My schedule is flexible right now between tree planting contracts and photography projects. This can be a blessing, however, when everyone else is working fixed schedules, it can be hard to find companionship for certain adventures. I was getting frustrated with myself for not having gone on one hike since planting finished. So, instead of waiting for someone else to be available, I decided to (wo)man up and go for it- solo.
Some of you might already know that I have a fear of wild animals. Also known as Agrizoophobia (no joke)- rather than refer to it as fear, I like to call it a huge respect for nature's co-inhabitants. While in tree planting camp, I used to be too nervous to go for a walk in the woods alone, and walked the perimeter of camp instead. I spent many days a year planting alone on a cut-block, but being alone in a forest would freak me right out, even if only several metres in.
Recently, I've been trying to overcome this fear and experience the wilderness on my own. This was my first big step out, and it went very well. I chose Elfin Lakes because it was relatively close to Vancouver, and was known for being a high-traffic hiking trail.
I walked confidently and with very few (though some) nervous glances over my shoulder. But I can't take too much credit, I passed a number of people on the way up.
(a yummy sandwich brought from home)
My goal was to set up camp in the backcountry. I aimed for Opal Cone, 6km from the Elfin Lakes Hut, but the bridge was down, making it too dangerous to get to. Plan B was to camp near the campsite, but not in it. I really wanted to test myself. I found a spot, set up my one-man "tent", and lied down for a nap. I felt fairly comfortable, but it was not yet dark.
Later I killed time by visiting the hut and checking out the campsite. I was very impressed. It was fairly private and felt natural. And, above all else, it had bear-proof bins for storing food. It was dusk now, and I decided that I would have a much better sleep within the designated campground, plus, the idea of safe food storage had me sold.
Despite there being a few tents around- even fewer after the rain started- I still felt slightly nervous. I had to walk 1 kilometre from the hut to my tent in the dark. That's not so far, but it's quite intimidating when surrounded by dark bushes and huge looming mountain peaks.
Though, once I was in my bivy, I wasn't nervous anymore. For some reason I still had a rough sleep the first night.... did I mention I suffer from mild claustrophobia?
The next morning I headed up saddle trail. I didn't see a single soul all morning. It was nice. I sort of didn't want to see anyone else. When I got to the top of the ridge I was giddy with excitement. I dropped my bag and boot-skiied down the snow on the other side. Diamond Head (The southern outcropping of Mount Garibaldi) was gleaming in front of me, luring me in. It will be a destination for another visit to the park.
Next I explored the ridge for the most dramatic view point. I sat on the highest point of rock (above) for at least an hour. It was glorious.
The second night went much better, even though I didn't see anyone else in the campsite, the stars and moon were nice distractions and I slept solid till 4am. Then snoozed a couple more hours.
Leaving early the next day I was able to see the surrounding landscapes in the soft morning light. And I was in solitude nearly the entire hike down. I didn't see anyone until about a kilometre from the parking lot where I arrived to phone my mom and tell her I was safe and sound. It was a great adventure.
