Hiking the Gulf Islands

Nestled in the rain shadow between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands bask in the mildest climate in Canada, a mini-Mediterranean that fosters an abundance of plant and animal species seen nowhere else in the country. This fully updated edition includes something for everyone - walks, hikes and even paddling suggestions for kayakers - and, with its wealth of practical information about the islands, is the ultimate user-friendly guide to exploring BC's Enchanted Isles. Discover the panoramic views, inviting beaches and friendly hospitality of the Gulf Islands - all within a short distance from Vancouver or Victoria - and you light upon a hiker's paradise. A separate chapter is dedicated to each island in the Strait of Georgia - including the often-overlooked Texada, Lasqueti and Thetis islands plus Bowen Island at the entrance to Howe Sound - and trail locations are illustrated with helpful maps. At-a-glance information is provided with a five-star rating system for each hiking trail described, and includes a short description of the hike, its length, the time required to hike it, its degree of difficulty, how to access it and any cautions. In addition to the paddling suggestions and launch sites provided for each island, the book contains up-to-date information on hiking trails in the area's marine parks, including the spectacular Gulf Islands National Park Reserve - 36 square kilometres of land and marine area scattered over 15 islands.