Words (Core Vocabulary)
- trailhead / route / elevation gain / difficulty
- park pass / day-use reservation / campsite
- advisory / closure / bear notice / high water
- Leave No Trace / pack out / stay on trail
- trail conditions / mud / washout / avalanche risk (seasonal)
- essentials: map, water, snacks, first aid, light, layers
- wildlife: bear / cougar / coyote / elk
- bear spray / make noise / give space
- buddy system / check-in time
- cell coverage / offline map / PLB (beacon)
Phrases (Plan → on-trail → after)
Planning
- Are there any advisories or closures for this park/trail today?
- What’s the difficulty and elevation gain—is it suitable for beginners?
- Do we need a park pass or day-use reservation?
On trail
- Let’s stick to the marked route and turn back by [time].
- Bear ahead—make noise, give space, do not run.
After
- We packed out all our garbage; great hike—thanks for the tips!
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Visitor centre: Any closures or bear notices on the loop trail?
- Group chat: Plan A if dry, Plan B if muddy—turnaround at 12:30.
- Encounter: Bear on trail at km 2—we backed away slowly and gave it space.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Planning & permits
- check advisories
- buy a park pass
- reserve day-use/campsite
- download an offline map
Safety & etiquette
- carry the essentials
- follow Leave No Trace
- make noise in bear country
- keep dogs leashed
Navigation
- stay on the marked trail
- set a turnaround time
- share your plan with a buddy
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Rangers and volunteers are friendly sources; ask about conditions.
- Wildlife is protected; keep distance and never feed animals.
- Many popular parks require reservations on busy days—plan ahead.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Advisory ask: “Any closures or warnings today, and is a pass required?”
- Wildlife: “Bear ahead—we’ll give space and back away slowly.”
- Plan share: “If I’m not back by 6, call me; here’s the route.”