I do really love nature. The word “do” is doing some work here –– quietly flagging that there’s an insecure little asterisk on my nature-loving credentials. Put simply: I like being near nature, but not quite in it. Nature-adjacent, let’s say. The person in the hot tub, sipping something delightful, smiling and waving, while you do something cold, uncomfortable, and somehow rewarding.
Take camping, for example. I’ve done it — but the enthusiasm for putting a ton of time and effort into an experience where food is harder to make, shelter is less weatherproof (and definitely less bear-proof), and sleep — that sweet, precious thing I long for all day — is guaranteed to be disrupted? I remain (unpopularly) baffled.
For you? Camping.
For me? Grouchy lady making.
Do I love being in nature? Absolutely.
Would I prefer a mattress and a toilet? You know it.
Now, admitting this, particularly in B.C., isn’t exactly what I would call psychologically safe. There can be a kind of ecological egoism that floats through the air up here, along with the scent of wet Patagonia fleece and artisanal jerky. Say you don’t camp, don’t mountain bike, don’t enjoy hiking until your toenails fall off, and suddenly it’s like you failed your West Coast citizenship exam.
Hey, I’ve got nothing against people who genuinely enjoy these things — Scout’s honor. (Though it’s probably obvious I was never much of a Scout.)
I just think there’s room for a world where your solo kayaking expedition and my backyard tree-gazing can coexist — different expressions of the same reverence. We’re all out here loving nature in our own way, in our own dose, without needing to rank whose connection counts more.
This “all are welcome” approach to nature-appreciation is something that stood out this afternoon as I was perusing the website for the Sunshine Coast Trails Society. (SCTS) At the top of the page advertising the 2025 SCTS Users Forum, it says that the forum is for “all outdoor enthusiasts –– whether you’re a hiker, biker, trail runner, ATV rider, or simply enjoy spending time outdoors.” Well, hey! That’s me! I’m included in there too! A little further digging led me to the SCTS trail strategy, which highlights “embracing the diversity of users and nurturing social, cultural, health, economic, and environmental benefits in the local communities.” An acknowledgment that both thru-hiking a rugged ridge and watching the fog lift over your backyard trees are valid ways to connect.
If you’re interested in discovering new trails, connecting with local recreation clubs, meeting with the full range of fellow trail loving folk, and discussing the future of trails and accessibility, join the users forum on Saturday, May 24 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Sechelt Seaside Centre.
Other events of interest — for the hardcore hikers and my fellow nature-adjacents:
• Get Your Hands Dirty with the Medicine Garden, May 13 and May 27 at 4:30 p.m. at One Tiny Farm, 3146 Beach Ave., Roberts Creek. Bring garden gloves (extras available)
• Two Thistles and a Rose, May 16 at 8 p.m., a dynamic three-piece Celtic band at Roberts Creek Legion
• Live Shows on the Grass, Every Friday at 6 p.m. at Sunday Cider (no cover)
Whether you’re lacing up for 10k of technical trail or just hoping to spot a barred owl from your porch, there’s something for you. See you out there.
