By Ian Holmes

Facebook group promoting Island’s hiking scene gaining huge following

Jun 11, 2017 | 8:22 AM

NANAIMO — A Facebook group promoting Vancouver Island’s seemingly limitless hiking options has exploded into a huge community which encourages people to get off their couch and into the backcountry.

Take a Hike Vancouver Island (TAHVI) was started with humble beginnings by Nanaimo’s Brandi McCallum and Tonya Dunn about five years ago. McCallum said about 200 members were on the page two years in, a far cry from the nearly 24,000 users of the active page today.

“It was just going to be a meeting point where we can meet common people and now it has taken on a whole other beast,” McCallum told NanaimoNewsNOW.

McCallum said TAHVI allows hikers to post pictures, provide updated trail conditions, set-up guided hikes, as well as promote safe and environmentally friendly practices in the bush.

She said the group has proven to be a springboard of change in many people’s lives.

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“I can’t tell you how many members have told me the site has changed their life and how they lost 40 lbs and if it wasn’t for us they would have moved out of the country because they were so depressed here.

However, the popular Facebook page has its share of critics. McCallum said she hears people complain that they contribute to damaging trails around the island by encouraging more people to hike. She noted they promote respecting nature, which includes not leaving any garbage behind.

“If it wasn’t me it’s going to be somebody else,” McCallum said. “And they may not be educating as well and they may not be telling people to not leave a trace. We’re trying our best because we know there’s going to be criticizers.”

Dunn, who is also a Nanaimo Search and Rescue volunteer, said TAHVI has a clear mandate of promoting preparation. She said education is paramount in reducing SAR call-outs for unprepared hikers.

“Nanaimo Search and Rescue has to respond to these calls if there is an incident, just knowing what to bring with you, having that dialogue on the page as much as possible helps keep people informed,” Dunn said.

Nanaimo SAR Top Ten Essentials for hikers

Fire starter (matches, lighter)

Flashlight or headlamp

Extra food and water

Extra clothes

Pocket knife

Shelter (tarp)

First aid kit

Compass or GPS device

Cell phone

Whistle or signal device

ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes