How to outdoors like a true Canadian West Coaster
Canada’s West Coast is known for its extensive nature just waiting to be explored. Mountains, ocean, rainforest, rivers, islands, and lakes: we’ve got it all! It’s almost impossible to live on (or regularly visit) the West Coast and NOT be outdoorsy. As real West Coasters, many of our habits and outdoor experiences (hiking, I’m looking at you!) are instilled in us from a young age, so it becomes part of who we are. New to B.C.? By following this list, you can learn the unspoken rules of how to embrace the outdoors like a true West Coaster.
Don’t shy away from the rain
If there’s one thing West Coasters excel at, it’s being outside rain or shine. Because let’s be honest: if we wait for clear days to do the activities we love, then we’ll never set foot outside the house. So invest in a good rain jacket, pack layers for any type of weather and full send on your plans. The worst case scenario here is that you’ll end up with an epic story of how you survived bone-chilling wetness on a mountain, which is essentially initiation into being a West Coaster.
Explore the backcountry
There are obviously so many incredible well-known locations on the West Coast, but the most impressive beauty can be found off-grid. A true West Coaster will have a backcountry map and a love for driving random logging roads to find hidden-gem lakes, waterfalls and views. You’ll know you’ve truly become a true West Coaster when you have at least one favourite fishing, hiking or camping spot that’s so secretive you only share it with your closest confidants. So buy a map, grab a friend and start exploring the unknown!
Buy a flannel
If you want to blend in, a flannel must become a staple in your wardrobe. But beware: owning flannels is a slippery slope. What starts as just one flannel quickly becomes a flannel for every outdoor activity, because we really do need a separate “Fire Flannel,” “Fishing Flannel,” “Camping Flannel,” and “Hiking Flannel.” These are just the rules. Don’t ask.
Prep those legs for weekly burners
With the endless number of hikes to do on the West Coast, it’s best to be prepared for a leg workout every day of your trip. West Coasters love to plan spontaneous, “casual” five-kilometre-plus hikes with the expectation that everyone can handle feats like this on a whim. So if you’re headed to B.C., it’s best to have your legs in top shape. If you wait until the hike is planned to train, it’s too late. Game over. Hit the gym asap!
Spend 90% of your free time at a body of water
What’s the opposite of hiking? Spending the day relaxing by the water. Whether it’s the ocean, a lake, or a river, every ideal day on the West Coast involves a shoreline. There’s no shortage of water activities to take part in. If you’re more in the mood for a chill day, simply sit in a lawn chair with a cold beverage, soaking up the sun. And don’t shy away from the water temperatures. True West Coasters will swim no matter how chilly the water. Hey, it’s always so refreshing!
Leave no trace
The Great Outdoors can only stay as great as we leave it so ALWAYS pack out what you pack in. Respect the beautiful locations you visit and do your best to leave things as if you were never there.
Be bear aware
While there’s no reason to avoid the outdoors because of wildlife, it’s best to be prepared for encounters with bears, moose, cougars and other wildlife. The average West Coaster has very few personal interactions with dangerous wildlife but we’re always aware of the risks and the precautions required to stay safe. Before you explore somewhere new, research any recent wildlife sightings, pack bear spray and know how to prevent unwanted guests.
DO NOT have a bonfire
As much as West Coasters love a good bonfire all winter long, summer and early fall is not the time to light a pile of wood (or anything else!) ablaze. Even if you personally feel like chances of a forest fire are low or that there’s been a lot of rain recently, know that it doesn’t take much for our beautiful forests to burn so please follow the fire bans closely.
Say hi to everyone you meet on the trails
Canadian friendliness extends to the outdoors with the unspoken rule that you must make eye contact and greet every person you pass on the trail. It’s good etiquette to share a little smile and word of encouragement for those who you encounter. If you really want to blend in, crack a joke about being “almost there” or “one more turn” to hikers who have just started to really sweat. A little laughter goes a long way during a gruelling upward battle.
Toques aren’t only for winter
A Toque is the Canadian word for a beanie, which we wear excessively in the winter. But on the West Coast, they’re a socially acceptable style choice any time of the year. With the unpredictable coastal weather, it’s best to pack a toque for every type of activity because you never know when you’ll need it. Even if you don’t, wear it anyway.
Throw out the phrase “West Coast Best Coast” whenever possible
And lastly, add this phrase to any conversation about the outdoors and you’ll automatically be accepted as a real West Coaster. Bonus points if it’s used in discussions about other parts of Canada. Because after a period of exploring the outdoors, you’ll come to agree that the West Coast really is the Best Coast.
