I sat in a warm pool of light cast by the porch light. A gentle breeze ruffled the warm night air from her daytime slumber and apathy. Tall trees blended seamlessly into the star-studded skyline. What a perfect night this would have been for camping!

I had already been camping several times this summer; the most recent was based at Mt. Sicker. My horse, my mom, the other Backcountry Horsemen (and women), and myself attended the SVI BCHBC Mt. Sicker campout. The camp itself was a beautiful park-like area nestled in trees and with a view of open fields and mountain vistas. The weather was beautiful on the first day. Several of us went for an impromptu ride that wove through fern strewn cedar archways and along the rocky grey river bank. This was going to be a beautiful weekend! After tucking my horse into his temporary corral for the night, I took one last glance at the sky before snuggling into my sleeping bag (and tent) for a restful sleep. The soft snorts and stampings of the horses lulled me to sleep.

I woke suddenly to the sound of pawing. It was just a horse lying down…but what was that other sound? It sounded like the soft pattering of rain on the nylon tent. I rolled over, hoping it was just a bad dream. The next morning, however, the air was damp and cold. It was pouring rain!

Once everyone had attended to their horses, we all huddled under a tarp, cradling our morning coffees. By noon, we had not done much else. We swapped horse stories and talked about life in general.

The temperature dropped suddenly, the rain came down harder, and the wind whipped around us. Several of the horses started to shiver and we had to put them into the trailers to warm them up. As I loaded my horse, I realized that my teeth where chattering to the rhythm of his shivers.

The rain finally tapered off and we all went for our rides. Some rode the Grace Road route which wound through the stately cedars. Others took the River Route which crossed the river and wound through the forest and up a mountain. Still others rode the Mt. Sicker ride which climbed all the way to the top of the mountain.

Mist still clung to the forests and mountains, rain still dripped off the trees, and yet there was something serene and special about the trails. Some areas looked eerie and foreboding in the grey and foggy light, while others looked soft and inviting.

After the rides we all shared a meal around the camp fire. Some were too soaked to stay for another day and left that evening. The next morning, I awoke to the sound of a nickering horse. My horse was calling for his breakfast. It was raining again, but the rain was not as torrential and the air was not as cold as the day before had been. Everyone suited up in their rain gear and squeezed under the canopy that was over the picnic tables. We shared a wonderful pancake breakfast. Everyone decided which of the three rides they would like to try for that day, and we set out to prepare.

It rained for the entire time that we rode, but it was worth it. Several people had “firsts” that day. First time crossing a river, first time riding double, first time attempt at a harder (or higher level) ride. All in all, the experience was good. It may not have been ideal, but sometimes we learn more about ourselves and others when we’re challenged. I certainly learned more about myself, my horse, and my fellow Backcountry Horsemen. We all truly love nature, the trails, and preserving this amazing land!

 I glanced again at the clear star studded sky and smiled. Everything had turned out as it should have- I certainly had an experience that I would not soon forget!       Victoria Parsons, South Vancouver Island Chapter