" It’s chock full of tips and maps to help you find your way sans polluting vehicle to outdoor locations in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, Stein Valley and Manning Park. "
Vancouver Courier kudos & kvetches
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Krumholtz
Trees clustered together in the sub alpine stand a much better chance of surviving the harsh conditions. Called krumholtz, these tree islands are miniature ecosystems unto themselves, providing mutual protection against the elements while acting as a catch basin for moisture. A krumholtz provides habitat for lesser plant species as well as insects, birds and mammals big and small. Usually trees in the krumholtz, German for "crooked wood," are old if not ancient, stunted by a short growing season, harsh weather and a paucity of nutrient-rich soil. Branches tend to flourish on the downwind side only.
Illustration by Manami Kimura
06
Feb
2007
Bowen Island: Intro and Access
(6 - user rating)
Written by Brian Grover
Access:
To reach Bowen Island first grab a bus bound for Horseshoe Bay. Follow the crowds at the end of the line into the ferry terminal. The ferry crossing takes just 20 minutes and return fare is included in the ticket price. In addition to hourly service by BC Ferries, Bowen Island is also serviced by water taxi. Call Cormorant Marine at 604-947-2243 or 604-250-2630. For those who are in a hurry to relax contact Bowen Taxi at 604-947-0000. Translink is now supporting a rudimentary bus service on the island during peak hours. All buses are equipped with bike-racks. More information about the Bowen Island Community Shuttle can be had by calling 604-947-0229.
Visiting Bowen Island is always a treat. This funky little community on the edge of West Vancouver is not a suburb nor is it a rural backwater like many of the Gulf Islands. Just 3,000 full time residents call this 5260-hectare rock home. In addition to kayaking opportunities which are detailed in the Sea Kayaking Section, Bowen Island offers three pleasant hikes. All start from the ferry terminal and all are accessible most of the year.
If lucky, you'll miss a ferry or two after the hike and - shucks! - have to do some carbo-loading in the Bowen Island Neighbourhood Pub [604-947-2782.] Cappuccino, ice cream and the usual post-hike rewards are also available from the cluster of shops just above the ferry landing.
