner Series:
- [How to do hill workouts](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-do-hill-workouts)
- [Get the tempo run 101](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101)
- [How to get fast with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)
- [What’s the deal with cross-training?](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-whats-the-deal-with-cross-training)
- [How to prep for race day](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-prep-for-race-day)

Special thanks to *[Canadian Running Magazine](http://runningmagazine.ca/)*



Calling all half-marathon and full-marathon runners: this video’s for you. Get expert tips on how to run long safely (along with gear for long runs).

Run Training Series | How to do Long Runs Safely

Be a better runner: the art of the long run

You’ve packed everything on your [hiking checklist](/en/article/backpacking-checklist), and have reviewed maps for the area you’re going to explore. All ready to go? Almost. If you’re headed for backcountry travel in Canada, you’ll encounter all sorts of plants, some of which are beautiful to look at but can be highly dangerous to touch.

Stay safe – and rash-free – on your hiking or camping trip by keeping an eye out for these five plants you might come across in the wild:

#### Poison ivy


Poison ivy is most common in southern Ontario and Quebec, although it can be found in every Canadian province with the exception of Newfoundland. The plant grows as a vine or a shrub along rivers, lakes, meadows, forest openings and beaches.

The leaves change colour throughout the seasons. During the summer, poison ivy is a shiny green, making it easy to blend in with other plants. A simple way to identify poison ivy is to remember the phrase, “Leaves of three? Let it be.”

**Avoid it because:** Urushiol, a liquid in the plant’s sap, creates a skin rash on anyone who touches the plant.

#### Giant hogweed


Present across the country – in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland – giant hogweed is a firm, bright green plant that grows in ditches and open woodlands, alongside streams, and in other areas with moist soil.

Typically 2–5m in height, the plant has large leaves with serrated edges and a hollow leaf stalk with dark red spots and prickly hair. Giant hogweed also produces an umbrella-like top that contains small, white flowers.

**Avoid it because:** The chemicals in giant hogweed make skin sensitive to sunlight after contact and can cause large burns and blisters (along with a visit to the doctor).

#### Stinging nettle


Spread throughout Canada, stinging nettle typically grows in damp areas like marshes, meadows, pastures and ditches.

Stinging nettle, which grows 1m or more in height, can be identified by clusters of fuzzy white flowers and serrated leaves. These plants have sharp, thin hairs, which operate like hollow hypodermic needles and allow toxins into the skin upon contact.

**Avoid it because:** Contact with the plant causes itching, numbness and swelling, leading to a painful rash.

#### Canada moonseed


Found in Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec, Canada moonseed appears in thickets, beside streams and along bluffs. It grows as a climbing vine, up to 6m in height.

Canada moonseed has green leaves – containing 3–7 lobes each – and purple-black berries, which some people have unfortunately mistaken for wild grapes. (Canada moonseed has crescent moon-shaped seeds, while grapes contain round seeds.)

**Avoid it because:** Ingesting Canada moonseed berries is bad news – they lead to convulsions, seizures and possibly death.

#### Water hemlock


One of the most deadly plants located in most of Canada, water hemlock can be seen near marshes, pastures, rivers and streams.

The plant can grow up to 1–2m in height, and has a hollow, branching stem with a spotted purple pattern. It produces white flowers clustered together in the shape of an umbrella. It’s occasionally mistaken for edible roots such as wild parsnip; pick up a plant field guide to learn how to distinguish the difference.

**Avoid it because:** Water hemlock is fatal if ingested. It contains cicutoxin, an extremely toxic chemical that can disrupt the central nervous system. If you see someone accidentally consume this plant, treat it as a life-threatening situation and seek emergency medical help immediately – it’s serious and can cause death within as little as 15 minutes.

Being able to identify plants you come across in the backcountry is an excellent skill. Not only can it help you avoid unsafe species, it also gives you all sorts of appreciation for the huge variety of flowers, trees, grasses and bushes you might not otherwise notice.

Use a plant field guide to get familiar with the local species you may encounter as you venture through the lush wilderness of Canada’s backcountry.

*Photo credits: [John](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cygnus921/2620415235/in/photolist-4Zyja2-ayTgkP-c7CnKW-cz7xXC-jKHeeg-r9csMz-kMkrx-ayTeAr-ocgH1g-tewtR1-36GDAM-cz7Cw9-nG2jyi-71DV9n-ayVUrW-ayVUjQ-76d29m-hpWgd4-36GzTk-orEG1k-drfjj6-p48Ug-eHfxCA-w2M6Jq-bUeVhC-ekN4aU-bEE7VG-dpzxfj-ekN5cA-e4fgMF-ftE5AC-s8Mnrn-fiTFKq-28JMX3-9ZvM1Z-J7QBef-c7CnQj-hpVrry-hpVdHY-7698np-nG2jP8-hC4tL7-hpVfwN-fevz9Q-cxxaeC-e2Xeza-hpV2eY-7QicEf-nqNjJG-khVgg) (Flickr), [debs-eye](https://www.flickr.com/photos/debbcollins/3631832211/in/photolist-6wW6bK-6wW4Mp-8jRToV-5qWcYo-5qWdpA-8jRT4T-52ErBF-o7FnBt-52JCDw-cQfwyw-AYACoK-5o7oQc-g5yQU-cEFr5f-6CjLDz-8jRSn2-6wW2aZ-8jRTfc-8jV3ZQ-8jV4eN-6x1aCu-6x1dxu-6ub3ki-rWkWTT-asB8NK-o67PoQ-o67TJn-kmEWGF-agYRLC-Hom9Gw-kmGshw-asDQuw-fkPizV-4foUHA-52EiGP-4VQTR1-8jyVR6-8bQ8SZ-84CF1v-cesuBL-6oHDBe-acPyto-8ZwzoK-6D7nAu-52JGEq-7nMzLA-6Hsu4t-7nDv6f-2vK3oX-7Jnsye) (Flickr), [John Neon](https://www.flickr.com/photos/split-ends/18792028/in/photolist-2Ejdu-6RNne7-a2UNPC-qw7WoD-6mGvWY-foTtYt-cfgm9Q-jCC2u4-FUPgxD-6JxrF3-9w3vfB-fVMgJ8-Tm6Dm-a9bPAL-puj9AC-abV35u-9KDYox-4TpWd-6J8ktG-o9YPwC-a9sgtc-a9vmjj-a9wWr9-nYaMV2-bVQpqr-a9u83c-a9ttcP-eh89cN-naBqG-a9edTL-384pUp-4JnXop-cZjyb1-9SvkDY-6ZMHxQ-6jS2nQ-hpXyG-bUvSEB-a9pGB1-6ZHH4r-6L2rrR-5DaDQt-dzgY6x-4Uq6CV-a9quZz-2Z9awM-nDvsLn-a9piLV-5dStmM-nwBC6m), “[Moonseed fruit 1](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Moonseed_fruit_1.jpg)” by Nadiatalent is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, [Wendell Smith](https://www.flickr.com/photos/wendellsmith/8833135172/in/photolist-esy8m1-ipysU7-cbARkC-ebE7zn-pP2gVw-qM9uE8-pVQLqB-oTvRpV-eKYRD9-pwYxas-pW8T5q-9c35pC-oPGwKU-dzM1bv-6Q4vF-ipw9Zy-p6Kro8-ipyGS9-ipwXBc-6RAhY-sa39bv-ipBoCV-e5GzDg-ipzibQ-stkyDF-fCvT3n-6RyBq-fk3Hdc-dzSxoS-e5GvNV-pmPgm1-oWEA5t-esxZc5-quRvxi-7JcoUr-mR1LVa-dGvDjs-dGutCv-eiJaTB-nX3X7F-p1fofv-dzSrKS-ipBZLc-etHLLa-ipvDc7-eiQ69L-dzSoAQ-ipxeMu-ipAY6D-E1KMqj)*

## Related articles
- [Day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners)
- [Tips for choosing a tent site](/en/explore/choosing-a-tent-site)
- [7 ways to camp and hike responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



Look, but definitely don’t touch. Watch out for these 5 plants you<br>
might come across in the backcountry to stay safe (and rash-free).

5 Dangerous Plants to Know

How to do anything: spot dangerous plants

Whether you’re an avid kayaker, a Great Lakes surfing newbie, or a hiker who just likes a good lake dip, freshwater is no doubt an important part of your outdoor life. MEC thinks so too, which is why we’ve invested approximately $2 million in freshwater issues since 2010, and launched our Homewaters campaign in 2014 to draw more attention to Canada’s diverse bodies of water. After all, Canada has one-fifth of the world’s freshwater, and our rivers make up 25 major watersheds.

While awareness is important, we know MEC members are people who like to take action, so here’s a list of 10 ways for you to protect the spots where you love to swim, paddle, surf and play.

#### 1. Hashtag #myhomewaters
Tag your freshwater photo with [#myhomewaters](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/myhomewaters/) to share your love for local waters with the MEC community. It can be anything from SUP fun and canoe trips to creek crossings and lake swimming – or even ice climbing.

#### 2. Donate what you can
Support the [Canadian Freshwater Alliance](http://www.freshwateralliance.ca/) – an emerging initiative working to unite, train and mobilize a new community in hopes of restoring and protecting Canada’s waters – with a [donation](https://www.gifttool.com/donations/Donate?ID=1453&AID=503&PID=2983). Your gift helps keep our waterways clean and accessible for future generations.

#### 3. Identify your water footprint
Beyond drinking, bathing and playing, there are a lot of areas our water use stretches. Consider this: just one cotton t-shirt can require up to 2700 litres of water to be produced. Get tips on [how to reduce your water footprint](http://www.wwf.ca/conservation/freshwater/waterfootprint.cfm) and buy from brands and companies who are [actively working](/en/explore/sustainability-innovation) to reduce theirs. (MEC is a great place to start.)



#### 4. Suit up for watersports
Swimmers, surfers and paddlers can gear up for a good cause. For each [MEC Homewaters](/en/search/?text=homewaters) rashguard or pair of boardshorts sold, MEC will donate $2 to the Canadian Freshwater Alliance to support freshwater organizations across Canada.

#### 5. Leave no trace
Who wouldn’t want to leave our great outdoors – including lakes, rivers and creeks – in the best shape possible? Follow the [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) to recreate, travel and tour responsibly.

#### 6. Take a workshop
Do a little digging to find a great group around you who is all about waves, water and ways to protect it. Start with MEC Outdoor Nation collaborators [Surf the Greats](http://surfthegreats.org/collections/surfaris), who run shoreline clean ups and wave forecasting workshops out of the Toronto area.

#### 7. Join your cottage association
If you’re lucky enough to have a family cottage, go the extra step and be the voice for the placid lake your sweet little cabin is sitting on. Docks, boating and even wind-blown picnic stuff from summer barbecues can have an effect on your spot.

#### 8. Volunteer
There are those who say and those who do. If you’re a doer, we suggest joining forces with any of these amazing organizations:

- [Our Living Waters](http://www.ourlivingwaters.ca/)
- [Canadian Freshwater Alliance](http://www.freshwateralliance.ca/)
- [Conservation Council of New Brunswick](http://www.conservationcouncil.ca/)
- [Ecology Action Centre](https://www.ecologyaction.ca/)
- [Fraser River Keeper](http://www.fraserriverkeeper.ca/)
- [Lake Ontario Waterkeeper](http://www.waterkeeper.ca/)
- [Lake Winnipeg Foundation](http://www.lakewinnipegfoundation.org/)
- [Ottawa Riverkeeper](http://www.ottawariverkeeper.ca/)
- [Polis Water Sustainability Project](http://www.poliswaterproject.org/)
- [The WaterWealth Project](http://www.waterwealthproject.com/)
- [Tides Canada](http://tidescanada.org/)
- [WWF-Canada](http://www.wwf.ca/conservation/freshwater/)

#### 


#### 9. Join a clean up
Last year the [Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup](http://shorelinecleanup.ca/en) pulled 37,769 plastic bottles from waterways around the country – 19,260 from Ontario alone. Join Canucks from around the country zeroing in on their favourite water sites to help keep their homewaters clean.

#### 10. Tell your story
Did you grow up swimming in Windermere Lake, Rice Lake or Lake Ouareau? Love to surf Lake Ontario or paddle whitewater rivers like MEC Ambassador [Kalob Grady](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByUmSs4h_vU&list=PLiGBs8TAKXgN5A4xc9tAmOtV1FPjaqbFM&index=13)? Submit your unique water story to the [Watermark Project](https://www.watermarkproject.ca/), a collection of personal stories from across Canada.

*For more information on the state of Canada’s freshwater bodies, check out WWF Canada’s [Watershed Reports](http://watershedreports.wwf.ca/#intro).*

*Top image photo credit: Eli Landesberg*



Have a river, lake or shoreline you love to play in? Find out how to protect freshwater near your home, from quick hashtags to organized beach clean ups.

10 ways to protect your fave paddle, surf or swim spot

It’s sweaty, it’s hard, it’s worth it. Learn how to avoid the most common mistake new runners make with speed work, and get specific workouts for 5K or 10K training.

Host Sasha Gollish is a Canadian middle distance runner and Pan Am bronze medallist whose favourite distance is 1500m – so she knows speed.

#### Speed work: the need for speed


MEC & Canadian Running video series: Episode 3 - Speedwork

#### Lightweight gear featured in the video:
- [MEC](/en/products/clothing/c/981?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=mec&q=%3Asales-rank&filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=running) run tops and capris
- New Balance run tops, shorts and tights

#### Watch more in the Be a Better Runner Series:
- [How to do hill workouts](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-do-hill-workouts)
- [Get the tempo run 101](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101)
- [The art of the long run](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-the-art-of-the-long-run)
- [What’s the deal with cross-training?](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-whats-the-deal-with-cross-training)
- [How to prep for race day](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-prep-for-race-day)

Special thanks to *[Canadian Running Magazine](http://runningmagazine.ca/)*



Learn to avoid the most common mistake runners make with speed work, and get specific speed workouts for your 5K or 10K training.

Run Training Series | How to Get Faster with Speed Work

Be a better runner: how to get fast with speed work

It’s no wonder that Quebec – with its countless lakes, hundreds of kilometres of trails, lush forests and mountain ranges – is known as *la belle province*. If you’re planning to camp in one of Quebec’s many parks, you’ll have the opportunity to try lots of outdoor activities, from kayaking to climbing and more. Packing the right gear will help you create some unforgettable adventures on your camping trip.

#### Quebec camping essentials
Whether you’re planning to climb at Mont-Tremblant or go mountain biking at Mont-Sainte-Anne, you’ll need the essentials for your camping trip. A sturdy [tent](/en/ideal-for/backpacking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/tents/c/1449), a warm [sleeping bag](/en/products/gear/sleeping-bags%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bags/c/1410?q=%3Asales-rank) and a thick [sleeping pad](/en/products/gear/sleeping-bags%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416?q=%3Asales-rank) will offer a good night’s rest. Weather may vary during your stay, but some extra layers and rain gear will keep you dry. Don’t forget about critters and creatures: bring [bug protection](/en/products/gear/health-and-safety/bug-protection/c/1208) to stay sane and [bear protection](/en/products/gear/health-and-safety/bear-safety/c/1207) to stay safe.

#### Via ferrata


If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush as part of your camping trip, you’ll have a memorable time on the [via ferrata](http://www.sepaq.com/activites/parcours_ferrata/via-ferrata.dot?language_id=1) in Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay or Parc national des Grands-Jardins. It’s a safe yet exhilarating way to head out into the mountains and scale rock faces to see some of Quebec’s most magnificent view points. Harnesses, helmets and safety gear are all provided with your reservation.

To make sure you’re comfortable along the way, wear workout clothes and [convertible pants](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/clothing/bottoms/pants-and-tights/convertible-pants/c/1006?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) or long pants with some stretch (jeans aren’t allowed on the via ferrata). Some other items to bring? Rigid, [closed-toed shoes](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/footwear/shoes/c/1195?q=%3Asales-rank), gloves ([bike gloves](/en/ideal-for/cycling/products/clothing/accessories/gloves-and-mitts/c/987?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFhandweartype%3AFingerless+gloves&text=) are a good option), and a [hydration pack](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/daypacks%2C-slings-and-school-bags/c/1332/features/hydration-compatible?filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=camping%20and%20hiking&q=%3Asales-rank&text=) with water, since there’s no water along the routes.

#### Feel like hiking?


If you prefer to explore your surroundings with your feet firmly on the ground, [Mont-Sainte-Anne](http://mont-sainte-anne.com/en/summer/) and [Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/jac/index.dot?language_id=1) have got you covered with campgrounds and kilometres of diverse trails.

Fuel up on breakfast, then head out with a map in hand and a [daypack](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/gear/packs-and-bags/daypacks%2c-slings-and-school-bags/c/1332?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) to hold your essentials, including water, snacks, a [rain jacket](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) and a [warm layer](/en/ideal-for/running%2C-fitness-and-training/products/clothing/shirts-and-tops/long-sleeved-shirts/c/1049). While hiking shoes are fine for most trails, if you’re thinking of heading off the beaten path, a solid pair of [boots](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/footwear/boots/c/1189) will offer more support and traction on uneven terrain and slippery rocks.

#### Camping + canoeing (or kayaking)
[Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/sag/index.dot?language_id=1) and [Parc national de Frontenac](http://www.sepaq.com/pq/fro/index.dot?language_id=1) are loaded with lakes and rivers, and have special kayak-camping and canoe-camping sites. If you don’t have your own boat, you can rent a kayak for the day from the park.

For an enjoyable day on the water, pack sunscreen, [waterproof bags](/en/ideal-for/watersports/products/gear/packs-and-bags/dry-bags%2c-waterproof-cases-and-portage-bags/c/1357?q=%3Asales-rank) to stash spare layers, a [GPS](/en/features/waterproof/products/gear/electronics/handheld-gps-navigation/handheld-gps-devices/c/1141?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) and a map of the region, along with [paddling safety gear](/en/explore/mandatory-paddling-gear) and some epic sandwiches for lunch.

#### Backcountry camping
A camping adventure in the heart of [Parc national de la Gaspésie](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/gas/index.dot?language_id=1) or [Parc national d’Aiguebelle](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/aig/index.dot?language_id=1) can help you get away from it all to reconnect with nature. Don’t forget to fill out a backcountry access permit form before your stay.

Since backcountry sites are hike-in or canoe-accessible only, [minimizing the weight](/en/explore/lightweight-packing-tips) of your gear will make the journey as comfortable as possible. A [lightweight tent](/en/ideal-for/backpacking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/tents/c/1449) will keep you warm and dry throughout the night. Opt for a down [sleeping bag](/en/ideal-for/backpacking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bags/c/1410) instead of a synthetic one – they’re lighter and pack down small – and a cushy [sleeping pad](/en/ideal-for/backpacking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416) that smooths out uneven ground.

Some areas might not have access to clean drinking water, but you can come prepared with [water treatment](/en/products/gear/hydration/water-treatment/c/1236) to stay hydrated (and make fresh [coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee), of course). Finally, a [small stove](/en/products/gear/camp-kitchen/stoves%2c-fuel-and-fire/backcountry-stoves/c/1285?q=%3Asales-rank) to cook up oatmeal and pasta, plus a good book to relax by the lake are key to help you enjoy your time in nature. For a convenient list of everything to pack on overnight hikes, scope our [backpacking checklist](/en/article/backpacking-checklist).

No matter where you’re heading, when you have the right gear on hand, you’ll have a great experience in any one of Quebec’s scenic parks. Happy adventuring!

*Photo credits: Anton Shelkovich / Shutterstock.com, CandyBox Images / Shutterstock.com*



Planning a camping trip to Mont-Tremblant, Jacques-Cartier, Frontenac or beyond? Get mega inspiration (and packing tips) for adventuring in la belle province.

Essential camping gear for Quebec parks | MEC Blog

Essential camping gear for Quebec parks

Have a hilly race route coming up? Or do you want to get faster? Then it’s time to welcome hills into your run routine. Hills are speed work in disguise and, as a bonus, offer a lower risk of injury compared to other workouts.

Host Rachel Hannah, Pan Am bronze medallist and 2:32 marathoner, shares expert tips on how to add hills to your run training:

### Hill workout: conquering that mountain


MEC & Canadian Running instructional video series: Episode two: Hills

#### How to keep track of your repeats:
- Use a [running watch](/en/products/run-and-fitness/training-electronics/watches/c/1153)
- Learn [how to choose a run watch](/en/article/whats-the-best-running-watch-for-you)

#### Watch more in the Be a Better Runner Series:
- [Get the tempo run 101](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101)
- [How to get fast with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)
- [The art of the long run](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-the-art-of-the-long-run)
- [What’s the deal with cross-training?](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-whats-the-deal-with-cross-training)
- [How to prep for race day](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-prep-for-race-day)

Special thanks to *[Canadian Running Magazine](http://runningmagazine.ca/)*



Have a hilly race route coming up? Maybe you just want to get faster? Then it’s time to welcome hills into your run routine. Find out how to add hills to your run training.

Run Training Series | How to Tackle Hill Workouts

Be a better runner: how to do hill workouts

When you surround yourself with outdoorsy types, your notions of what’s normal become skewed. In the MEC community, it seems like there’s always someone sending a crazy peak, crushing a half marathon or organizing a lunchtime party in the park – you’re pretty much guaranteed to meet people who are into the same good times outside as you are. So, while I might have found the idea of a one-night midweek camp-out crazy just a year ago, now I get giddy at the thought. 



Our crew of five left from the office to summit [Mount Seymour](http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_seymour/) on a foggy Wednesday evening in early August. We grabbed our [overnight packs](/en/products/packs-and-bags/backpacking-packs/overnight-packs-35-55l/c/1340) followed the twisting trail up from the main parking lot, and Missy frequently pulled out a GoPro to film the first of many memorable moments as we navigated into the backcountry, the sun peeking through hazy clouds at the top.   



Tents pitched and sleeping bags unrolled, we found a small circling of rocks and set down for a potluck dinner. Local brews, cider and wine washed down our tapas-style hummus and fixings, plus kale and quinoa salads and a bar of [chocolate](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/snacks-and-energy-bars/chocolate-bars/c/1669) to share. Elyse, Senja and Rebecca brought out [glowy lanterns](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns-and-candles/electric-and-led-lanterns/c/1517) that lit up our little spot, and we were up till nearly midnight laughing. 

The morning sun softly lit up the sky from under low clouds as we packed up and headed to Mystery Lake. After a refreshing morning dip, we dug into rosemary rocksalt bagels and toyed with the idea of breaking out the [Aeropress](/en/product/5046-862/Coffee%26-Espresso-Maker), but there was no need – we were all wide awake from the swim. 



For 15 sweet hours we’d seemingly had the mountain to ourselves, laughing over dinner, listening to the wind sweep through the trees and snacking on sun-warmed blueberries. I’ve lived in Vancouver for nearly a decade and always saw the outdoorsy stuff as a weekend endeavor – but even if it takes an hour or two to get somewhere, random nights with friends out in nature under the stars are worth the distance, no matter where you are or what day of the week it is. 

#### What was worth the weight 

**1. A camera** 
Missy was our resident videographer, filming a bunch of mini-clips that resulted in a sweet souvenir video of our overnight. While her particularly teeny camera didn’t weigh much, it definitely made me look into a new mirrorless camera for the next one.



Wednesday Warriors: 15 hours in the Wild



**2. Cheers-worthy drinks** 
My pack definitely would’ve been far lighter without the few cans I’d stuffed in at the parking lot, but raising some adventure mugs over dinner made it worth it.

**3. Good food** 
Or at the very least, some hot sauce or [spices](/en/product/4014-607/Multi-Spice-Pack) to give your dehydrated stuff some zip. Tip: make sure it all fits in your [bear bin](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bear-safety/bear-canisters/c/98) before you leave including toothpaste, gum and anything else with a scent.

**4. Mood lighting** 
From dinnertime to our tent hang later, the [lanterns](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/lanterns-and-candles/c/1307) beat our headlamps for keeping everything dreamily lit. Next time I’d grab one that turns your water bottle into a lantern. 

**5. A cushy sleeping pad and pillow** 
For me this is an absolute must-have. Before I got my light [camp pillow](/en/product/5046-842/VectAir-Pillow), I’d bring a heavy airplane memory foam one, and that was still worth it to not have a sore neck. An [insulated sleeping pad](/en/product/6008-339/vectair-insulated-sleeping-pad) means extra warmth when the sun goes down.

**6. Breakfast and coffee** 
Okay, we didn’t have coffee (the lake woke us up), but if you’re a [coffee addict](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee), it’s pretty essential. Plus the post-swim bagels totally hit the spot. If you’re into big camp breakfasts, don’t forget your [cookware](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/outdoor-cookware/c/1274).

**7. Swimsuits and camp towels** 
That morning dip was definitely one of the highlights of our little adventure. If you’re near a lake on a summer hike, you’ll want your [suit](/en/ideal-for/watersports/products/clothing/swimwear/c/1036) and [towel](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bath-and-sanitation-products/towels/c/811) handy. 

#### What wasn’t worth it (this time) 

We packed a few extras with every intention of having the most awesome camp-out ever, but when you’re only doing a quick overnight, sometimes there just aren’t enough hours to see all your plans through. We didn’t end up setting up our hammock, I didn’t read the book I brought along, and we didn’t break out the playing cards.

Lesson learned: don’t underestimate the power of good conversation and good company outside. 



There's always room for bagels. Find out what made the cut – and what we could’ve left behind – on our midweek camp-out adventure.

MEC Blog