Trip Overview
On June 11, 2025, I led a team of four on an intense hike up Mount Brunswick. The final push was extremely steep and rugged. Within 150 meters of the peak, we paused to make three critical, unified group decisions to assess safety risk and determine whether to proceed to the true summit.
Although I served as the team leader, each member possessed skills and experience far exceeding my own. I deeply respected their insights and judgment throughout the climb. In turn, they appreciated my cautious, humble approach to trip safety and decision-making.
Climbing - Going Up
A rear view of Helen and Patrick navigating a steep, rocky section on the Mount Brunswick ascent.
Patrick, Victor, and Qiqi pausing for a photo, captured from above by Helen, with the vast expanse of Howe Sound framing the background.
Patrick, Helen, and Victor taking a quick break for a photo (shot by Qiqi from a higher vantage point ahead) against a sweeping backdrop of the Howe Sound island archipelago.
Navigating the infamous, narrow "fishback" rocky ridge. We were on the verge of turning around until Qiqi skillfully scouted a bypass route just below the sharp crest. In this shot, Qiqi is scouting the lower path, Patrick leans forward to evaluate the passage, Helen waits right behind, and Victor brings up the rear behind the lens.
Celebrating at the Summit
Helen sitting atop the rocky peak, looking proud and triumphant after a challenging climb.
Qiqi celebrating at the top in style, striking a single-leg balanced pose ("Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg").
Patrick and Qiqi celebrating our success against a panorama of surrounding mountain peaks.
Victor and Patrick, all smiles at the summit! Truth be told, given how daunting the ridge appeared, I wasn't entirely certain we'd reach the true peak today—pure tears of joy!
Victor, Helen, and Patrick sharing a triumphant moment together on the summit ridge.
An amazing group selfie filled with smiles, contentment, and gratitude—with the iconic twin peaks of The Lions framed perfectly between our ears in the distance!
Summit Victory Dance & Song
After carefully navigating three crucial decisions along the steep ridge, our team of four safely conquered the true peak of Mount Brunswick! To celebrate the adrenaline and thrill, Victor, Helen, and I broke out into song and dance—and I couldn't resist a shirtless victory groove at the top!
Summit Team: Victor, Helen, Qiqi & Patrick
Descending
Before starting our descent, I specifically reminded the team that "going down is often harder than coming up." While reaching the summit was a great achievement, we had to stay fully focused and vigilant on the way down—complacency is the greatest hazard in the mountains.
Howe Sound Descent Scenery
Descending Mount Brunswick on June 11, 2025, greeted by jaw-dropping views of Howe Sound and the surrounding island archipelago unfolding right before us.
In video: Lead: Qiqi | Middle: Helen & Victor | Camera: Patrick
Stopping briefly during the descent to unlace my boots, dump out gathered grit and trail debris, and lace back up securely.
Savoring the high alpine views as we begin our descent. Qiqi leads the line down, with Helen and Victor close behind, while Patrick captures the scene.
Lower down on the mountain, navigating through the shady forest trail. Qiqi, Helen, and Patrick continue downhill while Victor handles camera duty behind us.