Lace up your hiking boots and head to the Sea to Sky Gondola on Sunday, Sept. 13 to explore the trails and the attraction’s mountain experiences as part of the second annual Hikefest.
“It’s basically a day celebrating all things hiking,” said Shannon Lorenz, event programming at the Sea to Sky Gondola.
This year’s event features a smorgasbord of free guided hikes for all levels, kids’ activities and information booths.
“The first hike starts at 9 a.m. and the last one is at 2 p.m.,” Lorenz said. “Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures – who run our via ferrata – lead our guided hikes. It’s very interactive, and they point out various features and elements of nature along the way. It’s very reassuring to have a qualified guide to help you enjoy the experience. And if you are not doing a hike, we are also having a marketplace.”
The Hiking Fair features groups like Mountain Equipment Co-Op, Federation of Mountain Clubs BC, Adventure Smart, Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures and the North Face offering valuable hiking and safety information.
In addition, Jen Segger from Challenge by Choice is offering a trail running clinic at 10 a.m. geared towards all levels of runners.
The via ferrata is the only Hikefest event requiring a fee in addition to the ticket or pass to ride the gondola.
“Last year’s Hikefest was so successful, we have expanded its programing this year,” Lorenz said. “We have lots of clinics and have added more hikes.”
She said that she hopes many people will try the new via ferrata. Space is limited, though, and registration is required.
Lorenz said Hikefest is the perfect way to kick off the start of fall’s hiking season.
“People love to hike in summer, but fall is particularly popular here,” she said. “It gets very beautiful with all the trees changing colour. And I love the crisp air on fall mornings.”
Hikefest will be held Sept. 13.
For more information, go to http://www.seatoskygondola.com/events/second-annual-hikefest.
