So you’ve tackled all the hikes on our list of easy Vancouver hikes for lazy people. What next?
How about trying one of these tougher hikes, guaranteed to get your blood – and your legs – pumping? They’ll definitely sweat out that BBQ hangover too.
Here’s our rundown of five harder hikes for less lazy people – all on the North Shore, all accessible by public transit.
What: This 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. 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.
What: A rugged 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.
[am2_see_also]
What: This 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. [am2_see_also]
What: This 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.
[am2_see_also]
What: This 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.