November 28, 2015 Ryan and I attended the annual North Shore Rescue Christmas party at Grouse Mountain’s Altitudes Bistro on Saturday evening. With the great weather forecast (clear skies and a temperature inversion), we took advantage of our starting position; after the party, we grabbed our packs and hiked out to Thunderbird Ridge for a winter camp and sunrise. Stats This is an easy hike/snowshoe in the Grouse slackcountry with views of the Lower Mainland and beyond. Pros Elevation gain: ~200m Distance: 5.8km Pros: Low avalanche risk in…

Usually, during winter months, I make like the bears and hibernate. I put away my hiking boots, store my pack, grab some sort of gym membership, and I stay indoors until my surroundings warm up and the snow starts to melt. This season, Ryan and I have made a point of getting outdoors to keep our hiking momentum going and to train for bigger trips we have planned this summer. Winter is a stunning season; as the snow falls, our world transforms into a bare, bright, and frozen landscape. The summer hiking…