2024 Third Quarter Newsletter
Dear Members,
We hope you’ve had an adventurous and fulfilling summer! From scenic hikes through alpine landscapes to thrilling paddling trips on serene lakes, the third quarter of 2024 was packed with unforgettable outdoor activities. Let’s look back at some of the amazing events we shared:
July 2024 Highlights:
July 1: Our Canada Day celebration saw two exciting activities. The Windy Joe Hike, led by Paul, took members up to the lookout for breathtaking views of the Cascades, while Suzey guided a scenic Kayaking Trip along peaceful waters, offering a perfect summer start.
July 5-15: Suzey led a group on the iconic Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit. Over 10 days, participants paddled through pristine lakes, rivers, and portages in the Cariboo Mountains, enjoying wildlife sightings, starry nights, and the camaraderie that comes with tackling a wilderness challenge.
July 20: Two spectacular hikes filled this day with adventure. Tim took a group up the Sea to Summit Trail, offering them panoramic views of Howe Sound after a demanding ascent. Meanwhile, Allan led the Iceberg Lake Hike, where participants were treated to the cool beauty of the lake’s turquoise waters surrounded by glaciers.
July 21: Cyclists had a great time during the Boundary Bay Dyke Trail Cycling event, led by Tim. The group enjoyed a leisurely ride along the coastal wetlands, spotting birds and taking in the open views of the bay.
July 18 to 22: A group of PNOA adventurers set out on an unforgettable kayaking trip through the breathtaking Desolation Islands, led by Jane Zhao. Known for its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and serene waters, the Desolation Islands provided the perfect backdrop for exploration. Participants paddled through calm inlets, camped on secluded beaches, and witnessed stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water. With Jane’s expert guidance, this trip was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty— a true highlight of the summer!
July 27: A day filled with both paddling and hiking! Tim & Lisa led the group on the Mt. Rohr Lake/Mt. Rohr Hike, which offered dramatic views of alpine meadows and rugged peaks. At the same time, Paul & Yolanda guided the River of Golden Dreams Paddle in Whistler, a peaceful paddle through meandering waterways surrounded by the stunning mountain backdrop.
August 2024 Highlights:
Aug 1-31: In the 2024 Great Cycle Challenge, the PNOA GCC 2024 team achieved remarkable results. We raised $8,579 for the SickKids Foundation to help research and treat childhood cancers.
Aug 3-5: The Tundra Lake Backpacking Trip, led by Susan, was a remote and breathtaking adventure. The group traversed alpine meadows and rugged terrain, camping in one of the most secluded and picturesque locations of the summer.
Aug 3: Tim & Li led the Rainbow Lake & Rainbow Mountain Hike, where hikers ascended through beautiful alpine terrain and were rewarded with sweeping views of the Whistler area from the summit of Rainbow Mountain.
Aug 4: The popular Widgeon Falls Paddle & Hike, led by Paul & Yolanda, saw participants paddling through the tranquil waters of Pitt Lake before enjoying a scenic hike to the waterfalls. The cool mist from the falls was the perfect way to beat the summer heat.
Aug 5: Paul & Yolanda hosted another water-based event, the Sasamat Lake Paddle Event at Pitt River. Members explored the peaceful lake, enjoying the sunny day and calm waters.
Aug 5 & 11: Tim & Li organized a Multi-City One-Day Cycling Event across Greater Vancouver, giving members a chance to explore various scenic trails throughout the city while enjoying a day of social cycling.
Aug 10: The Sky Pilot Hike, led by Li, was an intense and rewarding adventure. This steep hike challenged participants but provided magnificent views of the Squamish area once they reached the summit.
Aug 8: The Seymour Hike, led by Roy Cao & James Zhang, was a North Shore classic, giving members stunning vistas of Vancouver and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Aug 16-25: Tim led the Yellowstone Cycling Trip, where participants experienced the iconic landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. This multi-day cycling journey took them through geysers, canyons, and wildlife-rich areas, making it an unforgettable experience.
Aug 18: Paul led the Mount Macfarlane/Pierce Lakes Hike, a challenging climb that rewarded hikers with stunning views of glacial lakes and surrounding peaks. It was a great test of endurance and a highlight for alpine enthusiasts.
Aug 25-31: Suzey’s Broken Group Islands Kayaking Trip offered participants a chance to explore the calm waters and hidden coves of this Pacific Northwest gem. Paddling through the islands and camping on remote beaches, it was a tranquil and adventurous escape from the busy summer season.
Aug 31: Yuki guided the group on a thrilling ascent of Mt. Brunswick, the highest peak in the Howe Sound Crest Range. The clear weather made for spectacular views from the summit, offering a perfect ending to the month.
September 2024 Highlights:
Sep 7: This weekend featured two fantastic events. Paul led the Harrison River Paddle, a relaxing journey through calm waters, perfect for soaking in the scenery and spotting wildlife. At the same time, Allan led the Crown Mountain Hike, a steep and rugged trail with incredible summit views, giving participants a thrilling sense of accomplishment.
Sep 8: The Lindenman Lake/Flora Peak Hike, co-led by Tim, Lisa & Yuki, offered members a beautiful combination of lake and alpine scenery. With shimmering lakes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, it was a highlight for hikers seeking adventure and beauty.
Sep 15: The Dragon Boat Event, led by Li & Paul, saw members paddling through False Creek, working together as a team. It was a fun-filled day on the water, followed by a social gathering to celebrate the success of the race.
Sep 21-29: A major highlight of the season was the Banff Autumn Trip, led by Tim, Paul, Li & Yuki. This multi-day adventure took participants through some of the most iconic landscapes in the Canadian Rockies. From hiking the stunning Lake O’Hara alpine circuits to exploring the autumn beauty of the Skoki Loop, the trip was filled with breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and vibrant fall colors.
Sep 28: Allan rounded out the month with the Mount Harvey Hike, a challenging ascent that provided hikers with stunning 360-degree views from the summit. Clear skies and crisp fall air made this a perfect day for mountain enthusiasts.
October 2024 Highlights:
Oct 5: The quarter concluded with a meaningful Tsawwassen Ferry Causeway Cleanup & Potluck at the Tsawwassen Shelter. Members came together to clean up the coastal area, followed by a delicious potluck to celebrate the spirit of community and conservation.
Friendly Reminders:
Pre-season Whistler Ski Trip: December 1-6, 2024. Get ready for a thrilling week on the slopes! It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy Whistler’s world-class skiing and snowboarding before the holiday rush. Be sure to sign up early!
PNOA 2025 Calendar Photo Contest: Submit your best nature photos by November 15 for a chance to be featured in the 2025 PNOA calendar! This year’s theme is “Capture Nature, Inspire Others”. Whether it’s a stunning mountain vista or a serene paddling scene, we want to see the beauty you’ve captured during your adventures.
We hope to see you at our upcoming trips and events as we continue exploring the great outdoors together. Thank you for making this summer so memorable!
Best regards,
The PNOA Team
