Overlanding is defined as ‘Self-reliant adventure travel, where the journey is the primary goal’ To us, overlanding is the freedom to take the road less travelled and hit the wilderness, safe in the knowledge that our adventure rig is equipped with all the gear and supplies we need to safely pitch camp wherever we end up and enjoy the back country roads as we wind our way around this gorgeous part of the world. It's a family adventure that our daughter and dogs can all partake in, and when you find a side road - instead of wondering 'I wonder where that goes' you drive it to find out, and sometimes it leads to some spectacular places or sometimes you get lost and that's the fun. But our opinion is all but one. This month for our theme we decided to throw it back to others in the industry and previous clients to see why they love this style of travel as much as we do. Industry partners: Offtrack Travel For us, travelling overland offers the unbeatable flexibility to go anywhere we like, anytime. We love making our own schedule and being able to truly embrace spontaneity. Most importantly, it enables us to get off the beaten path and find incredible one of a kind experiences as well as elusive hidden gems. Meeting more local people is also inevitable when travelling this way and that always adds to the experience. I can't even count the amount of times we've been tipped off about amazing hikes or spectacular viewpoints by curious locals! We've also made long time friends. Robert & Gemma – Offtrack Travel Photo Credit: Gemma - Offtrack Travel Check them out: https://offtracktravel.ca/camping-vancouver-island/ https://offtracktravel.ca/big-trees-vancouver-island/ Treeline Outdoors Connecting people with nature is our primary goal here at Treeline. We believe in providing
Overlanding is defined as ‘Self-reliant adventure travel, where the journey is the primary goal’
To us, overlanding is the freedom to take the road less travelled and hit the wilderness, safe in the knowledge that our adventure rig is equipped with all the gear and supplies we need to safely pitch camp wherever we end up and enjoy the back country roads as we wind our way around this gorgeous part of the world. It’s a family adventure that our daughter and dogs can all partake in, and when you find a side road – instead of wondering ‘I wonder where that goes’ you drive it to find out, and sometimes it leads to some spectacular places or sometimes you get lost and that’s the fun.
But our opinion is all but one. This month for our theme we decided to throw it back to others in the industry and previous clients to see why they love this style of travel as much as we do.
Industry partners:
Offtrack Travel
For us, travelling overland offers the unbeatable flexibility to go anywhere we like, anytime. We love making our own schedule and being able to truly embrace spontaneity. Most importantly, it enables us to get off the beaten path and find incredible one of a kind experiences as well as elusive hidden gems. Meeting more local people is also inevitable when travelling this way and that always adds to the experience. I can’t even count the amount of times we’ve been tipped off about amazing hikes or spectacular viewpoints by curious locals! We’ve also made long time friends.
Treeline Outdoors Connecting people with nature is our primary goal here at Treeline. We believe in providing a sustainable camping solution for families and adventurers alike. In today’s world it is now more important than ever to unplug and connect with the wilderness around us. Overlanding is a fantastic means to satisfy our hunger for adventure. We built the roads, let’s use them
Jeff Strand – Treeline Outdoors
Photo Credit: Villiers Van Der Merwe aka @geoscoutadventures
Overlanding has brought me to places my own two feet would never have been able to by just hiking. I could not believe that I only recently discovered this activity, and it has honestly been the best of both worlds – going off roading and spending time with your friends and family in the outdoors. Nothing beats when you’re on the trail and looking forward to having that campfire with your favourite ones after setting up camp at the most perfect spot you’ve been looking for, and just taking the time to absorb and appreciate all that’s around you.
With hiking being so popular, overlanding has really allowed me to access places that are generally much less crowded, where you can actually enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. It definitely is a lifestyle, and it’s for sure an addiction once you get into it.
Henry Choy – FarOut Wilderness Client 2019
PhotoCredit:Henry Choy
MORGAN WEAFER
I have chosen to overland because I want to live more. By doing away with a traditional lifestyle and adopting a more minimalistic one, I am able to achieve greater happiness. With less, I have more. I now have opportunities to explore my world, complete my goals and reach my full potential. The world is beautiful and so are it’s people. Overlanding introduces me to cultures and ideas I would have never encountered otherwise. I find that to be valuable. If you want to make the most out of life, you have to start living it.
Vancouver Island Bucket List for 2020 As we welcome in 2020 we hope your new year resolutions are filled with lots of adventures and getting out in nature. If you are looking for some ideas on where to travel on Vancouver Island - why not check out our 2020 Bucket list for Vancouver Island. Filled with lots of nature, great food and some stunning coastline - Why wait, come visit this year! Here is our top things to do on Vancouver Island when you are planning your road trip. 11. West Coast Trail So technically you can't drive this but you can drive there so we are adding it to our list. Vancouver Island’s west coast was called the ‘Graveyard of the Pacific’ by sailors due to its treacherous rocks and headlands. In 1907 the dominion lifesaving trail was created to facilitate the rescue of shipwreck survivors along the coast. Now called the west coast trail, take a step back in history and explore the stunning 75kms section of rugged coastline. The trail is only open between 1st May and 30th Sept, for more information visit the west coast website. 10. Take a whale watching tour Vancouver Island is known for some of the best whale watching. You can take a tour in many of the places you might be visiting, like Tofino, Telegraph Cove, Campbell River or Victoria. 9. Victoria Victoria has a lot to offer, from wandering the stunning Butchart Gardens to enjoying a high tea at the historical Empress hotel. The provincial capital of British Columbia and has a history deeply entwined with its British past that is shown through in the Victorian architecture. It is worth spending a day or 2 exploring this city and the surrounding area, especially if you are a fan of gorgeous
Vancouver Island Bucket List for 2020
As we welcome in 2020 we hope your new year resolutions are filled with lots of adventures and getting out in nature.
If you are looking for some ideas on where to travel on Vancouver Island – why not check out our 2020 Bucket list for Vancouver Island. Filled with lots of nature, great food and some stunning coastline – Why wait, come visit this year!
Here is our top things to do on Vancouver Island when you are planning your road trip.
11. West Coast Trail
So technically you can’t drive this but you can drive there so we are adding it to our list.
Vancouver Island’s west coast was called the ‘Graveyard of the Pacific’ by sailors due to its treacherous rocks and headlands. In 1907 the dominion lifesaving trail was created to facilitate the rescue of shipwreck survivors along the coast.
Now called the west coast trail, take a step back in history and explore the stunning 75kms section of rugged coastline. The trail is only open between 1st May and 30th Sept, for more information visit the west coast website.
10. Take a whale watching tour
Vancouver Island is known for some of the best whale watching. You can take a tour in many of the places you might be visiting, like Tofino, Telegraph Cove, Campbell River or Victoria.
Butchart Gardens
9. Victoria
Victoria has a lot to offer, from wandering the stunning Butchart Gardens to enjoying a high tea at the historical Empress hotel. The provincial capital of British Columbia and has a history deeply entwined with its British past that is shown through in the Victorian architecture. It is worth spending a day or 2 exploring this city and the surrounding area, especially if you are a fan of gorgeous gardens or a bit of a foodie, Victoria does not disappoint for both savoury and sweet tastes in your party.
8. Cumberland
This vibrant community is nestled in the foothills of the Beaufort Mountains. This small village has seen a recent revival from its mining days, it is rich in trails, arts and culture. If mountain biking is your thing then there are a couple of rental shops and more than 80 kilometers of Vancouver Island’s most legendary single-track. There really is something for every mountain biker in the family. If Cumberland is your choice then we recommend sampling a donut from Cumberland bakery and a cold crisp beverage from the Cumberland Brewing Company.
7. Fairy Lake
A photographers dream, this lake is named after the small bonsai tree that has survived on a log in the lake for decades, its diminutive size has given it the nickname, ‘fairy lake’
Particularly magical early in the morning when the ocean mist from Port Renfrew swirls around the lake.
One of my favourite places in British Columbia. Carmanah Walbran was established in 1990 and is home to some of the most remarkable wild forests on Vancouver Island. Carmanah Walbran is home to some of the world’s largest spruce trees, some reaching heights in excess of 95 metres and living for 800 years or more.
It is a very wild area and whilst there are maintained trails and boardwalks. Routine flooding and falling trees mean that it has some challenging hiking areas.
Take a look at our blog on Carmanah to find out more when planning your backcountry adventure.
East Sooke Park
5. Highway 14 drive to Port Renfrew
If you are doing the Pacific Marine Circle Tour,then you will experience this stunning stretch of highway that winds along the coast and gives you access to Sooke, Juan De Fuca Marine Trail and views across the ocean.
From watching the sunrise over East Sooke Park to breathing in the fresh ocean air at the Botanical Park in Port Renfrew this drive is well worth spending a couple of days exploring and camping along the coast.
Along with the stunning views, this also allows you to tantalize your taste buds with some ‘not to be missed’ spots. Located between Sooke and Port Renfrew is Shirley Delicious, a small cafe that offers incredible sweet home baked goods and a delicious hot menu that includes my particular favourite – the breakfast burrito.
Buttle Lake – Strathcona
4.Strathcona Provincial Park
The largest provincial park on Vancouver Island and the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Satisfy your hiking itch and enjoy some breathtaking views. Mountain peaks speckled with snow dominate the landscape and dotted with clear alpine lakes.
Strathcona Park is popular with kayakers, wilderness hikers and climbers, but there are a number of easier trails and hikes to satisfy all levels of abilities.
Kinsol Trestle side view
3. Kinsol Trestle
Completed in 1920 this wooden railway trestle stands at 44 meters tall and is one of the highest railway trestles in the world. It crosses over the Koksilah River and was originally designed to connect Victoria to the Nootka sound through lake Cowichan and Port Alberni.
Recently restored and reopened to the public, take a walk along the top and breathe in the views or wind down to the river below and get a different perspective of this impressive structure.
Raft Cove Beach
2. Raft Cove
Located in North Vancouver Island is a stunning short hike that crosses through old growth cedar and sitka spruce and opens up into a wild expanses of rugged beach and coastline where you can camp on the beach and follow the coastal wolf tracks in the sand.
Enjoy a true west coast wild camping experience as the wind whistles through your hair on a remarkable rugged sandy spit.
This rustic park is popular with surfers, hikers and fishermen. The sandy spit and bay is very exposeroads to Hplbrg, before branching off and following the signs for raft cove. d to the pacific ocean weather and you will need to come fully equipped with the appropriate outdoor gear to stay dry.
To access you will need to drive to Port Hardy (8 Hrs from Victoria). Leave the tarmac behind and take the logging road to holberg before branching off to Raft Cove.
Raven Lady – Great Oysters in Ucluelet
1.Tofino / Ucluelet
One of the most popular and coolest places to visit is the Tofino area that incorporates the towns Tofino and Ucluelet.
Tofino is a cool surf town located on the west coast of the island. Situated north of the Pacific Rim National Park it is the larger of the two towns with its cousin Ucluelet situated to the South of Pacific Rim National Park. The town and surrounding areas offer plenty for those that aren’t avid surfers, with hikes, beach walks, food and beer all on offer. Along with whale watching, boat tours or a trip to Hot Springs Cove.
Ucluelet is situated south of the Pacific Rim National park and about 30-40kms from its larger cousin Tofino, Ucluelet is definitely worth a visit, whether its to grab a drink after a walk along the beach, take a stroll around the lighthouse loop or enjoy some oysters, there is plenty for everyone.
Take a look at some at our 10 days tour that includes Tofino.
A few hike: Most around this area are fairly easier trail walks. There are a number of more challenging hikes if you are feeling up for it.
1)Long beach to Florencia Bay (or the other way round)– One of my favourite short hikes is the return trip from long beach to Florencia Bay. Both have ample car parking available.
The hike is 2.5km in each direction and you will traverse from coastal beach through forest and into wetlands and back to forest again. It’s a beautiful cross division of micro clients. I suggest taking a picnic lunch with you and enjoy the views before making the return journey.
2)Rainforest loop– This is another nice short hike. There are 2x rainforest loops on either side of the road each loop is 1km long and goes along a board walk, and up and down steps. I strongly suggest doing both loops as each has something different to offer.
Camping with pets in British Columbia. One of the best things about our overland rental vehicles? They are pet friendly. We just charge a small sur-charge to help with the additional cleaning. Exploring the back-country of British Columbia with your pets is one of the best vacations ever, but it's important to be safe and responsible while showing your 4-legged friends around. The quick checklist Does the campground you want to go to allow pets? Does the campground have shade? Very important in the hot summer months. Is my pet Microchipped and suitable ID Tag? Health check - always an idea to get a quick check on your pet before heading out into the bush. What to pack? Their bed - something that has their smell, it helps keep them comfortable anbd more rellaxed. Toys and bones, to keep them occupied when on the leash. Water bowl - and extra water for your 4 legged friend. Extra long leash for when tied up at camp. Or a tie in or collapsable fence area. Poo Bags - Don't be that guy! Food. Any Meds. Pet first aid kit - We treat our dogs for cuts and injuries just as much as we treat each other. Collar/Harness/Leash. ID Tags Dogs and Wildlife The biggest problem when taking dogs out into the back-country or indeed the front country campgrounds is the potential for wildlife encounters. Pets are generally wildlife attractants due to the smells they bring with them and therefore its important to have them leashed and under control. Even the best behaved dogs, sometimes can't contain themselves when faced with wildlife, either predator instinct kicks in and they chase or they bolt. Regardless, you don't have an under control dog. Take for example a situation I found myself recently. I always
Camping with pets in British Columbia.
One of the best things about our overland rental vehicles? They are pet friendly. We just charge a small sur-charge to help with the additional cleaning.
Exploring the back-country of British Columbia with your pets is one of the best vacations ever, but it’s important to be safe and responsible while showing your 4-legged friends around.
The quick checklist
Does the campground you want to go to allow pets?
Does the campground have shade? Very important in the hot summer months.
Is my pet Microchipped and suitable ID Tag?
Health check – always an idea to get a quick check on your pet before heading out into the bush.
What to pack?
Their bed – something that has their smell, it helps keep them comfortable anbd more rellaxed.
Toys and bones, to keep them occupied when on the leash.
Water bowl – and extra water for your 4 legged friend.
Extra long leash for when tied up at camp. Or a tie in or collapsable fence area.
Poo Bags – Don’t be that guy!
Food.
Any Meds.
Pet first aid kit – We treat our dogs for cuts and injuries just as much as we treat each other.
Collar/Harness/Leash.
ID Tags
Dogs and Wildlife
The biggest problem when taking dogs out into the back-country or indeed the front country campgrounds is the potential for wildlife encounters. Pets are generally wildlife attractants due to the smells they bring with them and therefore its important to have them leashed and under control.
Even the best behaved dogs, sometimes can’t contain themselves when faced with wildlife, either predator instinct kicks in and they chase or they bolt. Regardless, you don’t have an under control dog. Take for example a situation I found myself recently. I always take our dogs out exploring with us and this day was no different, we were doing the hike down into raft cove in the north part of Vancouver Island. Up ahead there was a bear on the path. Now luckily we were traveling downwind of the bear and the bear saw us before we saw him. The situation could have been alot worse if the dogs were off leash.
Keep them on a lead in wildlife areas, it’s best for them and for the wildlife.
No go areas
It’s always best to check ahead of time whether dogs are allowed on certain trails. For example – on the Cape Scott Trail on Northern Vancouver Island, dogs are only allowed on the trail as far as San Josef Bay, they are not allowed any further past that. Similarly dogs aren’t allowed on some beaches during the peak summer months.
Key Rules
Don’t leave your pet unattended at your campground
Ensure your pet is secured when traveling
Take frequent breaks on long distance car rides
Don’t leave your pet in a parked car in warm weather
Keep them leashed on trails and in campgrounds
Clean up after your pet
Most importantly – Have a great time with your 4-legged friends.
If you want to book our pet friendly overland vehicle rentals check out our bookings page
As our inbox starts filling up with 2020 bookings and itinerary ideas, take a moment to consider visiting Carmanah Walbran Provincial park, especially if you are choosing to book a FarOut Wilderness Overland vehicle rental for your Vancouver Island tour. What is Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park? Hard fought for in the 1990’s by a group of dedicated activists to protect the ancient forest growth, Carmanah was established as a provincial park in 1994. It is home to ancient trees, epic cedars, giant sitka spruce and rugged unkempt wilderness. The routine flooding during the fall and winter months results in the boardwalks being upturned and relocated, a park maintenance nightmare. But this hard to manage forest is just what makes it so special, it is the wild west coast at its damp, overgrown, independent, gorgeous best. Why visit? It is stunning, the tranquility of the forest allows you to truly re-connect with nature, breath in the damp rainforest air as you marvel at giants. It isnt very busy - because it is slightly more difficult to get to, there are not the bustling crowds as with other areas. Its wild - they have tried to install a boardwalk, and handrails etc, but the forest wants to remain wild and flash floods have thrown the boardwalks aside and the fallen trees re-diverted paths. It allows you to experience what this island must have been like 100s of years ago. Its an adventure - from the moment you leave the tarmac, to be moment you set you wheels back on solid road its an adventure from start to finish, as you wind up steep rocky roads and peer across the forest to Nitinat lake, or descending into the valley and the trees get bigger and closer together, it is such an epic adventure.
As our inbox starts filling up with 2020 bookings and itinerary ideas, take a moment to consider visiting Carmanah Walbran Provincial park, especially if you are choosing to book a FarOut Wilderness Overland vehicle rental for your Vancouver Island tour.
What is Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park?
Hard fought for in the 1990’s by a group of dedicated activists to protect the ancient forest growth, Carmanah was established as a provincial park in 1994.
It is home to ancient trees, epic cedars, giant sitka spruce and rugged unkempt wilderness. The routine flooding during the fall and winter months results in the boardwalks being upturned and relocated, a park maintenance nightmare. But this hard to manage forest is just what makes it so special, it is the wild west coast at its damp, overgrown, independent, gorgeous best.
Why visit?
It is stunning, the tranquility of the forest allows you to truly re-connect with nature, breath in the damp rainforest air as you marvel at giants.
It isnt very busy – because it is slightly more difficult to get to, there are not the bustling crowds as with other areas.
Its wild – they have tried to install a boardwalk, and handrails etc, but the forest wants to remain wild and flash floods have thrown the boardwalks aside and the fallen trees re-diverted paths. It allows you to experience what this island must have been like 100s of years ago.
Its an adventure – from the moment you leave the tarmac, to be moment you set you wheels back on solid road its an adventure from start to finish, as you wind up steep rocky roads and peer across the forest to Nitinat lake, or descending into the valley and the trees get bigger and closer together, it is such an epic adventure.
To get there, it is recommended that you use a 4×4 vehicle. Whichever direction you choose, you will drive a few hours on logging roads to get there with the last section being quite rough.
The beauty of booking through FarOut Wilderness, is that your Overland vehicle rental is covered to drive off-road. Our GPS 2 way messengers is perfect for staying in touch with loved ones of the FarOut Wilderness office as there is no cell service.
Budget around 4 hours drive from Victoria.
Getting there.
You can either take the highway 14 through sooke to port renfrew and then following the logging roads around to Carmanah walbran Provincial Park – if you aren’t booking with us, but would like up to date driving directions/conditions, please don’t hesitate to drop us an email.
The second option is to take the Highway 1 north towards Duncan and turn off towards Cowichan Lake, you then pass through Youbou before leaving the tarmac behind and following the signs for Nitnat Lake.
Hiking ideas.
Main entrance (via Nitnat Lake)
There are 2x relatively easy hikes to do in Carmanah – unfortunately neither are loops so you would reach your focal point and turn around.
Both hikes begin at the same point and descend into the valley – this is roughly a 700-1km walk downhill – remember this as you will end your hikes with a 700m-1km hike uphill at the end.
After passing the Coastal Giant you will reach a fork and you can do either of these walks relatively easily with a small amount of log walking in involved. Both are about 1 hr.
Left takes you to the 3 sisters – part of one of the sisters came down in the winter and is still an impressive sight laying on the forest floor. The path has flooded in areas and thrown the boardwalks up, as well as some parts of the path have washed away and you might need to scramble over logs to get across, this is entirely at your own risk to do so.
You can continue on from here, but past the 3 sisters, the paths are not maintained.
Right takes you towards Heaven Tree and Stolhmans Grove this is slightly more overgrown than the 3 sisters but the path is in better shaped in parts, once you reach Heaven Tree and grove, the path get less maintained and you probably need to turn around.
Camping Options
You can either camp at the entrance lot where there are 1 or 2 vehicle camping spots, tent pads and fire rings can be found within walking distance.
During the summer months you can camp on the exposed gravel bars inside the valley floor.
You can hike into one of the backcountry camping spots
Nitinat Lake – you can camp at nitinat lake campground which is roughly 45mins-1hr drive from the park.
How difficult is Carmanah walbran?
Without sugarcoating it, it isn’t the easiest place to visit, as mentioned you need to drive off paved roads, you need to be prepared for rain, the weather can be unpredictable at the best of times. You need to be comfortable hiking in areas without visible sign posts. You need a satellite or GPS messenger service as there is no cell service in case of emergency.
Renting one of our Overland vehicles on Vancouver Island, you have access to:
Detailed knowledge and routes for Carmanah Walbran Provincial park
Unlimited Mileage
Insured for off-road driving
GPS messenger system
Full equipped with all the camping gear you need.
But even with all that, we don’t recommend someone head in there without backcountry experience.
For more information, contact one of our knowledgeable team members.
A nice short whistle stop tour of some of the more remote southern highlights the island has to offer. Note: The pick up from this tour starts in Victoria or at the Swartz bay ferry terminal – but everything is flexible – we can also organize transfers and ferry transport from Vancouver/Vancouver airport/Victoria airport/Nanaimo ferry terminal – just drop us an email and we will sort the rest.
Inspired by our recent trip to North Vancouver Island (where we had over 10 bear sightings) and by many guests asking - what about bears? We thought we would help answer some questions. Whilst on our recent trip, we had bears in camp, bears on our hikes and bears whilst we were driving. Without too much encouragement, they will leave you alone, especially in more wilderness areas where they have not become accustomed to raiding tents for food, or being fed by tourists. But it's important to camp responsible and not to leave out bear attractants. How can I avoid bears whilst camping? Everyone wants to see bears, they are awesome, nobody wants a bear ransacking their tent though. Here are a few tips to help reduce the conflict between bears and campers. Food and food storage Food is by far the biggest attractant for a bear. Never store food in your tent - the vehicle comes with storage boxes and pull out drawers. Provided you have shut and locked the back of the vehicle, there should be no reason for food to be left out unattended. Provided food is locked away, a bear may walk around, but wont stay too long once they realise there is no food. If you are camping away from the vehicle, tie food into a bag and string up from a tree. Coolers If you think a cooler is enough to out-smart a bear, think again. They are clever creatures and will quickly work out how to open a cooler box and get at your food. Coolers shouldn't be left unattended. Coolers with beers and cans in still count, they can open a can of beer by a curious bear. Pets Whilst this is slightly hypocritical coming from someone that takes their dogs to
Inspired by our recent trip to North Vancouver Island (where we had over 10 bear sightings) and by many guests asking – what about bears? We thought we would help answer some questions.
Whilst on our recent trip, we had bears in camp, bears on our hikes and bears whilst we were driving. Without too much encouragement, they will leave you alone, especially in more wilderness areas where they have not become accustomed to raiding tents for food, or being fed by tourists. But it’s important to camp responsible and not to leave out bear attractants.
How can I avoid bears whilst camping?
Everyone wants to see bears, they are awesome, nobody wants a bear ransacking their tent though. Here are a few tips to help reduce the conflict between bears and campers.
Food and food storage
Food is by far the biggest attractant for a bear.
Never store food in your tent – the vehicle comes with storage boxes and pull out drawers. Provided you have shut and locked the back of the vehicle, there should be no reason for food to be left out unattended.
Provided food is locked away, a bear may walk around, but wont stay too long once they realise there is no food.
If you are camping away from the vehicle, tie food into a bag and string up from a tree.
Coolers
If you think a cooler is enough to out-smart a bear, think again.
They are clever creatures and will quickly work out how to open a cooler box and get at your food. Coolers shouldn’t be left unattended. Coolers with beers and cans in still count, they can open a can of beer by a curious bear.
Pets
Whilst this is slightly hypocritical coming from someone that takes their dogs to all corners of the world. Pets are wildlife attractants, bears and other wildlife will come sniffing around because of the new and weird smells of your pets. Unleashed pets may cause a bear to investigate more thoroughly a campsite that it would have left alone.
If you do bring your pets, keep them leashed. Trust from someone who has had bear and dog encounters, they are easier to handle if you have an already leased dog.
Wash bags
As mentioned before, bears are curious animals and a tube of toothpaste or deodorant is as much of an attractant as food. Keep them locked in the vehicle.
Garbage
Make sure that you have all garbage packed away. Do not leave trasharoos and other garbage devices on the back of vehicles unattended.
All garbage must be locked away in your vehicle or put into bear proof, locked garbage bins provided by the campsite.
Top bear attractants:
All human food
Pet food and livestock feed
Garbage
Cooking pots and utensils
Cooking oils
Fuel for stoves and lanterns
Unopened canned beverages
Cosmetics, insect repellents, lotions, toothpaste
Bird seed and hummingbird feeders
What if you see a bear?
The most important thing to remember if you do encounter a bear is, don’t run!
If you run, you may very well trigger the bear’s predatory instincts and if it wants to catch you, it will. Stop and calmly assess the situation.
If the bear is not aware of you, quietly and calmly leave the area. Do not approach more closely for a picture or for any other reason.
If the bear is aware of you, identify yourself as a human. Talk to the bear in a calm voice and put your arms out to the side and move them slowly up and down. Avoid direct eye contact but watch it to see what it does next. The bear may run away immediately or it may look at you and then resume doing whatever it was doing, or it may approach you.
If the bear runs away, walk away in a direction different than the bear ran. Leave the area to avoid another encounter.
If the bear looks at you and then seems to ignore you, or continues looking, but does not retreat or approach, back away while you continue talking to the bear. Do not turn your back on the bear until you cannot see it and it cannot see you anymore.
If the bear approaches you, stop, stand your ground. Remain calm and observe the bear for clues to its mood or intentions.
A defensive bear feels you are a threat. Continue to talk to the bear and act in a non-threatening manner. When the bear stops approaching, continue backing up. If the bear approaches or charges you, stop again and wait for the bear back up a bit before you back up again.
A curious or predatory bear does not make any noise, will point its ears forward and have its attention focused solely on you in a calm, non-agitated manner. If you have tried to back up and the bear continues to follow you in a slow deliberate manner and shows none of the signs of defensive aggression, you may want to try a new approach. Act aggressively, make yourself look as big as possible, make direct eye contact with the bear, yell at the bear, pick up a big stick.
Exciting news in the FarOut Wilderness family - For those sunchasers, you can now pick up a FarOut Wilderness Overland Vehicle in Phoenix, Arizona and explore the warmer climate of the Southern states of the US during our winter season special. Our first guests have booked onto our 2019 Arizona location offering Overland vehicle rentals in phoenix as of October 2019 and FarOut Wilderness will be offering 2x services throughout the winter. Why is FarOut Wilderness in Arizona - Each winter in British columbia, we are going to feature a different area where you can chase the sun and pick up a FarOut Wilderness Vehicle and customized tour. For the 2019 winter season, explore the rugged desert wilderness of Arizona or wind your way between Vancouver and Phoenix and experience the ultimate west coast road trip. For the short sun chaser: Pick up your 4x4 overland vehicle rental in phoenix, arizona and spend 5 days exploring this gorgeous area. Tonto and coconino national forests: Home to huge expanses of red rock, cactus desert and vast pine forests. Sedona: A desert town near Flagstaff that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. It’s noted for its mild climate and vibrant arts community. Palatki Heritage Site: A site in a red sandstone canyon, home to ancient cliff dwellings with pictographs. Grand canyon: A must visit on anyone's list- this mile deep geological wonder offers so much more than just ticking it off a bucket list, with hikes, mule rides and rafting. Las vegas: Why not throw the vehicle in a parking lot for the night and make a night on the strip, I don't think we need to give you too much detail about what you can get up to in VEGASSS!! Death valley: If you do head over
Exciting news in the FarOut Wilderness family – For those sunchasers, you can now pick up a FarOut Wilderness Overland Vehicle in Phoenix, Arizona and explore the warmer climate of the Southern states of the US during our winter season special.
Our first guests have booked onto our 2019 Arizona location offering Overland vehicle rentals in phoenix as of October 2019 and FarOut Wilderness will be offering 2x services throughout the winter.
Why is FarOut Wilderness in Arizona – Each winter in British columbia, we are going to feature a different area where you can chase the sun and pick up a FarOut Wilderness Vehicle and customized tour. For the 2019 winter season, explore the rugged desert wilderness of Arizona or wind your way between Vancouver and Phoenix and experience the ultimate west coast road trip.
For the short sun chaser:
Pick up your 4×4 overland vehicle rental in phoenix, arizona and spend 5 days exploring this gorgeous area.
Tonto and coconino national forests: Home to huge expanses of red rock, cactus desert and vast pine forests.
Sedona: A desert town near Flagstaff that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. It’s noted for its mild climate and vibrant arts community.
Palatki Heritage Site: A site in a red sandstone canyon, home to ancient cliff dwellings with pictographs.
Grand canyon: A must visit on anyone’s list- this mile deep geological wonder offers so much more than just ticking it off a bucket list, with hikes, mule rides and rafting.
Las vegas: Why not throw the vehicle in a parking lot for the night and make a night on the strip, I don’t think we need to give you too much detail about what you can get up to in VEGASSS!!
Death valley: If you do head over to Las Vegas, then continue on and see Death Valley National Park, this ecological wonder known for its Titus Canyon and Ghost town, also has Badwater Basin’s salt flats, North America’s lowest point and much more.
There is so much more to see and do – get in touch to let us book an adventure of a lifetime.
For the budding Overlander:
One way trips between Vancouver and Phoenix. Take 10-14 days and wind your way through Arizona, Los Angeles through San Francisco up through Oregon and Washington before finishing up the the stunning British Columbia to hand your vehicle back in Vancouver.
Collect your adventure vehicle from a FarOut Wilderness rep, load up on supplies and hit the road.
Drive to Joshua Tree National Park – with its signature ‘joshua trees’ this stunning park draws campers and hikers the world over.
(Approx 4Hrs driving)
Day 2:
Spend the morning hiking or simply relax before heading to Los Angeles – there are so many options for this city, so get in touch for some ideas and tips.
Day 3:
Explore everything this city has to offer whether you want to do the tourist movie star tour and see the Hollywood sign or explore some of LA’s history, this incredible city has something for everyone.
Day 4:
Time to leave LA behind and head north to Yosemite National park – an Iconic park that has huge redwoods, thrilling rapids and stunning hiking, I know right – what more could you ask for.
Day 5:
Drive further north and choose from either Plumas National Forest, Tahoe National Forest, Lassen National Forest or Eldorado
–alternatively-
Head west to San Francisco.
Day 6:
Hit the road again towards Crater Lake National Park – this striking geological feature is america’s deepest lake and offers stretch your legs and cycle along the rim of this gorgeous lake.
Day 7:
Hit Mt Hood National Forest for a host of different outdoor recreational activities.
Day 8:
Come south around portland and cruise up the Hwy 101 to soak up the beauty of the Oregon coast. You have a choice of a number of different stops along the way.
Day 9:
Head towards Mt Rainier and stand up awe at this giant beauty, either overnight here or continue to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest a 4 million acre wilderness.
Day 10:
Time to say goodbye to the US and head to Vancouver and hand your adventure rig back to a FarOut Wilderness rep.
For more detailed itinerary please contact our team.
Vancouver Island has a host of great mountain biking opportunities for the novice and thrill seeker alike. We have been scoping out a few great areas for you to hit. Day Trips: Based in an around Victoria - these are easy day trips to get your fill on 2 wheels. Fancy making a weekend of it - rent one of our overland vehicles and head further afield. Mt Work: An easy day trip for any Victoria base with some easy(fish) blue runs through black to some seriously difficult double diamond runs. Take care and enjoy. Kinsol Trestle/Koksilah River: Park at the Kinsol Trestle car park and cycle the logging road (old Port Renfrew road) to Burnt Bridge - go across the bridge and cycle along the access road - don't take the first right trail down, take the second. It is sign posted Kinsol Trestle Trail/Valley Trail. The first part is a bit rough and requires some skill, but then it eases up a bit with some nice fun flowy turns. Duncan Mt Tzouhalem - A good mix of challenging blues and thrilling black runs. A good number of different runs to keep you busy for a good few hours. Maple Mtn: A small area with a few blue and black runs. Cobble Hill: An even selection of green, blue and black runs. Weekend Excursions: Got the mountain bike gear but need a ride? Rent one of our Overland Vehicles and collect the keys and go - everything you need is included in the vehicle. Need to rent everything? No problem, we can rent bikes, racks and gear for you and have it all prepared for your arrival. To book your Overland Vehicle Rental now. Nanaimo Mt Benson: Majority black runs and access trails. Westwood ridge and lake: Mainly blue runs.
Vancouver Island has a host of great mountain biking opportunities for the novice and thrill seeker alike. We have been scoping out a few great areas for you to hit.
Day Trips: Based in an around Victoria – these are easy day trips to get your fill on 2 wheels. Fancy making a weekend of it – rent one of our overland vehicles and head further afield.
Mt Work: An easy day trip for any Victoria base with some easy(fish) blue runs through black to some seriously difficult double diamond runs. Take care and enjoy.
Kinsol Trestle/Koksilah River: Park at the Kinsol Trestle car park and cycle the logging road (old Port Renfrew road) to Burnt Bridge – go across the bridge and cycle along the access road – don’t take the first right trail down, take the second. It is sign posted Kinsol Trestle Trail/Valley Trail. The first part is a bit rough and requires some skill, but then it eases up a bit with some nice fun flowy turns.
Duncan
Mt Tzouhalem – A good mix of challenging blues and thrilling black runs. A good number of different runs to keep you busy for a good few hours.
Maple Mtn: A small area with a few blue and black runs.
Cobble Hill: An even selection of green, blue and black runs.
Weekend Excursions: Got the mountain bike gear but need a ride? Rent one of our Overland Vehicles and collect the keys and go – everything you need is included in the vehicle. Need to rent everything? No problem, we can rent bikes, racks and gear for you and have it all prepared for your arrival.
Book Now!To book your Overland Vehicle Rental now.
Nanaimo
Mt Benson: Majority black runs and access trails.
Westwood ridge and lake: Mainly blue runs.
Abyss Ridge/Spruston/Pipeline trails: A large selection of mainly blue runs.
Blackjack ridge/Doumont trails: A large selection for all abilities, a few greens, lots of blue runs and black runs and one or two double black trails thrown in.
For ideas on places to stay – check out our 4 Day – Mountain Bike tour.
Snowden Forest: A steady mix of all levels of riding.
Radar Hill: A combination of access trails, greens but mainly blue runs – with 3 or 4 black runs to keep the more competent happy – an ideal place for beginner to intermediate biker.
The pump house: A small area with a couple of blue and black runs.
Quinsam River Trails: A blue run that runs the length of the Quinsam River, its an unsanctioned trail so take care in parts where erosion may have occurred and ride at your own risk.
Beaver Lodge Forest Lands: Beginners haven, almost all green to get you up and running :).
Woods Creek: A small riding area that has a couple of blue trails and a few greens.
Disclaimer: These are merely suggestions and you undertake these at your own risk, always make sure you properly plan and prepare before embarking on such excursions.
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Offtrack Travel
HENRY CHOY
MORGAN WEAFER
