Outdoor VanIsle Forums - All Forums

Splitboard for sale

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://splitboard.com/talk/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=9124

Good deal, and he lives just across the border

Next Dinner Out-Come out and share your summer adventures!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Outdoor Vanisle members,

For those of you who are interested there is a Next Dinner out in Sept. This is where a group of us get out for dinner once a month, to connect, try a new resturant and an opportunity to get out and meet new people with a variety of interests. Come out for a great dinner at Sukko Thai at 630pm on Wed Sept 15th, make some new friends and share your summer adventures. Please contact me by Sept 8th if you're interested so that I know how many to make reservations for.

Hope you can make it!

Julia

RE: Sockeye fishing off sooke

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs202.ash2/46569_10150261246450107_587200106_14478088_6566433_n.jpg[/img]

Sockeye fishing off sooke

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Been staying down in Pedder Bay for for 5 days. Did lots of fishing fog/weather permiting out between pedder bay and church rock. Today weather was great, npt menny days left when you can be out on the water with out a shirt on and still sweat. But today We landed 2 beautyful sockeye. We got 3 more to the boat but they spit the hook and we lost them!

If you have the means, I recomend going out the way. About 2 miles off shore and 90-120ft down. Nothing more then a red flasher and a pink hoochie

RE: Campbell (quinsam river) River Pinks.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

few more from today. Landed so menny fish I lost count and my arm is sore!
the catch.
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs398.snc4/46131_10150254480095107_587200106_14292526_2297751_n.jpg[/img]
and the reward
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs195.ash2/45812_10150254480060107_587200106_14292525_4453018_n.jpg[/img]

Campbell (quinsam river) River Pinks.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Ive spent a cuple days fishing up in the quinsam river in campbell river for the pink salmon that have had a strong run this year.

they are good little fighters and pretty simple to catch. spent about 12 hours fighing a cuple days ago but i could have limited out in the first 2 hours. its good fun for the famlie to go down to the river for a cuple hours and teach the kids how to fish. you dont need the best gear or the newest or flashiest in luers. a simple small pink spoon or a small pink or green cotten ball on a single barbless hook work just fine.

I recomend bringing the famlie out to the river for a few hours to do some fishing and hiking.

Make sure you know the ruels and regs and have the proper freshwater licence and non-tidal salmon tag attached to it. You also have to relece any and all snagged fish.

If you go out you 'll have a blast.
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs138.ash2/40236_10150253311585107_587200106_14262410_8081886_n.jpg[/img]

RE: canadian splitboard fest ideas?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Some ideas have been tossed around and we will be looking into organizing something a backcountry fest this winter... ski/tele/split etc...

Will keep you posted!

canadian splitboard fest ideas?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Theres been talk on splitboard.com about having a splitfest in rigers pass some times in jan. Would be a pretty good time. Thinking about renting one of the huts or a few rooms in the hotel.

Thoughts?

Diving Holiday

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi All

I have always found members of this forum to be extremely helpful and informative so here goes with late 2010 holiday questions!

Looking to go on holiday in the first two weeks of Oct (non moveable) for 2 weeks and main priorities are sun, great snorkeling from the beach (no need for boat trips) and great diving also (im fairly inexperienced and other half wants to learn to dive).Nice beach is preferable as don't like sitting by the pool between snorkels / dives.

Budget is fairly low if possible; don't mind skimping on accommodation if it means more dosh for diving! Happy to stay in beach huts / cheap hotels. Flights currently are coming in at around £600-750 for places below.

My head seems to be going round and round the more I read; in some places its technically monsoon season but other posts seem to imply its fine to go, others its hurricane season and some are touristy etc!!

Sassafras Mountain

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Get on route 178, accessible from I-85 or any surrounding routeways. You drive to the town of Rocky Bottom, a little before you reach the North Carolina state line. If you see a welcome to North Carolina sign on route 178, you have gone too far. From the South Carolina side, you take a right turn where you see a sign for a school for the blind. This road is also called road 199. You drive for 5 miles up a long hill, and you are almost at the summit. You follow a small paved path the rest of the way. I recommend parking a few miles up and hiking up the rest of the road. We had to do that, because the road was covered in ice when we climbed it.

At the top, you can walk off to the side a little bit and see a decent view of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains through the trees. The summit is well marked, and there is a summit register.

You can take a short hike through the forest on the Foothills trail from Chimneytown Gap to the summit. For a moderate length approach, you can go about a mile past the turn off to the school for the deaf and blind (i.e. the road to the Sassafras summit. Keep going on hwy 178, and you will see the road cross a small bridge over the Eastatoe river. There is a trail on the right. It is approximately 4.7 miles and 1900 vertical feet to the summit. The trail crosses the mountain road at Chimneytop Gap and again near the summit.

An even longer approach would be reached by driving from South Carolina Highway 11, officially designated the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway, which turns into 178 eventually. You can also take Highway 11 to Table Rock State Park and take a long hike on the Pinnacle Mountain/Foothills Trails, which go through several miles of mountains and eventually lead to Sassafras Mountain.

You can climb year round, but beware of icy conditions in the winter. The Western Carolinas are known for their ice storms. The road may be icy in winter, but you can park at the bottom of the road, on the side, and you should be alright to hike up the road.

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I have craze of it....I want to climbing it....I will contact you via PM.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I am Hari new in this Forum.I hope this forums are very intresting.And give some knowledge for my future project.Right now I am currently working with the project that can be based on the games and electronics.

Terry fox run

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The Terry Fox Run is coming up on September 19th, 2010 and they're looking for volunteers. If you wouldn't mind coming out and lending a hand on the Sunday for the race let Chris Barfoot know at 250-756-5200 or chris.barfoot@nanaimo.ca.

Thanks!

Ross

RE: help

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The last two years Brian Tasaka had a kayak company come through at the last minute. We got one for a good price too (they didn't gouge us since we were last minute). Email him to say that you're having a hard time finding one and he's sure to help if he can. He'll at least have you on his radar. That guy knows everyone in this field! Good luck!

help

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi....I am in need of a double kayak for the MOMOR in Cumberland this September (2010) The one I had lined up fell through and now all the rentals are rented. I'm a very responsible person who of course you don't know me from adam but I promise I will take great care of your kayak
Please help
:-)

5040

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Does anyone have a gps track of the route up the 5040 Peak SW of Sproat Lake? I've got a thread over at summitpost that describes it in words but I like to have an actual track.

Bedwell Trail July 20, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I had seen some posts and photos of the Bedwell Trail in Strathcona Park and thought I'd give it a try.

Driving north from Nanaimo I turned left onto 28 at Campbell River. I followed this highway past the Strathcona Park Lodge and turned off onto Westmine Road following down the east side of Buttle Lake. At the end of the lake I turned off on Jim Mitchel road. This is a gravel road that leads
to the trail head. The road isn't too bad. They recommend a 4x4 but any 2wd with a bit of clearance can make it. It took 3 hours from Nanaimo to the trail head.

The trail is well marked and in very good shape. It's heavily engineered with suspension and fixed bridges, staircases and built up trails on the steep parts. The lower portion of the trail is a nice walk through forest with some very large trees. Most of the trail is uphill with some steep portions. The trail starts at about 500m and tops out about 6km later near 1000m at the lookout over Bedwell Lake.

Here is the suspension bridge on the lower trail:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4822222916_081deae5b7.jpg[/img]

A small pond close to Baby Bedwell Lake:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4821605785_9f14c19d47.jpg[/img]

Baby Bedwell Lake is very scenic with a great view of the Taylor Glacier on Mt Tom Taylor at the end of the lake. There are tent platforms in a variety of locations on the lake, most with spectacular views. Washrooms and a bear cache are also available. It took me about 2.5hrs to get up to Baby Bedwell Lake but I stopped to take photos along the way and get a little slow on the uphill.

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4822224202_1765f725b3.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4821607001_a353746b05.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4821607571_64722dae57.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4822225804_6df964be1c.jpg[/img]

You can continue on for a short hike to a viewpoint above Bedwell Lake. This is some of the most spectacular scenery I've ever seen on Vancouver Island. Big Interior Mtn is on the left and Mt Tom Taylor on the right. There is camping available at Bedwell Lake as well.

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4121/4822226278_130fd252d0.jpg[/img]

Cream Lake/Mt. Septimus/9 peaks T.R.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://www.clubtread.com/sforum/topic.as...http://www.clubtread.com/sforum/topic.asp?TOPI
this is the link to my trip report on Clubtread. I was too lazy to do it all over again... LOL.

Bedwell Trail

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

We started our holidays off with a trip out to Buttle Lake for the week. This way we can cram in as many of our favorite things to do as we can. Tuesday morning the 13th July we headed out to Jim Mitchell Lake road. About 8am we were at the trailhead parking lot. There was a wash out on this road in the spring and it was repaired using shot rock. Careful of your tires as we once had 2 flats from shot rock. The road is pretty good other then that spot though.
This was our first trip up Bedwell trail and it started off not too bad with a nice meandering trail and a suspension bridge to cross. There are quite a few switch backs that begin to take you up higher. I should have counted them and I am sure somebody has :) but there was alot of metal staircases so you wouldn't have to scramble up rock. Only one that we had to help the dog over that was more of a ladder then stairs. It is about 3 hours to reach Bedwell Lake and an overall elevation gain of about 600 m. So it is a pretty nice walk. The lakes were beautiful both with camping pads, bear cache, and outhouses. I liked the Baby Bedwell Lake camping spot .... it was cozy. There was still some snow along parts of the trail between the lakes but I am sure that will be gone in no time. From the lakes there is wonderful views of Mt Tom Taylor and Big Interior Mtn which are still very much snow covered. The ice had just melted off the lakes recently and we stopped to eat and soak our feet in the icy water.
Not a bad hike, although I do like to be up looking down. It was about 20 kms for the day. Below is the link to my facebook album it includes pictures from other hikes so far this year. Bedwell trail pics start from the 2nd page half way down at the suspension bridge. Bedwell trail

RE: Great backcountry safety article(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(07-16-2010 02:40 AM)flary Wrote: Since almost all my tramping is in backcountry about as remote as you can get in the North Island, and solo, safety is my first priority.
I am prudent, perhaps cautious, and am well prepared.
However, the stress of those close to me when am in the mountains detracts a little from the experience.
I had looked at getting a personal locator beacon (PLB).

The first choice is GPS enabled or not. PLBs with a GPS onboard are more expensive but can send your exact (if you can get a gps signal) location with your distress call.
The newer 406MHz beacons also send unique information that identifies the unit sending the signal and contact details of the owner, perhaps helping with the search.

A good deal of my tramping is river routes often with steep sides. My Garmin map60 struggles, often with one or two satellites only. In this situation, would a GPS enabled PLB get help to me any faster than one without?
Where you can get a GPS fix, this feature can get help almost straight to you.
Having decided to spend the $$$s on a GPS PLB, I came across the SPOT messenger and it has added a whole new option.

The Spot messenger (google findmespot) has an onboard GPS and can send a distress signal but also has some other, very useful, functions.
The first thing that caught my attention was the ability to send an 'I'm OK' signal with your current location. This goes to a phone as a SMS and/or email as a Google Maps link. Awesome! Now I can let them know where I am and that I am fine. Everyone's happy.
It can also send a 'Help me' message for non life threatening emergencies as well as a "911 request" for a full blown emergency. All messages have your current location (if you can get a gps fix).

This additional functionality comes with using a commercial satellite system and therefore there is a yearly subscription cost at around USD$100 with some more functions available at a further cost.
This means that the signal will be detected in the US not in NZ although it will be passed on immediately, it does add another 'cog in the wheel' and a place for failure.
Forums in the US are full of problems with getting a signal although New Zealand and Australia apparently have very good, strong signal coverage.

I have been unable to find very much feedback on this product in used in NZ. Anyone have a comment?

I also looked into getting a PLB vs a SPOt and ended up picked the SPOT. The extra features like 'track me' really made the choice for me. I've used my SPOT in a few different places on the Island without any issues so far. My friend has the original SPOT and went all the way down to south america with it and didn't have any problems sending out updates.

azon e-book sales over the first hardcover book

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Coach outlet report,Amazon said second-quarter sales of 100 hardcover books for each corresponding Kindle e-book sales for the 143. Part of the hardcover book has not released a corresponding Kindle e-book.

Amazon said the e-book,Cheap coach bags and hardcover book ratio changes very quickly. Over the past four weeks, the corresponding relationship between the two hardcover books into a 100 corresponds to 180 Kindle e-book. Amazon Kindle a total of 630,000 kinds of books, the site sold millions of books, only a small part.

Idea Logical Company, a number of publishers for books of the proposed enterprise, the company founder and CEO Michael Tse Chi Ken (Mike Shatzkin) that the fans like hardcover books laden with books,Coach handbags and scholarly, but not now not mourn the disappearance of these products. He said: "The day will come, but it will come." He predicted, does not take 10 years print books in all books sold in proportion to less than 25%.

RE: Surfing this weekend (26/27)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I surf in murky water about 50-75 days a year. I don't surf at dusk, or before full dawn. I don't surf when I see bait fish jumping, or the birds circling. I avoid murky river inlets, but do surf near other fast moving inlets.

I have been surfing since 1966, and I have yet to become a statistic. I also was an avid shark fisherman for years. I learned a lot about sharks (and I still read about them and study them). I gave up shark fishing a long time ago, although I caught one last week (inadvertently - a nice 4 footer that years back I would have kept.). I returned him to the water.

Statistically, you are much more likely to get struck by lightning on the same day you win the lottery. It is more dangerous to drive to the beach that it is to swim with the sharks. Read the link, it will give you some good statistical information:http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/sharks/isa…

Rememebr there are MIllions of swimmers in the water every year, and the statistics show only a small amount ever get eaten. By the way, if you live in Florida, I would be a lot more worried about gators if I were you. By John F .

RE: Dive outfitters group discount till feb

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I live two hours from a beach and had no trouble getting certified and going on dives. You don't say where you are, but if you are near a city of any size you can take a class from a training center affiliated with any of these organizations: PADI, NAUI, IDEA, SDI; there are others but those are the ones I see most frequently. Then sign up for lessons and from there it pretty much takes care of itself.

Most of your initial training will be done in a pool; ideally the dive center you train at will have its own, indoor pool (as opposed to renting the pool at the local Y or something). This allows for classes year round and allows for easy scheduling of makeup classes if you have a busy schedule. It is fun to take lessons with someone else but not at all necessary; the classes and trips are a great way to meet people and make friends. When you sign up they will tell you what you need, but in general they can loan or rent you everything you need beyond a bathing suit and perhaps mask/snorkel/fins. At the end of the course the whole group generally goes to the beach for a open water checkout dive before final certification; in my case they went to Fort Lauderdale. I was unable to make that trip, so for a little extra the instructor took me to a local lake for my checkout dive. I did get to go to FL with many of that group a few weeks later, though, and had a blast, even though I went alone. As I said above it is a great way to meet people. My dive buddy on that trip lived very near me, and for a couple of years afterwards we would regularly meet to go diving in the Savannah River, where we found some cool artifacts. If you want more info, let me know in this thread or via MeMail. ( by TedW)

RE: Any backcountry recommendations?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Bring a stuff sack down to the creek or lake, fill it with water and it will slowly leek out enough to shower under. Hang it from a tree at least 200ft away from the water source, you don't need to be polluting the drinking supply and harming the fishes. You don't need an extra heavy solar shower the stuff sack from your sleeping bag will work just fine. Go ahead and use the biodegradable soaps you can get at sporting goods stores, they don't have a strong oder and won't attract bears. Use a sham-wow to wash and dry with there light weight and dry quickly. Use deodorant get the small travel size container and keep that with your tooth paste in the bear bag along with your food. Don't worry about bears cause there after your dinner more than your soap keep a clean camp and body, hang the food up and you won't have any problems.

RE: Great backcountry safety article(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Since almost all my tramping is in backcountry about as remote as you can get in the North Island, and solo, safety is my first priority.
I am prudent, perhaps cautious, and am well prepared.
However, the stress of those close to me when am in the mountains detracts a little from the experience.
I had looked at getting a personal locator beacon (PLB).

The first choice is GPS enabled or not. PLBs with a GPS onboard are more expensive but can send your exact (if you can get a gps signal) location with your distress call.
The newer 406MHz beacons also send unique information that identifies the unit sending the signal and contact details of the owner, perhaps helping with the search.

A good deal of my tramping is river routes often with steep sides. My Garmin map60 struggles, often with one or two satellites only. In this situation, would a GPS enabled PLB get help to me any faster than one without?
Where you can get a GPS fix, this feature can get help almost straight to you.
Having decided to spend the $$$s on a GPS PLB, I came across the SPOT messenger and it has added a whole new option.

The Spot messenger (google findmespot) has an onboard GPS and can send a distress signal but also has some other, very useful, functions.
The first thing that caught my attention was the ability to send an 'I'm OK' signal with your current location. This goes to a phone as a SMS and/or email as a Google Maps link. Awesome! Now I can let them know where I am and that I am fine. Everyone's happy.
It can also send a 'Help me' message for non life threatening emergencies as well as a "911 request" for a full blown emergency. All messages have your current location (if you can get a gps fix).

This additional functionality comes with using a commercial satellite system and therefore there is a yearly subscription cost at around USD$100 with some more functions available at a further cost.
This means that the signal will be detected in the US not in NZ although it will be passed on immediately, it does add another 'cog in the wheel' and a place for failure.
Forums in the US are full of problems with getting a signal although New Zealand and Australia apparently have very good, strong signal coverage.

I have been unable to find very much feedback on this product in used in NZ. Anyone have a comment?

Ripcurl Elasto wetsuit

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Barely used XXS Ripcurl Elasto 5/4 hooded wetsuit for sale. Perfect condition. Great spring/summer/fall suit.

$125

Janet
microjanet at gmail dot com
Nanaimo

RE: What resources are missing?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I hate squatting when I'm outside doing activities and there are no washrooms around or even worse when there and they are NASTY! Go Girl has this great Female Urination Device (FUD), which comes in either pink or camouflage brown stored in a re-usable tube and it can be ordered from this website - http://www.tripquipment.ca . It is so easy to use; you’re going to wonder why someone didn’t think of this earlier. I don’t want to be a Man but have always envied their ability to pee almost anywhere without having to expose their entire lower half. I have seen similar products and they don’t even compare and some are even selling for DOUBLE the price. When traveling I’ve seen too many icky, dirty toilets, sometimes with no seat, to crouch over while I get legs cramp or even worse. And I’ve had to make a few emergency side-of-the-road stops trying to hide in a ditch, a snow bank or even between our truck doors when trying to get up to the ski hill but everyone is stuck due to white out conditions. But no more… because life’s greatest adventure shouldn’t be finding a bathroom says GoGirl, and I agree!
This handy little GoGirl beauty is made from flexible medical grade silicone and is rinseable and reusable... so it is also environmentally friendly. This handy little FUD will be going to be with me to the lake and everywhere I go especially on vacation to far away places… cause when you gotta go you might as well use a GOGIRL.

RE: Forbidden Plateau & Mt Becher, July 2, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Amazing Pictures of Mt Becher, I will have to go up there one day. It's amazing how many great places there are on the island that i have never heard of.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey All, My name is Simon

... and I love to be outdoors, I mainly mountain bike (and a bit of trials riding), hike and rock climb. There's a lot of other sports I would like to get into though, kayaking, kiteboarding, surfing, backcountry snowboarding (the list goes on)

I've lived in Parksville for just over a year now with my wife and 2 dogs and a cat. I work 9-5 during the week but try to get outside a couple of times a week after work.

If anyone else in the area wants to go do some trials riding or anything else, let me know! :)

FiveTen Spire 6.5

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

[attachment=42]Size 6.5 FiveTen Spire for sale... Worn only once indoor... Retail price is $102, asking for $50

Phone: (250) 616-9814

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(06-06-2010 11:04 AM)mr mike Wrote: Hello

Just came across this site last week, what a great idea! I'm fairly new to Nanaimo and I love getting outside to do anything active.

I just picked up a new Stand Up Paddle Board, curious to know if there are any other boarders on here?? Was out all day yesterday at Qualicum and I think I'm addicted! Plan to be hitting the beaches between Qualicum and Nanaimo any chance I get, would be great to meet up with others for some time on the water as well as chilling at the beach.

Ciao for now!

Mike

Hey Mike,

I'm really interested in SUP, have been to a couple of demo days but do not have a board yet. Still researching all the boards out there. Did you know there is a SUP race this weekend in Vic? If you look on the Ocean River website, they have some info about the island series (http://www.oceanriver.com/events.htm#suprace)

RE: Forbidden Plateau & Mt Becher, July 2, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(07-03-2010 03:35 PM)Lorne Wrote: Go for it raym. There was 8-10 feet on Becher and there was still loads of snow for boarding when we went up Green mtn last weekend. Its a great year for snow in the back country.

Still snow on green mountain!?!? well thats a much better option for me then! hiw did gemini look from green?

RE: Forbidden Plateau & Mt Becher, July 2, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Go for it raym. There was 8-10 feet on Becher and there was still loads of snow for boarding when we went up Green mtn last weekend. Its a great year for snow in the back country.

RE: Forbidden Plateau & Mt Becher, July 2, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

you have really inspierd me to head out and do some touring/snowboarding next week! I havent seen any pics that show how much snow is left up in hills. Im thinking im gonna go tackel kings peak and/or puzzel mountain on july 14/15.

Great pics and great wright up!

Forbidden Plateau & Mt Becher, July 2, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I've been wanting to hike Mt Becher and Forbidden Plateau for quite a while now and I had my chance yesterday.

Just north of Courtenay I turned right off of the island hwy onto Piercy Rd, then another right onto Forbidden Plateau Road and followed it up to the end at the parking lot of the old ski hill.

From there it was a straight hike up the old ski hill roughly following the ski lift. After about an hour of some steep hiking the terrain leveled off and I passed a sign marking the entrance to Strathcona Park.

I started hitting snow at 988m and after that most of hike was in snow. Aside from a few postholes snowshoes weren't needed.

The ascent to the summit of Mt Becher was about 3 hrs and 5.5k. I had a gps track from trailpeak that I was following. It was helpful but the trail is fairly well marked. Message me if you want the track.

The scenery on top was gorgeous. There are views in all directions including back towards Comox Glacier.

Attention all you backcountry boarders and skiers: The top of Mt Becher is wide, rolling and open with patches of trees forming chutes that look like great fun. This would be an awesome area to board or ski. Lots of good camping spots as well. There is still a huge amount of snow up there.

View photos here: Mt Becher photos

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

That's great, Mike! We'd love to connect while we're up there. You're more than welcome to drop by our campsite for great conversation, a fire and roasted marshmellows...I'm looking foward to trying surfing too. Maybe we can also get a game of football going on the beach.....Tyler, Tara and I are all going to the next meet up so seek us out.

Julia

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Thats great...Tyler, Tara and myself who are going up for camping and surfing in Tofino are going to be at the meet up so seek us out. It would be great to meet up in Tofino..more than welcome to drop by our campsite for some conversation and marshmellos.....

Julia

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey guys, my girlfriend and I are going to be out that way from the 29th till the 2nd, we have a B&B booked for those dates. I'm also new to surfing so will be out there getting thrown around a bit, as well as throwing a football around on the beach. Would be cool to meet people on one of the beaches.

I'll be at my first meet-up on the 7th so will hopefully connect with some of you there...

Happy Canada Day!!

Surfing this weekend (26/27)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

If anyone is interested in coming lemme know, here or jerrett at gmail :D

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi guys - a quick update to this - we have booked a couple of sites at the Long Beach Campground (not on the beach - off the golf course) as EVERYWHERE else was fully booked. We may have room for one or two more at those sites - if more are interested, we need to know asap so that we can try to book another site. We are also booking lessons with Pacific Surf School - they offer a 3 hour lesson for $75 and we are booking the 11-2 time slot - I have contacted them and asked them to try to keep people booking under Tara together... their number is 1-888-777-9961 if you are interest in joining us for the lessons.

Are you from Victoria or the Comox Valley?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

For people in Victoria or up in the Comox Valley, the monthly meetups can be a bit of a drive to get to... We're looking into starting local meetups in both areas, so if this is something that interests you please let us know!

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Just wanted to let you all know that my partner and I just camped at Surf Junction this weekend and it was great. Nothing better than knowing there's a warm hot tub and sauna to return to after a day of surfing in cold water! They really have everything you'd need in a campsite - wetsuit washing station, dishwashing area, clean bathrooms, private sites and so on, plus good rental wetsuits and boards. It's close to the beach too, only about 8 minutes from Wickaninnish. Have fun!

Anna

RE: Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Tyler,

That weekend sounds really good! Sadly I'm going to be camping in the suswap that weekend. We are planning on going out to Tofino the next two weekends (June 26-27 & July 3-4) and you're welcome to join us on those weekends as well if you like!

-Eric

RE: Flower Ridge

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

wow, looks great! Im looking foward to heading up there real soon for some snowboarding!

Surfing and Camping

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

So summer is slowly getting here, and that means it's time to go camping, and we may as well combine it with some first time surfing lessons at http://www.surfjunction.com

We have a group going on the August long weekend (July 30 - August 2), We are going to try booking two campsites and planning on having our lessons on Saturday.

If anyone wants to join in for a fun weekend camping, surfing lessons or just surfing, or just enjoy a long weekend on the west coast. Let me know, and we will organize a fun group weekend.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi - my name is Tara. I have been on the Island for a couple of years (moved from Alberta) and haven't had nearly enough opportunity to get out and explore - so that is my plan for the summer. I LOVE to sail - that is my activity of choice. I also love hiking and camping. I am going to try out surfing (that should be entertaining if anyone is short on amusing distractions) and as my friend Tyler just bought windsurfers - I may try that out as well! :) I also want to try kayaking. I look forward to meeting some of you at the next meet up.
Tara

Flower Ridge

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Flower Ridge had been on my mind of late so we decided to pack our bags for the day and head up on the ridge for a day hike. We were on the road at 430 am and arrived at the trailhead about 730ish. They were calling for showers but so far the weather looked pretty good with sunny breaks and cloud coverage. Don't forget your sunscreen like I did.
So the journey begins! The elevation gain is about 1300m to the top. The trail starts winding it's way up the hill to the right of Henshaw Creek which you can hear along the way. The trail is pretty good with only a few downed trees that are easy to get over or around. There is a view point along the way to stop for a snack. I think it is about the 900m mark. You will see the trail veer off to the right and it leads to a mossy bluff overlooking the Westmin Mine and Myra Mt.
The snow started about the 1100m mark and we put on the snowshoes as the snow was pretty soft. It isn't long after that you come out on the ridge and soon your head will be doing a constant swivel trying to capture all the views that surround you! I am a photo junkie and drag up 2 cameras. It takes us a little longer then most to hike because I seem to have this need to capture it all. Thankfully my husband is a patient man :)
Today we hiked along the ridge about half way(20 kms return), the clouds moved in and looked like rain would soon start all around us. As we were booting it down we had a few drops and considered ourselves very lucky as our drive home was very monsoon like :) But we got the best of the day in and what else can a girl ask for!
On a general note it is about 15kms to the end of the ridge where you will overlook Green Lake, Price pass and Mt.s Septimus and Rosseau. It is possible to continue on to various other areas from here.The view of Nine Peaks and Cream Lake is also awesome. We have been up 3 times and have yet to hit the right time for the flowers for which the trail was named. We seem to go too early or late. May, June, Sept. I guess we will have to try a few more times.
Sept was nice as the foliage was turning red for the fall. There were several large tarns up there along the way so we didn't have to worry about no water in the fall. I have included a link to my photos on facebook. Hope you enjoy :)

Laura

Flower Ridge photos
Flower Ridge & Mt Becher

RE: Snowboarding June 19

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey, I might be heading up on the 20th. if you end up going that day look for me. Red ride pants and a green voile splitboard.

RE: Snowboarding June 19

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I was tempted, but the surf is calling...

Snowboarding June 19

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hello! If anyone is interested in going on a last snowboarding/ski at Mt.Washington holla over. I am new to town looking for some people to go with.

Cheers!

Lori
loriherder@hotmail.com

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Glad to see you here Laura. Your photos from Flower Ridge made me want to go back!

Would you be able to post a trip report about it on the forum here? There's a trip report section http://forums.outdoorvanisle.ca/forumdisplay.php?fid=22

(06-15-2010 05:53 PM)LKing Wrote: Hi All,

My husband and I have lived on the Island for 10 years. We transplanted from Ontario and haven't looked back. This Island is amazing! I discovered the forum while searching for up to date info on trails. I love to hike, kayak, camp and snowshoe, almost anything outdoors. Not necessarily in that order :)

Laura

RE: Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(06-15-2010 04:56 PM)sim_koop Wrote: I would love to go caving. I have done some. I have two 60m ropes, harness, helmet, belay devices, lots of carabiners. Are you going to the meeting in july?
Bricklin Koop

Hi Bricklin

Yes i will be at the meeting in July. Where do you live? Im in Qualicum Beach my email is mabelobaba@hotmail.com and my phone # is 250 757-9628. Which caves have you been too?

Myles

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi All,

My husband and I have lived on the Island for 10 years. We transplanted from Ontario and haven't looked back. This Island is amazing! I discovered the forum while searching for up to date info on trails. I love to hike, kayak, camp and snowshoe, almost anything outdoors. Not necessarily in that order :)

Laura

RE: Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I would love to go caving. I have done some. I have two 60m ropes, harness, helmet, belay devices, lots of carabiners. Are you going to the meeting in july?
Bricklin Koop

RE: Anyone interested in trying sailing

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

We had our first sailing day at the lake with a small group coming over to try sailing. With the sun out and strong winds it turned into a perfect day on the dock with some great sailing and a bit of windsurfing. I couldn't think of a better way to spend a day. I will continue to invite people to come sailing throughout the summer, its just always short notice since it depends on the wind, so i will email anyone that is interested.

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

As far as renting boats, regrettably there is nothing for the general public. However if we could get a group interested, we could plan an intro to sailing day class with an instructor at NYC. But for now people can try it on my boat or windsurf boards on long lake, or can take lessons. during the summer, i will having people over for sailing every nice windy day i can.
If anyone wants to have a day class, let me know and i can try organizing one when we get a few people. If your interested in lessons you can check this out http://nanaimo.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-...http://nanaimo.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-sports-bikes-Sailing-Program-Adult-Youth-Parent-Child-Family-Corporate-W0QQAdId

Rock Climbing Belay Class

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone,
I have scheduled a belay class on Tuesday June 29 for a couple people just getting started. If anyone is thinking of trying rock climbing, then this is a good opportunity for you to come and learn the ropes. More information can be found here http://www.climbromperroom.com/belay-course.php if you want to join us, please let me know and phone the romper room and put your name on the list for the class. Hope to see some more people come out.

RE: Anyone interested in trying sailing

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Me too, Me too!!! I really want to learn to sail and to just be on the water my most favorite place.

RE: Hike Ammonite Falls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It's actually only a few hour hike, we would be starting at 10 on one of the day's, we start at the end of Jameson Rd, coordinates 49.18,-124.064 from google maps. You can find some pictures of teh falls on my album. http://apps.facebook.com/fotofan/albumfe...http://apps.facebook.com/fotofan/albumfeed/629255105/greety85/5404024382 It is a nice loop hike just to get people out, I will let people know on which day we are doing it the week before.

RE: Kayaking anyone?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

OOps!! Way off on the date...must have looked at the calandar and kept seeing the 6th.....Thanks for catching that...Its this Saturday June 12th. :)

RE: Kayaking anyone?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Would that be the 26th? Or July 6th? June 6th has already passed :)

Kayaking anyone?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi,

I am setting up an afternoon of kayaking on Sat, June 6th at 1pm if anyone is interested. Planning to kayak out of Ladysmith and will be renting kayaks through Sealegs for a 2hr paddle. If you're interested let me know and I can give you details on renting a kayak or you can bring your own.

Julia

RE: Any Local Rowers?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi,

I am actually taking the rowing for adults course at Long Lake through the nanaimo rowing club in July. Once I learn the basics I would be up for being a part of a group that gets out to row. Keep me in mind!

RE: Hike Ammonite Falls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Tyler,
Looks like a fun hike! I will have to check my calendar but I'm interested! From the (limited) info I can see online it looks like a day hike. Where where you planning on staying overnight?
Leanne

RE: Hike Ammonite Falls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'd love to come out but I'll be in Victoria that weekend. I've been there many times so if you have any questions let me know.

Some extra info if you need as well http://islandadventurer.ca/blog/2010/05/...http://islandadventurer.ca/blog/2010/05/hiking-nea

Hike Ammonite Falls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone,
I am planning a hike to Ammonite falls for the weekend of the 26-27. I have posted it on a few groups to try and people out, and give new people a chance to meet other hikers. It would be great to have a good turnout for it, and then i can look at planning a monthly hike.
If anyone is interested let me know, and i will confirm the time and date as the day nears.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It will be the 7th, but not at the longwood in July.. location is TBD - it will be posted on the site!

RE: Anyone interested in trying sailing

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm always interested in sailing. Let me know when and where!

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

would love to but i wont have my bike down from whistler for a few weeks but will have to meet on another day. i think i am going to try and do some climbing in nanaimo rutherford ridges area this afternoon and play with some of my gear placements if anyone is interested i will be there around 1:30 untill 4 or 5. but thanks for the invite.

and i will be at the next meeting at longwood whenever you have it. i think july 7?

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey ben, if you are into biking today a few of us are meeting at the Cumberland parking lot @ 6, and we might be climbing tomorrow in Nanaimo somewhere (likely rutherford or the river)

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

hey my name is ben i made few posts before i joined your group i am totally addicted to the outdoors i love to climb hike mountain bike surf cliff jump snowboard or anything else i am hoping to meet ppl with similar interests to get out and explore with. i have a full sport climbing set up and some pro gear a few ropes and love to use them. i try to climb 4 or 5 days a week. let me know if you are going and would like another. thanks

RE: Anyone interested in trying sailing

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Dibs in! Just need to find a good day =)

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(06-06-2010 04:02 PM)Ross Wrote: Great to see you here Mike! Let us know if you have any questions about anything on the island. I'm sure there will be someone here that can help :) I'm don't know any SUPers yet, but I'm sure there are some around in the area. I'll keep my eyes peeled. Any plans to come to the next Outdoor Meetup July 7th?

Hey Ross,

I'll be up for coming to the meetup on the 7th of July, will look forward to it.

Thanks

Mike

Monday Volleyball

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Everyone!

We're doing volleyball on Mondays at the Bowen beach courts. We'll be out there at 6pm jumping around in the sand.

There are also a few other things going on during the week.
Tuesdays at Caledonia at 5:30 is Ultimate. Summer league starts this week but you can still join up ! Beginners are welcome. The emphasis during summer league is the games. You may want to show up to the Drill and Practice sessions on thursdays to sharpen your skills.

Thursdays are running nights as well. I'll be at Westwood Parking lot at 6pm to head out for a trail run. We'll be heading around Westwood area somewhere, Morrell, ridges, maybe even Benson for a nice trail run. We usually head out for about 10k. Make sure you can do a 10k trail run first. Talk to me if you want to try.

There is also Goaltimate on Sundays at 10am. It's like Ultimate but slightly different rules. Let me know if you're interested.

I might be slightly giddy at the sight of some sunshine but it's almost here!!!

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Is it possible to rent a small sail boat Tyler? I think we've got a few people interested and could be a fun day out on the water with a bunch of people. I'm definitely new to it and and I'd imagine others would be as well. How much would it cost to set up such a thing? Let me know if you need people out. I don't have much experience but I'm free most of the time :)

RE: Riders in Parksville/Qualicum?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Noah, I'm in Qualicum and always into heading out for a ride, let me know what your schedule is like.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey everyone,

I stumbled on this site today and I'm excited about it! Nice to see so many people interested in getting outside to play. I moved to the Island just over a year ago, and am always looking for people to enjoy the outdoors with. I mountain bike, kayak, hike, ski, snowboard, cross country ski, snowshoe, trail run, sail, and am currently trying to learn to climb and surf. I'm also going to try SUPing a little later this month. I'm pretty much always up for an adventure, so let me know if you're up for heading out.

Cheers!

Jacqueline

RE: Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey, I'm in Qualicum and am always up for a hike, ride, kayak, or a game of tennis! Let me know what you're up for, and welcome to Oceanside!

Anyone interested in trying sailing

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone,
Sailing is my favorite activity, and i have lucked out in having some amazing sailing experiences since I've moved to the island. I now have a little boat on Long Lake and am crew on a few yachts and do most of the races.

If anyone wants to try it out, I would be happy to get you out on Long Lake. I've been teaching sailing for the last 6 years so I can help you learn your basics or advanced for those that have sailed before.

Hope to see you on the water.

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone,
I'm glad to find this Thread.
I've been a sailing instructor for 6 years in Manitoba. I moved here last year and have been sailing every chance I get. The yacht club has the Wednesday night Dinghy Dock racing, its a fun time, the boats leave the yacht club around 6, so you have to try and find someone going out, it can be a little tricky as there is no formal schedule. during the fall to spring they have Sunday racing every second week. They meet at 9 for skippers meeting, just show up and announce yourself as open crew. here is there calender
http://ical.mac.com/WebObjects/iCal.woa/...http://ical.mac.com/WebObjects/iCal.woa/wa/default?d=1&u=fawalsh&v=1&y=2010&m=5&n=
For dinghy sailing, I have had my boat on long lake for a couple month now, when the water warms up, i would be glad to get people out on the water and show you the basics or some advanced skills. There are also official lessons at teh Nanaimo Yacht Club and in Ladysmith for those just getting started or want to get there sailing levels.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone, I'm Tyler.
I moved to Nanaimo last year from Manitoba, and love that i can be outdoors year round without freezing.
You will find me sailing most of the time, I have my boat on Long Lake, the only one on the lake so far. Or I am sailing on a couple yachts in the Straight. I also have been doing a lot of hiking since i moved here. For my first summer here i plan on getting into rock climbing, kayaking, and try some surfing.
If anyone wants to sail, let me know, I plan on increasing sailing on the island, and i'm always up for a hike if theres no wind.

I enjoyed meeting some of you at the last meet up and look forward to meeting more of you at the next one or outdoors.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Great to see you here Mike! Let us know if you have any questions about anything on the island. I'm sure there will be someone here that can help :) I'm don't know any SUPers yet, but I'm sure there are some around in the area. I'll keep my eyes peeled. Any plans to come to the next Outdoor Meetup July 7th?

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hello

Just came across this site last week, what a great idea! I'm fairly new to Nanaimo and I love getting outside to do anything active.

I just picked up a new Stand Up Paddle Board, curious to know if there are any other boarders on here?? Was out all day yesterday at Qualicum and I think I'm addicted! Plan to be hitting the beaches between Qualicum and Nanaimo any chance I get, would be great to meet up with others for some time on the water as well as chilling at the beach.

Ciao for now!

Mike

Pickup Sports in Nanaimo

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

If anyone is looking for some pickup sports in Nanaimo check out the Pickup Sports Facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/grou...http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=126553944022

There's an email list as well, message me if you want to get on that. I'll be posting the updates to facebook as well as the email list.

Here's the latest email

http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=efa15...http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=efa156a7b29e41740e3275cdf&id=

Right now we've got weekly volleyball, ultimate, and trail running updates. If anyone knows about any other pickup sports that happen every week, let me know!

Oh in particular, anyone have any details about the sailing every week? Is there anything I could add to the pickup list that anyone can just show up to?

Avalanche Transceivers for sale

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Island Alpine Guides is selling some of their avalanche transceivers:

Backcountry Access Trackers (still under warranty, excellent condition) $190/unit.
Mammut Barryvox Opti 3000s (still under warranty, excellent condition) $150/unit.
One brand new Mammut Barryvox Opti 3000 $200.
One brand new Mammut Barryvox Pulse $400.

If you are interested contact info@islandalpineguides.com

RE: Anyone wanna go here with me this weekend?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

its the mountain just south of green mountain. After looking at the web cam for mt washington, It looks like we are in for some fresh turns :D

My New Boat

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Just picked up my P&H Cetus last week and already have been out for a few paddles. Looking forward to the long weekend and should get some more in. :)

RE: Anyone wanna go here with me this weekend?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Boy that looks nice. I would if I was around! What mountain is that?

Anyone wanna go here with me this weekend?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs572.snc3/31193_10150194204275107_587200106_12502294_900995_n.jpg[/img]

Should make for a few good turns.

RE: TR: Green Mountain, May 16.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

well ross, the snow line is at the perfect elevation for that. let me know when you head up. i would like to tag along if thats alright.

RE: TR: Green Mountain, May 16.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I see why you keep talking about Whymper, looks sweet! Next winter!

RE: TR: Green Mountain, May 16.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Wicked pics, I haven't been out there in a while. It's almost time to get up there. I was waiting until the snow got a little higher and I could drive further. My next trip up there will be to hit Gemini(the one next to Green just to the south) and Green on the same hike. Looks like it's almost time!

TR: Green Mountain, May 16.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

went for a tour up Green Mountain with the dog last weekend. The weather was great and the snow was creamy/corn. Saw two bears on the drive up and one of them was the biggest bear I have ever seen!

Anyways, Drove most of the way up till the snow was covering the road. had to walk a cuple hundred meters up the road till I was able to put the planks on and start the skin to the top. the skin to the top was simple with consistant snowboverage up to 3 meters in spots.

Lots of signs of wild life including bear tracks, deer, elk, cougar and even spotting one of the super endangerd (less then 10 left) Vancouver Island Marmot!

Made a bunch of turns whitch felt great! It was nice to get the board on my feet once again. Im hoping to get up Mt. Arrowsmith this week if anyone wants to join me.

Heres some pics.

Mt. whymper
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs572.snc3/31193_10150194203890107_587200106_12502252_2440634_n.jpg[/img]

Northish side of Green Mountain
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194203940107_587200106_12502258_3456169_n.jpg[/img]

Shaw Mountain I believe?
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs532.ash1/31193_10150194204005107_587200106_12502268_7389137_n.jpg[/img]

Baz eating snow!
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204030107_587200106_12502270_950380_n.jpg[/img]

The skin up.
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204040107_587200106_12502272_173623_n.jpg[/img]

Bear tracks
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs572.snc3/31193_10150194204050107_587200106_12502273_2357097_n.jpg[/img]

One of LOTS of mountains in the area.
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs532.ash1/31193_10150194204095107_587200106_12502277_6695499_n.jpg[/img]

futur lines!
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204180107_587200106_12502284_5337419_n.jpg[/img]

the track up
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs572.snc3/31193_10150194204185107_587200106_12502285_7099724_n.jpg[/img]

The summit
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204200107_587200106_12502287_6672375_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204210107_587200106_12502288_6358016_n.jpg[/img]

The classic self shot!
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs532.ash1/31193_10150194204390107_587200106_12502302_5496925_n.jpg[/img]

Can you see the splitboard?
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs572.snc3/31193_10150194204440107_587200106_12502307_6272216_n.jpg[/img]

mmmhmmmm turns!
[img]http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs592.snc3/31193_10150194204480107_587200106_12502309_3202857_n.jpg[/img]

Wooden Boat Festival, May 22/23

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There is a wooden boat festival in Duncan at the Maple Bay Marina on May 22nd and 23rd!

The event is free, and more information is here: http://www.harbourliving.ca/event/15th-m...http://www.harbourliving.ca/event/15th-maple-bay-marina-wooden-boat-celebration/2

Anyone wanna do some skiing/snowboarding Sunday may 16?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Im looking for a partner to head out with me this weekend. sunday is gonna be best, Im thinking puzzel, albert edward, or mt. landale.

Give me a PM, text or call 250-709-4888

Ray

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(05-10-2010 08:19 PM)microjanet Wrote: On Wednesday nights there's a friendly race that starts and ends at the Dingy Dock Pub here in Nanaimo. Good group of people and there always seems to be someone looking for crew.

Cool, sounds like fun! When I get some free time I will defiantly have to check it out. The question is, how to you get to the Dingy Dock? Do you take the ferry?

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

On Wednesday nights there's a friendly race that starts and ends at the Dingy Dock Pub here in Nanaimo. Good group of people and there always seems to be someone looking for crew.

FOR SALE: NEW 2010 GARY FISHER HiFi Deluxe Bike $1,600

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Name & Registered Office:
BIKE TECH (YORKSHIRE) LIMITED
16 MOORLAND CRESCENT
BAILDON
SHIPLEY
WEST YORKSHIRE
BD17 6RL
Company No. 05470543
TEL.......+447045737939
E-Mail....biketechltd@hotmail.com

We are BIKE TECH (YORKSHIRE) LIMITED and one of the Best Bike Selling Distributor.We are Legitimate registered Company here in United Kingdom with over 10 years of Excellent services to our customers all over the world.We ship via UPS, and your ordered items will get to your door step within 48 hrs(Two Working Days).We sell all kinds Cannondale, Cervelo, Ellsworth, Giant, Jamis, Klein, Kona, Litespeed, Rocky Mountain, Santa Cruz, Specialized, Trek, Gary Fisher bikes.

We ship and deliver fast to your doorstep within 48 hours of purchase via reliable courier companies FedEx/DHL/UPS after payment confirmation upon which we issue you TRACKING NUMBER/AIRWAY BILL which enable you to track/trace your goods on transit before delivery.

Kindly note that all our Products are brand new with International Warranty.

Here are some of our best offers:

NEW Kona 2009 Stab Supreme Bike $1,500
NEW Kona 2009 Stinky Air Bike $1,200
NEW Kona 2009 Hei Hei Supreme Bike $1,500
NEW Kona 2009 Kula Supreme Bike $1,400
NEW Kona 2009 Coilair Supreme Bike $1,200
NEW Kona 2009 Dawg Supreme Bike $1,500
NEW Kona 2009 Coilair Deluxe Bike $1,500
NEW Kona 2009 Stinky Deluxe Bike $1,550
NEW Kona 2009 Hei Hei Deluxe 2-9 Bike $1,1,450
NEW Kona 2009 Stab Deluxe Bike $1,400
NEW Kona 2009 Dawg Deluxe Bike $1,370
NEW Kona 2009 Hei Hei 2-9 Bike $1,200
NEW Kona 2009 Bass Bike $1,000
NEW Kona 2009 Kula Deluxe Bike $1,100
NEW Kona 2009 Coilair bIKE $1,150
NEW Kona 2009 Stinky Bike $1,220
NEW Kona 2009 King Kahuna 2-9 Bike $1,190
NEW Kona 2009 Minxy Ladies Bike $1,100
NEW Kona 2009 Lisa 120 Deluxe Ladies Bike $1,000
NEW Kona 2009 Big Unit 2-9 Singlespeed Bike $1,300
NEW Kona 2009 Lisa TR Ladies Bike $1,100
NEW Kona 2009 Stinky Six Bike $1,140
NEW Kona 2009 Kula Lisa Ladies Bike $1,102

NEW 2008 Kona Dawg Primo Mountain Bike $1,000
NEW 2008 Kona Kula Supreme Mountain Bike $1,300
NEW 2008 Kona Stinky Mountain Bike $900
NEW 2008 Kona Kula Lisa Mountain Bike $1,300
NEW 2008 Kona Blast Deluxe - Gold - SRP $400
NEW 2007 Kona Dawg Primo Mountain Bike $1,100
NEW 2007 Kona Kula Supreme Mountain Bike $1,300
NEW 2007 Kona Stinky Mountain Bike $1,000
NEW 2008 Kona Blast Deluxe - Gold - SRP $500

NEW 2008 CANNONDALE Rush Carbon 4 Bike $1,400
NEW 2008 CANNONDALE Rush 6 Bike $1,200
NEW 2008 CANNONDALE Caffine F1 Feminine Bike $900
NEW 2007 Cannondale Road Tandem Bike $1,000
NEW 2007 Cannondale Gemini 900 Mountain Bike $1,100
NEW 2007 Cannondale Mountain Tandem Bike $1,200
NEW 2007 Cannondale R1000 Road Bike $1,000
NEW 2008 CANNONDALE Moto 3 Carbon Bike $1,500

NEW Trek 2009 Madone 5.2 Pro Bike $1,400
NEW Trek 2009 EX9 Bike $1,900
NEW Trek 2009 EX8 Bike $1,500
NEW Trek 2009 EX7 Bike $1,300
NEW Trek 2009 EX 6.5 Bike $1,150
NEW Trek 2009 EX 5.5 Bike $1,000
NEW Trek 2009 Remedy 7 Bike $1,000
NEW Trek 2009 Madone 4.7 Bike $1,300
NEW Trek 2009 Madone 4.5 Bike $1,100
NEW Trek 2009 8500 Bike $1,090
NEW Trek 2009 7.9 FX Mens Hybrid Bike $1,000
NEW Trek 2009 8000 Bike $1,000
NEW Trek 2009 1.9 Bike $900
NEW Trek 2009 6700 Bike $800
NEW Trek 2009 7.7 FX Mens Hybrid Bike $890
NEW Trek 2009 7.6 FX WSD Ladies Bike $700

NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 9 Bike $1,400
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 8 Bike $1,200
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 7 Bike $1,150
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 5.5 WSD Bike $1,000
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 6.5 Bike $1,100
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 5.5 Bike $1,050
NEW 2008 TREK Fuel EX 8 WSD Bike $1,200
NEW TREK 6700 WSD 2008 Bike $1,000
NEW TREK 6500 WSD 2008 Bike $1,000
NEW 2007 Trek 5000 Road Bike $1,100

NEW GT 2009 Zaskar Carbon Pro Bike $1,800
NEW GT 2009 Force 1 Bike $1,700
NEW GT 2009 Zaskar Carbon Expert Bike $1,200
NEW GT 2009 Zaskar Pro Bike $1,201
NEW GT 2009 Force 2 Bike $1,100
NEW GT 2009 Zaskar Expert Bike $1,000
NEW GT 2009 Force 3 Bike $1,010

NEW Orange 2009 Alpine 160 FR Bike $1,670
NEW Orange 2009 Alpine 160 AM Bike $1,600
NEW Orange 2009 Five Diva pro Bike $1,500
NEW Orange 2009 ST4 Pro Bike $1,300
NEW Orange 2009 Five Pro Bike $1,400
Orange 2009 Five S Bike $1,200
Orange 2009 P7 Pro Bike $1,000
Orange 2009 Crush Bike $1,000

NEW 2007 Specialized Epic Comp Mountain Bike $1,200
NEW 2007 Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Mountain Bike $1,000
NEW 2007 Specialized Epic Marathon Mountain Bike $1,400
NEW 2007 Specialized Roubaix Pro Road Bike $1,500
NEW 2007 Specialized Ruby Pro Road Bike $1,450
NEW 2007 Specialized Tarmac Pro Double Road Bike $1,700
NEW 2007 Specialized Transition Pro Road Bike $1,800

NEW 2008 GARY FISHER HiFi Pro Bike $1,500
NEW 2008 GARY FISHER Supercaliber Bike $1,550
NEW 2008 GARY FISHER HiFi Deluxe Bike $1,600
NEW 2008 GARY FISHER HiFi Plus Bike $1,200
NEW 2008 GARY FISHER HiFi Deluxe GS Bike $1,500
NEW 2007 Gary Fisher Cake 1 DLX Mountain Bike $1,500
NEW 2007 Giant Anthem 1 Mountain Bike $1,200
NEW 2007 Giant Reign X0 Mountain Bike $1,500
NEW 2007 Giant Tcr Composite 1 Road Bike $1,500

NEW 2008 MARIN Juinper Trail Bike $900
NEW 2008 MARIN Wildcat Trail Bike $1,200
NEW 2008 MARIN Alpine Trail Bike $1,300
NEW 2008 MARIN East Peak Bikw $1,550
NEW 2008 MARIN Rock Springs Bike $1,300
NEW 2008 MARIN Rift Zone Bike $1,400
NEW 2008 MARIN Rift Zone SE Bike $ 1,300
NEW 2008 MARIN Wolf Ridge Bike $1,600
NEW 2008 MARIN Mount Vision Bike $1,800
NEW 2008 MARIN Attack Trail Bike $1,810

and many more models available at this special price.
Shipping:

1.Express Shipping by UPS,DHL,FedEx
Australia: 2 - 3 working days
Rest of Europe: 2- 3 working days
United States: 2- 3 working days
Please provide your contact no. for Express use.
2. We ship the package within 24 hours after
the payment.

Return Policy:
1. Please notify us within 14 days (according to the posting date).
2. Please complete the RMA form for any return items.
3. Return items MUST have all ORIGINAL packaging and accessories.
4. Return postage and insurance charge is non-refundable for return items.
5. Return/exchange shipment of quality, we will supply free after
service
Maintenance to quality problem goods(refund or exchange new
shipment). If returned goods isn't quality problem but caused by
buyer mis-judgment, 15% of amount for refund (include freight and insurance costs) or freight fee will be charged.
Please contact us for more information and purchase inquiries.

To place an order with us,kindly get back to us with the Information below:

-FULL NAMES??
-ADDRESS??
-CITY??
-POSTAL CODE??
-PHONE NUMBER??
-PRODUCTS NEEDED??
-UNITS NEEDED??

Contact us today at:
Name & Registered Office:
BIKE TECH (YORKSHIRE) LIMITED
16 MOORLAND CRESCENT
BAILDON
SHIPLEY
WEST YORKSHIRE
BD17 6RL
Company No. 05470543
TEL.......+447045737939
E-Mail....biketechltd@hotmail.com

FOR SALE: NEW Kona 2010 Stab Supreme Bike $1,500

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I have my level 3 white sail, but I haven't done it in a while and would love to get out sometime with some people. That would be great :)

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hello Everyone,
I'm Darren I love to kayak, snowboard, golf, fish, hike, camp, rock climb, photography and just about anything outdoors. I live in Nanaimo and work full time but usually get some free play on Sundays. Drop me a message if there is a something you might think I would enjoy.
Until then,
Peace,
Darren :)

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi my name is Teresa and I'm an outdoor junkie...

I live in Courtenay and I mountain bike, ski, rockclimb, kayak, sail, canoe, hike, you get the idea :)

I haven't been to any meetings. I actually didn't know there were meetings, I found this site by accident a couple of months ago... LOL But I already know who some of you are from Twitter. (You can find me at http://twitter.com/mtnbikinggirl and http://twitter.com/islandcup although 2 of us post to that account)

I won't be hiking this year (maybe later in the season though) and rockclimbing is a big "if" as well but I'm always up to mountain biking!

RE: Toonie races

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(05-04-2010 04:29 PM)Ross Wrote: Sounds like a fantastic idea to me. There might be issues with land ownership and insurance

That's exactly the problem. To have toonie races in Cumberland means we'd be having them on private land which means getting permission from the logging companies which they won't give without proper liability insurance and Cycling BC won't sanction the races unless we set them up like a regular race with first aid attendants, lots of volunteers, etc, etc. Too much of a headache.

Here are the maps showing where the private lands are (they're marked in green). It's really eye opening.

http://www.pmflc.ca/maps.html

RE: Intro to Outdoor Rock Course?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

GREAT idea to take a course from a reputable instructor if you're making the jump to outdoor climbing or if you've just started and have been climbing with friends. I have a couple friends who are rock guides with the ACMG and they shudder at the number of so many bad, and potentially fatal habits at outdoor crags. Don't trust your buddies to teach you outdoor climbing skills!

And hey, if you can get some good glory shots from Erik, why wouldn't you take the course?! (hahaha)

RE: Arrowsmith Summit.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Lots of snow still up there right now!

RE: Arrowsmith Summit.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The Judge's Route is non-technical. It is 3rd class hiking. The trail is steep and short.

Arrowsmith Summit.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I was recently talking to a friend down in Victoria and he mentioned that he would like to try reaching the summit of Arrowsmith without doing any technical climbing. Is anyone aware of a way to summit Arrowsmith without a bunch of gear?

Intro to Outdoor Rock Course?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey folks,
Just chatting with Jan from Island Alpine Guides and he mentioned they need a few more folks in their Intro to Rock Climbing course may 15/16 at Crest Creek. Details at their website

I'm planning on photographing the course and it would be reeel nice if it ran...

If you've ever had any interest in climbing now is the time to learn, why not learn from awesome instructors at one of the best crags around?

RE: Toonie races

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There is one in Port Alberni too, these guys: http://www.pacyclers.com/

For me in parksville, it's almost as close to go there :)

RE: Toonie races

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I've gotten in touch with the organizations that run the well established Squamish and Whistler toonie races. Will have more details soon. In the meantime, let me know if you'd be interested in something like this.....

Janet

RE: Toonie races

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Sounds like a fantastic idea to me. There might be issues with land ownership and insurance but I'm assuming those can be overcome. Dumont or the Abyss sound like a fantastic places to start something like this. We might be able to hook up with some of the Bike stores to get something like this going. It would take a bit of pestering but with their experience we could probably put something together. But you said it, it does take someone to spearhead it and see it all the way through.

North Coast Trail

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I have a friend coming from Holland in June who is heading up to the do the North Coast Trail. He's looking for people who've done it and are willing to give a little beta. Their plan is to start at the east end and head west.

Nanaimo Climbers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There is a good group started on facebook for Nanaimo Climbers:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2400893308

Good information there for Nanaimo climbers!

RE: Backcountry Sledding April 1st

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Thanks for sharing interesting things with all of us. I like way of your thought process.
Watch Twilight The Movie
Reverse Phone Lookup

Toonie races

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Why is it that so many other locations with prime mountain biking have regular toonie races and we don't in Nanaimo? Seems like there's so many riders around here and we all know that we have a quality trail system. It's also a great way to build community and seems in keeping with the philosophy of the people who are interested in Outdoor Vanisle.

I'd support anyone in running these but just don't have the time to spearhead it solo. Anyone interested? There are lot of examples of how to run these properly so it's not as if we'd have to reinvent the wheel (pun intended).

Janet

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Uhmm, hi, my name is Janet and I'm addicted to snow.

When there's no snow I console myself with climbing outdoors (a sport in which my 14yr old daughter schools me) and mountain biking. I live on a little island so also kayak, formerly as a mode of commuting, now just for fun. Used to surf A LOT but have scaled that down considerably in the past two years. Now I'm not so much of a "surfer" as just someone who surfs occasionally. And yes, Jerrett, we'll get you into the water soon!

I've tried snowshoeing on several occasions over the years - hiking, running, racing - and am now comfortable in saying that I can't understand why anyone would snowshoe when they could ski. I'm just saying....

See you at the next meeting!

B.C. under attack

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

This is a short film just about the world we live in, share and are in part responsible for. It's something I'm passionate about and I want to share it and hope that if enough people care, we can change our world. You can preview it at myspace. ( Don't believe any of the personal profile stuff, cause I lied. ) You'll find it under "Stream" right here:
http://www.myspace.com/533192365
Thanks for watching! Pass it along.

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi! I'm Jerrett, I've been to all the Outdoor Vanisle meetings - including the ones before I came up with a name for it :)

The most common things you'll find me doing is snowboarding/splitboarding, mountain biking, or rock climbing... I'm up for anything though, and hopefully will be learning to surf this year!

http://nullcreations.net / http://twitter.com/jerrett / http://facebook.com/jerrett.taylor

RE: Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi I am Myles

Ive been to two outdoor club meetings so far. I do Caving, mountaineering, kayaking, hiking, sking, snowshoeing. Ive done just about every outdoor thing in the book, and i am always looking for partners.

Im 33 and I also volunteer for Search and Rescue. I somtimes work as an outdoor guide, and Archaeologist as well

Hope to meet many new people in this outdoor club

New to Nanaimo

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi,

I have been living in Nanaimo two years but still getting to know the area and trying to connect with people my own age. I like to be active and the best way I think to make new friends is through doing active fun activities.

I am a scuba diver; kayaker; golfer; down hill skier, hiker and up until recently a dragonboater. My most favorite activity is kayaking but I am always up for trying new things cause you never know if you might like it.

I hope to attend one of the meet ups sometime and in the meantime if anyone is up for a hike or kayaking send me an email.

Julia

(05-01-2010 09:15 AM)Ross Wrote: Hey guys, I'm gonna sticky this post so everyone has a place to introduce themselves and let the others know what they like to do and where they play. I'll start.

I play in Nanaimo most of the time but for rad trips, anywhere on the Island is fair game. I mountain bike, run, hike, snowshoe, snowboard, and dirtbike.

Find me on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/rosscollicutt
and Twitter http://twitter.com/rcthink

Your turn!

RE: Kayaking Great Central Lake

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(05-01-2010 08:28 AM)Ross Wrote: Looks like a wicked trip on a perfect day to do it. What kind of boat do you have Myles?

hi Ross I got a Wilderness systems tsunami. Its just a day trip boat but it still holds a fair bit of gear. Easy to load and transport, perfect for what i need, as i am just doing day trips now

Myles

Introduce yourself here!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey guys, I'm gonna sticky this post so everyone has a place to introduce themselves and let the others know what they like to do and where they play. I'll start.

I play in Nanaimo most of the time but for rad trips, anywhere on the Island is fair game. I mountain bike, run, hike, snowshoe, snowboard, and dirtbike.

Find me on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/rosscollicutt
and Twitter http://twitter.com/rcthink

Your turn!

RE: Kayaking Great Central Lake

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Looks like a wicked trip on a perfect day to do it. What kind of boat do you have Myles?

RE: Kayaking Great Central Lake

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

What a serene way to day trip!

RE: Kayaking Great Central Lake

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Nice, I bet that'd be a neat place to camp =)

Kayaking Great Central Lake

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

On Suday April 25 I kayaked to Beauty Isalnd in the middle of great Central Lake by myself. It took 2 hours to get there and 2 hours back. The weather was cool and cloudy. There were two Islands right beside one another , Beauty Island, and a smaller Island which was uninhabited. I stoped on the smaller Island for lunch. Overall it was a good trip.

Myles

[attachment=33][attachment=34][attachment=35][attachment=36][attachment=37]

RE: Outdoor Websites

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The site looks great Dave, I'll definitely be checking that out to figure out what all the plants and trees are. I've always wondered, but never really found a good place to find out what they are. Do you think you could tell us what things are if we posted photos in the forum?

RE: Outdoor Websites

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Ross,
I've started up an outdoor nature website to feature natural areas on Vancouver Island - it's more focused on providing information about interesting nature destinations (i.e. unique plant communities, bird watching locations, types of flowers blooming, nature festivals, etc.) but some of the folks on the forum might find it useful. The site is at http://IslandNature.ca

Cheers,

Dave

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

added!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Mt. Washington, April 14th... Spring is here... Photo is taken by Jason Connelly

Thursday April 22 run

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey everyone,

I'll be running in the Westwood area Thursday the 22nd around 5:30 pm. I'm thinking of heading into Morrell Sanctuary and then up onto K2. We could do something different if there's something better but I haven't run k2 this way and want to try it out. Let me know on here or facebook if you up for coming.

RE: island mt ramblers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Dean: over the years I've looked into several of the groups that you mentioned and none have appealed to my non-pack mentality. While I agree that they are particularly useful for giving a voice to outdoor enthusiasts for issues such as land use as well as a place to introduce new people to a specific sport or area, to me the formal structure is exclusionary to those of us not interested in outdoor GROUP activities.

I strongly agree with Jerrett and Eric's concept of Outdoor Vanisle being a community versus a club. I'm not interested in a formal group structure based around what activity you do where there are elected leaders outlining the direction of the group. For me Outdoor Vanisle community is more about passing along and gaining knowledge in an informal manner over food and drink. I see Jerrett + Eric's roles more as facilitators, creating the physical and electronic mediums for a wide range of us to come together.

While I really enjoyed the presentation about the VI Spine Trail last month, I'd hate to see the monthly get-togethers turn into just a forum for monthly presentations. If I wasn't interested in the topic I would be less inclined to come.

Perhaps Outdoor Vanisle will appeal to those of us more interested in small group or solo outdoor pursuits. Maybe we're the outdoor anarchists ;)

RE: island mt ramblers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Outdoor Vanisle is not intended to be a formal group like Ramblers, Alpine Club, etc. What me and Eric set out to do when we came up with the idea of OVI was to create a community, not a club - it may sound like semantics but there is a pretty big difference!

We're just trying to provide whatever we can to help foster and improve the community of outdoor enthusiasts on the island - things like meetups where people can hangout, bringing cool films for people to watch, providing this forum for people to communicate, the website where we try to highlight interesting events and relevant stuff that's going on on the island, etc...

As such I don't believe we are really replacing or displacing any existing groups - People could easily be part of our community as well as part of existing clubs and groups! Dean, if you are a member of Ramblers you could get in touch, perhaps you guys could even come do a presentation at one of our meetups - there might be people interested in joining if they were aware of what the Ramblers do!

RE: island mt ramblers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

What's the website?

And our group isn't exactly a formal group like the Ramblers. It may turn into that eventually. It is more for actively getting outdoor people in touch with other outdoor people and giving them a forum or venue to do that in. I haven't attended any meetings from the Official groups but they sound a lot like meetings and less like hanging out and talking about trips.

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

First photo from the approach to the Golden Hinde. Taken about a mile up on the ridge to the NW of the Behinde. It was the evening of Day 3 on our approach in from the Elk River Trail. Date: July 13, 2009.

Second Photo: From the Golden Hinde looking south to Burman Lake, Schjelderup Lape, Carter Lake and Phillip's Ridge.

Third Photo: Standing at unnamed lake NW of Circle Lake.

Fourth: Myself and Tim looking at the Behinde. The last obstacle between us and the Hinde itself.

Fifth Photo: From Phillip's Ridge, looking back at the Hinde (and Behinde)in the evening the day after we climbed it.

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm in... Just let me know if it is going to be a different location... Otherwise I will be at the parking lot of Westwood lake at 5.30 on Thursday...

Search and Rescue Beer and Burger

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There's a beer and burger coming up for the Search and Rescue around here on April 29th.

You can email katie_ferland@hotmail.com for tickets. Sounds like they're almost sold out. There's a facebook page for more info too

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=36...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=367189861

Hope to see everyone out there supporting our search and rescue. Never know when you're gonna need em!

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Yup, I'm so down. I work with a few ROC runners so we'll be able to hook up with them soon. Sounds like they go out Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm. We can also do our own. Anyone down for another run this week on Thursday? 5:30 pm ? Maybe same trail other direction?

RE: Mt Moriarty - April 10, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Nice pictures, beautiful day to get up there!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

nice!

Walking at Westwood

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

In an effort to get as many people outside as possible I'm going to be doing a walk around Westwood Mondays at 5:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come out. Depending on who comes out it might turn into a run. Don't let us stop you though, come on out and walk run or swim(maybe soon?). Think of it as a good place to discuss previous and upcoming trips or an outdoor Outdoor Meetup!

See you there!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

This one from Ammonite Falls Rappelling from last Friday... Photo is taken by Erik Peterson

Mt Moriarty - April 10, 2010

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I thought I'd try Mt Moriarty (for the 3rd time!). I thought the chances were slim given the amount of recent snow in the backcountry and I was correct. Using Google Earth I had plotted a potential route up the SE ridge from the Nanaimo Lakes side (see GPS track here Moriarty South Ridge from Nanaimo Lakes) and wanted to check it out.

The snow is really low. I hit the first of it at about 400m elevation and by 450m I could barely make any headway in 4x4 low. I strapped on my snowshoes and hiked about 2.5k up to where I could get a photo of where I would park my truck on the potential route. I wanted to see how steep it would be to get up on the ridge.

This is Green Mountain from the Painted Rock bridge on the way in along Nanaimo Lakes:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2707/4511575802_bc38c486e5.jpg[/img]

My truck from where I hiked up. It didn't seem like that much snow there but it was wet and hard packed to the point where I couldn't seem to make any headway.
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2046/4511576474_502c72828f.jpg[/img]

My dog, Chase. He does all right carrying the backpack but he continues to have trouble using the poles.
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4511577384_50e5e95248.jpg[/img]

This is a shot up to the start of the SE ridge on Moriarty. You would park at the base of the clearing and hike up the ridge to the left. It looked a little steep but very doable.
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2604/4511578068_a385def077.jpg[/img]

Cokely (Rosseau Bowl) Class 2

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I triggered a class 2 in the Rosseau bowl today, slide to the bottom.. scary stuff. Nobody was buried or hurt.

[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2699/4509922198_45b2edca2b_o.jpg[/img]

Facture line was somewhere between half a meter and a meter deep, you can barely see it at the top

the front side of cokely was pretty stable

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Yah that was great!! Thanks for the awesome run!

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey guys... That was a great run... I really enjoyed the trail and a good company... ;) We should do it again sometim soon :D

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

We're definitely on for 5:30 tonight. Hope to see everyone there! Got some nice weather, should be a good run! I'll be in a blue 4runner with a very red shirt on :D

RE: Albert Edward trail run/hike

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Wow, looks really nice up there... I bet it's good covered in snow, too :)

Albert Edward trail run/hike

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

This run / hike happened in Sept. There were 3 of us and the weather was excellent.
We parked at the Nordic Lodge at Mt. Washington at 8:30 am. The run thru Paradise Meadows couldn't be beat... there were ripe blueberries to eat ( although we had to share with the bears!). Time to the summit was just under 4 hours. A nice leisurely lunch at the top while scoping out all the peaks in the distance. Then a quick two and a half hour burn back to the car.
[attachment=21]
[attachment=22]
[attachment=23]
[attachment=24]
[attachment=25]

RE: What trails do people ride in the winter?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Top Bridge Park in Parksville, Nymph Falls and Stoten Falls in Courtenay, Lower Cumberland trails (although we lost a lot to logging this winter there are still some good ones left), and Moe's Misery in Royston.

RE: Bike lights.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(12-24-2009 02:20 PM)eric Wrote: Does anyone have any recommendations on some good headlamps to use for biking? I've got a 15+ year old BLT dual light system which works really well, but my friends who are looking for some headlamps are really struggling with all the selection out there.

I have the Light and Motion Stella which is fairly decent, but pricey. Mine was $300+ 2 years ago.

If money is an issue, here's a DIY light. Not the prettiest, but for $60...
http://www.adventureworldmagazineonline....http://www.adventureworldmagazineonline.com/gear/d-i-y-h-i-d-

Rappelling at Ammonite waterfalls AGAIN!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hello everyone,

After the last rappelling event -totally random- people sending messages to let us know so they can do it as well next time... Well next time is almost here... We are heading to Ammonite Waterfalls again this Friday around 2.30-3... If you want to give it a shot feel free to join us...

PS: Don't forget to bring spare clothing ;)[/font]

RE: Backcountry Sledding April 1st

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Nice one! I gotta find me a sled for next winter.

RE: West Coast Trail tips

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

RE: Great backcountry safety article(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Backcountry needs these items are necessary in emergencies.:

1. Topographic map and magnetic compass
2. Flashlight (with extra batteries and bulb)
3. Extra clothing (including mittens, hat, jacket and rain gear)
4. Sunglasses
5. Extra food and water
6. Waterproof matches in waterproof container
7. Candle/Fire starter
8. Pocket knife
9. First aid kit
10. Space blanket or two large heavy-duty trash bags
11. Extra Clothing and many more..

RE: West Coast Trail tips

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

My Cousin did it last year. Be prepared for a full-body challenge not just walking. There's substantial climbing and also downclimbing of ladders, as well as cable cars. Much of it is a 3-d obstacle course. Also some camp sites are apparently on the beach. Not sure if this can be avoided, but a floorless shelter might be less appealing over there. My best advice is that you get your hands on several guidebooks & cross-reference them.

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Saw one there once... not too much to worry about that night though. Was only about 6 inches of fluff and a stable base. It was from earlier this winter. That vimeo video I put up was sketch though. That big bowl, scary as shit b/c that would have been a major slide if it went... like class 3+ styles.

RE: Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The Comox Valley boasts one of the most extensive biking trails in British Columbia with enough variety to suit any rider. In that riverside trail systems near Nymph Falls offer a great technical ride along the Puntledge River. The Comox Valley is one of the truly an alpine to ocean destination, featuring stunning views from the mountains.

RE: Bike lights.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Bright lights for riding off road are expensive, most useful lights are over £100, with some costing as much as a half decent starter bike. New LED technology and mass production have driven the price of bright lights down but mountain bike lights have not been sold in sufficient numbers to get the real price drop benefit. With the P7 you can find as many fully charged batteries.

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Heh, last time i was up there we set a slide off there that pretty much caused the whole thing to rip... would suck to get caught in that at night!

RE: Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Black's Cycle has weekly rides. Check them out on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=53...http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5343343&id=512720774#!/group.php?gid=67922328

Tuesday nights are mountain and Thursday nights are road.

Island Cup Mountain Bike Race Series

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi all!

For all the mountain bikers out there, just a reminder that XC #3 is this weekend, Sunday April 11 in Cumberland! If DH is more your style, the first DH race kicks off on Sunday April 18 in Cumberland with the classic DCDH.

For more information on upcoming races, go to http://www.islandcupseries.com/index.php...http://www.islandcupseries.com/index.php/2010/2010-series

See you there! :cool:

RE: Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I wont be able to make it to the meeting. I work in victoria and I'm not off till 6. My name is Ray Monk.

RE: Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(04-04-2010 08:59 PM)raym Wrote: its always somthing ive been intrested in and would love to try out.

Great I will be at the monthly meeting. Will you? whats your name?

Myles

Backcountry Sledding April 1st

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Had a unreal day in the backcountry after huge dumps of snow last week. Here's a video from the day. Not telling the location so don't ask.

Backcountry Sledding April 1st

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Use these for the header
[attachment=14]
[attachment=13]

Brodie Bikes factory clearance

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://www.brodiebikes.com/2010/online_s...http://www.brodiebikes.com/2010/online_store/factory_cle

some fantastic deals in there... :o

RE: Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

its always somthing ive been intrested in and would love to try out.

Anyone interested in Caving?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Im looking for some people to go caving with (in the near future) and I dont just mean at horne lake. I know most of the major caves on the island. Theres some in port alberni, gold river, tahsis, port mcneil, areas. Gear required would be a climbing helmet and headlamp and a back up light and old clothes (expect to get dirty) and if you wish to get into verticle caving: harness, rapell device and ascenders. I have a 4x4 and can give people rides and I have a flexible scedual (available most days)

Myles

RE: Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(03-31-2010 05:28 PM)salty girl Wrote: I am relatively new to Parksville and am looking for some people to hang out with. I want to do some hiking and check out Mt. Arrowsmith, and I also enjoy sailing, scuba diving, fishing, boating, camping, beachcombing... Also want to try a game a tennis...

Hey I am in Qualicum Beach and I do a variety of outdoor activites. Including Kayaking, Caving, climbing/moutaineering, Hiking, canoeing, boating. I know the area quite well. My email is mabelobaba@hotmail.com I will be at the monthly meeting as well

Myles

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'll be there! I'm not super-fast (just getting back into running), if that's okay! Sounds like fun! Let's hope for sun! :)

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'll try to be there... will bring my Garmin Forerunner so we can track the distance...

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

How about Thursday at 5:30 at the Westwood Parking lot. We'll head around the North end of the lake and up onto K2. We'll pop out onto the powerlines at the end of K2 and then head into Morrell and back to the parking lot at Westwood. I haven't tracked the trail out yet but I think that run would be about 7 or 8k. Let me know who's in!

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Ross,

If it matches with my work schedule, I'm also up for the new trail run...

RE: Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Cranky, I'm definitely down. I run about 4-5 days a week right now from 5-8km and much prefer trails to the road. I was just out last week on the new K2 Trail behind Westwood lake in front of the ridges. It's a beautiful run. I'll post when I'm heading out next week closer to when I know.

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I know there is weekly races from Nanaimo and from Victoria. I'm not sure of the days of the week but most of the boats look for crew. I'm gonna try and get out with some of them.

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I have taken the course, basic cruising, and have crewed on several yachts at the RVYC races. I'm new to the island and am looking for people to sail with. I don't have my own boat yet.

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I <3 sailing. I just wish I had a boat!

I'm also thinking about teaching sailing again this summer too, we will have to see if that pans out.

RE: Mt. Holland tour

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(03-31-2010 08:16 PM)Ross Wrote: Nice one! Where exactly is Mount Holland? And what mountain is in the background there?

I'd love to see your gps tracks if you have any from your hikes. Do you take one with you?

Mount holland is the big mountain behind ladysmith. it tops out about *about* 1450ish meters. I dont take a GPS with me at all.

RE: Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

yeah, come to the meeting next wed. at the longwood :)

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I am! But I have no boat :(

RE: AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Trying to be one but I've neither got a boat nor the skills to use it. I will be heading out this summer as much as I can to get familar with the bigger boats. I've done a fair bit of sailing on smaller laser's but that's about it. And I laid around on one for 3 days in Australia but I don't think that counts towards learning anything!

RE: Mt. Holland tour

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Nice one! Where exactly is Mount Holland? And what mountain is in the background there?

I'd love to see your gps tracks if you have any from your hikes. Do you take one with you?

RE: Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Salty!

Welcome to the forums! There are a few people already on the forums from Parksville. I'm hoping they'll pipe up and introduce themselves. I'm in Nanaimo and head out as often as I can to hike, mountain bike, kayak, running, snowboarding, snowshoeing. Just about anything outside.

Keep an eye on the events section of the forum and you should see some things start to come up. The weather is getting nicer and nicer!

Also if you want to meet some people in the Nanaimo/Parksville area quickly come out to our Outdoor Meetups at Longwood Brewpub. They've got fantastic food and beer and we hang out and talk about outdoor adventures, past, present and future.

Here are some more details on the Outdoor Meetup for April:
http://outdoorvanisle.ca/entries/meetups/april-meetup . It will be a good one as we've got Gil Parker from the Vancouver Island Spine Trail Association coming by to talk about the new trail they are building from Victoria to Port Hardy, 700km of sweet hiking goodness!

We've also got an awesome mountain biking film playing at Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo on April 28. That would be a fantastic place to come and hang out as well. More details on that : http://outdoorvanisle.ca/entries/mountai...http://outdoorvanisle.ca/entries/mountain-biking/outdoor-vanisle-brings-follow-me-

See you round!

Ross

Looking to do some backcountry this weekend

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I would like to get out on sunday or monday if at all possable. Im looking for a partner for one to head out with. all this new snow needs some good lines put though it!

RE: Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey, Im down in duncan but am always looking for ppl to go out on day hikes with. I also scuba dive, fish, camp and all that good stuff.

If you have msn my e-mail is empire_35@hotmail.com Feel free to add me if you like.

Activity Partner Wanted - Parksville, Qualicum Beach

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I am relatively new to Parksville and am looking for some people to hang out with. I want to do some hiking and check out Mt. Arrowsmith, and I also enjoy sailing, scuba diving, fishing, boating, camping, beachcombing... Also want to try a game a tennis...

AHOY THERE!!!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Any sailors out there?

RE: Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Vancouver Island and nearby smaller Gulf Islands offer some of the best and most varied bike trails in the world, and mountain biking can be indulged in year-round here.

_______________________
My Little Blogs | Gadgets in Future | Slim Fit Blog

RE: Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

RE: Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

RE: Valhalla in Courtney selling splitboards 50% off

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

a kyber or spearhead with hybrid rocker would be great :D

RE: Valhalla in Courtney selling splitboards 50% off

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

they have a few , i think most are around 165's .. I saw a nice Khyber last time I was there

RE: Valhalla in Courtney selling splitboards 50% off

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

only a good deal if its the one you want... Any idea what board (s) they are selling?

Valhalla in Courtney selling splitboards 50% off

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

something like $600 for a brand new prior splitboard... good deal!

Mt. Holland tour

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Went up Mt. Holland today. As with both other times I have been there it was cloud and snowing. there seemed to be a fresh layer of 'snow' on a hardish rain crust, however it was stable.

it was a good tour, would be a great place for turns if the snow was better.

Heres pics!
[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954475107_587200106_11738795_5779188_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954560107_587200106_11738805_2141111_n.jpg[/img]
Baz, checking stability
[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954575107_587200106_11738807_7073711_n.jpg[/img]
point relese
[img]http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954610107_587200106_11738812_3144425_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954645107_587200106_11738819_1343654_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs391.snc3/23851_10150164954675107_587200106_11738823_6534033_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954705107_587200106_11738828_5035748_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954715107_587200106_11738829_3167241_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954735107_587200106_11738832_3488191_n.jpg[/img]
fallen cornies with a collapsed snow bridge
[img]http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs391.snc3/23851_10150164954785107_587200106_11738841_8162122_n.jpg[/img]
new cornes
[img]http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954810107_587200106_11738846_3228220_n.jpg[/img]
one good stomp took it down
[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954815107_587200106_11738847_3284509_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs391.snc3/23851_10150164954820107_587200106_11738848_1980517_n.jpg[/img]
end of the day
[img]http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954830107_587200106_11738850_3534813_n.jpg[/img]
Next time I come to this area I want to do the mountain in the back ground.
[img]http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954840107_587200106_11738852_3746727_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs431.ash1/23851_10150164954845107_587200106_11738853_4317583_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs371.snc3/23851_10150164954855107_587200106_11738854_1722220_n.jpg[/img]

RE: Tennis, anyone?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'd definitely be down for some tennis in Nanaimo. I'm not usually in Pville or QB though.

Tennis, anyone?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Anyone out there interested in trying tennis out in Parksville or Qualicum Beach?

RE: Riders in Parksville/Qualicum?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(03-04-2010 04:33 PM)Noah Wrote: I'm looking for people to ride with on evenings/weekends. I'm 31 and looking for people somewhat near my age. Hope to hear from you!

Hi, could be into a ride over the next little while. I'm down in Nanaimo but could meet up that way as well.

RE: Arrowsmith toure and an avi observation

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I've not got any avi gear right now so I'm not sure it's the best time to get up there. I'm actually(weird) hoping for the snow to melt so I can get out to more places without having to worry about the snow condiitions.

RE: Arrowsmith toure and an avi observation

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Thanks for the trip report! Photos are always a bonus. Fingers crossed for a few more weeks of snow......
JR

RE: Rappelling at Ammonite waterfalls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(03-23-2010 08:12 AM)vicen76 Wrote: One of my Turkish friend was telling me that he was really wanting to try do rappelling... After couple minutes of brainstorming we ended up with this cool idea... Rappelling at the Ammonite Falls during the winter(ish) time with ice cold freezing water... What can I say; I will do it again and again and again... It was wet but so much fun...

I will put a post here when we plan the next one hopefully in couple of weeks... Feel free to join us...

Wow! That looks really fun! That would be a fantastic way to end a day of climbing too!

Rappelling at Ammonite waterfalls

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

One of my Turkish friend was telling me that he was really wanting to try do rappelling... After couple minutes of brainstorming we ended up with this cool idea... Rappelling at the Ammonite Falls during the winter(ish) time with ice cold freezing water... What can I say; I will do it again and again and again... It was wet but so much fun...
[attachment=10][attachment=8][attachment=7][attachment=6]

I will put a post here when we plan the next one hopefully in couple of weeks... Feel free to join us...

RE: Arrowsmith toure and an avi observation

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Im looking to get back out there on the 28th. let me know if your intrested.

RE: Arrowsmith toure and an avi observation

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Awesome photos! Thanks for the report. I'm anxious to get up there soon.

Arrowsmith toure and an avi observation

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I took my parents up Arrowsmith today so they could do some snow shoeing. the weather was colder then expected but the cold weather ment SNOW!
[img]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs469.ash1/25741_10150161088820107_587200106_11639821_4789535_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161088840107_587200106_11639824_4266392_n.jpg[/img]
we didnt get a chance to do anything all to all to great, just an easy tour but atleast I got a good look at what the snow was doing in the area.
[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161088855107_587200106_11639826_7663584_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161088885107_587200106_11639830_3477280_n.jpg[/img]

After a short toure up an old road this nice gully came into view.
[img]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs469.snc3/25741_10150161088950107_587200106_11639840_1585882_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161088915107_587200106_11639834_62404_n.jpg[/img]
Notice the avi crown on the left of the cliff!
[img]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs469.snc3/25741_10150161088920107_587200106_11639835_6306592_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs469.snc3/25741_10150161088930107_587200106_11639836_7587496_n.jpg[/img]
Not sure what it ran on, but its a good bet its from the last weeks massive dumping of snow!
Little lunch time fire, my mom warming her hands.
[img]http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161089005107_587200106_11639849_7731113_n.jpg[/img]
lunch and skinning in the old groth.
[img]http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs449.snc3/25741_10150161089035107_587200106_11639852_4309096_n.jpg[/img]
Didnt get any pics on the way out, the clouds came down and viz dropped.

Im looking to get back here next sunday, PM me if anyone is intrested!

Follow Me playing in Nanaimo

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Outdoor Vanisle is very proud to be bringing Anthill Films latest film 'Follow Me' to Nanaimo!

Tickets will be $10 at the door. If we make any money on this we will be donating the profits to the Cumberland Community Forest Society to help protect our awesome bike trails!

Follow Me is a new mountain bike movie from the crew who brought you the Collective, Roam and Seasons. The first release from the crew’s new company Anthill Films, Follow Me takes the viewer inside the action, capturing the unique perspectives and HD
imagery the crew is famous for.

A modern portrait of mountain bike lifestyle, Follow Me gets back to basics and reminds us why we all love to ride bikes. Breaking from the traditional single rider format, Follow Me is based on the idea that “no one rides alone”; mixing and matching the world’s best
downhillers, freeriders and slopestylers in some of the best places to ride on the planet.

Think back‐yard sessions, ripping local trails, training bike parks, epic road trips and heli drops. Follow Me is all about good times, pushing limits with your friends, crazy adventures and most importantly having fun your bike.

Follow Me will change the way you see mountain bike films and get you stoked to get off the couch and ride!

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izU1dDwnuMY

Riders: Sam Hill, Gee Atherton, Darren Berrecloth, Ben Boyko, Brendan Fairclough, Geoff Gulevich, Matt Hunter, Cam McCaul, Brandon Semenuk, Steve Smith, Kurt Sorge, Thomas Vanderham

Locations: Queenstown NZ, Baja (Punta San Carlos), Whistler, Sun Peaks, Silver Star, Mt. Washington, the North Shore, Sunshine Coast, Kamloops, Mt. Hood

Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=10...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=109776022371

RE: VI Outdoor Adventure Expo

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

That sounds pretty sweet... Hopefully I can check it out!

RE: Anyone up for some backcountry skiing/snowboarding monday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

i hurt my knee today.so, i actuly should be easy on it.

RE: Anyone up for some backcountry skiing/snowboarding monday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Work :(

Outdoor Websites

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey everyone!

I'd love to find more awesome outdoor websites for good information and interesting ideas for trips. They can be just for Vancouver Island or more general. Here are a couple of cool ones.

http://www.climbfind.com/world-climbing-map - It's a huge map of a lot of good climbing all over the world.

http://trailpeak.com/ - Good trail search across Canada and some of the States. Some of them have good photos and GPS tracks. You can download the GPS tracks with credits you get from uploading yours.

http://www.wildisle.ca/books/out-of-print.html The website of the Wild Isle book company. They've got an out-of-print page that's got some free downloads of old books and back issues of their outdoor magazine.

Anyone up for some backcountry skiing/snowboarding monday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I would like to get out some where on monday. I got a few places that should be safe in mind.

RE: Mt. Washington on Sat.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I will be up there sunday, look for the guy with red ride pants, green mojo splitboard, white boots and a back pack with avi gear hanging off it.

RE: Any Local Rowers?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Thanks to both the replies, much appreciated. I was not aware of the Nanaimo Rowing Club, will be looking into it for sure ... although I was hoping to eventually establish an informal open water rowing club of our own in Qualicum Beach.

I figure once I get out there this summer and simply get more visible on the water - that usually generates interest from the locals. It's always more fun to have a few people you can have some friendly competition with :)

[img]http://www.beloblog.com/ProJo_Blogs/newsblog/archives/sculling.jpg[/img]

RE: Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(03-04-2010 11:26 PM)microjanet Wrote: Stop whining that the government isn't paying to maintain our rather exclusive playground and get out there to organize a trail maintenance crew.

Microjanet - while I am sure your comments are well meaning, they just are not well informed - and that get's frustrating. It is not a question of "whining" as you so indelicately put it. Organizing trail maintenance on Park Land - be it provincial or federal - is a time intensive undertaking... and for good reason. With Strathcona Provincial Park, designated in 1911, being the oldest provincial park in British Columbia - this is a very sensitive issue.

Friends of Strathcona are fabulous advocates and DO organize some basic trail maintenance - but any capital project, such as bridge rebuilding - is much more complex and not something you simply say - "let's go do it!". Noise disturbance in this area impacts the Vancouver Island Marmot recovery program; stream bed disturbance from construction needs to be monitored by fish habitat specialists; tree removal needs to be approved by Silvaculture specialists with ten to twenty year impact forecasts ... the list goes on.

It would be great to say 'screw the government bureaucracy' and let's just get it done - but that type of well meaning mentality actually does far more environmental damage and degradation in the long run. I absolutely agree with you in regards to the volunteer stream keeper groups, as I am an active member on one of them... but do you actually have any idea of the expense, time commitment and expertise involved in those stream enhancement projects?

The other issue I have with your comments is with regards to backcountry touring and hiking being elitist pursuits - you are quite wrong on that statement, particularly in regards to Strathcona backcountry ... it is a very popular destination and well recognized throughout the world. It most certainly is NOT our exclusive playground. If you have any doubts, exploring the controversy that has arisen from the proposed 'private access' resort camping and horseback riding trail. The Friends of Strathcona state:

The Friends of Strathcona Park (FOSP) have long opposed the initial application from Clayoquot Wilderness Resort to run commercial horse tours in the Bedwell Valley of the Park on the grounds it represents yet another loss of a public asset owned by the future generations of BC residents to private, run for profit interests. The issue is no longer, and really never was about the exclusivity of horses in the Park to entertain the elite guests at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort. We were all duped. Minister Penner has acknowledged that the Parks of BC are severely underfunded, and lack employees to maintain, expand and supervise our internationally recognized Parks.. So, the private sector, will come to the rescue under this governments policy of public private partnerships. Parks have resources to be exploited. Parks need to be adequately funded. Enter the private sector.

So, as you can see, maintaining our beautiful Strathcona Park is not a simple thing ...

Mt. Washington on Sat.

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

If anyone is interested in coming to Mt. Washington, a couple of us are going up this saturday to take advantage of the heaps and heaps of powder they are receiving...

Thursday night, too :)

VI Outdoor Adventure Expo

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The Outdoor Adventure Expo in Victoria is coming up fast. http://www.ifmevents.com/. Starts Friday April 9th and goes till the 11th.

I'm going to head down for the Saturday and possibly the Sunday as well.

There's a friggin zip line inside the recreation center!!

Presentation tonight at VIU

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Richard Boyce is doing a multimedia presentation tonight at VIU in Nanaimo, Building 355, Room 203, at 7PM (March 9th).

The presentation is part of an ongoing lecture series titled 'It's Your Media' which focuses on local & grassroots media, especially concerning media to promote and effect social and global change. Hosted by students enrolled at the Digital Media Studies Department of Vancouver Island University.

RE: Anytime, anywhere

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Ive got a few places in mind, Century Sam lake area might be a good option?

RE: Anytime, anywhere

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Weekends are best for me, but likely not this weekend :(

RE: Anytime, anywhere

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Ah darn I should have posted up yesterday then eh, today would have been a nice excursion. Maybe next week. Anyone else?

RE: Anytime, anywhere

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Im good for sundays and mondays and am also up for any mountain.

Anytime, anywhere

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey I don't have anything in mind but I'm up for any mountain anytime, want to get as many BC turns on my new tele gear before the end of the season.

Gavin Rogers, in CR

Few pics from today at a spot I found ;)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Day started off pretty chill. We had a late start and got to the snow line around 1ish. With a whort hike to consistant coverage I put my skins on and headed to the top. I was with my mon who was snow shoeing. About half way up it got cold and started to snow! The snow was stable and cornish. there are some pretty cool lines up there to be had, I would like to go back this coming weekend to tour around more and ride some of the lines!

pics!

[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs385.snc3/23537_10150129654845107_587200106_11450055_6477938_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129654860107_587200106_11450057_2922658_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs425.ash1/23537_10150129654870107_587200106_11450058_3126491_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129654950107_587200106_11450066_8317014_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129654975107_587200106_11450068_8352268_n.jpg[/img]
[img]http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129654985107_587200106_11450070_6385429_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs425.ash1/23537_10150129654995107_587200106_11450071_1996589_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129655085107_587200106_11450081_6040249_n.jpg[/img]

[img]http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs365.snc3/23537_10150129655110107_587200106_11450083_8072502_n.jpg[/img]

Let me know if anyone is intrested in checking this place out on sunday march 14th.

RE: March 15th evening ride!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

i rode there yesterday. logging roads are super dry, trails are that perfect spot in between mud and dry. Although, it's been pouring all day...

RE: Riders in Parksville/Qualicum?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

We should do a monthly ride series, organized by someone different each session to showcase their 'home' trails.
Vic = hartland
duncan = prevost/tzouhalem
nanaimo = doumont or abyss
parksvegas = hammerfest
cumby = everything
courtenay = forbidden
campbell river = snowden

Or something to that effect.

RE: March 15th evening ride!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I also like biking in cumberland! Anyone know what the trails are like there these days? Must be decent with all the sun lately!

RE: March 15th evening ride!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

did someone say cumberland?

RE: Outdoor Vanisle in the news :)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

haha my mom cut the article out for me.

RE: Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Personally, I think it is in the Government's best interest to put as much money as possible into outdoor spaces. Not only does it look good on them to be spending that money, but it makes their country/province/city look good, creates tourism dollars, and keeps people healthy and happy.

For us, I think we'll need to pursue them for the money they've allocated elsewhere but not go too far. Everyone knows what politics is like. They've probably spent our hard-earned cash bickering about some silly small thing.

At a point though, those who enjoy using those areas will have to step up and do a bit of work to help maintain the places we love. We take for granted that all this work has been done for us and we live in such a beautiful place.

Is it really that bad to spend a few days out in the fresh air maintaining your favorite trail?

RE: West Coast Trail tips

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

When I did the trail we did not bring tents. If one person has a tarp that should suffice. It did not rain the whole time we were out there. We usually slept on the beach. You can either hike on the trail or hike the beach (and get better veiws for photos) If you do hike the beach be wary of the surge canals that have to be crossed (expect to get wet) Theres lots of caves and remains of shipwrecks on the beach which are interesting to see. Some sections of the coastline are treacherous with cliffs so be weary. The trail usually takes 10 days with a rest day at Tisiuit falls (Halfway along the trail) Tisiuit falls is good for photos and a good place to swim. The trail has lots of board walk, stairs and cable car crossings (wich are fun)

RE: March 15th evening ride!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

What about Cumberland? :) I'm in regardless!

March 15th evening ride!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Who's in for a bike ride on Monday (15th) after work? Location TBD - maybe Dumont?

April Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Next meetup is 7th of April, RSVP if you use facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=10...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=10150108769180

Same place - upstairs @ brewmaster room, Longwood...

More details to come as it gets closer!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

When posting a reply (Click "Add Reply" at the bottom, instead of using the little quick reply box) there is a spot to "Add Attachments"

RE: March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

And kudos to Ross too, as he helped get it put together as well! We'll figure out a better arrangement for the tables for next month.. and hopefully fill the room with even more people!

Thanks to everyone for showing up, was great to meet you all!

RE: Any Local Rowers?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

The Nanaimo Rowing Club has a fantastic youth program, in particular their girls novice and junior programs. Really positive group of teenaged girls who are more concerned with how much of a "tank" they are in the boat (a compliment my daughter tells me) than hanging out at the mall. I highly recommend it!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

ummm jerrett... how do I post a photo here?

RE: March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Kudos to jerrett and eric for organizing the meetup tonight. Great collection of people!

Now if we can just do something about the table arrangement..... LOL

Hope to see even more people there next month!

RE: Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I agree with Ross that the regular users of the trails should be stepping up to help with volunteer maintenance and/or fundraising/contributing. Admit it, things like backcountry touring and hiking are elitist pursuits; I don't think that the general public should be funding the bulk of it, particularly given the current economic situation.

A more effective use of public funds would be to support capital projects managed by volunteer or non-profit groups. Look at how successful things like the volunteer streamkeeper groups have been in taking responsibility for their local waterbodies.

Stop whining that the government isn't paying to maintain our rather exclusive playground and get out there to organize a trail maintenance crew.

RE: Edible Wild Plants of Vancouver Island

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Oh yah, I forgot about that!

I heard about this in the weekly Runners of Compassion email. You have to sign up ($10 for a year) for the club at frontrunners and they do weekly (saturday morning) trail runs all over Nanaimo.

RE: Riders in Parksville/Qualicum?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'll be riding a bunch once the time zone changes next week on evenings.. and weekends once all the snow is gone :) I'll keep in touch!

Riders in Parksville/Qualicum?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm looking for people to ride with on evenings/weekends. I'm 31 and looking for people somewhat near my age. Hope to hear from you!

RE: Edible Wild Plants of Vancouver Island

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Ah, I wish I could go take a look at that. We're doing the outdoor meetup tonight as we couldn't get the brewmasters room yesterday.

Do you get a NALT newsletter or something?

RE: Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

That is horrible.

I do understand the situation though. I'm sure the people that do the regular trail maintenance are even more frustrated with the position. They are in a position to help but they just don't have the resources.

I think this is where we as regular hikers and outdoors people can step up and help out with maintenance. I'm not sure what the procedure is with helping out on park land but I'm sure we can figure something out that works.

RE: Any Local Rowers?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There's a rowing club in Nanaimo on Long Lake with all kinds of different programs and a moderately sized user group. The youth and masters programs are very strong there; there's a fair amount of community support and very good coaches.

There's also apparently a club in Courtenay/Comox who practice near the airpark, but I don't know anything else about them.

As far as I know there's no open water rowing clubs on the north island, maybe Victoria? Def. Vancouver.

Whenever I'm in Nanaimo I'm in for a session...

Biking in the Comox Valley

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I just moved to the Comox Valley and am looking for some folks to ride with. Road or Mountain. I'm about intermediate level technically and my fitness level varies, haha.

RE: Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

That sucks. Hopefully next time we have the opportunity to change the provincial government we'll try something new instead of continuing to support Campbell... Hopefully before he's done privatizing and selling all of our natural resources, and gutting our parks, arts, and education!

Here's hoping!

Bummed Out with poor Park Maintenance...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Just wanted to make a general comment in light of todays budget talks - I have been a bit bummed out over the increasingly poor trail maintenance at Strathcona Park. Just look at the latest trail postings:

Trail Notices:

Trails in Strathcona Provincial Park that will not be regularly maintained include: Della Falls, Marble Meadows, Crest Mountain, Phillips Ridge, Tennant Lake, Forbidden Plateau (Mount Becher and Plateau traverse), and Flower Ridge. Although these trails remain open, users may encounter fallen trees and/or trail wash-outs. Public Safety issues may exist. Extra caution is advised. Please advise BC Parks of any public safety conditions that you encounter if you hike these trails.

Tennent Creek Trail is OPEN- Repairs to the Tennent Creek Bridge have occurred.

Della Falls Trail is Closed: To ensure the safety of visitors, the Della Falls trail has been closed due to the destruction of the bridge at the 11km crossing. The bridge replacement has been identified as a needed capital project; however, completion will be dependent on resources. Updates will be posted on this trail report.

Crest Mountain Trail is Closed: Trail is closed due to an unsafe bridge crossing at the trailhead. This bridge will not be replaced this season. Unfortunately there is no alternate crossing. This one ticks me off, as it is one of my favourite hikes in the park...

Lower Bedwell River Trail is Closed (Bedwell Lake to Bedwell Sound): Trail is Closed until further notice due to unsafe bridge crossings.

Upper Myra Falls Trail is Closed: Trail is closed until further notice due to a damaged boardwalk over a steep embankment.

Strathcona Park is a true gem, it's sad to see trail maintenance being progressively degraded and minimized. A few years ago I would almost always run into a park contractor when hiking the Crest Mountain Trail - now, not so much.

Sorry - just needed a little rant out of frustration, the recent budget does not bode well for these issues to change anytime soon.

By the way, below is a pic of my wife and our dog in Strathcona - can anyone guess the location?

[img]http://i48.tinypic.com/hx95ig.jpg[/img]

Edible Wild Plants of Vancouver Island

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Just received this, thought someone might be interested. If you don't go you should still check out this dude's book, it's more or less THE definitive book on plants in our area.

This Thursday, March 4, Andy MacKinnon, co-author of the popular field guide Plants of Coastal British Columbia will be speaking about the harvest and use of Vancouver Island’s edible wild plants. His one-hour presentation takes place in the Lounge of the Beban Park Recreation Centre.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with displays and light refreshments. The program starts at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free; donations will be appreciated.

The evening is hosted by NALT’s Edible Wild Plants Project.

We hope you can join us.

For more information, contact the Nanaimo & Area Land Trust at 250-714-1990

Please pass this on to others who may be interested in attending.

BMFF Radical Reels in Courtenay

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey folks, Jerrett already mentioned this but for those of you in the Comox Valley this Sunday, the Banff Mountain Film Festival Radical Reels Tour is making a stop at the Sid Williams Theatre.

It's basically all the adrenaline films from the BMFF compiled into one night for those of us who are looking for a little less culture and a little more hucking.

Tickets are $20 are are available online or at the Sid.

Sunday March 7th, 7:00pm

For more details check out the Sid Williams website

RE: Bored this weekend?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

wate........ boooooooooooooooooooooo i should have finished reading the topic!

Bored this weekend?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

No need to be, there is a lot going on! There is a bouldering competition in Campbell River on Saturday, a cross country mountain biking event also in Campbell River on Saturday, and a screening of some cool looking short films in Courtenay on sunday night!

No excuse to watch T.V. this weekend :)

Any Local Rowers?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I am in love with Vancouver Island, and have spent many a day hiking in the mountains - often just me and the dog... but being on the water has always been my major passion. When I lived in Nova Scotia I was an avid rower, sailor and scuba diver. Since my wife and I moved out here, the rowing part of things have faded in the background - primarily because we lived in the Campbell River region for a while and that area is not particularly suitable for rowing (with its currents, cross winds and choppy waters).

However, now that we recently moved to Qualicum Beach my passion for rowing has been rejuvenated big time ... this area is great for open water rowing. I am looking for others who have a similar interest / passion with rowing and either are currently active or plan to get active into the sport. It doesn't have to be just for singles, in fact more and more couples are getting into rowing - and many manufacturers are accommodating that trend by designing some nice open water tandem rowers (although more creative designs in navel architecture are needed).

As for myself - I am getting back in shape specifically to get back into rowing. I'd love to be able to convince my wife to row with me, but there are also times where I love the solitude and meditative aspects of a good solo row. I hope to obtain a ROCAT, but the designer/builder is on temporary hiatus at the moment. Here is the design, it is perfect for this region:

[img]http://i45.tinypic.com/rk782b.jpg[/img]

WHY ROWING?
In today’s quest for a more healthy and exhilarating lifestyle, the sport of recreational rowing has emerged. Many doctors, sports medicine specialists, and fitness enthusiasts are proclaiming it the ideal exercise and for some very good reasons.

One, rowing combines a full-body fitness sport with a recreational activity, offering a complete physical and mental conditioning program all in one.

Two, rowing requires a minimum of skills to achieve, (you can learn to row in one afternoon), yet will remain a challenge throughout the years as you continue to improve.

Three, people of all ages, sizes, and physical limitations can learn to row and achieve a level of accomplishment that is both physically beneficial and personally rewarding.

Rowing is now recognized as an effective means of therapeutic conditioning used in various applications, such as for joggers with bad knees to those physically handicapped.

Fourth, and this is particularly true for outdoor rowing, it puts you in a unique and refreshing atmosphere {far from the madding crowd} one that stimulates your senses while challenging your efforts.

You’ll come to find that rowing never encourages boredom; that you’ll actually look forward to your next row, whether it’s to workout or work less. The fascinating sport of rowing, simply put, is a fun way to stay fit.

INTERESTED? Let me know and maybe we can get a small group of local rowing enthusiasts happening ... that would be a lot of fun.

RE: Outdoor Vanisle in the news :)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I discovered your site because of this news article ... it is a great connection for local outdoor enthusiasts (of all types). Thank you for taking the initiative - I sincerely hope it generates a lot of interest.

Looking for a few newbie runners...

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I am a relatively new runner looking both to lose some weight and get back in shape - but also to get more into cross country running. I average 5k for my runs and plan to build that up to regular 10k runs three times per week by summers end. Currently running evenings after work and on week-ends, if I'm not out hiking with my dog. Anyone interested in joining a small running group - with goal more focused towards cross country running? If so, just let me know...

[img]http://i45.tinypic.com/200pjs1.jpg[/img]

RE: West Coast Trail tips

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It's very similar to the Juan De Fuca trail so you shouldn't have any problems. The biggest different is how big it is. It's almost twice the size and a more intense trail. I'd highly recommend getting out as much as possible before the trip with you backpack loaded down with everything that are going to bring.

Tip 2: Bring as little as possible.

island mt ramblers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

the island mt ramblers' spring meeting will take place sunday, march 21 at the bowen park club house, 1:30 pm. the meeting is in two parts, club business issues and then a vidio presentation by the friends of strathcona park highlighting the parks' 100 year history, and a history of b.c. parks as well. non members are welcome to attend.
there are already a number of hiking/outdoor clubs on the island who would welcome new members. instead of forming a new group, why not join one of them. there are the acc vancouver island section, island mt ramblers, alberni outdoor club, comox district mountaineering club, the heathens out of campbell river that are all affiliated with the federation of bc mountain clubs, giving members a combined voice in outdoor issues.
the ramblers have had recent hikes to mt benson, mt brooks, wesley ridge, with the next scheduled hike up the judges route march 6th. check out the website for the schedule.

RE: Heading up a mountain on sat, anyone coming?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Also I think I'm going up to Cain on Sunday if anyone wants to come to that, too :)

Outdoor Vanisle in the news :)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

PQB News did a short article on our group today, here is the online version:

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_isl...http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_central/parksville_qualicumbeachnews/sports/854

West Coast Trail tips

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey everyone! Jerret, the site is looking good and nice to see the article in the local news. I wish Longwood was a bit closer to me as I'd like to come to the meeting on the 4th!

Anyhow, I'm planning on doing the West Coast Trail at the end of May and was wondering if anyone had any tips, suggestions or recommendations for me. I'm fairly new to backpacking but did the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and Carmanah Valley last year.

Thanks,
Fraser

Heading up a mountain on sat, anyone coming?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Going to head up a mountain, possibly Green, on saturday - Ray is coming, Ross and hez I think are coming..

Anyone else? Open to alternatives, but otherwise it'll be Green Mt.!

Reasons to try snowboarding

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

So if you're ever on the fence between skiing and snowboarding, you really should take a look at this vid

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w7sVSMbjyM

You'll never want to ski again.

RE: March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I think it might be best to do it at the beginning of next season, as it's too short notice for the upcoming one, and then we are into april, may...

I'll bring "The Fine Line" (an avy awareness video), and perhaps if enough people are interested we can watch it at some point - we'll probably even have enough room to split up into two groups if some people dont want to watch it, or just do it later or something. We'll figure it out :)

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(02-05-2010 10:09 AM)jerrett Wrote: Once the weather becomes more outdoor-climbing friendly we could do that! maybe even do a day of climbing for people who are into climbing, and then meeting up afterwards for everyone?

That sounds like a great way to spend a saturday to me!

For one of the upcoming meetings, does anyone have any interest in having a short avalanche awareness presentation? I might be able to get something lined up from island alpine guides if there is some interest, and it seems like it'd be appropriate as many of us enjoy playing in the snow :)

Would definitely be interested in any avi info Jerret.
JR

North bowl at Mt. Cain

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Spent the weekend at Mt. Cain, saturday mostly in the north aspect of the west bowl, but on Sunday we got out into the North Bowl - and it's epic out there! We started dropping into the bowl on the left side, and finished the day on the right side:

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4377663715_082e1545ff.jpg[/img]

After reaching the bottom we went around the other side of the peak in the center and skinned up a really nicely set skin track:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4377664603_5cd0ea7eed.jpg[/img]

Once we got to the top though, we couldn't resist and dropped down the face we just came up.. twice, once to the bottom and once about halfway down. it was totally worth it. This is from about halfway up:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4378414710_88a9754973.jpg[/img]

After skinning back up again, we got to our destination:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4378414578_da6f08af51.jpg[/img]

We dropped in off the skin track at the top of this
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4377666309_7fe70d6307.jpg[/img]

which connects to:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4377663593_e2defdc391.jpg[/img]

After we were done we headed over to the west bowl...
from the bottom looking up:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2756/4377665695_54c9c7087f.jpg[/img]
Bottom part of the west bowl after it becomes less steep and more treed, great way to finish the day:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4377660565_4e51384ec2.jpg[/img]

Not a bad way to spend an afternoon! Full set of pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ennoia/sets...http://www.flickr.com/photos/ennoia/sets/72157623

RE: Mount Cokely, Feb 14

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Awesome!!

Mount Cokely, Feb 14

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

So me, Ray, and Brandon headed up to Cokely today - beautiful day for it, but we had to be careful due to Considerable avy risk. These pictures are sort-of in order, but not really. Sorry, it's late :)

Ray and Brandon, near the bottom:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4357986593_77741cebde.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4357987727_2808910695.jpg[/img]

The ridge in the distance:

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4068/4357987621_3f51262cfc.jpg[/img]

God rays in the wind blown snow.. not a good sign, wind loading...
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4357987995_64d8d2f24b.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4357988933_9a6a059db0.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4357988587_c082a6d4f3.jpg[/img]

We caught up to some other splitboarders:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2747/4358733644_65e9272bd6.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4358733752_c4a4c9d5fe.jpg[/img]

Final approach up the ridge, wind was blowing like crazy up here:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2782/4358734390_a64c07b798.jpg[/img]

Brandon skinning up:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4357989171_acf3e0e8fd.jpg[/img]

Brandon and Ray:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2677/4357989435_5d86708ecc.jpg[/img]

Top, arrowsmith in the background:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4358735432_5f20f58914.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4358735514_06d3053ee2.jpg[/img]

Tower at the top, we dropped in on the left:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4358735060_99d9e7856a.jpg[/img]

Splitboarders we met up there:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2740/4357989977_9cfc5a4fc7.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2796/4358736156_aa9d49fbf5.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4023/4357992611_4974ec8042.jpg[/img]

"Woops" - slide we set off.. we all cut across the top, slid after the third one:
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2706/4358736408_60fc715e59.jpg[/img]

Another slide we set off.. Ray stopped at the top of the cliff (by the two tiny tree tops poking out top left), and the whole thing slid below him. Good thing he didn't drop into it!
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4358736506_da80fe3235.jpg[/img]

Our tracks from the meadows, a much calmer, safer place to ride for a day like today:
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4358736936_26528f1262.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4357992115_cbab38b6f9.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2753/4358737650_3007598345.jpg[/img]

Nom, nom nom, lunchtime!
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4357992263_2b7000519c.jpg[/img]

More pictures (on flickr)

RE: Mount Cokely, Feb 14

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4357991351_ecccd4fa22_o.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4358736506_88305fbcb9_o.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2706/4358736408_693e596fb5_o.jpg[/img]

and wind loading:

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4357988933_24fee667d3_o.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4357988269_b8fff91376_o.jpg[/img]

Mount Cokely, Feb 14

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Went up to the summit today @ Cokely - Lots of wind loading and wind slab everywhere above the alpine, numerous slides observed both natural and human triggered. We triggered two ourselves (both were size 1), and saw multiple slides set off by other groups and snowmobilers.

We dug a pit and the snowpack is bonding well underneath the wind loaded and storm snow on the surface, wet and heavy - but the stuff on the surface is sliding very easily up there.

RE: Cokely backcountry - Feb 14 (tomorrow!)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It'll be backcountry skiing/boarding, not so much a hike... if you have gear (avy gear and backcountry gear), we're heading up in the morning - leaving nanoose area 9ish... if you are coming let me know how to contact you!

(02-13-2010 07:27 PM)snshellion Wrote: I'd like to join you tomorrow on your Mt. Cokely hike.

I'm from WA but on the island for a few weeks for business. If you'd still like a partner I can send you my number or vise versa and we can talk details.

Brandon

RE: Cokely backcountry - Feb 14 (tomorrow!)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'd like to join you tomorrow on your Mt. Cokely hike.

I'm from WA but on the island for a few weeks for business. If you'd still like a partner I can send you my number or vise versa and we can talk details.

Brandon

Cokely backcountry - Feb 14 (tomorrow!)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Going up to summit cokely tomorrow - Skis/snowboard and avy gear required! Let me know if you want to come, I still have room in my car!

Alberni Outpost Gear Swap

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

From an email they sent out:

Our annual Gear Swap is almost here! This is an opportunity for you to make some money selling any of your used gear you no longer need, or to snag some really great deals on second-hand outdoor goods.

DATE: Sunday February 28th
TIME: 11-3pm
LOCATION: Country Club Mall
DETAILS: Reserve a table by Feburay 24th to sell your gear! Cost is $10 per table

PHONE: (250) 760-0044
Toll Free: 1-866-760-0011

RE: March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(02-05-2010 04:57 PM)Ross Wrote: I'd be down for some avalanche info. Jerrett, Do you have any good outdoor vids on your laptop to test out watching a film?

And Eric, you've got a projector right?

Yup, I've got a projector handy.

Myra conditions, Feb 7

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Snow up there is heavy, wet, and stable. A lot of snow has slid already from the rocks heating up. Snowline appeared to be somewhere around 700-800m

Tennent Lake (Mt. Myra)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

On sunday we headed up towards Mount Myra in Strathcona, hoping to find some nice snow further north. The snowline was somewhere between 700m and 800m, which meant a lot of hiking, and when we did get to it the snow was pretty heavy and wet.

For the first 100m or so of elevation involved a bunch of water crossings as there wasn't enough snow to form snow bridges!

Once we got above that though we were able to have a nice tour up to the lake, and we got a few turns on the rolling terrain above the lake. It's beautiful up there, and we could see the snow-covered Myra taunting us with a fresh dusting, but we didn't have the time to complete the summit. A return trip when the snowline is lower is definitely in order!

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4340303952_0ecd354eb0.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4340304344_a841c8d69e.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4340304676_92bea6d4cf.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4340305048_79b77c3e01.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4340305138_2d08957824.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2727/4340305296_7d08e080d8.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2785/4339560939_5484ce8b17.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4340305374_a54ff3926e.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4339561321_959cba30c7.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2215/4339561651_2dd53fd922.jpg[/img]
[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4340306296_5ec456006b.jpg[/img]

More pictures

Hike up towards Mount Moriarty

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Saturday a small group of us headed up towards Moriarty with the idea of trying to summit it - turns out the snowline is so high up that we ended up bushwhacking most of the day, and instead we summited a ridge in front of it. It was a good hike, somewhere worth going back - especially with more snow!

[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2745/4340301102_277fb9e4f4.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2694/4340300784_f2c51bcdc3.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2699/4339556113_990fd0032c.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4340300272_128f651b82.jpg[/img]

[img]http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4340337102_1316c2f285.jpg[/img]

More Pictures

RE: Mount Moriarty Feb 6

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I heard something about a hot tub event afterwards as well, so make sure you bring your swim gear!

RE: March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'd be down for some avalanche info. Jerrett, Do you have any good outdoor vids on your laptop to test out watching a film?

And Eric, you've got a projector right?

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(02-05-2010 10:12 AM)eric Wrote: Hey Eric!

I'm having a biking and hot tubbing party which should have quite a few of the island outdoors types in attendance, feel free to join in! More information: http://forums.outdoorvanisle.ca/showthread.php?tid=32

Sounds fun. I might be over in Whistler that weekend, but if I'm not I'll look at coming up. I've never been biking up there so it would be great to get out with some locals.

RE: Mount Moriarty Feb 6

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Shall we meet at the turnoff to the NW Bay logging road at 9:45?

http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&ll=49.28...http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&ll=49.2827,-124.249374&spn=0.005067,0.0

RE: Mount Moriarty Feb 6

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

We'll be leaving at 9:30 from Tim Hortons North Nanaimo and heading out to Northwest Bay Road.

It sounds like a fairly easy hike up. Whatever snow is here is likely to be hard and crappy. I'll be bringing my own snowshoes just in case. I doubt we'll need them.

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Confirmed with the longwood, we have the brewmasters room upstairs (third floor) - It's a private meeting room, and they will deliver beer and food :)

There is also a projector screen, and we will bring a projector just in case anyone wants to... project... something, bring a laptop :)

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(02-05-2010 09:59 AM)ericgoodwin Wrote: Hi.
Not sure if I can make it up Island during the week. Any chance on having some of the future meeting on the weekend so maybe I can fit some climbing in at Horne or Nanaimo River and then meet up in the evening before driving back to Vic?

Hey Eric!

I'm having a biking and hot tubbing party which should have quite a few of the island outdoors types in attendance, feel free to join in! More information: http://forums.outdoorvanisle.ca/showthread.php?tid=32

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Once the weather becomes more outdoor-climbing friendly we could do that! maybe even do a day of climbing for people who are into climbing, and then meeting up afterwards for everyone?

That sounds like a great way to spend a saturday to me!

For one of the upcoming meetings, does anyone have any interest in having a short avalanche awareness presentation? I might be able to get something lined up from island alpine guides if there is some interest, and it seems like it'd be appropriate as many of us enjoy playing in the snow :)

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi.
Not sure if I can make it up Island during the week. Any chance on having some of the future meeting on the weekend so maybe I can fit some climbing in at Horne or Nanaimo River and then meet up in the evening before driving back to Vic?

Mountain Biking and Hot Tub Extravaganza!

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi Team!

So I'm currently living in a Hotel/Resort which has a really epic hot tub, so I figured what would be better then spending a day doing a little biking in the Parksville Bike Park and then hitting up the hot tub after?

Please RSVP to the Facebook event if you are coming: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=45...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=4599603303

Oh, and the biking is for all abilities (and I have an extra hard tail for anyone without and bike and is really desperate to ride).

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm in.

RE: March Meeting - Thursday?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm definitely in. I'll see who we can roust in the next week here.

March Meeting - Thursday, 4th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Next meeting is at the Longwood Brewpub, upstairs in the Brewmasters room. It's a private meeting room so we don't have to compete to be heard with the whole pub :)

The wed. was already booked, so it will be on Thursday (March 4th) instead.

For facebookers, there is an event you can join: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=30...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=3067823914

Cool site for trip planning

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://www.earthdetails.com

Lets you browse around topo maps with 3D if you want - clicking the "tilt" on the left side of the map to 90 degrees makes it look top down like a normal topo

avalanche awareness shorts

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Rocky Mountain Sherpas are putting some Avalanche education shorts up on Vimeo. Worth checking out and looks like more will be coming in the future!

http://vimeo.com/channels/avysnacks

RE: Mount Moriarty Feb 6

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Are you snowshoeing, and what's the terrain like? could I skin up, and board down ? :)

Snowmobiling and Avalanches

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases...http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2009-2013/2010PSSG0007- and http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/Snowm...http://www.vancouversun.com/sports/Snowmobilers+deaths+show+need+greater+avalanche+awareness+report/2506447/

Worth a read if you snowmobile, or know anyone who does.

Quote:The panel also noted among its key findings that snowmobile use has increased in recent years; modern machines allow riders to access more complex and vast terrain than ever before; and, there is a growing gap between snowmobilers and backcountry skiers in their respective levels of avalanche awareness and preparedness.

It seems a lot of people snowmobiling are untrained and unprepared, which is crazy considering the ease of accessing complex terrain on a snowmobile and the weight you end up throwing around. Get training, people!

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

For those who haven't been to the Simon Holt, it's here: http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=q&source=s_...http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=6582+Applecross+Rd,+Nanaimo,+British+Columbia,+Canada&sll=49.891235,-97.15369&sspn=26.967532,63.193359&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=6582+Applecross+Rd,+Nanaimo,+Nanaimo+Regional+District,+British+Columbia&ll=49.234918,-124.03161&spn=0.026621,0.0

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I've heard you can do backcountry at green.. anyone riden up there?

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Let's try Simon Holt. You'll like it Greg. We can make a decision after everyone has had a taste of both. I believe they sell a couple of varieties of the longwood brew at Simon Holt. We're on for 7 right?

Greg, I hit up De Cosmos a couple weeks ago and it was pretty good. Green is on the list for Feb 20th. Up for Moriarty this weekend? Post here http://forums.outdoorvanisle.ca/showthread.php?tid=27

Mount Moriarty Feb 6

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm thinking of going up Moriarty Saturday Feb 6th. If anyone is interested let me know. It will be as quick as possible since the weather isn't going to be great and we won't have a long day for light.

Post here if you're interested and we'll figure out details.

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey guys, i'm super new to this whole forum posting business, but I like things. Simon Holt seems like it would be a nice place to meet, but I am definitely always in favour of the longwood. February third sounds great, but what time?

As for upcoming adventures, if anyone is interested in going back up Mount DeCosmos with me, the snow has fallen heavily up there and should be a good push. I"m thinking early monday or tuesday, or even make a two dayer out of if. If anyone is intersted let me know, or has another idea, maybe a Hooker or Green? Talk to you all soon!!

Have information about conditions or activity in the backcountry?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Please post any information you have about conditions or activity in the backcountry. Knowing results of any snow analysis, observed activity or conditions, or anything else you've noticed while out in the mountains can help the forecasters produce more accurate and helpful bulletins.

We are particularly interested in hearing if you have observed avalanche activity or If you or a member of your party has been involved in an avalanche.

Post as much information as you can!

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Afton,

I'm without a job right now so am climbing a lot. Let me know if you want to head climbing, I will forward you my contact details.

Cheers

RE: Avalanche Bulletin Fund Raising Party

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

This is this weekend, I recommend anyone who's thinking about it to go check it out, should be good times!

Good deal on a splitboard ($400)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

http://www.mec.ca/Apps/outdoorGearSwap/g...http://www.mec.ca/Apps/outdoorGearSwap/gearswap_detail.jsp;jsessionid=wmnnLJdTJgybQZf3GChdhRLrSnL3pnJJ09QKrqLQprpkLRjvshLp!-51360675?FOLDER<>folder_id=2534374302884103&refNo=196713&category_cd=Snowsports&sub_category_cd=Snowboards&bmUID=126

DIY Splitboard

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

If the cost of a new splitboard is more than you can afford, you can always convert your old snowboard for under $200!

http://www.voile-usa.com/Merchant2/merch...http://www.voile-usa.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=1100&Category_Code=SB&Produ

RE: Across the Sky - Mountain bike film

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Can't make the 7th, but i think i can do the 27th! woo

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Simon Holt sounds good to me, I've never been there!

RE: Across the Sky - Mountain bike film

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It's playing on the 27th as well. You going the 7th? I'm in!

Who else?

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'd be down for something non-Cain.That wed sounds good though. Do we do another longwood or should we shake it up and hit Simon Holt

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

There is an event on the weekend: Mount Cain :D

Maybe you could organize something else for non-Cain bound folk?

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

my girlfriend and some of her friends go mondays - I'm sure they'd love another. I could connect you if you'd like.

RE: Looking for a Snowshoeing/X-Country Ski Partner(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I live in Courtenay and am up for snowshoe trips into strathcona for sure.

RE: Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

boooo then I can't come.

We should have another on the weekend. Or maybe an event on the weekend?

Across the Sky - Mountain bike film

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey folks - just had this forwarded to me and it looks awesome - check out the trailer (here's the official website). It's playing in Nanaimo on Feb 7th and is $12.50 general admission.

See you there!
________________________________________________________________

Canada – January 12, 2010 – Cineplex Entertainment and Citizen Pictures take movie audiences on a ride only the most intense cyclists have experienced – including seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong – as they compete in one of the world’s most gruelling mountain bike races in Race Across the Sky – Leadville Trail 100. Shown exclusively in select Cineplex Entertainment theatres on Wednesday, January 27th and Sunday, February 7th, 2010, these special events will feature the debut of the documentary, “Race Across the Sky.”
“The Leadville Trail 100 is one of those events…Like the New York City Marathon or the Ironman, where people say, one day I want to do that,” said Armstrong. “It’s the purest level of passion that you can get.”
“Cineplex Entertainment is pleased to partner with Citizen Pictures to invite cyclists and mountain bike racing fans to the Canadian premiere of Race Across the Sky – Leadville Trail 100,” said Pat Marshall, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations, Cineplex Entertainment. “Watching the competitors race on difficult terrain with picturesque Colorado as the back drop on our big screens is sure to impress.”
Citizen Pictures filmed against the misty backdrop of a former mining town in Colorado that sits at 10,200 feet to capture the drama of the 2009 LT100 mountain bike race. The LT100 began as a running race 27 years ago to draw tourism to Leadville, Colo. The mountain bike race was added in 1994 and has become a competition with more than 1,000 entries and a lottery determining who will compete. The course includes 14,000 vertical feet of climbing and often severe weather changes. Competitors race on dirt trails, mining roads and Forest Service roads, hoping to cross the finish line in 12 hours or less.
Cameras followed the cyclists from the start through to the finish line and all 100 miles in between as they competed in the August 2009 competition – one of the most intense endurance races of all time. Witness breathtaking aerial views as the camera crew follows the competitors as they cycle over 100 miles of dangerous mountain terrain through extreme climate changes ranging from heat to hail and from rain to snow.
“If you’re lucky enough to get into this race, it will be the hardest day on the bike you’ll ever experience. 100 miles, off-road, all above 10,000 ft,” said Frank Matson, CEO of Citizen Pictures. “The summit is a relentless climb to the top of Columbine Mine at 12,570 ft. The only thing you can count on is that anything can happen. And if at the end of the day you’ve crossed the finish line, you’ve won.”
Advance tickets are now available online at http://www.cineplex.com/events as well as at participating theatre box offices. Admission for children ages 3 – 13 is $8.00, seniors is $10.50 and general admission is $12.50. A special group rate is also available for groups of 20 or more. For more information on group rates, call 1-800-313-4461 or email corporatesales@cineplex.com.
Cineplex Entertainment will present Race Across the Sky – Leadville Trail 100 at the following select theatres across the country on Wednesday, January 27th at 7 pm and Sunday, February 7th at 1 pm (local time):
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Nanaimo
Galaxy Cinemas Nanaimo, 213-4750 Rutherford Road
Victoria
SilverCity Victoria Cinemas, 3130 Tillicum Road

RE: Snow to Surf

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Thats great Afton and Christine!

I'd prefer to know sooner than later about the race and was looking for some more women to participate (a mixed team has to have a minimum of 4 females).

I'm just making an 'interested people' list right now and will be getting commitments from people in a week or two.

Feb. Meetup

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

In keeping with the first wed. of the month, the Feb meetup would be February the 3rd!

Suggestions on where to meet?

RE: FROST '10 movie night @ VIU

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Here's the youtube trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viQRxxJoeFo . It'll be a good one. If this goes well, I'll be looking into setting up sick movies every month or 2.

FROST '10 movie night @ VIU

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Movie screening for 'Edge of Never' - looks like it'll be good! More info on the facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=24...http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=243596451

Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Location: VIU Nanaimo Campus

Bldg 355 Room 203
Free for all students
$5 for non-stdudents
Free hot chocolate so please bring your own mug

RE: Mount Cain - Feb 6th/7th

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I can't make it but I'll keep an eye out for some that can.

A Dozen More Turns (Watch this if you are heading to the b/c!)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Everyone going out in the backcountry should watch this video... It's a good reminder of what can happen out there:

http://revver.com/video/310519/a-dozen-more-turns/

Mount Cain - Update: 20/21st

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Couple of us are planning a trip to Mt. Cain on the weekend of 6th/7th of feb, anyone interesting in coming? the idea is to stay at the new group hostel for the weekend!

UPDATE! We're moving it to the 20th and 21st!

RE: Snow to Surf

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

(12-30-2009 10:01 PM)Erik Wrote: The Snow to Surf is an annual 7 stage adventure relay in Courtenay/Comox on April 25th. Anyone heard of it? I'd like to put a team together for it so need 8 other folks to downhill ski, x-country ski, run, kayak, mountain bike, road bike and canoe...

everyone only does one event then meets up afterwards for a big party in downtown comox. gooooood times.

If we register before the end of January its less than 40 bucks a person.

If you want you can get more info at the Snow to Surf website.

Let me know if you're interested!

I would be interested to run the downhill portion of the race. I will be well trained for the half marathon by then. I can run downhill without injury, I have some techniques I use that benefit for downhill. I also know of someone that is very fast for trail running who could be interested.

RE: Dive outfitters group discount till feb

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

They do fun dives often too... I'd be down with diving, if I can find a weekend that I'm not snowboarding.... It's been too long since i've been underwater!

RE: Dive outfitters group discount till feb

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Sorry! I never realised that the discount was for learning to dive. I read it too quickly and thought it was just for diving. I already have my advanced open water cert.

Sorry about that.

(01-11-2010 03:35 PM)eric Wrote: Jerrett says I need to learn how to dive, so I'd be in for taking some lessons.

RE: Dive outfitters group discount till feb

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Jerrett says I need to learn how to dive, so I'd be in for taking some lessons.

RE: Looking for a Snowshoeing/X-Country Ski Partner(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I should have my cross country skis back on the Island mid Feb. It would be nice to try them out again! (assuming the backcountry conditions don't let me use my backcountry skis)

RE: Looking for a Snowshoeing/X-Country Ski Partner(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

You found the perfect place to get to know the outdoorsy folk on Vancouver Island. Check out Pureoutside and some of the fans on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/PureOutsid...http://www.facebook.com/pages/PureOutside/161826666 and you'll get a good feel for who's going out. If I'm doing something in a group, I'll post it to Pureoutside and see if anyone wants to come.

I'd definitely be down for some snowshoeing coming up. Benson/Nanaimo lakes area are good for it as well as Mount Washington. Do you snowshoe race? There's one coming up on the 30th at Mount Washington.

Also here's a good list of events that I try to keep as updated as possible for the Island, http://pureoutside.com/blog/2009/10/2010...http://pureoutside.com/blog/2009/10/2010-vancouver-island-event .

Hope that helps!

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I will let you know if I am going to show up this week, just so I know who I am looking for. I still have to get re-tested for my belay ticket because I haven't climbed there in years.

Cheers,
Afton

(01-10-2010 09:22 PM)Leanne Wrote: Usually around 6:30-7. Hope you can make it out sometime!

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Usually around 6:30-7. Hope you can make it out sometime!

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Added to summer collection. thanks!

RE: Monthly Meetup?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

About 10.. We'll do it again next month!

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Around what time?

(01-10-2010 09:07 PM)Leanne Wrote: Hey Afton, a bunch of us going climbing most tuesday's and thursdays. Drop by on those nights and you should have no problem finding people to climb with!
Leanne

RE: Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hey Afton, a bunch of us going climbing most tuesday's and thursdays. Drop by on those nights and you should have no problem finding people to climb with!
Leanne

Looking for Gym Partner

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Anyone looking for a climbing partner at the Romper Room?

RE: Photos for the site header

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

[attachment=4]
Mt. Tzouhalem, Duncan, BC

I'm sorry I don't have any more good ones. Most my photos are from the mainland.

RE: Dive outfitters group discount till feb

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Anyone interested?
I have never going diving on the island, only in other countries. I have heard great things about diving on the island.

(12-20-2009 02:11 PM)jerrett Wrote: The Dive Outfitters in Nanaimo is doing a promo where a group of 4 people can learn to dive for the price of 3... Good deal if anyone out there has a group of friends considering learning to dive!

http://www.nanaimodiveoutfitters.ca/

RE: Monthly Meetup?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

It's worth a shot to organize it and see how many people come out. You never know...

Too bad I missed the "meet-up" at Longwood. I just joined today so I never knew about it. How many people were there?

-Afton

RE: Snow to Surf

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I'm a female. I would be interested (run/road bike), but not sure if I will be available for that date. When do you have to know by?

Cheers,
Afton

Looking for a Snowshoeing/X-Country Ski Partner(s)

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Hi,

After graduating from UBC this spring I am back on the Island (Ladysmith). I was an active member of the Varsity Outdoor Club at UBC. Now that I am living here I am having a really hard time finding people to get out with. I am looking for anyone who wants to go up to Strathcona, or other places from snowshoeing/x-country skiing.

Let me know if you're interested,
Afton

RE: Avalanche Bulletin Fund Raising Party

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

I want to, but I'm going to be backcountry snowboarding in Rogers Pass that weekend :)

RE: New group hostel @ Mt. Cain

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Brand new, they just finished it this year. It's been open since dec 28th - They are still finishing little bits - granite counters aren't in place, they unpacked the couches 20 minutes after we unpacked our gear this weekend - we helped move em around :)

RE: Avalanche Bulletin Fund Raising Party

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Is anyone going to this?

RE: Snow to Surf

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Ohhhh If you could cross country ski that would be AWESOME!!!

Know any girls who might be interested?

RE: Monthly Meetup?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Yah, or a meet somewhere outside, then move inside for some beers? Combine two good ideas!

RE: New group hostel @ Mt. Cain

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Is this the lodge that's been there for a while or is it brand new?

New group hostel @ Mt. Cain

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Spent the weekend at Mount Cain in the new Group hostel, and came away pretty impressed... It's more of a shared lodge than a hostel, and much nicer than I was expecting to find at a community hill - and much fancier than the older accommodations at Mount Cain. It's got gas heat, nice leather couches, running water, fridge, couple stoves, showers (pay), and a drying room for wet gear. They are even putting granite counters in soon! All you really have to bring is food (unless you are eating at the cafe) and sheets/blankets.

If you've been holding off checking out Mount Cain because of stories of the spartan accommodations, get up there!

Info on pricing etc is here, http://mountcain.com/accommodations_MCAPS.html

And of course the real reason to go there is because the hill is awesome, and the backcountry looks even better... Can't wait to get back there, especially once they get a bunch more snow!

RE: Monthly Meetup?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

That'd be fun, might be tricky to coordinate but could be a good day out!

RE: Monthly Meetup?

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 13:05:56 -0700

Would we want to do a "meetup" outdoors coming up? Maybe top of Benson or Ammonite Falls?