Adventure Maps

The Concept

The Adventure Maps are a series of detailed outdoor recreation maps for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and other activities. The guides were designed by local recreationalists for trip planning and trail navigation.

Design

The maps were created with GIS (geographic information system) technology using Province of BC digital terrain mapping. In most cases, trails were mapped with GPS (global positioning system) to a high standard. A 3-dimensional model of a recreation area was created with GIS to provide a good idea of the landscape as an alternative to the standard maps, which require interpretation of contour lines (often difficult to read). In some cases we also used air photographs to better depict roads, lakes, forest cover, etc.

Skill Rating

Each of the Adventure Guide maps includes a skill rating for each activity. For example, if a trail is used for hiking and mountain biking, separate ratings are provided for each activity. Ratings are based on a combination of generally accepted standards of organizations such as the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) tempered with local knowledge and common sense. However, don't rely on our rating alone. Draw your own conclusions about the trail or river difficulty in relation to your skills by reading the specific guide. If in doubt, phone the contact number for more information or talk to others who have tackled the trail or river route.

Safety

Be smart...don't go out by yourself. Leave the details of your trip with someone you trust to follow up if you don't come back on time. Bring basic first aid equipment for any outing. Don't expect to find water on the route - bring at least 2 water bottles for long bike rides.

Most of the trails have minimal signing. You need to rely on our own ability to safely navigate - bring a compass, altimeter, and backup 1:50,000 maps for backcountry travel.

Access to some of the trails requires travel on logging roads. When signs tell you to watch for logging truck traffic - they mean it!

Avalanche hazard assessment skills and related safety equipment are essential for winter travel in the backcountry.

Trail Ethics

Be sensitive to other users. If on a bike, slow down when approaching hikers. Stop and dismount if you encounter a horse party and let them go by before leaving.

Practice low impact mountain biking and control your bike.

If you crash your bike and wreck the trail, please stop and repair it!

Keep all gates closed. Gates left open in cattle country is the biggest 'beef ' ranchers have about recreationalists.

Respect private land. In most cases, the guides include information to help you avoid private property.

Practice low impact camping to minimize your impact on the natural environment. For more information, check out the

Adventure Trail Maps