Environment

Climate change is top of mind for many as we head into 2010 on the heels of a disappointing United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (COP15).

This threat to humanity is, perhaps, most apparent to those of us who live in mountain resorts. As glaciers across the globe recede and the world’s climate systems become more unpredictable, many of us have found ourselves thinking: “What if the snow stopped falling?“

Growing up in the lush province of British Columbia has reminded me every day how incredible Nature is – and how equally vulnerable she is. We rely on Nature for many things; from providing our drinking water to powering our homes to providing us with a plentiful outdoor playground. But as much as we take from her, we must also remember to repay the favour.

There are many passionate and dedicated people making great strides in their communities and “greening” the way to a more sustainable future. I need not look any further than my own community of Whistler and my own industry, the ski and snowboard world.

Whistler-based Hilltrip is a collective of mountain enthusiasts who describe themselves as a “Social Enterprise specialized in Social Marketing with a focus on Events and Promotions.” Through environment-focused events, they hope to educate people about climate change and how to fight it.

From organizing events for Earth Day, to Whistler’s Enviro-Fest, to benefit concerts, to film festivals Hilltrip has helped raise the profile of environmental awareness since 2004.

Hilltrip also hosts Green Drinks in Whistler at Black’s Pub from 8pm-10pm. It’s a gathering ground for like-minded people to get together and chat about our “environmental destiny.”

Participants receive a free Granville Island beer and appies with donation to AWARE. Then, the jam session begins.

Hilltrip has partnered with many groups along the way. One such group is Protect our Winters, founded by pro snowboarder, Jeremy Jones. The goal of POW is to unite the snow industry on the issue of climate change and to encourage mountain resorts to do their part in combating it. The organization already has an impressive roster of partners, including Burton, Vans, Rossignol, Dakine, Transworld Snowboarding Magazine, Teton Gravity Research, and even Whistler’s Origin Design and Communications.

According to their website, Protect Our Winters has donated more than $125,000 in grants to over 20 grassroots environmental groups since 2008.

Last year was a landmark year for POW. They funded the first human-powered film, “My Own Two Feet” and formed the POW Riders Alliance – which gives riders a chance to offset their travel by donating to protect rain forests.

Watch for their latest film, “Generations,” in 2010. This short film, produced in partnership with The North Face will screen at all major US film festivals throughout the year.

Join Hilltrip on Facebook.

Become a Fan of POW on Facebook and Twitter.

The Hike to Rainbow Lake

June 17, 2009

Environment, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle, Travel & Adventure

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Hike to Rainbow Lake, originally uploaded by amber turnau.

Rainbow Lake was still thawing as we finally approached its icy shores after a three-hour foray across manicured trail, through streams, over man-made wooden bridges and through slowly melting snow.

First off, let me just say that I’m not a hiking buff by any means. No ski pole, no hiking boots and no gators. But I love going for the occasional hike. It’s a great way to get some exercise, breathe fresh alpine air and get into nature.

Whistler, an outdoor playground for so many other reasons, also offers world-class alpine hiking, whether your an expert or entry level. No hiking boots or ski poles necessary.

One of the closest and longest day hikes in the immediate Whistler area is Rainbow Lake. A mere 10 minute drive from Whistler Village, the Rainbow Lake Trail, a total of 8.5km each way, is actually the first section of a longer hike to Madley Lake. Several other hikes fork off, including the Rainbow-Sproatt Flank Trail, which runs from the Callaghan Valley, just South of Whistler, all the way to Cougar Mountain, located just North. This trail is as popular for mountain bikers as it is for hikers.

Accessing the Rainbow Lake trail is easy. Just head North from the village, turn into the Alpine Meadows sub-division and continue along Alta Lake Road until you see a small gravel lot and the trail sign.

The trail starts out as gravel for about half an hour and then tightens into the forest. It begins with a gradual climb and then flattens out as you progress through alpine meadows and then on to the final incline, climbing a total of 800m. There are tons of amazing wooden bridges, small waterfalls and streams to walk over and beside, which makes the trip more interesting. It’s more or less well-marked with orange squares, but you do have to keep your eyes open for the next marker at times.

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It was June 15, but there was still a little bit of snow in upper elevations and we did have to struggle a little to make the final two kilometers or so. We were wearing track shoes and still managed OK, but this was a low snow pack year so I imagine it would normally be deeper at this time of year.

When we finally arrived at Rainbow Lake, we were treated to an amazing winter scene on a hot day. This is one of Whistler’s drinking sources so no swimming – not that we’d want to in those freezing temperatures.

After a delicious lunch (essential on this trip), we were back on our way.

Five and half hours later and we arrived at the trailhead, ready for some serious stretching, a warm bath and a good dinner.

I highly recommend this hike. It’s free and fun with a rewarding view at the top. It’s enough to make you want to strike a zen pose.