🌲 Spring Hiking in Southern BC: What to Know, What to Spot, and How to Prepare

🌲 Spring Hiking in Southern BC: What to Know, What to Spot, and How to Prepare

By Mark Vanderende, The Foraging Bee

As the last patches of snow melt and the valleys awaken, Southern British Columbia bursts into life—lush, green, and teeming with spring energy. It’s a season of rushing creeks, blooming wildflowers, and trails begging to be explored. But as nature stretches and yawns from its winter slumber, hikers must be mindful of the environment, wildlife, and their own readiness.

Whether you're a seasoned backcountry adventurer or setting out on your first spring hike, here’s your guide to staying safe, foraging smart, and soaking up the magic of spring on BC’s trails.

🐾 Prepare for the Wild: Stay Safe & Aware

Spring hikes come with unique challenges—from unpredictable terrain to active wildlife. A little prep goes a long way.

1. Bear & Predator Awareness

Spring is wake-up time for black bears and other wildlife. With hungry bellies and young cubs, they’re more active and curious. While bobcat or cougar sightings are less common, they do exist in remote parts of Southern BC.

Hiker’s Checklist:

• 🗣️ Make noise: Talk, sing, or clap—especially near bends or dense brush.

• 🧯 Carry bear spray and practice how to use it before you hit the trail.

• 🚶 Hike in groups when possible, and avoid solo ventures in isolated areas.

• 👣 Watch for signs: Fresh tracks, scat, and claw marks on trees are red flags.

🔗 Resource: WildSafeBC - Staying Safe in Bear Country

2. Tick & Insect Precautions

Spring warmth brings ticks into play—especially in dry grasslands, forest edges, and lower elevations. In BC, certain tick species can carry Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria linked to Lyme disease.

How to protect yourself:

• 👖 Wear long sleeves, light-coloured clothes, and tuck pants into socks.

• 🧴 Use tick repellents containing DEET or natural alternatives like lemon eucalyptus or rose geranium oil.

• 🧐 Perform a full tick check post-hike—focusing on hairlines, armpits, behind knees, and waistbands.

🔗 Resource: BC Centre for Disease Control - Ticks and Lyme Disease

3. Trail Conditions & Gear Prep

Early spring hiking can be deceiving. Sunny at the trailhead doesn’t always mean dry and warm up high. Be ready for:

• Muddy or snow-covered trails

• Slippery creek crossings

• Rapid weather changes

Gear Essentials:

• 🥾 Waterproof boots with solid ankle support

• 🥶 Extra warm layers & rain gear

• 🏕️ Emergency blanket, headlamp, first-aid kit

• 🥢 Trekking poles for balance and water crossings

🔗 Resource: AllTrails – Find Up-to-Date Trail Reports

🌿 Forager’s Delight: 3 Wild Weeds to Know

Spring in Southern BC is also prime time for foraging! Here are three nourishing wild weeds to look out for on your next hike—just remember to harvest responsibly and sustainably.

1. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

• Where: Moist areas, forest edges, and near water sources

• Use: Once cooked or dried, nettle loses its sting. Add to soups, teas, or even pesto.

• Benefit: Rich in iron, calcium, and chlorophyll—great for seasonal allergies and overall vitality.

📝 Pro Tip: Bring gloves and snips when harvesting.

2. Miner's Lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata)

• Where: Shady, damp woodland areas, especially in lower elevations

• Use: Delicate and mild—great fresh in salads or wraps.

• Benefit: High in vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants.

📝 Pro Tip: Only take what you’ll eat that day; it wilts quickly once picked.

3. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

• Where: Found almost everywhere—from meadows to roadside edges

• Use: Leaves, flowers, and roots are all edible. Try dandelion coffee or flower-infused vinegar!

• Benefit: Supports liver function, detox, and digestion.

📝 Pro Tip: Avoid harvesting near roads or areas treated with herbicides.

🔗 Resource: [The Foraging Bee’s Wild Plant ID Guide – Coming Soon!]

🌎 Connect | Explore | Sustain

As you hit the trails this spring, let the Connect | Explore | Sustain mindset guide your every step.

🐝 Connect

Listen to the rhythm of the natural world. Notice how the frogs call in the wetlands, bees forage in early blossoms, and deer leave prints in the soft mud. This is a season of renewal—for the earth, and for us.

🥾 Explore

Learn a new trail, identify a plant you’ve never met, or tune in to the language of birdsong. Adventure doesn’t have to be far or extreme—it starts with curiosity.

🌱 Sustain

Leave no trace. Take only what you need. Share your knowledge and inspire others to care deeply for our forests, mountains, and waters.

🔗 Resource: Leave No Trace Canada - 7 Principles

🌼 Spring is calling—will you answer with intention?

Whether you're hiking the emerald forests of the Okanagan, exploring the wildflower meadows of the Similkameen, or wandering the misty trails of the Fraser Valley—do it with presence, purpose, and respect for the land.

🐝 Follow @foragingbee for seasonal trail tips, foraging guides, Edu-🐝 videos, and workshops to help you deepen your connection with the wild.

Let’s 🐝 curious and have fun with the wild together!

How to Make Your Own Fire Cider with Foraged Ingredients

Nature’s Spicy Remedy for Cold Season

If you're looking for a way to warm up, boost your immunity, and connect with the land all at once — fire cider might just become your new favorite tonic. Rooted in folk herbal traditions, fire cider is a potent, vinegar-based infusion made with spicy roots, herbs, and often a touch of sweetness. The best part? You can make it with ingredients you forage from your local landscape.

At The Foraging Bee, I love sharing ways to bring wild wellness into our homes. Here’s a simple, customizable guide to making your own fire cider with foraged (or homegrown) ingredients.

What Is Fire Cider?

Fire cider is a traditional herbal remedy popularized by Rosemary Gladstar in the 1970s. It's designed to stimulate circulation, clear congestion, and support the immune system. The base is raw apple cider vinegar infused with powerful plants — and it’s both a health tonic and a culinary powerhouse.

Foraging Your Fire Cider: Wild Ingredients to Look For

Here are some common (and powerful) wild or garden-grown ingredients you can forage depending on the season and your region:

Spicy and Medicinal Roots

• Wild garlic or ramps – antiviral, antibacterial, and great for respiratory support

• Horseradish root – opens up sinuses and fights infection

• Ginger root – anti-inflammatory (can be grown or occasionally wild in warm climates)

• Wild onions or nodding onion – pungent and warming

Immune-Boosting Herbs and Additions

• Yarrow – wildflower with antiviral and fever-reducing properties

• Rose hips – packed with vitamin C

• Thyme, oregano, or bee balm – antimicrobial wild herbs

• Pine needles – citrusy, rich in vitamin C, and antimicrobial

• Dandelion root or nettle leaf – detoxifying and nutrient-dense

The Fire Cider Recipe (Foraged Edition)

This is a loose recipe — feel free to experiment and trust your instincts. Nature’s medicine doesn’t always follow exact rules!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup wild garlic or garlic cloves (chopped)

• ½ cup onion or wild onion (chopped)

• ¼ cup horseradish root (grated)

• ¼ cup ginger root (grated)

• 2–3 hot peppers or a pinch of wild pepper

• ¼ cup rose hips (fresh or dried)

• A small handful of pine needles (chopped)

• A sprig of thyme, bee balm, or yarrow

• Peel from one wild citrus fruit or a small handful of zest

• Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

• Raw honey (optional, added after straining)

Instructions:

1. Add all your chopped and grated ingredients into a clean glass jar. Fill it about ¾ of the way full.

2. Pour in enough apple cider vinegar to completely cover the ingredients.

3. Seal tightly (use parchment paper under metal lids to prevent corrosion).

4. Store in a cool, dark place and shake daily.

5. Let infuse for 3–4 weeks.

6. Strain through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean jar.

7. Add raw honey to taste, if desired.

How to Use Fire Cider

• Take 1–2 tablespoons daily as an immune tonic.

• Mix with hot water for a warming tea.

• Use as a salad dressing base or drizzle over roasted veggies.

• Add to marinades or soups for a zesty kick.

Seasonal Fire Cider Variations

Get creative and align with the seasons:

• Spring: nettles, dandelion root, chickweed

• Summer: wild mint, bee balm, elderflower

• Fall: rose hips, goldenrod, wild apples

• Winter: pine, cedar tips, dried yarrow

Connect with the Land, One Sip at a Time

Fire cider is more than a health tonic — it’s a way to connect with the seasons, honor traditional wisdom, and take your wellness into your own hands. Whether you’re harvesting garlic from the garden or gathering rose hips on a crisp autumn walk, every ingredient tells a story.

So next time you're out foraging, bring a basket, gather with intention, and try your hand at crafting this fiery, foraged remedy.

Let’s 🐝 curious, stay wild, and keep exploring.
– Mark Vanderende | The Foraging Bee

Golden Nectar Vitality Punch Recipe: A Refreshing & Immune-Boosting Elixir

Golden Nectar Vitality with a levelled up Garnish. Delicious!

Golden Nectar Vitality Punch: A Refreshing & Immune-Boosting Elixir

In the world of natural wellness and vibrant flavors, few drinks can match the refreshing and nutrient-packed benefits of the Golden Nectar Vitality Punch. Whether you're looking for a rejuvenating daily tonic or a unique party drink, this honey-infused elixir is as delightful as it is nourishing.

Why This Punch is Special

Crafted with raw honey, fresh ginger, lemon, and a touch of bee pollen, this drink is a powerhouse of natural energy. The ingredients work together to support immunity, fight inflammation, and provide a bright, zesty flavor that invigorates the senses. Plus, with an optional fizzy twist, it makes for a versatile beverage—perfect on its own or as a base for a sparkling cocktail.

The Benefits of Key Ingredients

🍯 Raw Honey – A natural sweetener loaded with antioxidants and antibacterial properties. (Bonus: Use honey from your own hives for the freshest taste!)

🐝 Bee Pollen – A superfood packed with amino acids, vitamins, and enzymes known to support immunity and energy levels.

🍋 Lemon – Rich in Vitamin C, lemon juice adds a tart brightness while boosting digestion and hydration.

🌿 Ginger – This warming spice helps with digestion, reduces inflammation, and adds a subtle heat to balance the flavors.

🔥 Turmeric or Cayenne (Optional) – A pinch of these spices can amplify the anti-inflammatory benefits and add a little extra zing!

💦 Sparkling Water Option – A splash of bubbly water makes this drink extra refreshing and festive.

How to Make It

Ingredients:

• 4 cups filtered water

• 2-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced

• 2 lemons, juiced (plus extra slices for garnish)

• ¼ cup raw honey (preferably local)

• 1 tsp bee pollen

• ½ tsp turmeric powder or Cayenne (optional)

• Sparkling water (for a fizzy version)

• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

• Ice cubes

Directions:

1️⃣ Infuse the Ginger: In a saucepan, bring water and sliced ginger to a gentle simmer. Let it steep for 10–15 minutes, then remove from heat. 2️⃣ Sweeten It Up: Once slightly cooled (but not boiling), stir in raw honey until fully dissolved. 3️⃣ Add Citrus: Mix in freshly squeezed lemon juice and turmeric (if using). 4️⃣ Boost with Bee Pollen: Sprinkle in the bee pollen and stir well. Let it sit for a few minutes to dissolve. 5️⃣ Chill & Serve: Strain the mixture, let it cool completely, then pour over ice in a glass. 6️⃣ Fizzy Option: Top with a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing twist. 7️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy: Add lemon slices, fresh mint, and a light dusting of extra pollen on top for a beautiful presentation.

Turning This Drink into a Cocktail

Want to add a spirited twist? This drink pairs beautifully with: 🍸 Gin – Enhances the botanical notes. 🥃 Bourbon or Whiskey – Deepens the flavor with caramel warmth. 🍹 Rum – Light or spiced rum adds a tropical touch. 🍾 Prosecco or Champagne – Elevates the fizz for a celebratory vibe. 🧊 Vodka – Keeps it light and refreshing. 🔥 Tequila (Reposado) – Adds a smooth, earthy depth.

Final Thoughts

The Golden Nectar Vitality Punch is more than just a drink—it's a celebration of natural ingredients, a toast to sustainable beekeeping, and a delicious way to nourish the body. Whether you're sipping it solo, sharing with friends, or crafting a unique cocktail, this punch is a reminder that nature’s bounty is both healing and delicious.

🐝✨ Try it out and let us know—what’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Drop a comment below! #BeeCurious #GoldenNectar #ForagingBee

🍯 Want to bring more golden goodness into your kitchen? Shop our Overflow Honey from The Foraging Bee—sustainably harvested and packed with nature’s vitality. Visit www.theforagingbee.ca to get yours today! 🛒🐝

The Ultimate Health Boost: Ginger Lemon Honey Tea with Pollen & Cayenne….

Level up with orange and turmeric!!

The Ultimate Health Boost: Ginger Lemon Honey Tea with Pollen & Cayenne

Looking for the perfect health-boosting tea? This powerful blend of ginger, lemon, honey, bee pollen, and cayenne pepper is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and immune-boosting benefits. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, improving digestion, or just looking for a daily wellness boost, this tea has you covered!

Top Benefits of Ginger Lemon Honey Tea with Pollen & Cayenne

1. Supercharges Immunity

• Lemon provides vitamin C to strengthen your immune system.

• Ginger and cayenne have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping your body fight infections.

• Bee pollen is packed with enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it a natural immune booster.

Organic Local Bee Pollen

2. Aids Digestion & Reduces Bloating

• Ginger stimulates digestion and relieves bloating.

• Cayenne boosts metabolism and supports gut health by increasing enzyme production.

• Raw Over Flow Honey helps balance gut bacteria and soothe the stomach.

3. Relieves Sore Throat & Cough

• Raw Over Flow Honey coats the throat and acts as a natural cough suppressant.

• Ginger and cayenne work together to clear congestion and reduce inflammation.

• Bee pollen has anti-allergic properties that may help with seasonal allergies.

Over Flow Honey at www.theforagingbee.ca

4. Supports Weight Loss & Detoxification

• Cayenne pepper boosts metabolism, promotes fat burning, and improves circulation.

• Lemon and ginger aid in flushing out toxins and improving digestion.

• Bee pollen provides essential nutrients to support energy levels while detoxing.

5. Enhances Skin Health & Energy Levels

• Lemon detoxifies the skin, while bee pollen contains amino acids that support collagen production.

• Cayenne and ginger stimulate circulation, helping to bring a natural glow to your skin.

• The natural sugars in honey provide a sustained energy boost without crashes.

How to Make Ginger Lemon Honey Tea with Pollen & Cayenne

Ingredients:

1 cup hot water

1-inch piece of fresh ginger (sliced or grated)

Juice of ½ lemon

1 tsp raw honey

½ tsp bee pollen

A pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions:

Boil water and add ginger. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes.

Add lemon juice and stir in honey.

Sprinkle in bee pollen and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Stir well and enjoy warm for maximum benefits!

For an added power punch to your tea add Cinnamon and/or Turmeric

This powerful tea is a natural remedy for better health, giving your body the support it needs to thrive.

Discover more natural wellness tips at www.theforagingbee.ca

#GingerLemonHoneyTea #BeePollenBenefits #ImmunityBoost #CayennePepperHealth #HolisticHealing #DetoxTea #WellnessJourney #SoreThroatRemedy #NaturalRemedies #StayHealthy