Dear Nova: I’m 50 Years Old and Going on My First Backcountry Hiking Trip — Help!
Our advice columnist Nova Explorehart is a self-proclaimed “modern-day adventurer,” having spent over a decade exploring remote backcountry trails, climbing peaks, kayaking untamed rivers and camping under the stars. Now she’s here to tackle your burning questions on anything outdoors related!
Dear Nova,
I’m a 50-year-old woman who loves hiking, but I’m nervous about my first backcountry camping trip. I’ve been front-country camping tons, but my friends want to go for an overnight hike/girls’ trip to Garibaldi Lake, BC this summer. I can easily hike 10 kilometres, but I’ve never carried such a big backpack so long before. What should I pack for an adventure like this? Will I be able to do it? Is it worth it? What do you think?
—Timid New Overnight Hiker
Hey Timid New Overnight Hiker,
Welcome to the world of backpacking! It’s awesome, messy, muddy and utterly rewarding. The good news? Packing for your first overnight trip doesn’t have to be complicated. And let me tell you—Garibaldi Lake? Chef’s kiss. Some of the best hiking I’ve done, and I’ve dragged my family there twice in the last three years. I still think about the views—and that time I spilled chicken curry into my sleeping bag…
First Things First: Do You Actually Want to Go?
Ask yourself: Do I want this? Like, really want this? Because although you can always conquer greater heights (safely), there’s a fine line between pushing yourself and forcing yourself. When backpacking, I like to imagine myself in a world in which distractions and work don’t exist, wandering and skipping through the meadows and dense forests like the primitive, wild soul that I am, hopping from one rock to the next. If you vibe with this kind of adventure, and won’t regret every life decision, then buckle up! You’re in for a treat (the kind that gets your hands all sticky but is absolutely delicious).
And let me be clear: front-country camping still counts. Just because you’re closer to your car doesn’t mean you’re not being outdoorsy. And real friends won’t judge. If they do? Tell them to carry your pack and see how “friendly” they are.
Okay, You’re In? Let’s Get Your Body Trail-Ready
Here’s your no-gym-membership-required training plan. You’ll need to focus on the follow areas:
- Cardio Endurance: For long climbs and long days.
- Strength: Core, legs and back for carrying a pack.
- Balance and mobility: To prevent injuries on uneven terrain.
- Pack Training: Gradually adding weight to simulate trip conditions.
- Practice Hikes: To get used to elevation, terrain and gear.
Unfortunately, I’m not a personal trainer so I can’t give you an exact workout plan (although getting a consultation with a personal trainer is sure to get you all set). The best thing to do is research, talk to a healthcare professional and figure out what your body needs to become a backpacking baddie. Maybe you’ll need to change up your diet to include more protein and/or bulk up. Maybe you’ll need to polish up those biceps and triceps with some weightlifting. Maybe you’re already in pretty good condition and just need a bit of mobility training. Either way, give yourself ample time (at least 12 weeks) to train your body for this quest you’re about to embark on.
Bonus tips: While training, wear your hiking boots to break them in! Practice with trekking poles early for joint support. Bring water and snacks on training hikes. And always make sure to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re new to exercise.
So you can hike 10 kilometres? Amazing! Let’s not double that while carrying 30 pounds. For your first backpacking trip, go short, sweet and scenic. Considering hiking to Garibaldi Lake is a relatively hard and long undertaking, the epic but short Cheakamus Lake Trail is my personalized recommendation for you. It’s a four kilometre out-and-back hike with about 283 metres of elevation gain and should take about one hour. It will be much less elevation gain than a hike to Taylor Meadows (about eight kilometres one-way, 925 metres elevation gain) or to Garibaldi Lake (about 10 kilometres one-way, 989 metres elevation gain), so I think it’ll be a doable trek. The trailhead will be at the far end of the parking lot, where you’ll see a map. You’ll need a free day-use pass (unless you have a camping reservation) on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and holidays if you’re visiting from September 2 to October 13, 2025. Are you an early riser? Well, you better be because it’s best to book early for such a popular, busy park. The pass will be available at 7 a.m. two days before your visit. Once you get to the lake, right near the north end, you’ll find the Cheakamus Lake campground.
Or you can try the hike to Elfin Lakes campground. Basically, it’s a 22 kilometre round-trip hike, about 11 kilometres one-way. Start at the Diamond Head parking lot, the main trailhead for Elfin Lakes. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended because it will be very hard to drive on the rough terrain with any other vehicle. In the winter, you need tire chains to drive through the hard-packed snow. You’ll need a free day-use pass again (unless you have a camping reservation) on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and holidays, from June 13 to October 13, 2025. While it may be a bit challenging (especially with a backpack), you’ll see views that’ll make your Instagram scream and you’ll hike along a smooth, moderate pathway with a manageable incline. But wait, there’s more! You don’t need a tent because there are shelters here. What’s better than a lighter pack without the tent on your first backpacking trip! Reserve in advance, though, but if you don’t get a spot (since it’s a pretty popular shelter), you can try to reserve one of 35 campsites at the Elfin Lakes campground. The shelters can accommodate 33 people with propane burners, pit toilet facilities, wash sinks and solar powered lights, but there are no garbage facilities so make sure to pack out whatever you pack in. I would still recommend to bring your own camping stove since the propane burners may be unavailable or limited. There will be hooks to hang your food. Consider bringing a sleeping bag since it may get cold, but usually the heaters keep you nice and toasty.
Important: You’re going to need to register for a backcountry permit. Backcountry permit registration and camping reservations are two different things. A permit allows you to access facilities and designated areas but doesn’t guarantee a campsite. A reservation is for a spot in the campground. You need backcountry permits for anywhere there is a camping fee charged. Garibaldi does charge for camping ($10 per adult per night, $5 per child per night) and when you pay your fees while reserving a campsite, you automatically receive a permit. Learn more about permits here.
As for backcountry reservations, it is quite difficult to get them due to high demand and a limited number of campsites available. Find out how to ensure a reservation through this detailed article or on this page.
More Tips:
- Make sure to pack in and pack out.
- Pit toilet facilities as well as food hanging facilities will be provided.
- Follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace in order to protect the environment.
- Learn to use a bear hang to avoid encounters with bear and other wildlife. Trust me, it’s not fun to come out of your tent and be nose-to-nose with a bear (especially when you need to use the bathroom really bad!) You’ll need to find a strong, tall branch and tie the bag about 3.5 metres above the ground and 1.8 metres from the tree trunk. Have a sturdy bag, a strong rope, a carabiner and a weighted object (like a rock) to throw the rope over the branch and hoist the food.
The Essentials
- Backpack: At least a 40-litre pack that has a good frame and adjustable straps, a padded hip belt, a chest strap and try to find one with load lifter straps as well (trust me, your back will thank you). Make sure it has enough space for your gear (and snacks).
- Sleeping Bag: Go for one rated for the season. You don’t want to freeze, but you also don’t want to roast like a marshmallow in the middle of a heatwave. Pick a lightweight one, like the Feathered Friends Vireo UL Sleeping Bag—my ultimate go-to—or the MEC Centaurus 0C Sleeping Bag. Are you going in the dry season? Definitely pack a down sleeping bag, which is more lightweight, compressible and offers lots of warmth! Going during rainy season? A synthetic sleeping bag is your bestie, which might be heavier, but is very water-resistant and continues to insulate when wet.
- Sleeping Pad: These nifty pads play two roles in getting a good night’s sleep out there: cushioning and insulation. For a backpacking trip, I would recommend an air pad or lightweight self-inflating pad, which are comfortable, lightweight and have a wide range of warmth (R-value).
- Tent: A lightweight, easy-to-set-up tent is key. I always go for a one-person tent when I’m solo—it might be a bit tighter, but it’s certainly lighter! Plus it’s so much cozier when you’re huddling in a tiny shelter.
- Food: Easy-to-make meals are your friend. Think freeze-dried meals or my personal favourite: pasta and a ziplock bag of pesto (nothing beats camp pasta!). Bring snacks like trail mix or energy bars. And don’t forget something to cook the food in (like a camping stove). Click here for tips on keeping food fresh. Pro-tip: don’t forget the spork. I once ate with a stick. It was humbling.
- Clothing: Layer up, my friend! I recommend moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer and a good waterproof jacket. And for the love of dry feet: extra socks.
- Water: A lightweight water filter or purification tablets will save you from lugging too much water. But always carry a bottle just in case you can’t find a good water source.
- The Essentials: Don’t forget some of the must-need items for a backpacking trip. To avoid getting lost, you’ll need a map, compass, altimeter, GPS device and personal locator beacon. Bring a headlamp and batteries for extra dark nights. Sun-protection is a must so don’t forget your sunscreen (SPF 30 and beyond!). Other than that, bring a first-aid kit, insect repellant, a good knife, fire matches/a lighter and tinder and (at the risk of sounding cheesy) a positive attitude!
You’ll find this Pro-Adventurer Compression Sack useful for your trip!
Click here to learn more about what to wear on your trip. See this for tips on lightening your pack. Want affordable gear? Click here.
And the best advice I can give? Don’t overpack. When in doubt, leave it out. Maybe even split your supplies among your friends. You’ll thank me later when you’re not hiking with a 50-pound backpack up a rocky mountain.
Plan B: Because Mother Nature Has Mood Swings
I always say, insert Forrest Gump’s voice here, “Hiking is like a box of chocolate; you never know what you’re going to get.” Make a Plan B:
- Alternate routes, rest stops, water sources.
- Know exit trails in case the trip turns into a survival story.
- Tell someone your route and when to expect you back. If you ghost them for 48 hours, they’ll send a rescue, not an angry text.
- And always carry a communicator like ZOLEO.
Finally, give yourself permission to make mistakes. Not every hike will be perfect, but that’s part of the fun—like the time I forgot my spork (again!) and had to slurp my oatmeal for 36 hours. Don’t stress, but don’t under-stress either. The mountains have a way of teaching you things you didn’t know you needed to learn. Keep your sense of humour, enjoy the journey and remember: if you forget something, there’s always a way to improvise (I’ve made fire from two sticks before… sort of).
Happy trails,
Nova “Trailblazer” Explorehart
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