Have you heard of Friluftsliv? It’s the Scandinavian term for “open-air living,” a way to enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather. While it doesn’t come naturally for everyone, outdoor activity is exactly what’s needed to stay healthy, balanced, and connected – especially right now. Fortunately, with mountains and ocean nearby, North Vancouverites have abundant options for outdoor recreation. Here are a few ideas to get you out the door. 

While many of us consider the outdoors an open and welcoming space to recreate, for some it is not that easy. Certain members of our community, such as new immigrants, refugees, racialized and marginalized groups, often face cultural, financial and skills barriers to being able to enjoy the outdoors. Colour The Trails aims to change all that by removing barriers for Black, Indigenous, racialized and LGBTQ2+ members of our community, so that the great outdoors can feel safe and truly inclusive for everyone.

“I believe the outdoors is for everyone,” says Taryn Eyton, outdoors enthusiast, adventure writer, blogger and now author of Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, an essential guide to overnight hiking trips. Her new guidebook features 40 overnight backpacking trips to destinations easily accessible from Vancouver. “The key to enjoyment is getting out there knowledgeably and responsibly.”

Socrates once said “Contentment is the wealth of nature.” I couldn’t agree more and feel very fortunate to live close to so many mountains, trails and parks. The well-being that comes from recreating outdoors is undeniable, and being able to access so much locally is a joyful privilege. 

Outdoor exercise and recreation yield a whole host of positive physical and psychological benefits, including natural light therapy and Vitamin D, mood elevation, lowered levels of stress, and greater feelings of revitalization.

Hit the Slopes

Head to one of the three North Shore mountains this winter break to ski or snowboard with your family. Mount Seymour, Grouse Mountain, and Cypress Mountain all have adapted the ski experience to make it COVID-safe with increased cleaning and physically distanced lift lines. Remember to bring your mask and reserve tickets online in advance.

Outdoor training is great if you have the right gear

The benefits of exercising outdoors are many, including fresh air, change in perspective, boost in creativity and a shot of endorphins. When it rains, there are a few surprising added bonuses, such as: 

1. Go on a self-guided art tour – outdoors and free
   North Vancouver is home to over 150 unique, public art installations that can be found in community plazas, municipal buildings, commercial developments, parks and nature trails. Go on a walking or biking treasure hunt to admire them all. Here’s a full listing plus map.
2. Take a hike!
   

The need for calm and rejuvenation
I keep hearing we are living in unprecedented times, and we are. Some days, I find myself struggling for emotional balance. Self-care is more necessary than ever. I find regular exercise helps. Even more so, hiking in the trails and up and down mountains. 

I have a fridge magnet with the logo “Get Outdoors! for the world’s best fun and robust health.” The reminder is a good one. The forest has magical powers that can help us recharge and reconnect to awe. 

The many benefits of hiking include:

A tsunami of grief left me lost, lonely, and generally incapacitated.  But, with my two wonderful, young adult children living at home, and an aversion to being a victim of one’s circumstances, I knew I had to move forward with my life.  I discovered this was much easier said than done.

Know Before You Go
Be prepared for your hike.  Read our blog How to Get Started Hiking and review North Shore Search & Rescue's 10 essentials to take with you on a hike.