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PARENT MEETING:

TUESDAY April 5th 

7:00pm - 8:30pm In the Main Gym at WGSS

**Hiker and at least 1 parent/guardian required to attend

HARRISON HIKE EXPERIENCE
ABOUT

WHAT IS THE HARRISON HIKE EXPERIENCE?

The Harrison Hike Experience includes 3 separate hikes--day, overnight and 5/6 night hike. The Harrison Hike is open to grade 10 students presently attending WGSS.

 

The "Day Hike" takes us on a tour of the Houston Trail! This is the students first taste of connecting with history and walking a path followed by eager miners back in 1858. On this hike students will learn the survival basics--fire, shelter, hydration and teamwork!

 

The "Overnight Hike" takes us to a lookout over the tunnels and Hell's Gate. This is high-mountain hiking at its best. Students refresh their survival basics learned on the Day Hike--but this time it's for REAL!

 

The "Harrison Hike" takes us to the shores of Harrison Lake, where over the next 5/6 nights students retrace the steps of the Gold Rush Miners who followed this path over 150 years ago. Students will bond in their groups, learn to work as a team and rely on each other for survival! It's an amazing experience that changes these grade 10's--as parents you'll be amazed at the student that returns from this last hike! 

PURPOSE OF THE HARRISON HIKE EXPERIENCE:

  • Lessons are linked to Social Studies 10 curriculum—Gold Rush of 1858 (Cariboo) Click here to learn more.

  • Students will learn about outdoor living

    1. Wilderness camping

    2. No trace camping

  • Experiential learning—learn by doing!

  • Participants will learn to rely on each other and work as a team, in order to, complete even the most simple of tasks (ex: collecting water, firewood, setting-up & breaking-down camp, the daily grind of carrying everything they need for nearly a week in the wilderness)

  • Staff/wilderness experience helps re-create what it was like to live like a Gold Miner during the 1858 Cariboo Gold Rush

  • Students come back, more self-sufficient, more capable and with a greater respect for the luxuries & modern conveniences they took advantage of before.

  • Many ex-Gator graduates come back as "Jr. Leaders" because they felt that the Harrison Hike was a major turning point in their lives.

 

THE HISTORY OF THE HARRISON HIKE:

2022 marks Walnut Grove Secondary's 25th year of offering the hike! The Harrison Hike was started 40 years ago at Burnaby Secondary by then Social Studies teacher Charlie Hou. Charlie Hou taught a bright-eyed student named George Kozlovic. After George graduated high school and went on to become a Social Studies teacher (and formerly WGSS Principal)--he brought the Harrison Hike to WGSS! Over the past 22 years the Harrison Hike 'torch' has been passed to Grant Inkster, and now the present organizers Eric Balzarini and Selina Miller. 6 brave teachers, and 15+ other "Jr. Leaders/volunteers" take approximately 72 grade 10 students out in BC's wilderness each year! Students require ALL of their teacher’s permissions, in addition to parent/guardian permissions in order to attend the hike. Over 1300 students have participated in the Harrison Hike over the past 20+ years!

WORDS FROM THE FOUNDERS: 

"The first Harrison Hike was meant to be a one-time event. Although we considered alternatives, we never found a better way to end the school year. The boat trip up Harrison Lake and visits to Port Douglas, Gibraltar Hill, Whiskey Lake, Gowan Creek, the church at Skookumchuck, the hot springs, Moody's Lookout and 29 Mile House couldn't be equaled anywhere else in the Province. The semi-wilderness historical/geographical experiences of the day, overnight and six-day hike had a powerful emotional impact on everyone concerned, and we had to do it again and again. Meetings with First Nations people and the hike through their territory also gave us insight into the issue of indigenous land claims. The Tikwalus trail, mountains, students and leaders are a constant source of inspiration to me." -Charlie Hou (Original 1995 Harrison Hike Info Letter written by Mr. Hou)

"The Harrison Hike is truly a once in a lifetime experience that can have a profound influence on students who participate in this amazing opportunity.  When I was in grade 10 at Burnaby North Secondary School, I participated in the Harrison Hike, and this experience was one of the reasons I decided to become a teacher, and ultimately led to the Harrison Hike coming to WGSS.  I had such a profound experience on the Hike that after I graduated, I returned and served as an adult leader for a number of years while I went to university.  When I started teaching at WGSS in 1994, I wanted to share the Hike experience with my students so I approached Ms. Wright, our Principal at the time, and proposed the Hike as a field trip at WGSS.  With her support, we took a small group of 6 students from WGSS on the Hike with students from Burnaby and the WGSS Harrison Hike was born.  The hike at Walnut Grove slowly grew in size and importance and has now been an integral part of our school for the past 22 years. We now take over 60 students every year to re-trace the original steps taken by those seeking wealth and fortune during the BC Gold Rush.  Over the years, so many students who have participated in the Hike have shared with me how the trip was a life changing experience for them.  For some, it was simply their first real outdoor experience and made them appreciate and fall in love with nature, hiking, and/or camping.  For others, the trip was instrumental in helping their personal growth and independence in transitioning from a teenager to a young adult.  And for others, it opened their eyes to the impact they could have on others and has led them back to the hike as future adult leaders, or in some cases, like myself, drew them to the profession of teaching and making a difference in the lives of young people.  Overall, the Harrison Hike has been one of the most important and influential experiences in my life as well as in the 25 year history of Walnut Grove Secondary." -George Kozlovic

“I was privileged to join the Harrison Hike in the spring of 1998. I was fascinated by the idea of combining grade 10 social studies curriculum with a semi-wilderness outdoor camping experience. The Cariboo Gold Rush played an enormous role in the development of British Columbia prior to our province joining confederation. Now, through the Hike adventure, our students would have the very unique opportunity to “walk in the footsteps” of the gold miners and study the history of the era. What immediately struck me was how excited and engaged the students were about the wilderness experience and how willingly they absorbed the history being taught. Over the next 7 years, the Hike grew in size to include 60 student hikers. In September of 2004, when Mr.Kozlovic left W.G.S.S. to become an administrator, I was proud and honoured to take on the leadership role for the Hike. During my teaching career, I had not seen or been involved in any other activity that was as impactful as the Harrison Hike. The effect it had on students was profound. The Hike continued to grow and for the past 11 years we have accommodated 72 hikers per year. The focus on teaching early B.C. history has continued and now covers the impact of the gold rush, not only on the Hudson Bay Company, economic development and the miners, but also the enormous effect felt by first nations people of the area. I continued to organize the Hike for 10 years and now, in retirement, am delighted to carry on as an adult volunteer. I

can not emphasize enough just how unique and rewarding the Harrison Hike is for students. It truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity that I would recommend to every grade 10 student at Walnut Grove.”-Grant Inkster

WATCH THE HARRISON HIKE INTRO VIDEO HERE

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Harrison Hike 2016 Intro

Harrison Hike 2016 Intro

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DATES

IMPORTANT DATES

February 28th - March 3rd : Harrison Hike Information Presentations to Grade 10 Classes

March 7th : 7:30 am Hand in Parent Consent Form in Multi-Purpose Room. First Deposit ($225) is due. Either cheque or ONLINE deposit

March 4th to March 9th : Complete Teacher Permission Form. Deadline to hand in is March 9th. 

March 11: Harrison Hiker List Posted

March 29: Lunch Meeting for ALL students going on the hike - everyone must attend! 

April 1Final Harrison Hike Cheque or ONLINE payment is due by 3pm. ($225)

April 5 : Parent Meeting 7:00-8:30pm. All students and at least one parent/guardian must attend for information about the hike and discover hiking groups. The meeting is held in the Main Gym.  

April 14: Last day for full Harrison Hike refunds 3:00pm.

April 30: Day Hike. Drop off at WGSS @ 8am. Pick up at WGSS @ 4:30pm

May 7-8: Overnight Hike. Drop off at WGSS @ 7am (May 7). Pick up at WGSS @ 5pm (May 8)

May 23 - 28: 6 Day Hike.  Drop off at WGSS @ 5:00am (May 23). Pick up at WGSS @ 6:15-6:30pm (May 28)

June 9: Hike Wrap-Up and Celebration Evening 6:00pm-7:30pm in the Main Gym. 

PARENT PERMISSION FORMS
Equipment Lists
PHOTOS

ARCHIVED PHOTOS

PARENT PERMISSION FORMS

PARENTAL/GUARDIAN CONTRACT, INFORMATION & OBLIGATION

 

By returning the permission/consent forms, you take on some responsibilities.  Parents/Guardians are required to provide transportation to and from W.G.S.S. for the:

  • Day Hike on April 30th

  • Overnight Hike on May 7th and 8th

  • Harrison Hike on May 23rd and 28th

 

There will be a parent/guardian student meeting in the main gym at Walnut Grove Secondary School.  It is important that all students and one parent attend as more information will be available to you at this time. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) are obligated to attend an information meeting with their son/daughter:

  • April 5th from 7:00-8:30pm in the main gym. 

 

There will also be a Wrap-Up Slide & Journal reading night in June. This is a great event where you can see first-hand what your son/daughter experienced while exploring BC’s wilderness and learning about our Gold Rush history. Siblings, and grandparents are welcome to join—but seating is limited. The slide-night will last approximately 1 ½ hours.

  • June 9th from 6:00 to 7:30pm in the main gym

PARENT CONSENT FORM HERE

PARENT INFORMATION PACKAGE HERE 

ONLINE PAYMENT-HOW TO

MEDICAL FORM

FIELD TRIP FORM

TEACHER PERMISSION FORM

EQUIPMENT LISTS

Each Harrison Hiker is expected to have their own personal and safety equipment.

Students will also have some group/shared equipment that they will be responsible for bringing to each of the hikes. This equipment will be shared among ALL group members and will be returned at the end of the hike.

We have some "loaner equipment" like backpacks and sleeping mats. Please have your students contact their Harrison Hike group leader for details.

If you have any other equipment-based questions or need clarification please contact us.

I can't make the first and/or second hike, can I still participate in the Harrison Hike?
Yes. We understand that you might have a commitment on either the day or the overnight hike, but you wouldn't want to sign-up knowing that you couldn't make the full Harrison Hike. Please know that team bonding does happen during the first two hikes, so to do lessons on wilderness survival, shelter building, etc. Please make sure you record your reason for not being able to participate in one or both of the first hikes on the consent form.

I'm not feeling well the night before the hike, what do I do?
Once you're in a group you'll be given emergency contact info, please call or text a staff member or your leader to let them know that you will not be able to make the hike.

My teacher won't sign off on my permission form, what can I do?
Stop and think about the reason they won't sign your form, there's probably a good chance you already know the reason. Politely ask your teacher what they would like to see from you in exchange for participating in the hike. Hand-in as much missing work, attend class on time, and improve your attitude and work habits-remember the Harrison Hike is a privilege not a right.

What type of footwear should I bring?
A pair of waterproof hiking shoes are more than sufficient for these hikes. You can also go with a mid height hiking boot, for more ankle support (especially if this has been a concern in the past). A tall or full height boot isn't really required for our hikes, but can be used if preferred. Make sure they fit, and are well broken in before wearing them on even the first hike. Also, bring a lightweight shoe for around camp-many leaders will dawn some stylish crocks! It's cold at night so avoid flip flops or other toe-exposing footwear-crocks are extra stylish with socks!

What type of socks should I wear?
Avoid cotton because once it's wet it will remain this way. Instead use merino wool which keeps your feet dry, and helps to reduce the chances of getting blisters. Most hikers have 3-5 pairs. One to wear. One to clean then dry on the outside of their pack. One to change into when you get into camp. No stylish no-show ankle socks, you'll be sure to get blisters!

I get blisters. What can I do?
There are special ways you can tie your shoes to avoid your foot from slipping around in your shoe-Google it and try them at home. Also avoid loose-fitting, and cotton socks as they don't breath well. Also having extra dry socks that you can change into during breaks gives your feet the opportunity to dry. Also, have moleskin, duct tape or some other anti-friction tape/rub in an easy to reach location so at any break or feeling of friction you can address your feet before a blister even forms--prevention is the best!

What kind of backpack should I bring?
Most HH veterans will have a 65ltr to 80ltr pack that will fit all of their gear and food inside when packed correctly. Look for an internal frame, and one that has a hip belt and sternum strap! Mec has some great options, but ask friends and family before going out to purchase a new pack, as most packs will run $200 and up! Also packs shave different size frames, what fits one person could be very uncomfortable for another. Not sure if your pack will work bring it to school before the hike and your leader will check it out.

Do I really need a pack cover?
Yes! Chances are it will rain, and when it does you want to keep everything inside your pack dry-and a pack cover will do this. Purchase a pack cover based on the size of your backpack--tip: make sure it will fit around YOUR ENTIRE BAG NOT JUST THE TOP. Some people find that getting a slightly larger pack cover works better if you are forced to keep items outside your bag like a sleeping bag or mat.  If you can't fit your sleeping bag inside your pack pick up a dry-bag for your sleeping bag so that when it's attached to the outside of your pack it stays dry. Please do not use garbage bags, one lone branch typically does these in within the first day of hiking.

What kind of sleeping bag should I bring?
We recommend a 0 to -7 degree sleeping bag that is big enough to pull up and over your head. Your kids bag from beaver camp probably won't cut it, as some nights can drop down to around zero. Down bags are great as they are particularly warm and light-weight but once they get wet they will stay wet for the rest of the hike. Synthetic fill bags are best as they remain warm even when wet, but tend to be heavier than their down counterpart.

What type of clothing should I bring/wear?
Nothing cotton! Once cotton is wet it will remain wet and cold for the entire hike! Put away the cotton hoodies, the jeans and the cotton t-shirts. Think man-made fibers like polyester, nylon and other quick-drying fabrics. It's not a fashion show-don't bring your special lulu lemon-best. Instead, buy second-hand because your clothes are probably going to get very dirty, smelly, filled with fire burn holes and never look new again.

What's a bear hang? Do I really need to bring a bag for my "smellies?"
All students and staff will be using bear hangs for anything that smells (ex: food, garage, deodorant, toothpaste, etc). We will be using rope and a bag and tying our "smellies" up in trees to avoid attracting unwanted visitors. Every student should have a durable, and waterproof bag that can be hung in a tree without ripping or tearing that fits all food, cooking equipment (if not cleaned properly) and "smellies." MEC has a great selection of dry-bags in a variety of sizes--and no a garbage bag, reuse able shopping bag, laundry bag won't work for this purpose.

I've got my period while on the hike, now what?
Having your period while on the trail isn't ideal, but it isn't a deal breaker, nor should it stop you from experiencing wilderness camping. Be prepared to pack out any sanitary napkins (ex:pads) as they (and their wrappers) will not biodegrade. Just before bed, it is good practice to change to a clean pad. We recommend having a separate solid-coloured small discrete garbage bag (something like a ziplock) which you will discreetly bear hang at night with the rest of your "smellies." If you use tampons please only bring cardboard applicators as these can be buried. All fecal matter and toilet paper will be buried away from camp. As long as you abide by these important wilderness rules we should have no concern about bears coming into camp.

Why do I need 2 one-liter water bottles?
One for drinking. One for treating (which takes between 15-45mins for most drops or tablets). Dehydration is a very real risk while on these hikes, making sure your staying well hydrated is very important!

What water treatment is the best?
Most staff and experienced Jr. Leaders will use either a purification pump or drops. These eliminate water-borne organisms like beaver fever and don't have the poor taste of some pills. If you do use iodine-based water treatment pills we recommend bringing along some water flavouring like Mio or Crystal Light, as this type can have a strange taste.

Can I bring my phone?
Yes, but it can only be used for photos. Remember there will be no way to charge it (so please don't ask), it may get wet or damaged, and you are replicating the Cariboo Gold Rush-did gold miners have cell phones? FYI, you will get a bunch of pics at the end of the hikes.

What happens if there's an emergency?
Staff have access to a satellite phone and/or will drive the student out to the closest hospital. We will contact the parent or guardian if an emergency or any hospitalization occurs. 

What I don't get to bathe for 6 days? I don't think I can do this!
Over 1200+ Walnut Grove Gators have taken part in the Harrison Hike over the past 20+ years-if they can go without a shower/bath for six days then so can you! We all smell the same as we move throughout the week-it's part of the wilderness experience.

I've never done anything like this.  Can I do this?
Yes you can! Your leaders will teach you everything you need to know about surviving and thriving in the wilderness for 6 days. Many of us have done this for well over 6 years, and we love every minute-that's why we keep coming back for more! Come with a positive attitude, and a desire to learn new things and we guarantee you'll make memories that will last you a lifetime!

Where can I purchase hiking gear?
We recommend MEC (Mountain Equipment Coop), Atmosphere, Army & Navy, Canadian Tire, Wholesale Sports, Cabellas, Bass Pro

Where/how do we sleep?

You will be sleeping under an open-ended tarp with your entire group, your teacher leader & your Jr. Leaders. You will learn how to put up a 'ridge-line' and ensure that your sleeping situation is comfy as your bed (okay, maybe not as compfy, but it will be your home-away-from-home).

CONTACT US

Harrison Hike Experience Co-Organizers:

Eric Balzarini-- ebalzarini@sd35.bc.ca

Grant Inkster-- Ginkster@sd35.bc.ca

Selina Miller-- semiller@sd35.bc.ca

Follow us on Instragram @wgssharrisonhike

FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

What is the refund procedure for the 2020 Harrison Hike?

“Refunds

As the current situation is still evolving, schools will be issuing refunds at the end of each month for cancelled items and events. If your payments were made online the refund will be processed back to your credit card or bank account within the first five days of the following month. If your payment was made by cash or cheque, your school will issue a cheque as soon as possible after the month end if the collective amount owed to your family is over $30. If the amount is less than $30, payment will be made after June 20th in order to minimize the number of cheques a school has to issue. Any scheduled payments have been put on hold until May 1, 2020. This will be revisited in mid-April.”

I can't make the first and/or second hike, can I still participate in the Harrison Hike?
Yes. We understand that you might have a commitment on either the day or the overnight hike, but you wouldn't want to sign-up knowing that you couldn't make the full Harrison Hike. Please know that team bonding does happen during the first two hikes, so to do lessons on wilderness survival, shelter building, etc. Please make sure you record your reason for not being able to participate in one or both of the first hikes on the consent form.

I'm not feeling well the night before the hike, what do I do?
Once you're in a group you'll be given emergency contact info, please call or text a staff member or your leader to let them know that you will not be able to make the hike.

My teacher won't sign off on my permission form, what can I do?
Stop and think about the reason they won't sign your form, there's probably a good chance you already know the reason. Politely ask your teacher what they would like to see from you in exchange for participating in the hike. Hand-in as much missing work, attend class on time, and improve your attitude and work habits-remember the Harrison Hike is a privilege not a right.

What type of footwear should I bring?
A pair of waterproof hiking shoes are more than sufficient for these hikes. You can also go with a mid height hiking boot, for more ankle support (especially if this has been a concern in the past). A tall or full height boot isn't really required for our hikes, but can be used if preferred. Make sure they fit, and are well broken in before wearing them on even the first hike. Also, bring a lightweight shoe for around camp-many leaders will dawn some stylish crocks! It's cold at night so avoid flip flops or other toe-exposing footwear-crocks are extra stylish with socks!

What type of socks should I wear?
Avoid cotton because once it's wet it will remain this way. Instead use merino wool which keeps your feet dry, and helps to reduce the chances of getting blisters. Most hikers have 3-5 pairs. One to wear. One to clean then dry on the outside of their pack. One to change into when you get into camp. No stylish no-show ankle socks, you'll be sure to get blisters!

I get blisters. What can I do?
There are special ways you can tie your shoes to avoid your foot from slipping around in your shoe-Google it and try them at home. Also avoid loose-fitting, and cotton socks as they don't breath well. Also having extra dry socks that you can change into during breaks gives your feet the opportunity to dry. Also, have moleskin, duct tape or some other anti-friction tape/rub in an easy to reach location so at any break or feeling of friction you can address your feet before a blister even forms--prevention is the best!

What kind of backpack should I bring?
Most HH veterans will have a 65ltr to 80ltr pack that will fit all of their gear and food inside when packed correctly. Look for an internal frame, and one that has a hip belt and sternum strap! Mec has some great options, but ask friends and family before going out to purchase a new pack, as most packs will run $200 and up! Also packs shave different size frames, what fits one person could be very uncomfortable for another. Not sure if your pack will work bring it to school before the hike and your leader will check it out.

Do I really need a pack cover?
Yes! Chances are it will rain, and when it does you want to keep everything inside your pack dry-and a pack cover will do this. Purchase a pack cover based on the size of your backpack--tip: make sure it will fit around YOUR ENTIRE BAG NOT JUST THE TOP. Some people find that getting a slightly larger pack cover works better if you are forced to keep items outside your bag like a sleeping bag or mat.  If you can't fit your sleeping bag inside your pack pick up a dry-bag for your sleeping bag so that when it's attached to the outside of your pack it stays dry. Please do not use garbage bags, one lone branch typically does these in within the first day of hiking.

What kind of sleeping bag should I bring?
We recommend a 0 to -7 degree sleeping bag that is big enough to pull up and over your head. Your kids bag from beaver camp probably won't cut it, as some nights can drop down to around zero. Down bags are great as they are particularly warm and light-weight but once they get wet they will stay wet for the rest of the hike. Synthetic fill bags are best as they remain warm even when wet, but tend to be heavier than their down counterpart.

What type of clothing should I bring/wear?
Nothing cotton! Once cotton is wet it will remain wet and cold for the entire hike! Put away the cotton hoodies, the jeans and the cotton t-shirts. Think man-made fibers like polyester, nylon and other quick-drying fabrics. It's not a fashion show-don't bring your special lulu lemon-best. Instead, buy second-hand because your clothes are probably going to get very dirty, smelly, filled with fire burn holes and never look new again.

What's a bear hang? Do I really need to bring a bag for my "smellies?"
All students and staff will be using bear hangs for anything that smells (ex: food, garage, deodorant, toothpaste, etc). We will be using rope and a bag and tying our "smellies" up in trees to avoid attracting unwanted visitors. Every student should have a durable, and waterproof bag that can be hung in a tree without ripping or tearing that fits all food, cooking equipment (if not cleaned properly) and "smellies." MEC has a great selection of dry-bags in a variety of sizes--and no a garbage bag, reuse able shopping bag, laundry bag won't work for this purpose.

I've got my period while on the hike, now what?
Having your period while on the trail isn't ideal, but it isn't a deal breaker, nor should it stop you from experiencing wilderness camping. Be prepared to pack out any sanitary napkins (ex:pads) as they (and their wrappers) will not biodegrade. Just before bed, it is good practice to change to a clean pad. We recommend having a separate solid-coloured small discrete garbage bag (something like a ziplock) which you will discreetly bear hang at night with the rest of your "smellies." If you use tampons please only bring cardboard applicators as these can be buried. All fecal matter and toilet paper will be buried away from camp. As long as you abide by these important wilderness rules we should have no concern about bears coming into camp.

Why do I need 2 one-liter water bottles?
One for drinking. One for treating (which takes between 15-45mins for most drops or tablets). Dehydration is a very real risk while on these hikes, making sure your staying well hydrated is very important!

What water treatment is the best?
Most staff and experienced Jr. Leaders will use either a purification pump or drops. These eliminate water-borne organisms like beaver fever and don't have the poor taste of some pills. If you do use iodine-based water treatment pills we recommend bringing along some water flavouring like Mio or Crystal Light, as this type can have a strange taste.

Can I bring my phone?
Yes, but it can only be used for photos. Remember there will be no way to charge it (so please don't ask), it may get wet or damaged, and you are replicating the Cariboo Gold Rush-did gold miners have cell phones? FYI, you will get a bunch of pics at the end of the hikes.

What happens if there's an emergency?
Staff have access to a satellite phone and/or will drive the student out to the closest hospital. We will contact the parent or guardian if an emergency or any hospitalization occurs. 

What I don't get to bathe for 6 days? I don't think I can do this!
Over 1200+ Walnut Grove Gators have taken part in the Harrison Hike over the past 20+ years-if they can go without a shower/bath for six days then so can you! We all smell the same as we move throughout the week-it's part of the wilderness experience.

I've never done anything like this.  Can I do this?
Yes you can! Your leaders will teach you everything you need to know about surviving and thriving in the wilderness for 6 days. Many of us have done this for well over 6 years, and we love every minute-that's why we keep coming back for more! Come with a positive attitude, and a desire to learn new things and we guarantee you'll make memories that will last you a lifetime!

Where can I purchase hiking gear?
We recommend MEC (Mountain Equipment Coop), Atmosphere, Army & Navy, Canadian Tire, Wholesale Sports, Cabellas, Bass Pro

MEAL PLANNING

MEAL PLANNING HAND-OUT

 

Meal planning can be challenging, but we've got a few ideas for you! Here are some suggestions:

-Kraft Dinner

-Side Kicks

-Oranges (eat early as they are heavy)

-Powdered Milk

-Energy Bars

-Instant hot cereal

-Dehydrated eggs

-Pancake mix

-Granola

-Dry cereal

-Instant tea/coffee

-Powdered drink mix/flavoring

-Powdered milk

-Dried fruit

-Jerky

-Fig Bars

-Nuts/Trail Mix

-Carrots

-Bagged tuna (avoid cans as you need to carry out garbage)

-Freeze-Dried/Dehydrated Meals (can be purchased from MEC, Atmosphere, Army & Navy)

Check-Out these websites for further suggestions:

 

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/planning-menu.html

http://www.theyummylife.com/Backpacking_Food

Our experienced Jr. Leaders Zach & Brad give you some tips for Harrison Hike Food Planning in their video below:

Meal Planning Considerations:

    

  • Taste: Eat what you like. Don't try to convert your taste buds to new types of food deep in the backcountry.

  • Calories: Don't inaugurate a diet program during a multiday hike. You'll need ample calories (and water) to fight off fatigue and headaches.

  • Nutrition: It's fine to tear into a candy bar during a trip, but for the long haul you want to rely on complex carbohydrates and proteins. Intelligent quick snacks such as nuts and dried fruits provide more stable energy for your muscles than that candy bar.

  • Weight and bulk: Stick to lightweight and low-bulk backpacking food as much as possible, especially on long journeys. Consider repackaging foods into resealable plastic baggies to minimize bulk and garbage. Be sure to clearly label the baggies and include cooking instructions.

  • Ease of preparation: Unless you are an experienced camp chef, keep things simple. Always include no-cook food items in case your stove malfunctions.

  • Availability of water: This can vary greatly depending on where you’re going and can influence what backpacking food you choose to bring.

  • Fuel: Check the cook time for foods such as pasta, potatoes, rice, quinoa, etc. and make sure to plan for enough fuel (some of these dishes take a deceptively long time to cook).

  • Cost: Convenience has its price. Freeze-dried meals and energy foods can be expensive, but at the end of a long day when your weary body only has enough energy to boil water, such luxuries are justifiable.

CONTACT
DONATE

We believe that every student should have the opportunity to experience BC's great outdoors! Unfortunately, getting the basic equipment to backpack in the wilderness does cost money. We would happily accept new/well cared for hiking equipment and/or funds that we could hold in trust for any students unable to afford to participate in the hike.

 

Over the past 22 years, over a thousand Gators have learned valuable survival, and life skills while participating in the annual Harrison Hike.

 

The Harrison Hike Experience Organizers would love to hear from you if you have contacts in the outdoor equipment/tarp supply industry, and/or truck rental world. We are often looking for volunteers to help--If you are 19 years of age or older, have first-aid (not required), life-guarding certification (not required), are an expert or rookie outdoors-person & would like to volunteer please contact the hike organizers.

 

If you would like to support the WGSS Harrison Hike we are often looking for the following pieces of equipment and/or monies:

  • 65+ liter backpacks

  • 65+ liter waterproof backpack covers

  • 20liter fold able water jugs

  • folding fire grates

  • Tarps (various sizes)--used for sleeping shelter, campfires, pack covers, etc...

DONATE/VOLUNTEER

FAQ

CONTACT US

Meal
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