Night Hike: Embracing the Dark Ecosystem

Nights out, lights out! Join us in Hope for an educational adventure after dark. Step into the autumn forest to uncover how our local ecosystem transforms when the sun goes down.

Guided by expert insights and hands-on activities, we will explore a secret trail to reveal the mysteries of the night. On this journey, you will discover how competing species share habitat and learn the fascinating biological science behind human dark adaptation. Watch how fall salmon runs fuel nighttime scavengers, gain a deeper appreciation for dark-sky stewardship, and experience firsthand how your senses shift when you trade artificial light for the quiet wonder of the night.

As we navigate this intermediate trail, we will make frequent stops to explore the essential role darkness plays in a healthy ecosystem. Along the way, warm up with a hot apple cider while taking in stunning views from a scenic lookout lit only by the night sky.

Itinerary:

5:45 PM - Gather in Hope in front of the Hope & District Recreation Centre (1005 – 6th Avenue in

Hope), check-in, sign waivers, introduction

6:00 PM - Convoy to the TBA trailhead

6:20 PM - Begin hike

9:15 PM - Return to the parking lot

9:30 PM - Depart home

Price Includes:

● Educational interpretive walk

● Hot apple cider & snack

● Remote First Aid Certified Guide

Physical Demand:

A moderate level of physical fitness is required. It is an intermediate-level trail with a distance of 4.3 KM and 195m of cumulative elevation gain.

Please note that this hike will take place in the dark under headlamps and in potentially wet and slippery conditions. As the trail includes some steep slopes mixed with undulating terrain, this trip is not recommended for beginner hikers or those not very stable on their feet. Waterproof footwear with good grip is required.

Children and youth aged 18 and under who are experienced hikers are welcome to join, but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian during the hike.

What to bring:

Whenever you are hiking, you should always carry The 10 Essentials.

At a minimum, participants will need the following for this outing:

● Headlamp - Red light required

● A spare set of batteries or a power bank and cord for your headlamp

● Two poles per person – optional, but greatly improves stability

● High-energy snack food

● Water (at least 1 litre per person)

● Waterproof footwear with good grip

● Warm clothes (no cotton as the first layer against your skin), including jacket, waterproof

clothing, gloves/mitts, toque, warm socks

● Camera

● Backpack to carry all your gear

Meet Your Guides:

Meg Turner/Program Director:

Meg considers our wild spaces her second home. Raised in the Girl Guiding community and an active outdoor family, she is in her element guiding others and sharing her passion for the trail. As the Hope Mountain Centre Program Director , Meg is an experienced teacher of environmental education and local history, bringing rich, place-based learning to life for participants. Safety is always top of mind: with multiple first-aid credentials—including Remote First Aid and BC AdventureSmart training, Meg ensures every cyclist feels well-prepared and supported. She is stoked to pedal out with you along the Kettle Valley Railway!

Cancellation:

Sorry NO refunds! However, you can pass on your spot to someone else who meets the physical demand of the program, just please let us know, as we need registration information from everyone.

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A program may be cancelled at the discretion of HMCOL. If a program is cancelled by HMCOL, participants will receive a full refund. Please be aware that our programs run regardless of weather conditions, unless HMCOL determines that it will affect the safety of participants.

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Hope Mountain Centre reserves the right to change the location of a program for everyone's safety. As much notice as possible will be given. No refund will be provided if the location is changed. 

Additional information:

Liability Waiver

Everyone ages 19 & over must sign a liability waiver form in order to participate in this program. Please take the time to read this form because you must understand and agree to it when you sign it. By signing it you are waiving certain rights, including the right to sue. These forms will be available to sign when you check in. Please seek legal counsel if you have any questions. 

Informed Consent Form

Everyone, age 18 & under must have an informed consent form signed by their parents or legal guardian in order to participate. Please contact us if you need this form prior to arrival at this program.