Top 10 Ways to Get Outdoors & Active This School Year (Sackville and beyond)

Author: Nadine Robinson
Posted on September 21, 2020

It would be an understatement to say Vancouver Island, British Columbia is an outdoor education enthusiast dream. Its mild winters make being outside year-round easy and you will never find yourself more than a stone throw away from a mountain or a  beach. I spent my summers at an outdoor summer camp and gained a further passion for all things outdoor adventure. It is incredibly important to me to pursue these activities year-round, wherever I found myself, so I could not have been happier to discover that my new home province  offered all the outdoor activities I loved to do and more.

Here are my top ten so far:  

1. Hike Fundy

Just 2 hours away from Sackville is Fundy National Park. With unmatched views, waterfalls to swim in, and a hike to match any athletic style. Fundy National Park is absolutely worth the drive. 

2. Join a sport

There’s no better way to get active then joining a sport! Whether through Mount Allison or the town of Sackville, joining a sport is a fantastic way to meet people while getting outdoors and working up a sweat. I also learned quickly that joining a team that attends tournaments away from Sackville is a fantastic way to explore the Maritimes.  

3. Ski, snowboard, sled

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or jerry of the day, the ski hill has something for everyone. Nothing beats a day on the mountain, except maybe the views driving to Wentworth! Additionally, as someone who snowboards frequently in the winter months, I am grateful for the students’ rates at both Polley and Wentworth. 

4. Try surfing

Just 1.5h away from Sackville (Just outside of Dartmouth N.S.) is Lawrence Town beach. Check it out in the summer months on any given day and you will find a multitude of surfers from every skill level. There are many surf rentals right on the beach that will hook you up with a wetsuit, board, and lesson if needed! 

5. Learn to boulder at FitRocks Moncton

This isn’t sponsored, but I wish it was! Fitrocks Bouldering gym in Moncton is a community of climbers you do not want to miss out on. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time, there will be folks there to cheer you on and help you solve that route. They also have an in house gym and student drop in prices. Beware the sore forearms!  

6. Rent a bike

Check out the MASU’s bike co-op and get yourself a free bike for a couple of days! This is a fantastic way to explore Sackville and get your fresh air fix.  

7. Cross country ski

Just across the highway you can find over 50km of trails, perfect for cross country skiing. This activity is BYOS (bring your own skis) however! 

8. Go camping

Hiking in Fundy just not enough for you? Take it one step further and camp! Although this activity is a bit of equipment heavy, it will be well worth it to spend a night (or multiple!) backpacking in Fundy National Park. 

9. Run

Running is another fantastic way to explore locally! Enough said! 

10. Take a dip at Silver Lake

Last but not least, Silver lake is a must for a Sackville summer (or early September for you brave souls!). Whether you want to take a dip or go for a longer swim, Silver lake is an absolute must-do.  

Photo: Pictures of surfing and snowboarding in the Maritimes :)