🇨🇦 3-Hour Hike to Cypress' Saint Marks Summit ⛰️

🔥 Trail Stats: • Route: Howe Sound Crest Trail • Duration: 3 hours • Distance: ~11km • Elevation: 460m gain Today's hike was EPIC! ☀️ Perfect sunny weather made the summit views absolutely breathtaking - easily TOP 1 on my hiking scenery list! Our group spent nearly an hour just taking photos 🤳 at the peak. 🌿 Trail Conditions: • 🦟 MOSQUITO APOCALYPSE - bug spray is mandatory! • ❄️ Some remaining snow patches = nature's AC (refreshing!) • 🌳 Gnarled ancient roots everywhere - felt like entering an enchanted forest • 💦 Muddy/rocky sections near summit - waterproof gear recommended 🐿️ Wildlife Encounter: • Adorable fearless chipmunks at the summit! • 🐻 Disappointingly NO bears today (crowded trail = safe but boring for wildlife spotting) • Bear bell & spray stayed unused 🔔 💪 Post-Hike Status: • Two consecutive hiking days = jelly legs alert! • Taking a well-deserved break now 🛌 Pro Tips: 1️⃣ Start early to beat crowds 2️⃣ Trekking poles helpful for descent 3️⃣ Pack layers - windy at summit 4️⃣ $5 parking fee at Cypress base #HikingVancouver #CypressMountain #BCAdventure #ExploreCanada #TrailLife