Erik Peterson

The Moss Lake Trail is a 13km loop over moderately hilly terrain that can be completed in about 1.5-2 hours by mountain bike. The trail itself consists mostly of short, low cut grass, which is quite a different experience from riding on a dirt path and is a bit more of a workout. This trail is especially rewarding in autumn, when the Aspen Parkland shows off an array of spectacular colours.Wild...

Morne Blanc, with its shear cliff face, is the most iconic mountain on the island of Mahe. A quick 45 minute climb up a well maintained trail will lead you to a viewing platform with sweeping views of Mahe's west coast. The trailhead is located on the Sans Soucis road, about 15 minutes by bus from Port Glaud and is clearly marked. As you move up in elevation the jungle becomes more lush and mos...

The Carcross Desert is considered by many to be the smallest desert in the world. However, it is actually just sand dunes left over from a glacial lake and is too humid to be an 'official' desert. Just 5 minutes north of the town of Carcross along the Klondike Highway you will come across a roadside rest area with a big 'Carcross Desert' sign. At the turnoff there are some outhouses and a coup...

As a whole, Tombstone Territorial Park boasts a stunning and at times alien landscape but, the Rake Mountain area is particularly beautiful. Park you vehicle at the turn off near kilometer 90 (there is a sign) of the Dempster Highway. Orient yourself northwest towards the small saddle in Rake Mountain and start hiking! I would suggest talking with park staff at the information center first as t...

The area around the Jasper townsite is riddled with trails well suited for biking or hiking even in the winter months. One of the most scenic is Trail 7 along the Athabasca River.From the Jasper townsite, make your way onto Trail 11 which is a paved path that runs along the railroad tracks all along the east side of town. Turn at Hazel Ave onto Trail 12 and exit the town. After 600 meters turn ...

Emerald Lake is without a doubt one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies and is the jewel (see what I did there...) of Yoho National Park. The circuit surrounding the lake allows great opportunities for pictures and views from all sides. Getting there: Just west of Field, BC turn off the Trans-Canada Highway onto Emerald Lake Road. Follow this road 8.5km to Emerald Lake. This s...

Geraldine Lakes is one of the more physically demanding half-day/day trails in Jasper National Park. However, this hike rewards you with everything that makes the Canadian Rockies wonderful, with views of pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas.The first 1.8km to Lower Geraldine Lake will guide you along a lightly sloped, root-studded trail through conifer forest. The trail th...

The Liard River Hot Springs are located at mile 475 of the Alaskan Highway in northern British Columbia and is a great camping spot or rest stop after a long day of driving. After pulling off the highway and parking you follow a 300 meter, raised boardwalk through a warm, delicate muskeg swamp. This area is frequented by moose and black bear and sighting are extremely common.  The hot springs t...

The Big Bend Trail is the first part of the greater Fortress Lake trail system. Situated in Jasper National Park, Canada, this hike is extremely quiet during the winter, so if you're looking for seclusion, this winter trail is for you. The trail is transformed into a wonderland during the winter months with heaps of snow, making the hike somewhat strenuous and challenging even in snowshoes.The ...

The Jacques Lake trail is one of the best winter trails in Jasper National Park and allows for various activities including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping. The trip to Jacques lake is 13km one-way through a narrow mountain valley and can be quite a strenuous, but rewarding hike in the winter months.After just the first 2km you will reach Beaver Lake which is equipped with picnic...