Recreate responsibly.

There are 203 distinct Indigenous Nations in BC, each with unique traditions and history. BC is also home to more than 34 languages and 60 dialects.

• Educate yourself about the history, culture, and issues around Indigenous peoples in Canada and your area.

• Honour Indigenous peoples for the critical stewardship role they continue to play in BC, including on the land and water used for recreation and nature-based activities.

• Respect the guidelines set by Indigenous communities, be sensitive to traditional practices and cultural areas.

• Walk gently on the land and recreate responsibly.

Learn more at Indigenous Tourism BC, Working in a Good Way and First Peoples’ Map BC

Follow the three Ts:

1. Trip Planning

• Research your destination, obtain and review maps and route descriptions, and review the regulations and restrictions of the area you intend to visit.

• Check the weather and prepare for extreme weather, hazards, or emergencies.

• Write a trip plan and give it to someone you trust, or use the Trip Plan app.

2. Training

Obtain the knowledge and skills you need before heading out. Once you’re out there, stay within your limits.

3. Take the essentials

A headlamp (with extra batteries), a signalling device, extra food and water, extra clothing, a first aid kit, and navigation or communication devices.

Learn more at Hello BC, BC AdventureSmart and AdventureSmart.

• Obey signage and respect closures and restrictions.

• Check relevant websites or call ahead to be aware of closures, the status of trails, and limited services.

• Do not trespass on private or reserve lands.

• Obtain permits or other authorization as required.

• Leave gates as you found them.

Learn more at Recreation Sites and Trails BC, BC Parks and Parks Canada.

Prevent a wildfire by following these simple rules:

• Check for fire bans and restrictions.

• Where permitted, keep campfires less than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide.

• Have a shovel or 8L of water nearby to extinguish your fire.

• Never leave a campfire unattended and ensure your campfire is completely out and the ashes cool to touch before you leave.

• Be very careful about where and when you drive an off-road vehicle (ORV). Learn about the rules and guidelines for ORV use in this infographic.

If you are planning to have a campfire on public lands outside of BC Parks, minimize the impacts on the natural environment of a campfire.

Call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell if you spot smoke, flames or an unattended campfire. Check BC Wildfire Service for fire bans and fire safety tips. Learn more about the open fire regulations here.

• Pack out everything you pack in.

• Dispose of garbage, recycling, and pet waste at appropriate facilities.

• No washroom? Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, campsites and trails, and cover up when finished.

• Bring a sealable plastic bag to pack out toilet paper.

Learn more at Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace Canada.

• Clean your gear before you leave home and again before leaving the trail.

• Don’t bring firewood home.

• When horseback riding, use weed-free or certified hay.

Go to the Invasive Species Council of BC for more information.

• Do not disturb wild animals by feeding or approaching them.

• Know what type of wildlife you are likely to encounter, where and when, and how to react appropriately.

• Check for wildlife alerts or notices posted at trailheads or on relevant websites.

• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings; never wear headphones.

• Use your voice to alert animals of your presence.

• Know how to use bear spray and keep it with you at all times in an easy-to-access holster.

Learn more at WildSafeBC.

• Use existing trails to avoid trail braiding and damaging surrounding ecosystems.

• Don’t cut switchbacks or take shortcuts unless there is one specified.

• In alpine environments, spread out to avoid carving unnecessary trails. Walk on rocks or snow as much as possible to avoid damaging vegetation.

• Avoid wetlands and other sensitive ecosystems.

Learn more at Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly.

• Confirm that the trail is canine-friendly before you arrive.

• Follow leash rules.

• Ensure your dog is obedient enough not to cause problems for you, other trail users, or wild animals.

• Yield to cyclists and horses.

• Pick up all dog waste and pack it out

Learn more about pets on Recreation Sites and Trails BC, BC Parks and Parks Canada.

• Use existing campsites, if possible.

• Camp on durable surfaces (rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow).

• In alpine areas, spread out tents.

• Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

• Don’t use waterways for washing.

• Use a camp stove instead of a campfire for cooking.

• If there is no toilet, use a portable latrine and pack out waste or dig a 6”-8” deep cat hole at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites or trails. Cover and disguise it with natural materials. Pack out your toilet paper.

Learn more at Camper’s Code, Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace Canada.

We hate being preachy, but the safety of everyone on the trails is paramount.

Horses always have the right of way, followed by hikers, bikers, and motorized recreationists. Hikers should give way to cyclists climbing a steep hill.

Here are some general guidelines that apply to all trail users.

• Stay on designated trails.

• Move to the side in a safe place to rest, chat, or enjoy the vistas.

• Stay alert for other users, wildlife and trail hazards. Don’t wear earbuds.

• Communicate with other trail users. Say hi, stay to the right, announce yourself when passing and pass on the left.

• Proceed with caution around horses and pack animals. Stop, get off your bike/ATV and remove your helmet, move off the trail, speak to the rider to confirm what they’d like you to do, let the horse pass, carry on and stay alert.

In essence, good etiquette comes down to three things; common sense, communication and courtesy.

Public parks, trails and recreational spaces in BC should be sources of joy and adventure for all, including those that have historically been underrepresented in these spaces.

Educate yourself about how you can become a better ally to the BIPOC (black, indigenous, and other people of colour) community and others who’ve been marginalized in the outdoors.

• Colour The Trails

• BC Adaptive

• Diversify Outdoors

• Melanin Base Camp

• Indigenous Women Outdoors

• Recreate Responsible Coalition