Drawn Outdoors: Hike
Jug Island – Saturday, February 28th, 2025
A gentle forest hike to Jug Island Beach paired with mindful outdoor sketching. Slow down, connect with the coast, and draw what you see.
Time & Location
- Sat, Feb 28 | 11 AM – 3 PM
- Jug Island Beach Trail, Belcarra Regional Park
About the event
Join illustrator and outdoor artist Becky Hill for a relaxed hike and sketching adventure through coastal forest to the quiet shoreline of Jug Island Beach in Belcarra Regional Park. On Saturday, February 28, 2025, participants will blend gentle hiking with mindful creativity, pausing along the trail and at the beach to sketch forest textures, calm water, and layered coastal landscapes along Indian Arm.
No experience is needed. Whether participants are brand new to drawing or already filling sketchbooks, this experience is about slowing down, connecting with nature, and expressing what they see in their own way.
Becky Hill will guide the session, sharing simple techniques for capturing atmosphere, depth, and mood. Her approach is accessible and supportive, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced sketchers.
Hike Details
The Jug Island Beach Trail is a peaceful coastal route through second-growth forest, leading to a rocky beach with serene views across Indian Arm. The trail is well maintained and gently rolling, making it a great option for a relaxed and accessible outing.
The group will move at an easy pace to allow time for sketching, reflection, and noticing details along the way.
Distance: 5.5 km return
Elevation Gain: 224 m
Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (not including creative stops)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Expect some roots and muddy sections after rain.
Participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the trail and check conditions closer to the event date.
Schedule
10:45 AM – Arrive at Belcarra Picnic Area / trailhead
11:00 – 11:15 AM – Welcome and introductions
11:15 – 11:45 AM – Begin hike into the forest
11:45 – 12:30 PM – First sketch stop with warm-ups and forest details
12:30 – 1:00 PM – Continue hiking toward Jug Island Beach
1:00 – 2:00 PM – Main sketch session and snack or lunch at the beach
2:00 – 2:50 PM – Hike back toward the trailhead
2:50 – 3:00 PM – Closing circle and final reflections
If weather conditions are challenging, sketch locations will be adjusted to keep everyone comfortable.
What’s Provided
- Sketchbook to take home
- Pencils, pens, coloured pencils, crayons, and watercolours
- Extra cover from the elements if needed
- A welcoming, creative group of fellow nature lovers
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes, waterproof recommended
- Weather-appropriate layers, including a waterproof jacket
- Backpack with snacks and water
- Packed lunch
- Sit mat or camp stool
- Optional hiking poles
- This event runs rain or shine and will only be rescheduled in extreme weather.
Getting There
- Meeting Point: Belcarra Picnic Area, near the Jug Island Beach trailhead
By Transit
- SkyTrain to Moody Centre Station
- Bus #182 (Belcarra) to the Belcarra Picnic Area stop
- Short walk to the trailhead
By Car
Free parking is available at Belcarra Regional Park. Parking can be limited on weekends, so arriving early or carpooling is recommended.
Carpooling
Ride sharing is encouraged. Participants can offer or request a ride during registration.
About Becky Hill
Becky is a multidisciplinary designer, illustrator, and creative with a passion for blending art and the outdoors. With over a decade of experience in design, content creation, and creative leadership, she has collaborated with brands such as SkiBig3, The North Face, and Travel Alberta to bring compelling visual storytelling to life. Originally from England and now based in Canada, Becky embraces adventure—whether hiking, skiing, or exploring new landscapes—all of which serve as inspiration for her work. Her experience spans multiple industries, from reforestation to tourism, leading projects in branding, media, and illustration. Through her work, she continually seeks innovative ways to connect people with nature, inspiring better mental well-being and climate action.
