New water source, hiking stick rack welcome additions
The season may be winding down, but hikers entering the Sunset trailhead have come upon a few welcome changes lately.
A new human/canine water fountain and a locally-crafted hiking stick rack have both appeared in recent weeks.
Public Works staff are behind the installation of the treated water fountain and the accompanying information signs, which appeared the last week of August. As announced in the Village Update, the fountain can be found at the Sunset trailhead, providing a welcome refreshment for hikers and residents alike.
Director of Operations Karl Buhr tells The Watershed that the wording of the signs was carefully considered to ensure that hikers know not to drink the water straight from nature because it’s not safe and to also protect the catchment area which is the source of drinking water.
"We want to impart that water is collected where you’re hiking, it has to be treated to make it safe, and any help would be appreciated."
Hiker numbers may have moderated from the 15,000 per month peaks they reached in 2023, but visitors are still flocking to local trails in droves.
Search and rescue groups are being kept busy by the unlucky few who invariably have either started out unprepared, or unaware of the potential intensity of a hike through local mountains.
On a recent sunny Saturday, hikers availing themselves of water from the new fountain after scaling a local mountain expressed their gratitude.
"We've just climbed Mount Harvey, and even with two litres each, we ran out before we got to the top," said one hiker. "It was a long walk down with no water available anywhere."
Her companion paused from gulping water long enough to add her agreement. "We thought we were prepared, but it wasn't enough."
Local dogs are also giving the fountain a paws-up, as a welcome source of fresh water at the start (and end!) of their walk. According to Buhr, the water source is permanent, and will only be shut down for the coldest months, when winterizing is required.
As for the hiking stick stand, it was crafted and installed by a local carpenter as a spot where members of local hiking groups, as well as visiting hikers, can find a hiking stick if they need one, and leave it behind for the next person to use.
It's just another means of offering hikers both a warm welcome to Lions Bay and a sense of stewardship as they traverse local trails.
The Watershed values your thoughts. Leave your comments below, or email us at editor@lionsbaywatershed.ca
Like what you're reading? For as little as $5/month, you can support local independent journalism by subscribing to The Watershed HERE.
Comments