Great Inclinations » Should BC’s trails adopt a ‘pay-to-hike’ system? Jacey Gibb Distribution Manager Great Inclinations is your go-to source for diving into the world of casual hiking in and around the Lower Mainland. Because hiking’s not just for assholes anymore. Hi whether it appeals to you or not, is a pastime with a diverse following. On any given trail you can pass all kinds of hikers, from people hiking solo all the way to large school groups. I’ve seen toddlers scrambling up dirt trails, as well as watched elderly folks breeze past me while I’m already huffing and wheezing. Hiking in British Columbia is a great, low-cost hobby that’s accessible to a range of people, and I'm worried that might change in the near future. As reported by the CBC, Pemberton asked the provincial government last summer to look into developing “a trail booking and reservation system fee structure’—as it was worded in their proposal—for the popular trail at Joffre Lakes. In recent years the provincial park has experienced a boom in popularity, to the point where lack of available parking and an increase in littering are now a major concern. A reservation and fee system might sound like a valid and quick solution for at least some of Joffre Lakes’ immediate issues. For one, people might feel less inclined to undertake a hike if they have to pay a fee, reducing the volume of hikers and potential waste left behind. Revenue from the fee system could also be used to bolster park infrastructure, from adding more parking lots to hiring rangers to patrol and enforce the rules of the trail. However, I am strongly against the idea of making the popular Pemberton hike—and possibly others in the future—a pay-to-hike trail. Hiking already has a significant built- in financial barrier due to geography. Even within the Lower Mainland, many hikes reside outside the reach of public transit, so only people with a vehicle or access to one can enjoy these trails. By adding a fee onto BC's trails, you're further turning hiking Eastside Flea market » Food trucks, DJs, vintage clothing, vendors, and much more Tania Arora Staff Reporter A: Eastside Flea you can witness ocal talent from all across British Columbia. The market is East Van’s newly- relocated hub showcasing the best of culture and art, featuring everything from live music to fresh food and all kinds of incredible vendors. The Eastside Flea relocated to Eastside Studios at 550 Malkin Avenue this September. The entry ticket is $3, and the studio provides quite a big sitting space where you can relax. The essence of the market is its vintage clothing sale starting from just $5. Right from the entrance of the studio, the flea market bleeds vintage. The food trucks parked at the entrance have a list of lip-smacking items you won't be able to resist. From old school comfort food by Cheezee; to tacos, burritos, and bowls by Bandidas Taqueria; and even serving lattes, assorted teas, and many more by Brewnetti Cafe—you can definitely start your exploration with a happy stomach. Tayybeh is a food company that helps women from Syria start working as chefs, giving them income as well as a sense of community. They are one of the many vendors and surprisingly, their traditional Syrian food looks to be all vegan. Photo via Eastside Flea on Facebook Have an idea for a story? Mlifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca e Fan Expo guest list: Cartoons and video games ¢ Telltale Games’ past, present, and future? e ...and more! into a privileged activity. There's also no evidence to show that charging hikers will alleviate Joffre’s woe. While not a perfect comparison, the local Grouse Grind already has a sort of fee system. It’s free to ascend the wildly- popular trail but hiking back down is not permitted; instead hikers are required to take the Skyride gondola down—which costs $15. Despite the additional price tag, the Grouse Grind has amassed a cult following of fitness enthusiasts and is incredibly busy. This suggests that when people are committed to a trail, they’re still willing to hike it regardless of extra costs. I generally try to avoid busy hikes like If you get thirsty, the market has a big bar set up for you. The cocktail menu holds palomas, Dark and Stormies, kombucha, micheladas, Negronis, Caesars, and many more. The beer people need not worry— they cater to the craft-lovers too. Tartics has an amazing collection of art with dark humor and irony, and it’s just not them! You can find a plethora of talented artists showcasing their work, from embroidered and painted hoops to bookmarks, postcards to animation illustrations. These are not just some regular people; they are all artists with their best pieces there to show you. If you're fond of authentic and vintage jewelry, Eastside Flea is exactly the place for Joffre Lakes, so adding a reservation fee wouldn't really affect me. However, I’m keeping a close eye on the story because of possible repercussions for BC’s other trails. How the provincial government proceeds with Joffre Lakes will likely affect how other popular hikes located within provincial parks are treated in the future. Hiking is a low-key way to spend time outdoors, either working on your fitness or just taking in the awesome nature that British Columbia is known for. The last thing we should be doing is adding more financial barriers to safeguard these opportunities for only those who can afford them. you to discover your perfect collection. You may also be able to meet some entrepreneurs in this market. One of them is Amanda, who along with her girlfriend started Slaab Designs, which sells handmade concrete creations. Her stall features scented soy candles with concrete bases. The list could go on and on about the vendors, artists, entrepreneurs, cuisines, drinks, and more. This Eastside Flea is a must-visit hub for everyone out there, for youngsters to experience the old classics and for others to relive the good old days. You will be able to find all the essentials under one roof, all-natural and handmade. Eastside Studios 550 Malkin Avenue Every other weekend Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm Next: October 6 and 7, 2018