108 beautiful fall hikes to do in and around Metro Vancouver
The summer may be drawing to a close, but there’s still a few more weeks of mild weather left, and plenty of hikes still accessible near Vancouver this fall.
From easier strolls for those who aren’t ready to work up a sweat quite yet, to harder hikes for the tougher grizzlies among you, there’s something out there with your name on it.
Here’s a roundup of some of our favourite hikes in and around Vancouver for this fall, organized by recommended hiking times.
Make sure you read up on the dangers of hiking and what to pack before you head out, and have fun out there.
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.
Before the end of September
Easier
Dam Mountain
What: An easy and short albeit steep hike into the backcountry behind Grouse Mountain, up to a rocky outcrop. You’ll get occasional glimpses of the Howe Sound and Cypress Mountain, as well as Burrard Inlet and Crown Mountain.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus bus 236 to its final stop, Grouse Mountain – then take the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola.
Recommended: From July to September
Little Goat Mountain
#moody #crownmountain A Lunch break with a view. #sunday #hiking w @tstas
A photo posted by Shaun Dacey (@_d_c_r) on
What: Another short, easy, uphill hike in the backcountry behind Grouse Mountain, offering views of Crown Mountain and Goat Mountain.
How long: 2.5 hours or 5.5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus bus 236 to its final stop, Grouse Mountain – then take the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola.
Recommended: From July to September
Thunderbird Ridge
What: A quick easy hike from the top of Grouse Mountain, on a clear day, you’ll be able to see scenic views of Crown Mountain, Kennedy Lake and Vancouver, as you wander along the alpine trail behind Grouse.
How long: 2.5 hours or 6 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus bus 236 to its final stop, Grouse Mountain – then take the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola.
Recommended: From July to September
Harder
Watersprite Lake–Squamish
What: This intermediate hike up to a turquoise glacial lake offers several scenic views of Mamquam River, Garibaldi Provincial Park, Martin Peak, Dreadnought Peak, and Watersprite Creek Valley. The trail follows old logging roads mostly, although there is a steep, rocky section and a climb up a boulder field to navigate.
How long: 7 hours or 17 km
Where: Starts and ends in a large parking area near the Skookum Dam, off Skookum Creek FSR east of Squamish. Four-wheel drive vehicle recommended.
Get there: A 1-hour 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to September
Conflict Lake
What: This intermediate hike in the Callaghan Valley is a beautiful trek through lush forests and mountain meadows, along small streams and wooden bridges. You’ll head uphill over logs and rocks at one point, but eventually this becomes meadow and creek. And the reward at the end? Beautiful Conflict Lake, where you can walk down to the shoreline.
How long: 5 hours or 12 km
Where: Trail begins and ends about 200 metres before Callaghan Lake, on a rugged gravel forest service road off the Callaghan Valley Road. Four-wheel drive recommended.
Get there: A 2-hour 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From June to September
Rainbow Falls
What: Rainbow Falls, near Whistler, are reached on the intermediate Rainbow Lake trail along 21 Mile Creek. It is a little steep, but it’s a short trail so an easy stop along the Sea To Sky. If you feel like making a day of it, you can continue on to Rainbow Lake.
How long: 40 minutes or 1.4 km to the falls, and 6 hours or 16 km roundtrip to the lake.
Where: Trail starts about 7 km down Alta Lake Road, off the Sea To Sky Highway, north of Whistler.
Get there: A two-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to September
BCMC Trail
What: This difficult hike up steep slopes through the forest east of the Grouse Grind will reward you with a less busy workout away from the crowds. Be careful to step over the pipes and cables partially buried along the route.
How long: 1.5 hours or 3 km
Where: Starts at the Grouse Mountain parking lot and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain. You’ll need to take the Gondola back down.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay the bus 236 to Grouse Mountain.
Recommended: From June to September
Hanes Valley Trail
What: This scenic, but extremely difficult North Shore trail, which takes you from the Lynn Creek crossing to the top of Grouse Mountain. The most difficult section is an extremely steep boulder field, which you’ll have to scramble up using your hands and feet. For experienced, prepared, and very physically fit hikers only.
How long: 8.5 hours or 16 km
Where: Starts at the top of Lynn Valley Road, in North Vancouver, ends on the top of Grouse Mountain, so you’ll have to get the Skyride back down to the mountain parking lot.
Get there: A 35-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay, then bus 228 to Underwood Avenue and Dempsey Road. To get home afterwards, you can catch bus 236 from Grouse Mountain to Lonsdale Quay.
Recommended: From July to September
Golden Ears
What: This difficult hike to Golden Ears is long, challenging, and you’ll need good hiking boots, but you’re rewarded with spectacular views. It could be done in a day if you start super early, but it’s better to camp and give yourself lots of daylight hours to complete the hike. Expect steep rocks, permanent snowfield, and ladders.
How long: 12 hours or 24 km
Where: Trail begins in the West Canyon parking lot in Golden Ears Provincial Park in Maple Ridge.
Get there: A one-hour 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to September
Before the end of October
Easier
Dog Mountain
What: This may be a short, easy hike, but it has a spectacular view of Vancouver on a clear day. Watch out for slippery tree roots, as you make your way past a lake, across streams and over wooden bridges, before reaching this rocky outcrop.
How long: 1.5 hours or 3 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking area of Mount Seymour – 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 50-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From June to October
Goldie Lake
What: This easy trail meanders through the forest on top of Mount Seymour before opening up to reveal a lovely lake and a great spot for lunch.
How long: 2 hours or 3 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking area of Mount Seymour – 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 50-minute drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: From June to October
Cabin Lake
What: Cabin Lake is one of the best swimming holes on the North Shore, and can get quite busy in warm weather, with plenty of areas for relaxing and diving spots, if you’re happy with a fairly easy 3.5 km hike to get there.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cypress Mountain parking lot – 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver
Get there: About 45 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: June to October
Mystery Lake
What: A super easy hike, albeit over tree roots and loose rocks, to a great swimming spot in Mount Seymour National Park.
How long: 1.25 hours or 3 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking area of Mount Seymour – 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver
Get there: A 50-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October.
Bridal Veil Falls–Chilliwack
What: Bridal Veil Falls, near Chilliwack, are accessed with an easy walk and beautiful to behold, named for the veiling effect of the water cascading over the smooth rock face. And while you’re there, make sure you stop for pie in the airport. Trust us, it’s amazing.
How long: 15 minutes or 800 m
Where: On Bridal Falls Road, off Harrison Hotspring Road, east of Chilliwack in Rosedale.
Get there: One hour and 30 minutes driving from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to October
Lost Lake Nature Trail
What: This easy hike will take you around Lost Lake, a small lake which features a beach, picnic tables, food trucks, and slackline posts. The trail will take you first along a creek then weaves through the forest before reaching the lake.
How long: 1.5 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends behind the Cross Country Connection ski rental shop, on the other side of the creek from Lorimer Road near Blackcomb Way, Whistler.
Get there: One hour and 45 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From March to October
Harder
Eagle Bluffs
What: This intermediate route from Cypress Mountain, past Cabin Lake and Black Mountain, is steep but rewarding, with spectacular views of the Lions and Brunswick Mountain, as well as Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast.
How long: 4 hours or 8 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Cypress Mountain ski area parking lot – 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Mount Fromme
What: This intermediate, steep trek takes you through green forest to views of Garibaldi Provincial Park, Crown Mountain, Goat Mountain, and Mount Seymour. Note that at one point, there’s a rope to help you up a steep bank, and towards the end, you’ll have to pull yourself up over tree roots.
How long: 5 hours or 10 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of St. Georges Avenue in North Vancouver
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay, then bus 230.
Recommended: From July to October
Mount Seymour
What: A steep, intermediate hike up one of the mountains you’ll likely come riding down once the snow falls, a couple of months later. Full of wild foliage, wooden bridges and rocky hills, it’s worth the effort, for the incredible view of Vancouver at the top.
How long: 5 hours or 9 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking area of Mount Seymour – 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 50-minute drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: From July to October
Mount Strachan
A photo posted by Melissa Bowen (@melissabowen18) on
What: A challenging, intermediate hike up one of the three mountains which form the Cypress Mountain ski resort, you’ll pass the historical debris of a crashed Royal Canadian plane on your way to views of the Howe Sound.
How long: 5.5 hours or 10.5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Cypress Mountain ski area parking lot – 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
St. Mark’s Summit
What: Part of the Howe Sound Crest Trail which winds alongside Cypress Mountain, this intermediate hike features a lot of steep switchbacks, so be prepared. At the top, it’s all worth it, for the amazing views of the Howe Sound, the Tantalus Range, the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island on a clear day.
How long: 5 hours or 11 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Cypress Mountain ski area parking lot – 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Goat Mountain
What: This is a picturesque, intermediate, steep hike, featuring rocky slopes and switchbacks, ropes and chains, and a scramble to the top. But what a reward when you get there – views of Vancouver, Mount Baker, Vancouver Island, and Garibaldi Provincial Park.
How long: 4 hours or 8 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus bus 236 to its final stop, Grouse Mountain – then take the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola.
Recommended: From July to October
Hollyburn Mountain
What: This intermediate hike ploughs uphill for 450 metres – including a very steep last section. But you’ll emerge to 360-degree views of the Georgia Strait, the Gulf Islands, Vancouver’s westside, the peaks of the Lions and Grouse Mountain.
How long: 3.5 hours or 7 km
Where: Starts and ends at the cross-country ski parking lot of Cypress Mountain (don’t worry, this trail is free, as it’s maintained by BC Parks, not the resort).
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown.
Recommended: From July to October
Lynn Peak
What: This intermediate hike is certainly challenging but it offers a spectacular view of Mount Seymour at the top, plus a good cardio workout. The uphill trail can be rocky in parts, but there’s also lush forest and some flatter areas to enjoy too.
How long: 4 hours or 9 km
Where: Starts and ends at the last parking lot in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay then bus 228 to Lynn Valley.
Recommended: From June to October
Crown Mountain
What: This extremely difficult, steep hike takes you down into Crown Pass, then up Crown Mountain. In return, you’ll get amazing views of the Capilano Watershed, the Lions, Vancouver, and the local mountains. But be warned, this hike involves using chains to clamber down slippery rocks, crossing boulder fields, climbing over large trees – and doing it all again in reverse to get home. At the top, be very careful as a fall could be fatal.
How long: 7 hours or 9.8 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Grouse Mountain, so you’ll need to take the Skyride up from the parking lot, and return the same way.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay, then bus 236. Grouse Mountain sometimes runs a free shuttle from Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Dilly Dally Loop–Port Moody
What: This difficult hike on the east side of Buntzen Lake takes you around Eagle Mountain, to traverse Tangled Summit and Dilly Dally Peak, and offers spectacular views in a variety of environments. Only for experienced, prepared hikers.
How long: 12 hours or 25 km
Where: Trail starts at Buntzen Lake parking lot off in Port Moody.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Lindeman Lake–Chilliwack
What: This intermediate, uphill hike heads into the trees, over Post Creek, and up to beautiful Lindeman Lake, where you’ll find a viewpoint and sandy beach.
How long: 2 hours or 3.4 km
Where: Starts and ends at a trailhead marker on a yellow gate when the paving ends some 40 km down Chilliwack Lake Road, near Chilliwack
Get there: 2 hours and 15 minutes driving from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to October
Mount Cheam–Chilliwack
What: This intermediate, uphill hike offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Chilliwack, the Fraser River, Jones Lake, and even Mount Baker. The trail takes you through a lush meadow, along a small creek, and up a series of switchbacks that hug the mountain. Warning–don’t get too close to the edge on your way up or on the top. Rocks have given way in the past, sending hikers to their deaths.
How long: 4.5 hours or 9.5 km
Where: Access point is located along the Chipmunk Creek Forest Service Road near Chilliwack
Get there: A 2 hour 45 minute drive from downtown Vancouver. You’ll need a four-wheel truck to make it down the forestry road to the trailhead.
Recommended: From July to October
Elk Mountain–Chilliwack
What: This intermediate hike offers spectacular views of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake, and the surrounding Fraser Valley area. Although the trail begins in a forested area with a steady incline up a wide path, be aware the top is very steep and can be slippery.
How long: 4 hours or 7 km
Where: Trail starts in a clearing about 10 km down Elk View Road in Chilliwack
Get there: A 1 hour 45 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From June to October
Lions Binkert Trail–Lions Bay
What: This difficult hike takes you up to the Lions, the iconic peaks overlooking Vancouver. The view is just as spectacular as the Lions themselves, rewarding you with a panorama of Howe Sound, Bowen Island, the Capilano Watershed, and Vancouver. On the way, you’ll have to deal with steep switchbacks, rocks, boulders, and a scramble to the top.
How long: 8 hours or 16 km
Where: Starts and ends at a small parking area off Sunset Drive, in Lions Bay. Be careful to park in the proper place, otherwise your vehicle could be towed.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Petgill Lake–Britannia
What: This intermediate hike begins with a steep scramble up the side of a mountain, before levelling out to dips into ravines and switchbacks through the forest. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with the peace of quiet Petgill Lake, and a viewpoint overlooking Howe Sound, Mount Sedgwick, and the Tantalus Mountain Ranges.
How long: 6 hours or 11.5 km
Where: Starts and ends on the other side of the highway from the parking lot of Murrin Lake Provincial Park north of Britannia on the Sea-To-Sky Highway.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From March to October
Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail–Squamish
What: This intermediate hike to just beyond Neverland Lake offers awesome views of Howe Sound and Squamish, taking you over creeks, along a granite ridge, and through the forest to the lake. Note that in some places you’l need to haul yourself over large rocks using the ropes provided.
How long: 5 hours or 7 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of the Sea To Sky Gondola in Squamish, off the Sea-T0-Sky Highway, so you’ll need to take the gondola up and back down again afterwards.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Murrin Loop–Squamish
What: This intermediate hike to the Quercus Viewpoint in Murrin Provincial Park may be short, but it is steep. However, after clambering up wooden stairs and trekking uphill through the forest, you’ll get amazing views of the Howe Sound and nearby Browning Lake.
How long: 1.5 hours or 2 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot for Browning Lake and Murrin Provincial Park along the Sea To Sky Highway, just south of Squamish.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From February to October
Elfin Lakes–Squamish
What: This intermediate hike takes you to two small but gorgeous lakes in the beautiful alpine surroundings of Garibaldi Provincial Park. Expect an ascent to get into the alpine area, before a final descent towards the lakes as they glisten in the sun.
How long: 6 hours or 22 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot in Garibaldi Provincial Park, off Mamquam Road, near Squamish, off the Sea-To-Sky Highway
Get there: A one-hour 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
High Falls–Squamish
What: The intermediate trail to High Falls is aptly named – if you’re afraid of heights, it may not be for you. Do not look down. Use the ropes and scramble over those rocks. In return, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall and several mountain vistas.
How long: 5 hours or 12 km
Where: Trail begins about 23.5 kilometres down the Squamish Valley Road, off the Sea To Sky Highway.
Get there: A two-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to October
Brohm Lake–Squamish
What: Brohm Lake is surrounded by lush, quiet forest full of intermediate trails that climb up to viewpoints over the Cheakamus River and Tantalus Mountain Range.
How long: 5 hours or 7.5 km
Where: Brohm Lake is on the Sea-To-Sky Highway, just north of Squamish.
Get there: One hour and 25 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From April to October
Helm Lake
What: This difficult hike is steep, climbing up a series of switchbacks, then continuing uphill, but offers amazing views of Black Tusk, Cinder Cone, and the surrounding area.
How long: 9 hours or 26 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cheakamus Lake signposted parking lot, down a dirt road, just south of Whistler off the Sea To Sky Highway.
Get there: Two hours 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Garibaldi Lake
What: Garibaldi Lake is pretty isolated, but this stunning lake is worth the two to three hour, intermediate, steep uphill hike to get there. You’ll feel as though you’ve entered a parallel universe, as you marvel at the turquoise-blue lake lined with glacier-capped mountains and lush green trees.
How long: 5 hours or 18 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the Rubble Creek parking lot in Garibaldi Provincial Park, just south of Whistler.
Get there: One hour and 45 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Crater Rim Trail
What: This intermediate, uphill hike travels through the gorgeous Whistler Interpretive Forest to an amazing view of Loggers Lake and Garibaldi Provincial Park. The lake is one of the warmest in Whistler, because it isn’t glacier fed and the rocky volcano walls protect it from cold air.
How long: 2 hours or 4.5 km
Where: Starts and ends across from a small parking area on Cheakamus Forestry Road, near Function Junction, Whistler.
Get there: A two-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to October
Black Tusk
What: This difficult, scenic hike is best completed over two days, camping overnight at Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadows. As you trek uphill, you’ll be able to enjoy lush forest, open meadows, alpine flowers, and views of Garibaldi Lake. Be warned, there is a scramble over loose shale to endure and loose rocks on the cliffs to watch out for.
How long: 11 hours or 29 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Rubble Creek parking lot, off Rubble Creek Road in Garibaldi Provincial Park, off the Sea-To-Sky south of Whistler.
Get there: A one-hour 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Panorama Ridge
What: This difficult hike offers panoramic views of Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, and the Helm Lake area. However, it’s a long, uphill hike, so best completed over two days, camping overnight at Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadows. You’ll enjoy a scenic trek through green forest, colourful flowers and along a medley of streams. But be warned, you will need to scramble up the rocky slopes using your hands eventually. Gruelling, but worth it.
How long: 11 hours or 30 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Rubble Creek parking lot, off Rubble Creek Road in Garibaldi Provincial Park, off the Sea-To-Sky south of Whistler.
Get there: A one-hour 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From July to October
Before the end of November
Easier
Alice Lake–Squamish
A photo posted by Gie||Vancouverite||dreamer (@babydreamz) on
What: Alice Lake is surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests and grassy areas – a very popular swimming spot in warm weather. The easy Four Lakes Trail offers a scenic hike past lakes, creeks, and groves of trees, and takes in Edith Lake and Fawn Lake too.
How long: 2 hours or 6 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Alice Lake parking lot, off Alice Lake Road, north of Squamish
Get there: About one hour and 20 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: From April to November.
Cheakamus Lake
What: This easy hike in Garibaldi Provincial Park takes you to the shores of a turquoise glacial lake surrounded by mountains and forests. Be prepared for snow on the trail, even if it is flip-flop weather in Vancouver. We speak from experience!
How long: 5 hours or 16 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cheakamus Lake signposted parking lot, down a dirt road, just south of Whistler off the Sea To Sky Highway.
Get there: Two hours 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to November
Whistler Train Wreck
What: This easy hike takes you through the forest and over a suspension bridge to a set of mangled box cars, abandoned in the forest after a train wreck in 1956, and now covered in colourful murals.
How long: 1 hour or 2 km
Where: Trail begins and ends across from a parking area on a small road off Jane Lakes Road, Function Junction, Whistler
Get there: A 1-hour 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to November
Cascade Falls–Mission
What: This easy uphill walk ends at a suspension bridge which crosses in front of scenic Cascade Falls to a wooden viewing platform, where you can feel the mist of the falls as the water cascades past you.
How long: Half an hour or 0.75 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the Cascade Falls Regional Park parking lot, off Ridgeview Road, northeast of Mission near Deroche
Get there: A one hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From April to November
Harder
Brothers Creek Loop
What: This intermediate hike, open to the public but on private property, offers glimpses of waterfalls and takes you past the Candelabra Fir, a huge tree that towers over the surrounding forest.
How long: 4 hours or 7 km
Where: Starts and ends on Millstream Road near Henlow Road in the British Properties area.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take buses 250 then 254 instead.
Recommended: From April to November
Sendero Diez Vistas–Port Moody
What: This intermediate hike around Buntzen Lake in Port Moody offers you 10 beautiful views, taking in everything from the surrounding lakes and mountains to Deep Cove, downtown Vancouver and Indian Arm. And if you don’t feel like hiking, you can always take a refreshing dip in the lakeside beaches instead.
How long: Up to 7 hours or 15 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Buntzen Lake parking lot in Port Moody.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown, or take the SkyTrain to Port Moody, then bus 182.
Recommended: From April to November
UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest
What: This intermediate hike will take you through a forest area maintained by the UBC Faculty of Forestry near Maple Ridge. Expect lush rainforest, thick moss, small streams, and some uphill walks in the woods. Look out for salamanders too!
How long: 3 hour or 8 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the forest parking lot and gate on Silver Valley Road, near Maple Ridge.
Get there: A one-hour 10-minute drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: From February to November
Harrison Grind–Harrison Lake
What: This difficult hike may be named after the Grouse Grind, but it’s not for the inexperienced. At the top you’ll be rewarded with views of Harrison Lake, but on the way, you’ll face a steep hike on a rugged route with sections that are overgrown and some sections that have even become a creek.
How long: 6 hours or 7 km
Where: Trail starts and ends on Hot Spring Road at Balsam Avenue in Harrison Lake
Get there: A one-hour 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: From March to November
Sumas Mountain–Abbotsford
What: The difficult hike up Sumas Mountain takes you through lush forest, over a river running through a ravine, and up, up, up on an often overgrown, sometimes narrow trail. Along the way, take in the beautiful Chadsey Lake and Fraser Valley vistas, before hitting the top for views of Mount Baker on a clear day.
How long: 6.5 hours or 13.5 km
Where: The trailhead is marked with orange markers about 9 km down Sumas Mountain Road after the turnoff from North Parallel Road, in Abbotsford.
Get there: A one hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to November
Tunnel Bluffs–Lions Bay
What: This intermediate hike climbs steeply initially, with ropes available to help you with the steepest sections, before flattening out to take you through the forest to a spectacular view of the Howe Sound. Be careful crossing the highway at the start of the hike, and watch out for worn out ropes.
How long: 4.5 hours or 8 km
Where: Starts and ends on the east side of the Sea To Sky Highway, opposite a parking lot on the west side, just north of Lions Bay. Note that to get to the parking lot, you will have to drive a couple of kms further along the highway to do a U-turn.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From May to November
Sea to Summit Trail–Squamish
What: This intermediate hike was formerly known as the Upper Shannon Falls Trail and offers a steep hike, good workout, and sweeping views of Howe Sound, the Chief, and Shannon Falls. Note that there you will need to scramble uphill and use ropes to get over smooth rocks. At one point, you will also have to pull yourself over a challenging, large rock.
How long: 3.5 hours or 7.5 km
Where: Starts at the bottom of the Sea To Sky Gondola and finishes at the lodge at the top, north of Britannia off the Sea-To-Sky Highway. Take the gondola back down when you’re done.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From March to November
Stawamus Chief–Squamish
Second peak on the Stawamus Chief in Squamish, British Columbia (Pierre Leclerc/Shutterstock)
What: Tough it to the top of the second biggest granite monolith in the world and spectacular ocean and mountain views await you. Wear proper hiking boots though – this intermediate hike involves chains, ropes and a lot of boulders. (If you want to enjoy the view, but not the hike, take the Sea To Sky Gondola instead.)
How long: 6 hours or 11 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Shannon Falls parking lot, off the Sea To Sky Highway before you get to Squamish.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown.
Recommended: From March to November
Crooked Falls
What: You can reach the remote Crooked Falls on the Sigurd Creek Trail, a difficult, uphill hike north of Squamish that will reward you with spectacular views. Note – this is a wilderness area so be prepared. There are several very steep and slippery sections. Hiking boots and poles are recommended.
How long: 4 hours or 6 km
Where: 36 km north of Squamish; the Sigurd Creek trailhead is on the left side of the road 2.4 km after turning left onto Ashlu Road from Squamish Valley Road.
Get there: One hour and 30 minutes drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: From April to November
All year round
Easier
Foreshore Trail
What: This easy trail through Pacific Spirit Regional Park passes through Vancouver’s famously nudist Wreck Beach. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views and see an old WWII tower designed to warn Vancouver of impending attack. Note that more than half of the trail follows the beach, which is rocky, slippery, and can be challenging during high tides.
How long: 3 hours or 5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Acadia Beach parking lot on NW Marine Drive, just past Pacific Spirit Regional Park at UBC, Vancouver
Get there: A 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take bus 44.
Recommended: All year round
Stanley Park
Stanley Park in the mist (Zhenwang Wang/Shutterstock)
What: The quintessential easy Vancouver hike through a beautiful urban park. Stanley Park is full of many networks of trails for both cycling and hiking. Venture into the forest to find Beaver Lake, and watch out for over-friendly raccoons!
How long: 2 hours or 6.5 km
Where: Starts near the Rose Garden and loops back around in Stanley Park, Vancouver
Get there: A 10-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take bus 19.
Recommended: All year round
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
What: Pacific Spirit Regional Park offers a huge network of easy trails in an oasis of green forest, trickling creeks and muddy bogs in Vancouver’s South Endowment Lands. Watch out for dog walkers on the trails as you flex your legs in the forest.
How long: 3 hours or 10 km
Where: Starts and ends at the park entrance on 16th Avenue next to Camosun Park, Vancouver
Get there: A 10-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to King Edward, then bus 33.
Recommended: All year round
Iona Beach Regional Park
What: This easy hike follows a long, narrow beach and grass area along the mouth of the Fraser River, offering views of the Georgia Strait and a dramatic descent into hundreds of logs washed up along the shoreline.
How long: 1.5 hours or 6 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot off Iona Island Causeway, Vancouver
Get there: A 35-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Fisherman’s Trail
What: This easy but long walk follows Seymour River through verdant forest, culminating in views of the river and mountains–and plenty of picnic tables for you to stop for lunch.
How long: 5 hours or 12 km
Where: Starts and ends in the parking lot at the end of Lilloet Road in North Vancouver
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus to Lonsdale Quay then bus 228.
Recommended: All year round
Lighthouse Park
Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver (JamesChen/Shutterstock)
What: Lots of short, easy trails offering breathtaking ocean views, huge, old-growth Western Red Cedars and the picturesque picnic spot of Starboat Cove.
How long: Up to 2 hours or 6 km
Where: Starts and ends at Lighthouse Park parking lot – Beacon Lane, West Vancouver.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown, or take bus 250 all the way there instead.
Recommended: All year round
Quarry Rock
What: A classic easy North Shore hike, up wooden stairs, over tree roots and small creeks, among Douglas Fir and Hemlock trees, to a rocky outcrop and beautiful views of Deep Cove.
How long: 1.5 hours or 3.8 km
Where: Starts and ends at the Baden Powell Trailhead – Panorama Drive, Deep Cove.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus buses 239 then 212 instead.
Recommended: All year round
Capilano Pacific Trail
What: This easy upward trail follows the Capilano River, taking you from pavement, rocky shores and beaches past steep cliffs and through thick rainforest to the imposing Cleveland Dam.
How long: 2 hours or 7.5 km one way
Where: Starts at Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver, ends at the Cleveland Dam in North Vancouver.
Get there: A 15-minute drive from downtown, or take bus 250 or 251 to a stop nearby instead.
Recommended: All year round
Lynn Loop
What: Enjoy an easy forest hike among Cedar and Hemlock trees, with views of Vancouver Island and some of the Gulf Islands, then stroll back along the gushing waters of Lynn Creek.
How long: 1.5 hours or 5.1 km
Where: Starts and ends in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park – Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus then 228 bus instead.
Recommended: All year round
Cypress Falls
What: This easy hike takes you along Cypress Creek, through forests of moss-covered, old-growth trees, past views of two gorgeous waterfalls as they pour into the canyon below.
How long: 1.5 hours or 3 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cypress Falls Park – Woodgreen Place, West Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take bus 253 Caufield all the way there instead.
Recommended: All year round
Maplewood Flats
Purple Martins at the Maplewood Flats (John Lowman/Wild Bird trust of BC)
What: The easy trail through Maplewood Flats Conservation Area offers picnic tables, scenic views, and rocky terrain. Managed by the Wild Bird Trust of BC, it is also a popular bird watching park – look out for the more than 200 species of birds spotted in the area annually.
How long: 45 minutes or 2.5 km
Where: Starts and ends in the Maplewood Flats parking lot off the Dollarton Highway in North Vancouver.
Get there: A 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver or take buses 209 then 212.
Recommended: All year round
Whyte Lake
What: Whyte Lake Park is a small, peaceful lake in the hills above Horseshoe Bay, in the largest park in West Vancouver. The easy trail to the lake is surrounded by wetlands, creeks and old-growth forest and ends at a small lakeside dock. Watch out for snow on the boardwalks.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the metal gate in the gravel parking area just off Westport Road, off Woodgreen Drive, in West Vancouver.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Twin Falls
What: Twin Falls are on the Baden Powell Trail, near Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge. They’re easy to get to and there’s a wooden bridge viewing platform, which gets pretty busy in warm weather.
How long: 20 minutes or 1 km
Where: East of the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown to Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, or take the Seabus plus bus 228 instead.
Recommended: All year round
Whytecliff Park
Image: Whytecliff Park / Shutterstock
What: This park in West Vancouver boasts spectacular views of Howe Sound, a myriad of easy trails weaving through the forest, plus a beach, island area and chance to go scuba diving.
How long: 1.5 hours or 2 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of the overflow parking lot off Marine Drive near Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Capilano Canyon
What: This easy trail offers beautiful views of Grouse Mountain and the Lions in the distance, as you walk through hemlock and fir trees, and clamber over tree roots surrounded by rainforest. You can also stop at an interpretive salmon hatchery on the way. Note this is a free trail in Capilano River Regional Park, separate from the famed Capilano Suspension Bridge.
How long: 1 hour or 2.6 km
Where: Starts and ends at Cleveland Dam off Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus across to North Vancouver then bus 236.
Recommended: All year round
Rice Lake
What: This is a calm, quiet lake, full of life and natural beauty, on the edge of the Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in North Vancouver. There are several viewpoints and easy trails around the lake with benches to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
How long: 1 hour or 3 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot north of Capilano College, on Lillooet Road in North Vancouver
Get there: About 40 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the Seabus across to North Vancouver then bus 228
Recommended: All year round
Killarney Lake
What: This is a scenic, easy hiking trail around Killarney Lake on Bowen Island. Along the way, you’ll meander through lush forest of hemlock, and past a marsh of eerie looking stumps of cedars, as well as enjoy lakeside views of the wintry waters.
How long: 2 hours or 9 km
Where: Starts and ends at the ferry terminal at Snug Cove, Bowen Island
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a 20-minute ferry to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.
Recommended: All year round
Dorman Point
What: A pretty, steep, but quick and easy hike on Bowen Island, offering beautiful views looking out over Howe Sound. This can easily be combined with the hike around Killarney Lake.
How long: 1 hour or 2.5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the ferry terminal at Snug Cove, Bowen Island
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a 20-minute ferry to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.
Recommended: All year round
Shoreline Trail–Port Moody
What: This easy hike takes you around the easternmost part of Burrard Inlet, along gravel trails and wooden boardwalks, through grassy parks and forest groves to Old Orchard Park where you’ll find picnic tables, a playground, and a small beach area.
How long: 2 hours or 6 km
Where: Starts and ends at Rocky Point Park, off Murray Street, Port Moody
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Port Moody then bus 181.
Recommended: All year round
Bert Flinn Park–Port Moody
What: This easy hike through gorgeous forest passes meanders past streams and over boardwalks in the north of the park.
How long: 1 hour or 2.6 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the wide gravel trail to the west of the roundabout at David Avenue and Heritage Mountain, in Port Moody.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Moody Centre, then bus 183.
Recommended: All year round.
Sasamat Lake–Belcarra
What: Sasamat Lake is warm to swim in, lined with a scenic forest and easy trails, and is home to White Pine Beach, a beautiful white sand beach. Bliss. The beach is a very popular weekend destination for Vancouverites, and the trail around the lake is a great escape.
How long: 3 hours or 8 km
Where: Lake and trails accessed from parking lot near White Pine Beach, off White Pine Beach Road, in Belcarra Park, Port Moody
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Coquitlam Station, then various buses during the summer months.
Recommended: All year round
Admiralty Point–Belcarra
What: This short, easy hike in Belcarra Regional Park offers gorgeous views of Mount Seymour, Deep Cove, and Burnaby Mountain over the waters that link Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet. The trail meanders through the forest and along the shoreline to a rocky outcrop and beach.
How long: 1.5 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail begins and ends in the parking lot of Belcarra Regional Park, off Bedwell Bay Road in Belcarra.
Get there: One hour’s drive from Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Port Moody, then bus 182.
Recommended: All year round
Burnaby Lake Regional Park
What: Burnaby Lake is the largest lake in Metro Vancouver and boasts a 10-kilometre, easy hiking path that loops around the entire park. Look out for ducks, geese, and beavers, as you stroll over boardwalks and bridges, alongside the lake and over creeks.
How long: 2 hours or 10 km
Where: The trail starts along the edge of the sports fields beyond the Rugby Club, off Kensington Avenue in Burnaby.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Sperling-Burnaby Lake Station.
Recommended: All year round
Burnaby Mountain
What: With multiple trails of various difficulties, also popular with mountain bikers, there’s no shortage of hiking potential on Burnaby Mountain. Watch out for the aptly named steep Cardiac Hill, but enjoy the green forest and city views.
How long: Up to 3 hours or 7 km
Where: Starts and ends at the eastern edge of Pipeline Trail off North Road in Burnaby.
Get there: Either a 35-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Burquitlam Station.
Recommended: All year round
Deer Lake
What: This flat, easy walk around Deer Lake passes by a beach, a viewing tower, and a pier. Look out for the former site of the infamous Oakalla Prison, and stop in at the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts and Burnaby Art Museum along the way.
How long: An hour or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends on the east side of the lake along Sperling Avenue, Burnaby
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Metrotown and get bus 144.
Recommended: All year round
Minnekhada Regional Park
What: This easy walk around a nature sanctuary offers the chance to see wood ducks and beavers in protected marshland in Coquitlam, as well as views of the Lower Marsh and Pitt River flowing through farmland below, and on a clear day, Mount Baker.
How long: 2.5 hours or 10 km
Where: Trail begins and ends at the parking lot Minnekhada Regional Park, off Quarry Road in Coquitlam.
Get there: A 1-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Crystal Falls
What: Scenic Crystal Falls in Coquitlam are easily accessible on a short trail, running along the Upper Coquitlam River. Wander through a moss-covered forest, hop over tiny streams playing along the path, and pack a picnic for when you reach the falls.
How long: 2 hours or 7 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at an unmarked trailhead on Karley Crescent, where it meets Shaughnessy Street, in Coquitlam.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Lafarge-Lake Douglas, then bus 188.
Recommended: All year round
Sawblade Falls
What: You can reach Sawblade Falls, in the mountains above Coquitlam, on the easy Woodland Walk Trail. Through forest and over creeks, the trail takes you first to Woodland Falls and then after several switchbacks to the much more spectacular Sawblade Falls.
How long: 3 hours or 8 km
Where: Trail starts and ends to the left of the metal gate at the end of Harper Road, just before the PoCo & District Hunting & Fishing Club, in Coquitlam.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Kanaka Creek Cliff Falls
What: The Cliff Falls area of Kanaka Creek in Maple Ridge is a great spot for an easy hike through the forest, past calm creeks and rushing rapids. Enjoy a picnic with a view of the waterfall then finish up with a visit to the local salmon hatchery.
How long: 2 hours or 4 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cliff Park – 251 Street, Maple Ridge.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Braid Station, then buses 791 and C48.
Recommended: All year round
Kanaka Creek Riverfront
What: The lower section of Kanaka Creek is also an easy hike, taking in the shoreline, bird watching, and views of the Fraser River.
How long: 1 hour or 2.5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at a parking lot off River Road, Maple Ridge
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver
Recommended: All year round
Mike Lake
What: This short, scenic trail in Golden Ears Provincial Park is a meander over tree roots, through calm forest and past lake views. Don’t forget to head out onto the dock for a full view of Mike Lake before you leave.
How long: 45 minutes or 2 km
Where: About 4.5 km from the gates of Golden Ears Provincial Park on Fern Avenue in Maple Ridge
Get there: One hour and 30 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Gold Creek Falls
What: The easy walk to Gold Creek Falls in Golden Ears Provincial Park is short but sweet. Starting near Alouette Lake in Maple Ridge, the trail meanders over moss, past mountain vistas and through rainforest to reach fantastic views of the falls from above and below.
How long: 2 hours or 5.5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the last parking lot on Golden Ears Parkway near Alouette Lake in Maple Ridge.
Get there: One hour and 30 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Green Timbers Lake
What: This lake in the heart of the Green Timbers Urban Forest is great for spotting bald eagles, ducks, salamanders, woodpeckers and native Douglas squirrels. You can also enjoy more than 10 km of easy trails in the surrounding area.
How long: Varies according to trails taken.
Where: Green Timbers Urban Forest – 14600 Block of 100 Avenue, Surrey
Get there: About 45 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to King George Station.
Recommended: All year round
Aldergrove Regional Park
What: This park on the boundary between Aldergrove and Langley is popular with horseback riders. The easy trails within takes you through forest, along waterways, atop wooden bridges and over creeks. The view from the area’s rolling hills is worth checking out.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the east end of the parking lot off 8th Avenue in Aldergrove.
Get there: A one hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Campbell Valley Regional Park
What: This park has a sprawling network of easy trails covering 29km, through forest and open fields, and over wooden boardwalks and marshes. Look out for the Equestrian Centre and the historic Langley Speedway, where you can still see the damage from past crashes.
How long: 1.5 hours or 4 km for a short hike – or pick a longer one!
Where: Trail starts and ends at the south end of the parking lot off 16th Avenue in Surrey.
Get there: An hour’s drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Tynehead Regional Park
What: This popular park has plenty of easy trails, offering dog off-leash areas, a hatchery, a picnic area, views of the park and the Serpentine River – all while enjoying a stroll through the forest and crossing several streams.
How long: 1.5 hours or 4.5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the parking lot for the Tynehead Hatchery off 96th Avenue in Surrey.
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Surrey Central Station, then bus 337.
Recommended: All year round
Rolley Lake–Maple Ridge
What: Rolley Lake is an easy hike through a flat, wilderness area blanketed with tall, second-growth Cedar and Hemlock trees. The trail meanders around the small, warm-water lake, through forests, over boardwalks, and past Rolley Falls.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends in the lowermost parking lot of Rolley Lake Provincial Park off Bell Street in Maple Ridge
Get there: A one hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Hayward Lake–Mission
What: There are two easy trails around Hayward Lake–Railway Trail or Reservoir Trail. At the moment, there is work being done on the Ruskin Dam area which links them, so it’s not possible to do a loop, but there’s lush forest, a beautiful lake, and even a waterfall to enjoy.
How long: The Railway Trail is 3.5 hours or 12 km, the Reservoir Trail is 5.5 hours or 17 km.
Where: Both trails start and end at Hayward Lake Recreation Area parking lot, off Dewdney Trunk Road in Mission.
Get there: A one hour 20 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Teapot Hill–Chilliwack
What: This easy, short, uphill hike offers a stroll along a stream and through a verdant forest up to some lovely views of the lake.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts in a parking lot just past Delta Grove Campground on the Columbia Valley Highway (also called the Cultus Lake Road) in Chilliwack
Get there: A 1 hour 40 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round.
Cheam Lake Wetlands–Chilliwack
What: This easy hike meanders around this popular park, where you can enjoy picnics and lake views, with a backdrop of Mount Cheam.
How long: 2 hours or 5 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at Cheam Lake Wetlands parking lot, off Elgey Road in Chilliwack.
Get there: A 1 hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round.
Downes Bowl Trail–Abbotsford
What: This easy walk around quiet Downes Bowl takes in scenic forest and peaceful marshes, as you meander over wooden bridges and boardwalks.
How long: 1 hours or 3 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot next to the sports fields off Clearbrook Road in Abbotsford.
Get there: A one hour drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Lions Bay Loop–Lions Bay
What: This easy hike follows several trails, taking you over splashing creeks, through beautiful forest, past Crystal Falls, and offers multiple views of Howe Sound.
How long: 2 hours or 4.5 km
Where: The trail starts and ends across the street from the Lions Bay General Store and Cafe on Centre Road in Lions Bay.
Get there: A 40 minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take bus 250 or 257 to Horsehoe Bay, then bus C12 to Crosscreek Road.
Recommended: All year round
Brandywine Falls
What: Brandywine Falls are another great spot to stretch your legs on the drive to Whistler. With only a short, easy walk, you’ll get a glorious view of the cascades falling into a cavern full of rockslides below. Further along, you can also see Daisy Lake.
How long: 30 minutes or 1 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the Brandywine Falls parking lot off the Sea To Sky Highway, about 11 km south of Whistler.
Get there: One hour and 40 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Harder
Baden Powell Lynn Canyon To Grouse
What: This intermediate route hugs the North Shore’s steep mountain slopes, taking you through scenic forests and over several creeks – with quite a lot of stairs and uphill sections. Recommended all year round.
How long: 5 hours or 10 km
Where: Starts at a steep set of stairs between the main and overflow parking area in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park and ends at the base of Grouse Mountain.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown to Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, or take the Seabus plus bus 228 instead. Get home from Grouse on bus 236 plus the Seabus.
Recommended: All year round
Baden Powell Deep Cove To Lynn Canyon
What: This intermediate hike begins with a walk up to Quarry Rock, offering sweeping views of Deep Cove and Indian Arm, then continues onto lush forest, scenic canyons and waterfall views.
How long: 5 hours or 12 km
Where: Starts at the Baden Powell Trailhead on Panorama Drive in Deep Cove and ends at Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus buses 229 then 212 instead. From Lynn Canyon, take bus 229 then the Seabus.
Recommended: All year round
Norvan Falls
What: This intermediate hike will have you clambering over streams, tree roots and rubble as you make your way through groves of old-growth Cedar – but it’s all worth it when you get to the falls.
How long: 5 hours or 14 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park.
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown, or take the Seabus plus bus 228 instead.
Recommended: All year round
Big Cedar And Kennedy Falls Trail
What: A rugged, intermediate hike into the backcountry, across roots, creeks and fallen trees, past an old-growth cedar, with several trees growing on it, and ending at a spectacular waterfall.
How long: 5 hours or 10 km
Where: Starts and ends at the top of Mountain Highway.
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown, or take bus 210 instead.
Recommended: All year round
Mount Gardner
What: This intermediate hike on Bowen Island takes you through a meadow to Killarney Lake and up a steep forested trail to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast, West Vancouver, and Burrard Inlet.
How long: 7 hours or 17 km
Where: Starts and ends at the ferry terminal at Snug Cove, Bowen Island
Get there: A 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a 20-minute ferry to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.
Recommended: All year round
Jug Island Beach–Belcarra
What: This intermediate hike takes you through a moss-covered forest to a beach facing Jug Island, a tiny, gorgeous and inaccessible island just off the northern tip of Belcarra Regional Park. You’ll also be able to enjoy good views of Indian Arm and eagle and seal sightings.
How long: 2.5 hours or 5.5 km
Where: Starts and ends at the parking lot of Belcarra Regional Park – off Bedwell Bay Road, near Belcarra
Get there: A 1-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Port Moody, then bus 182.
Recommended: All year round
Swan Falls–Anmore
What: Swan Falls, near Buntzen Lake in Anmore, are reached by a steep, intermediate hike around the lake. Not only will you get a gorgeous view of the waterfall from below, you’ll also be able to reach the bluffs near the top of the falls too.
How long: 3.5 hours or 10 km
Where: Trail starts and ends at the dog off-leash area in the Buntzen Lake Recreation Area parking lot, off Sunnyside Road in Anmore, north of Port Moody.
Get there: A one-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Port Moody, then bus 182.
Recommended: All year round
Velodrome Trail
What: This steep, intermediate trail is sometimes referred to as Burnaby’s [Grouse] Grind and requires hikers to walk up more than 500 wooden stairs. As a result, it gets an “intermediate” rating.
How long: An hour or 3 km
Where: Starts at the northeast corner of the Velodrome near the Barnet Road and finishes at the Japanese totem poles near Horizon Restaurant in Burnaby
Get there: A 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take bus 160 direct to the Velodrome.
Recommended: All year round
Coquitlam Crunch
What: This intermediate, steep, urban hike offers no views that aren’t obstructed by power lines and towers. But it’s a great workout and shorter and less intense than the Grouse Grind.
How long: 1.5 hours or 4.5 km
Where: Trail begins and ends at a parking lot down a gravel road off Lansdowne Drive, Coquitlam
Get there: A 40-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, or take the SkyTrain to Lougheed Station, then bus 097.
Recommended: All year round
Widgeon Falls
What: A trip to Widgeon Falls, north of Pitt Meadows, allows you to combine a canoe ride, a scenic, easy hike and some wading all in one day. Keep an eye out for herons, deer, and bears as you make your way from shoreline to waterfall through thick forest.
How long: 5 hours or 6 km
Where: Paddle starts and ends at Pitt Lake, at the end of Neaves Road, north of Pitt Meadows. If you need a canoe, try Pitt Lake Canoe Adventure Rentals on 778-984-5334 or 604-460-8837.
Get there: One hour and 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Mount Thom–Chilliwack
What: This intermediate, steep hike up Mount Thom in Chilliwack offers a scenic view of Cultus Lake and the Fraser Valley. Expect a climb steadily upwards, on both switchbacks and long stretches of trail wrapping around the mountain.
How long: 2.5 hours or 10 km
Where: Starts and ends at Sylvan Drive – Promontory neighbourhood, Chilliwack
Get there: A 1 hour 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
Abby Grind–Abbotsford
What: This intermediate, steep hike gains about 320 metres in 2 km as you head up towards a scenic view across Abbotsford. Note, you may hear gunshots at the beginning coming from the nearby shooting range.
How long: 1.5 hours or 4 km
Where: Starts and ends at a parking lot off McDermott Road, near the Abbotsford Fish & Game Club.
Get there: A 1 hour 15 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Recommended: All year round
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.
Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2016 but has been updated to include current information.