King's Creek Ridge is a StairMaster for 2 km on the way up but offers some spectacular views of the mountain range to the east that you don't see from Highway 40.
The Old Growth Forest trail is a great family-friendly hike along a logging road near Nelson B.C. The cedar trees are massive.
Carrot Mountain is located in West Kelowna and is known as the Grouse Grind of Kelowna for its steep uphill grind followed by a slick shale downhill.
Carol's Ridge is a hike that my sister Mary-Anne does on a regular basis. It is a good workout on the switchback climb followed by some spectacular lake views.
Okanagan Mountain has a great variety of scenic trails with some decent elevation to get a good workout and limited crowds.
I'm often asked what sort of gear I bring on the trail and it's quite a daunting list especially for those just starting out in the backcountry.
This was the first time we had hiked Porcupine Ridge and it will become part of the regular rotation. The trail was challenging but fun with some amazing views.
Wasootch Ridge is a great early season hike as the ridge is mostly exposed. It's a great workout with amazing 360 degree views.
West Wind Pass is a short hike but it's a steady climb to the pass where you get some great views to the Bow Valley to the north and the Spray Valley to the south.
My long-time friend, Henry Tkachyk, is a passionate sailor who regales us with some fascinating insight into this great outdoor sport.