Seventeen of us assembled at a car park within the Karen Magnussen complex in North Vancouver. We took a route through residential streets to the beginning of the Salop Trail, near Sutherland School.

From this point, Salop Trail winds downwards, at times close to Highway 1, past Brooksbank Elementary School, and then under Highway 1 and Keith Road to Bridgman Park. Some of the group chose a more challenging ravine as an alternative to the gentler downhill slope.

We all met up at Bridgman Park; Don joined us there. This was the perfect place for a snack break.

Refreshed, we set off on the second half. This took us up the side of Lynn Creek on the Sea to Sky Trail through Lynn Canyon Park. We emerged onto Arborlynn Drive for a block or two and then entered Hastings Creek Park at the junction of Arborlynn and Hoskins Road.

Hastings Creek has a picturesque trail alongside it winding upwards through the forest. It is also an example of what we might call the full Clapham: a set of steep steps up is immediately followed by a set of steep steps down: repeat several times.

We emerged onto Allan Road and then took a short trail to Lynn Valley Road.

Here, since the Black Bear was almost in view and it had just started to rain, a small group of thirsty people headed directly for our stopping point. The more disciplined ones followed a loop that led past yet another creek before arriving at our destination.

At the Black Bear, some stayed on the patio eating and drinking safely under cover while watching the rain fall; some departed for home; and some went for coffee at Belmondo Café.

Photos: Adrienne, Angela, Jon, Liz, Michael