Tips For Hiking on Vancouver Island

Black Bears and Cougars

Almost anywhere you hike on Vancouver Island is black bear and cougar territory. Even when you are near cities, this is still something to keep in mind and be prepared for.

Bear Aware Rules for Black Bear Territory:

1. Make Noise: When hiking, especially in dense forests or areas with low visibility, make noise to avoid surprising a bear. Talk loudly, clap, or use bear bells.

2. Stay in Groups: Hike in groups if possible. Bears are less likely to approach groups of people.

3. Keep a Clean Campsite: Store food in bear-proof containers or hang it from a tree. Many backcountry campsites on the island have bear caches for you to use. Never leave food or scented items (like toothpaste or deodorant) in your tent. Dispose of garbage properly.

4. Carry Bear Spray: Always have bear spray accessible and know how to use it. It’s your best defense in case of a close encounter.

5. Respect Bear Habitat: Stay on marked trails, and avoid berry patches, carcasses, or areas where you see signs of bear activity (scat, tracks, claw marks on trees).

6. Keep Pets Leashed: Dogs can provoke bears, so always keep them on a leash when hiking in bear territory.

7. Store Food and Attractants Safely: Don’t leave food in cars or out in the open. Use bear-proof storage lockers or hang food properly, at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from any tree trunk.

What to Do in a Black Bear Encounter:

1. Stay Calm: Do not run or scream. Black bears are typically not aggressive unless provoked or surprised.

2. Identify Yourself: Speak calmly and slowly wave your arms to make yourself appear bigger. This helps the bear identify you as a human and not a prey animal.

3. Back Away Slowly: Do not turn your back on the bear. Slowly and calmly walk backwards while keeping the bear in sight. Avoid direct eye contact, as this could be seen as a challenge.

4. Stand Your Ground if the Bear Approaches: If the bear follows or comes closer, stop and hold your ground. Use a firm, loud voice. Prepare to use bear spray if the bear gets within 5-10 meters.

5. Use Bear Spray if Necessary: If the bear charges or gets too close, deploy your bear spray. Aim for the bear's face, discharging in short bursts.

6. If a Bear Attacks: DO NOT PLAY DEAD. Fight the bear with whatever you have on-hand. Hit it around the head, face, eyes, and muzzle.

Rules for Hiking in Cougar Territory:

1. Hike in Groups: Cougars are less likely to approach groups of people. Try to avoid hiking alone, especially in areas known for cougar activity.

2. Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, watch for signs of cougar activity (tracks, scat, claw marks), and avoid areas with dense brush where cougars can hide.

3. Keep Children Close: Cougars may target smaller individuals, so keep children and pets close, especially during dawn or dusk when cougars are more active.

4. Make Noise: Talk, sing, or make noise while hiking to alert wildlife of your presence and reduce the chance of surprising a cougar.

5. Carry a Deterrent: Have bear spray or a loud noise-making device (like an air horn) readily accessible in case of an encounter.

6. Keep Pets Leashed: Cougars may be attracted to pets, so always keep them on a leash to avoid provoking an attack.

What to Do in a Cougar Encounter:

1. Stay Calm: Do not run. Running may trigger a cougar’s instinct to chase.

2. Make Yourself Look Larger: Stand tall, raise your arms, open your jacket, and appear as large and intimidating as possible. This shows the cougar you are not prey.

3. Maintain Eye Contact: Unlike bears, cougars are more deterred by eye contact. Keep your eyes on the cougar and do not turn your back.

4. Speak Firmly and Loudly: Use a strong, loud voice to show you are confident and not afraid. Yell, make noise, and act assertively to discourage the cougar from approaching.

5. Back Away Slowly: If the cougar isn’t advancing, slowly back away while facing the cougar. Avoid crouching or bending over, as this could make you appear vulnerable.

6. If the Cougar Approaches:

   • Hold your ground and make even more noise—shout, clap, or bang objects together.

   • If you have bear spray, be ready to use it if the cougar gets close (within 10 meters).

   • Throw rocks, sticks, or anything you can find to deter the cougar.

7. If Attacked:

   • Fight Back: Cougars may attack with the intent to kill, so fight back aggressively with anything available—sticks, rocks, or even your fists.

   • Aim for the cougar's face, eyes, and snout, as this can drive it off.

Remember, black bear and cougar encounters are rare. Stay alert, make noise, and be prepared!

Seasonal Hiking and Trail Conditions

The great thing about Vancouver Island is that it tends to stay mild and green all year long. Snow at sea level is rare and you can generally hike all winter.

The exception here are any alpine hikes which are mostly in the Strathcona area. Snow and ice tend to stick around at these higher elevations until June or July. Therefore, alpine hiking on the island is best between June and September.

Check out the current trail conditions on AllTrails to get a better idea of snow and if the trail is ready for exploring yet.

Aside from this, it is a good idea to check the current trail conditions during any season to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Weather, wildlife activity, and trail maintenance can significantly affect your route. Knowing whether a trail is muddy, closed, or overgrown helps you avoid surprises and stay prepared.

AllTrails is a great resource for up-to-date trail information, with reviews and reports from fellow hikers to keep you informed on trail status, weather, and possible obstacles. A quick check can make all the difference in your adventure!

Check Logging Road Closures

Before setting out on a backcountry hike on Vancouver Island, it's crucial to check for logging road closures, as many trailheads are accessed via these roads.

Logging operations and wildfire risk can cause temporary closures, making access to certain areas difficult or impossible. Additionally, road conditions can change quickly due to weather or maintenance work.

Checking ahead ensures you won’t face unexpected detours or roadblocks and helps you plan alternative routes if needed.

Two sources for checking logging road status are listed here:

https://backcountrybc.ca/maps-and-media/resource-trip-planning-maps/forest-service-road-dynamic-map

https://www.mosaicforests.com/access

Proper Vehicles

Also, since many backcountry hikes on Vancouver Island are accessed via rough and unpaved logging roads, having a four-wheel-drive vehicle with high clearance is your best option for reaching these remote trailheads.

These roads can be steep, uneven, and full of potholes, especially after rain. A capable vehicle ensures you can navigate challenging terrain safely and avoid getting stuck, giving you peace of mind as you explore the island’s wild and rugged beauty.

Fire bans 

During the dry summer months of July and August, wildfire risk on Vancouver Island is high, making it essential to check for fire bans before heading out on any outdoor adventure. We have a fire ban here every single summer and it usually occurs between July and September.

Fire bans help prevent wildfires in areas with dry vegetation, and ignoring them can result in dangerous conditions for hikers and the surrounding environment.

Whether you're camping or planning a campfire, always verify current fire regulations to keep yourself and the island's beautiful wilderness safe from wildfires.

You can check for fire bans in your area here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention/fire-bans-and-restrictions

Cell Service

When venturing into Vancouver Island’s backcountry, it’s important to remember that cell service is often limited or non-existent.

To stay safe, be prepared by carrying a GPS satellite communicator for emergencies, downloading offline maps or bringing paper maps to navigate without signal, and packing proper safety and first aid gear.

Ensure you have essentials like a flashlight, extra food, water, and layers for unpredictable weather.

Always let someone know your route and estimated return time, as rescue can take longer in remote areas.

Being well-prepared is key to enjoying a safe and successful wilderness adventure!

Mud and Roots!

Due to Vancouver Island’s rainy climate, many hikes can be quite muddy, especially in the shoulder seasons. To be prepared, wear waterproof hiking boots with good traction and gaiters to keep your feet dry. Trekking poles can also help with balance on slippery, uneven surfaces.

In addition to mud, many trails are root-covered, making them challenging and potentially hazardous. Be sure to watch your step, take your time on tricky sections, and wear sturdy footwear with good ankle support to avoid slips or trips.

Being well-prepared will make your hiking experience safer and more enjoyable!

Leave No Trace

When hiking in Vancouver Island’s remote and pristine wilderness, it's vital to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve its natural beauty.

Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, stay on designated trails, and leave what you find.

The island’s ecosystems are fragile, and by minimizing our impact, we ensure that future generations can enjoy these wild spaces just as we do.

Respect the environment and help keep Vancouver Island beautiful and unspoiled!