Personally, I have been quite well exposed to the outdoors (hunting, camping, hiking) as I have grown up, but I have gone backpacking only a handful of times with friends. I have a friend that now wants to be more exposed to the elements and he would like for us to go backpacking together this year, but I’m having a hard time picking a location for him and I to go on. He did a little research himself and is very keen on doing the Howe Sound Crest Trail, but I am not sure if he will be able to handle it, since I read it is not an easy hike. but if you have went on it, I would love to hear your suggestion and experiences on this.
Him and I are willing to go anywhere between Vancouver and Hope for such adventure!
I love to hear your suggestions if you have any! :)
The HSCT is one of the most challenging objectives in our region - at least in terms of actual trails and not mountaineering and route finding.
If the HSCT specifically strikes your fancy AND you're both quite fit, have all the necessary safety gear, etc at most possibly consider Deeks lake (starting from near Porteau Cove). That's still pretty challenging and has some very steep (and potentially slippery) sections - but it doesn't have as much real fall exposure as other parts of the HSCT. Not something I'd recommend to total beginners but you say you have some experience. Do some research and don't be afraid to bail.
IMO a better option would be Alder Flats in Golden Ears. If you get there and feel fresh still you could consider extending to Panorama Ridge - but be aware it gets dramatically steeper from Alder onward.
Another good option would be Halfmoon Beach in Golden Ears. Decently long with a few sections where the trail gets faint, but no significant elevation to deal with and a very pleasant walk throughout.
Overall I'd encourage you to under estimate your own abilities for the first one. Stuff will go wrong, you'll forget things, etc. Better to do that somewhere it's less impactful and build confidence over time.