For Economics instructor James Wishart, hiking is much more than exercise. It is a way to unplug, explore, and find a little peace in the mountains of the East Kootenay.
Like many hikers in the region, his journey began with a copy of Mountain Footsteps by Janice Strong. Looking for places to explore, he turned to the well-known guidebook and soon discovered there was no shortage of trails, peaks, lakes, and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Today, hiking remains his passion. He tries to get outdoors at least once a week, regardless of the season. A typical outing can range anywhere from a five-kilometre stroll to a 20-kilometre adventure, often with up to 4,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Winter brings a different flavour to his adventures, with snowshoes occasionally replacing hiking boots.
“What makes this region special is how accessible everything is,” he says. “You can reach incredible mountain peaks, lakes, canyons, and waterfalls without having to travel far.”
His curiosity also extends beyond the trails. When he remembers his headlamp, he enjoys exploring historic mining areas, including the Payroll Mines near Lumberton and the Victor Mine at Mause Creek.
What keeps him coming back week after week is how the outdoors makes him feel.
“It’s my peaceful place where all my annoying thoughts disappear and I can just relax and explore,” he says. “The worst day outside is better than the best day inside.”
When asked what advice he would give someone considering hiking in the region for the first time, his answer is straightforward: “Just get out there.”
Among the many places he has explored, the area around Tanglefoot Lake and Windy Pass stands out as a favourite. The combination of alpine scenery and endless opportunities for discovery continues to draw him back.
One memory, however, rises above the rest.
Several years ago, he and his young son set out to climb Fisher Peak. His son was only nine years old, and it was the first time for both of them. The day delivered a little bit of everything: sunshine, clouds, rain, and strong winds.
By the time they reached the top, the weather had turned chilly and his son was eager to start the descent but James encouraged him to pause for a moment and take in what they had accomplished.
Then the clouds shifted.
“I remember looking out and saying, ‘There’s a lake down there!'”
That lake was Nicol Lake, a destination he has since visited several times. But what remains most memorable is not the view itself. It is the shared experience of reaching the summit together, embracing the changing conditions, and taking a moment to appreciate the accomplishment before heading home.
For James, that is what hiking is all about: exploring new places, finding perspective, and creating lasting memories one trail at a time.