Part of the reason I moved from the East Coast to the West Coast ten years ago was the allure of the landscape. The mountains felt intimidating and magnetic all at once. The mountains are calling, and I must go– but I don’t have to give up the coast and ocean? Sign me up! What I discovered very quickly was that I was not just looking for adventure. Being in nature became essential to my mental health and overall sense of well-being. It’s difficult to stay troubled when standing in the presence of such vastness, when the universe reminds me how large it is and how small I am. Rather than sparking existential dread, that perspective brings me relief.
Spending time in the wilderness requires care, preparation, and respect. Vancouver is one of the few places in the world where you can find yourself in serious trouble on a mountaintop while still having a great view of civilization below. The work of North Shore Rescue is nothing short of remarkable. This entirely volunteer-run organization is made up of people who give their time, skills, and experience to help others who share a love for the outdoors. They are people I hope I never need to call, but I am deeply grateful to know they are there when help is needed.
North Shore Rescue has always believed that no one should hesitate to call for help because of money. They have never charged for a rescue and instead rely entirely on donations to continue their work. We are proud to contribute one percent of our 2026 revenue in support of North Shore Rescue and the vital role they play in keeping our outdoor community safe.
We encourage you to take some time to watch their program, which is available for free with a Knowledge Network account. It offers a powerful look into their history and the rescues they carry out across the Lower Mainland.
When you head out on your next hike, please remember to carry the Ten Essentials and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
