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If you love being outdoors, Vancouver is a must-visit. This gorgeous city in British Columbia has mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. It’s literally surrounded by scenery that belongs in the pages of a travel magazine.
The best way to get out and experience the natural beauty around Vancouver is by hiking of course! In fact, hiking is easily one of the best things to do in Vancouver!
While we were living in Vancouver, we tried to make time to go hiking as often as we could, but even if you can only spend two days in Vancouver, you can still fit in some great treks. It’s one of the best activities to do in BC and you don’t have to go far from the city to find SO many good trails to try.
If you’re an avid hiker, there are plenty of places to challenge you and get those epic views you’re looking for. If you’re more of a casual hiker or just looking for a stroll through a beautiful area that won’t require breaking too much of a sweat, there are plenty of easy day hikes in Vancouver for you too.
There’s really something for every type of nature-lover out there – even kids! But to help narrow down where you can go and how to get there, we’ve put together this guide.
So grab your hiking boots and read up on the 25 best hikes in Vancouver!
- Best Hikes in Vancouver
- 1. Lynn Loop in Lynn Canyon
- 2. Bowen Lookout
- 3. St Mark's
- 4. The Grouse Grind
- 5. Quarry Rock
- 6. Baden Powell Trail
- 7. Tunnel Bluffs
- 8. Stanley Park and The Seawall
- 9. Joffre Lakes
- 10. Stawamus Chief
- 11. Rohr Lake
- 12. Garibaldi Lake (Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge)
- 13. Buntzen Lake
- 14. Brunswick Mountain Trail
- 15. Golden Ears Summit Trail
- 16. Capilano Suspension Bridge Walk
- 17. Eagle Bluffs
- 18. Mount Seymour
- 19. Brandywine Falls
- 20. The Lions
- 21. Gold Creek Falls at Alouette Lake
- 22. Pacific Spirit Regional Park trails
- 23. Velodrome Trail on Burnaby Mountain
- 24. High Knoll
- 25. Sea to Summit Trail
- Where to Stay in Vancouver, Canada
- Getting Around Vancouver
- Other Things to do While You’re in Vancouver
- Thanks for reading!
- Renting a Car in British Columbia
Best Hikes in Vancouver
1. Lynn Loop in Lynn Canyon


- Distance: Varies depending on the trail and route you take
- Elevation gain: 100 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 2 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
Topping our list is the gorgeous hike through the forest at Lynn Canyon. It has one of the best suspension bridges I’ve seen and everywhere you look resembles a postcard!
Whenever my friends and family come to the city, I take them to Lynn Canyon. It’s such a fantastic spot for kids and adults and it’s not far from Vancouver – although it feels like it is! Even if you only have one day to spend in Vancouver, it’s a place to add to your agenda.
Another huge advantage of this beautiful trail is that there is no cost to visit, making it one of the best free things to do in Vancouver! The suspension bridge actually cost 10 cents to cross back when it was built in 1912, but it’s totally free to walk over now.
Many people visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge (see #16 on our list!), but the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge isn’t as well known. Plus, the one in Lynn Canyon is free and you get to hike through a lush forest to get to it.
The hike at Lynn Canyon is a one-way loop that takes around 1.5 hours and I’d rate it as pretty easy. All the trails are very well maintained and you don’t need any major hiking experience to take these on – so kids can join. There are stairs though on the steeper parts, so this isn’t a walk to do with a stroller though.
The hike starts at the parking lot where you’ll need to walk past the yellow gate toward Lynn Creek. You’ll cross the suspension bridge of course and walk through cedar and hemlock trees along the loop trail. You’ll also get some views of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, so look for those!
There are also maps throughout the park so you always know where you are. The maps also outline main attractions like bridges, waterfalls, and swimming spots.
Lynn Canyon Park is open from 6 am to 10 pm in the summer. However, the gates do not open until after 7 am and close at 9 pm. This is a hike you can do year-round if you’re looking for winter activities in Vancouver.
You can drive here, but you’ll need to arrive early to ensure you get parking. Another option is by using public transport and catching the SeaBus (ferry) from the Waterfront Station in Gastown. Then once you’re dropped off at the Lonsdale Quay Bus Loop, simply take the #229 or #228 bus. Both will take you to the Lynn Valley Center which is a 15-minute walk from Lynn Canyon.
Alternatively, we love this Lynn Canyon photography tour that includes transportation and a professional guide to help you get amazing pictures. We rate this as one of the top Vancouver city tours because you get to venture out on trails that will take you through the forest to waterfalls, natural pools, and other hidden places you wouldn’t normally visit if you were on your own.
Hot Tip: Lynn Canyon is much less busy on a rainy day, so gear up and brave a little water. For this reason, visiting Lynn Canyon is often considered one of the best things to do in Vancouver when it rains.
2. Bowen Lookout

- Distance: 4 km
- Elevation gain: 110 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 1.5 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes
For a short hike with a big payoff, Bowen Lookout is a great choice. The views overlooking Howe Sound and Bowen Island are amazing!
It’s common to add on this short hike if you’re heading to St Marks Summit (next on our list!), but I think it’s a worthwhile trip on its own.
To get here, it’s around a 40-minute drive from downtown as you head over the Lions Gate Bridge toward Whistler and follow the signs to the Cypress Ski Area. The hike itself should take around an hour and a half, depending on how long you spend at the lookout.
The trailhead starts in the downhill ski area at Cypress where you’ll find the trail map at the far side, past the lodge. It begins as a gravel path and heads into the forest.
Once on the trail, you’ll come across a junction pretty quickly with two paths – you can take either one as both lead to the lookout. We like taking the right option on the way up and then completing the loop by taking the other path on the way down. The steepest part of the trail is right as you approach the lookout, so you’ll earn a rest once you’re there!
I’d say it’s a reasonably popular hike, so you’ll probably encounter other hikers along the path. We actually did this hike in the early evening as it’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset. Just make sure you park outside the gates since they will be locked at 8 pm!
The Bowen Lookout trail can be completed all year round but it makes an amazing snowshoeing trail! If you are going to attempt it in the winter, snowshoes aren’t necessary, but I would definitely recommend some type of crampons/spikes for extra grip.
3. St Mark’s

- Distance: 11 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 460 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 5 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes
Just off the Sea to Sky Highway that leads from Vancouver to Whistler is the hike to St. Mark’s Summit.
This hike is part of the larger Howe Sound Crest Trail, which if you hike the whole thing is a 30 km (18.5 mile) hike. We like the shorter section of this trail leading to St. Mark’s that starts from Cypress Mountain, a ski resort north of Vancouver.
You’ll actually head toward the chairlift from the downhill skiing parking lot and then keep an eye out for a sign for the Howe Sound Crest Trail. You’ll walk beside ski runs for a bit before heading uphill through the trees just before reaching the water tower. This trail is definitely steep, but there are a few points where it levels off for a bit so you can catch your breath.
The work to get to the top is worth it for that panoramic view though! At the top, make sure you climb onto the rocks (see me in the photo above!) for the best views.
If you’re here on a sunny day, you can see the beautiful Howe Sound, the iconic Lions mountain range, along with the Gulf Islands, and sometimes even spot Vancouver Island.
Because it’s a steeper hike, I recommend only tackling this one once the snow is gone – typically during the summer and fall. Sometimes the snow lingers on the trail until June.
4. The Grouse Grind


- Distance: 2.9 km one way
- Elevation gain: 853 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Type of trail: Hike up, gondola down!
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
Visiting Grouse Moutain is one of those must-do Vancouver activities since this mountain is basically in the city’s backyard. It’s also home to one of Vancouver’s best hikes known as “The Grouse Grind.”
If the trail name sounds intimidating, well it lives up to that! It involves climbing up more than 2,800 steps. We’ve heard of Vancouver locals doing this as a daily workout, but we’re definitely not that hardcore! If you do complete this hike, wear it as a badge of honor and take advantage of the water misting stations at the top.
The trail is only open during summer in Vancouver from June to September. It starts right by the Grouse Mountain Gondola parking lot where you’ll go past the gate, across a small bridge, and then start heading uphill. The hours of the trail vary since it’s open from “dusk to dawn” so typically in the summer, this will be from 7 am to 7 pm.
This is a steep hike, so you’ll need water, and don’t be afraid to take a few breaks along the way. At the top, you’ll get a stunning view of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains. Plus, there are coffee shops and a restaurant at the top, so you can grab a well-deserved drink and bite to eat.
You aren’t allowed to hike down though, so you’ll need to catch the Skyride cable car down. Since you did the hard work on the way up, a ticket for the ride back down only costs $20 CAD.
If this hike sounds a little too much for you, just take the Skyride cable car to the top and back down. It’s a beautiful way to see the “Peak of Vancouver” without breaking a sweat. There are plenty of other activities at the top including a wildlife sanctuary with bears, disc golf, ziplining, a theater, and restaurants with a view! We always recommend the Skyride to our friends if they are only visiting Vancouver for a few days.
5. Quarry Rock

- Distance: 3.8 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 100 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 1.5 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
The Quarry Rock Trail is a great hike for beginners with an amazing view. This makes it one of the most popular hikes to do in Vancouver!
Because of this, the trail can get crowded and parking is limited. If you can, try to plan this hike on a weekday, early in the morning, or even for sunset.
The hike starts from the cute town of Deep Cove in North Vancouver. Make sure you check out all the activities in Deep Cove after your hike and grab one of the famous doughnuts from Honey Doughnuts & Goodies as a post-hike treat!
The trail itself starts out a bit steep but levels off with a few moderate ups and downs. There are stairs, boardwalks, and bridges to help you navigate through the forest and across the rockier sections and streams in the area.
The main lookout point of Quarry Rock at the top overlooks the Indian Arm inlet with some stellar views. Make sure you have a camera ready for these!
I love this as a day trip from Vancouver since you get a nice hike in and another little town to explore.
Related Read: For more fun day trips and experiences, check out the best tours from Vancouver and pick your own adventure!
6. Baden Powell Trail

- Distance: 48 km
- Elevation gain: 2,448 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 11-14 hours (but can do smaller sections)
- Type of trail: Point to point
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
The Baden Powell Trail is an epic hiking route taking you from North Vancouver to West Vancouver. It’s a pretty grueling trek if you tried it all in one day, but it can easily be broken up into sections if you only want to do parts at a time.
The trail was built back in 1971 by the Girl Guides and Boy Scouts and is named after the founder of the scouts – Lord Robert Baden Powell. It’s 48 km (29 miles) and starts in Deep Cove along Panorama Road. This massive trail is typically broken up into four parts – the Deep Cove to Lynn Valley hike, Lynn Valley to Grouse Mountain, Grouse Mountain to Cypress, and finally Cypress to Horseshoe Bay.
The section of the trail from Deep Cove to Lynn Valley is the most beautiful in my opinion. It’s easier to tackle in one day since it’s about 12 km (7.5 miles) and should take around 5 hours.
To start this section, watch for the trailhead sign in Deep Cove along Panorama Road. You’ll do the hike to Quarry Rock first which we mentioned above. Then you can keep going through the forest to Indian River Drive which you will follow until you need to cross the road at the water tower.
You’ll make your way through more forested areas until the Mount Seymour section where you’ll cross the Seymour River and then head to Lynn Creek. This is my favorite part of the trail now! You’ll see the Twin Falls waterfall, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, and stunning forest scenery until the eastern part of the Baden Powell trail ends.
If you’re a hardcore hiker and feel like continuing, you can keep going all the way to Horseshoe Bay! Just be prepared that there isn’t really anywhere to stop and camp, so the full hike needs to be completed in a day. If you’re doing the hike in a day, be prepared that it is a tough one on the legs. There are lots of different types of terrain, stairs, and uphill climbs.
This whole trail is best completed in summer as many parts might be unsafe or closed due to the snow. It’s a difficult trail to do, especially in one go, but more easily done if you break it up! Just make sure you have a plan for transportation wherever you’re finishing since this isn’t a loop trail.
7. Tunnel Bluffs

- Distance: 11.5 km
- Elevation gain: 470 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 4 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes
Tunnel Bluffs is an extremely popular hike just 40 minutes from Vancouver. It’s actually on the way from Vancouver to Squamish if you want a hike to break up the road trip!
There is a parking lot towards the end of Sunset Drive but it is limited to only 15-20 spaces and you will need to pay to leave your car here. Try and get here early (before 8 am) and avoid weekends if you can as this parking lot fills up quickly during peak times. If there’s no parking there, you can head to the lot near Lions Bay school, but that does make your hike quite a bit longer.
The trail starts at the yellow gate where you follow a road up the hill for quite a distance and past many steep switchbacks. We found that this part of the trail is probably the least exciting with the most elevation gain but it is well worth it, we promise!
At the junction, take the left and follow the route signposted as the Brunswick Mountain Trail. This part of the trail is mostly flat and runs through a forest and over the creek. Eventually, the trail will split off and you will want to follow the one labeled Tunnel Bluffs.
About an hour into the hike, there is a log bridge with a rope to hold onto over the creek, after this, there’s a junction with a sign marking the old Tunnel Bluffs route, follow this flat trail until you finally reach Tunnel Bluffs.
Near the end, there is a steep hill and some rock piles to climb over but once you reach the top, the views overlooking Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast are breathtaking.
8. Stanley Park and The Seawall

- Distance: 6.5 km round trip
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 2 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 10 minutes
This is easily a top hike in Vancouver because you get to explore two iconic places in the city – Stanley Park and the seawall!
Stanley Park is a massive park that feels like it’s ions away from the busyness of Vancouver and the seawall is along the outside of the park where you get incredible views of the harbor and ocean.
My favorite place to start this hike is near the Rose Garden – make sure to take a few minutes to see the thousands of roses here in the summer. If it’s recently finished raining in Vancouver, the water droplets on the roses make for some amazing photos! This is also a good place to find parking nearby.
You’ll walk along Pipeline Road while following signs for the South Creek Trail. This section is full of huge cedar and hemlock trees which always make me feel small!
You’ll pass by Beaver Lake and then get onto the Rawlings Trail which leads to one of Vancouver’s best beaches – Third Beach. Keep walking along the flat, paved path along the seawall and then get back into Stanley Park by the Lost Lagoon and you’ll eventually end up right back where you started.
While this is my favorite route, there are tons of different ways to explore these two places, so don’t be afraid to veer off this route and see what you can find!
If you’d rather join a tour for this hike, there are plenty of tours of Stanley Park that let you see the highlights whether you’re walking, biking or even taking a horse-drawn carriage!
9. Joffre Lakes


- Distance: 10 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 370 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 4-6 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 3 hours
For one of the most popular hikes in the province and easily one of the most beautiful places in BC, pack up for a road trip and head to the stunning Joffre Lakes.
Joffre Lakes is one of my happy places – mountain peaks, glaciers, turquoise blue lakes, and a pine forest. It’s everything you could ever want from a hike in British Columbia!
Joffre Lakes is about three hours from Vancouver or about an hour past Whistler. The closest town is Pemberton, which is a cute town right at the foot of Mount Currie if you want to base yourself here for a few days.
What I love about Joffre Lake is that it has not one, but three stunning alpine lakes which are called Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes. The main trail is about 10 km round trip and takes you to all of them! My personal favorite is Middle Lake, although they are all gorgeous.
The Joffre Lakes trail is located within Joffre Lakes Park and the first lake is only a 5-minute stroll along the trail from the parking lot. The second lake (Middle Lake) is about 1.5 hours or so from the parking lot. While many hikers turn back after Middle Lake, you can keep going for another 30 minutes or so to reach Upper Lake.
There are camping options if you keep going to the campsite on the far side of the 3rd lake. That way you can enjoy the scenery you worked hard to get to and then hike back the next day. There are 26 tent pads here which must be reserved in advance. Also, remember no campfires are allowed!
You can hike here from May to November, although summer is the most popular since that’s when the lakes are at their brightest shade of blue. August is my favorite month as that’s typically when the lakes are the most photogenic!
Related Read: For another adventerous activity nearby, check out the best ziplining tours in Whistler!
10. Stawamus Chief


- Distance: 4-7 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 600 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 3-6 hours
- Type of trail: Out-and-back
- Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour
As one of the most famous hikes near Vancouver, hiking “The Chief” needs to be on your list! It’s basically like hiking a massive cliff and the views are amazing from the top.
To get here, hop on the scenic Sea to Sky Highway headed north of Vancouver. If you keep going along this route, you’ll make it to Squamish and then Whistler! I love the drive from Vancouver to Whistler, so it’s a great road trip even if you’re not planning to do this hike.
You’ll find the trailhead for the Stawamus Chief just off the highway. The trail is deceiving at first starting out wide and flat – but it quickly gets challenging with a steep set of stairs!
There are actually three peaks you can climb, depending on how challenging of a hike you’re after. You’ll find the trail splits off after the trail junction with the Sea to Summit Trail and you can choose which peak you’re going to climb. While you can hike all three on the same day, that’s only for experienced hikers (with lots of stamina!).
I really enjoy hiking to the First Peak – so don’t worry if you’re not up to attempting the others. The First Peak is the easiest of the three, but I’d still rate it as an intermediate hike. The trail itself is about 4 km (2.5 miles) round-trip and goes through a nice forested area and you’ll get a few glimpses of the nearby lake through the trees too.
The showstopper is after you climb a series of ladders to get up to the viewpoint and look around. It’s incredible and has the best views of Howe Sound of any of the peaks! It’s one of those moments you’ll want to stop and really take it all in. You can actually hang out at the top and have a snack, but be aware you are on a sheer cliff face, so it’s a long way down.
If you’re after a more challenging route, you can plan to climb up Second Peak and then carry on to Third Peak, which is the highest of the three. That route takes you over North Gully which is a pretty epic viewpoint of cliff walls with a 200-foot (60-meter) gap between them. You’ll need around 6 hours for this route which is 7 km (4.3 miles).
11. Rohr Lake


- Distance: 10 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 530 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 6 hours
- Type of trail: Out-and-back
- Distance from Vancouver: 3 hours
For a hidden gem of a hike between Pemberton and Lillooet that isn’t as well known as Joffre Lakes, the trek to Rohr Lake is worth adding to your agenda if you’re an avid hiker. It’s around a 3-hour drive from Vancouver, but if you can, stay in nearby Pemberton so you can do the previous hike on our list and this one!
The challenge for the hike to Rohr Lake starts right from the get-go since the trailhead isn’t easy to find! You’ll have to head past Joffre Lakes and look on the opposite side of the road for a dirt road. There isn’t much signage, so you can check out this pin location on Google Maps to find the turn-off.
If you’re in a four-wheel drive, you can park right at the trailhead. If you’re in a smaller car or two-wheel drive vehicle, just drive as far as you can before pulling over and hiking from there. Depending on where you park, it could add as much as 1 km (0.6 miles) to your hike.
The hike itself is challenging with steep, uneven terrain, but you’ll have breathtaking views of the lake. I highly recommend planning to camp here as it’s one of the best first-come, first-serve campsites we’ve found in Canada!
If you’re camping at Rohr Lake, then be prepared that this is a rustic campsite – just find a spot and pitch a tent. There’s no cell service and you’ll need rope to tie up your food.
If you are spending the night, then it’s totally worth it to have a go at Rohr Summit the next morning! The trail leads right from the campsite to the summit and the views at the top are spectacular.
12. Garibaldi Lake (Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge)

- Distance: 18 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 820 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 5-7 hours
- Type of trail: Out-and-back
- Distance from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
For a picturesque hike to another stunning lake, we’re huge fans of the hike to Garibaldi Lake. In fact, we even put together a complete hiking guide for Garibaldi Lake! You can camp at a couple of great sites along the trail which are handy if you want to attempt hiking Black Tusk or Panorama Ridge from here.
To get here, you’ll start from the Rubble Creek parking lot and look for wooden steps at the top part of the lot. It’s pretty well signed here, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding the start of the trail. The uphill climb starts right away and is a steady incline for about 6.5 km (4 miles) until you get to the Taylor Meadows Junction.
You can go right at the junction to head directly for Garibaldi Lake or go left through Taylor Meadows which has stunning wildflowers in the late summer but does add a few kilometers to your trip. I like to hike one way on the way there and the other way on the way back.
If you took the direct route, you’ll follow the trail past Barrier Lake and Lesser Garibaldi Lake before going right at another junction and making your way down a hill and across a bridge. Then the lakeshore comes into view with that unreal shade of blue that almost looks like blue Gatorade!
While the hike can be completed in a day, I wouldn’t attempt it. It’s an easy overnight trek by staying at one of two campgrounds – Garibaldi Lake Campground and Taylor Meadows Campground. There are 94 sites available between the two of them that must be booked in advance online. There are no garbage facilities though, so you need to pack up and carry whatever you bring.
These two campgrounds are great points to start other popular hikes to Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge. Both of these long hikes can be broken up over a couple of days and leave from either campground.
13. Buntzen Lake

- Distance: 10 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 110 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 3.5 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour
Buntzen Lake is unique because it’s not only a beautiful recreational area, but it’s also a source of hydroelectric power! This lake has been helping power Vancouver since 1904 and was actually the first hydroelectric project for the city.
Now, this site owned by BC Hydro is a popular place to enjoy the beautiful lake and surrounding hiking trails. You’ll find Buntzen Lake close to the city of Port Moody, about an hour’s drive east of Vancouver.
The most popular trail is the loop trail around the lake. You can start right from the beach, accessible through the large parking lots here. Head left while walking along the beach to find the trailhead and start walking clockwise around the lake.
I love this trail because of the great views of the water and the mountains in the distance. There are also some extra like a suspension bridge and floating bridge that are fun to walk across.
You can stick around this area for the day as there are some nice beaches around the lake perfect for swimming on a hot day and good picnic areas (although it was a bit flooded when we were there). If you’re traveling with a dog, there’s also an off-leash dog area perfect for pups!
Make sure you check here for updates on the trail before you go as there have been periodic closures recently due to construction and rockslides.
14. Brunswick Mountain Trail

- Distance: 14 km
- Elevation gain: 1,543 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 7-8 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes.
The Brunswick Mountain Trail takes you to the highest peak on the North Shore. It’s a challenging hike with a bit of a scramble and more technical hiking required near the top, but the views are incredible – if you happen to luck out and be there on a clear day … unlike us!
Similarly to the Tunnel Bluffs Trail, the Brunswick Mountain Trail also begins at the paid parking lot at Sunset Drive. Remember this is a small parking lot that fills up quickly, especially in the summer.
You’ll start off following a wide road before coming to a split in the trail where you can go straight or to the right – take the path to the right. There will be another split in the trail a bit further along and you’ll see signs for Brunswick Mountain – take that one!
There’s a nice break of some flat ground here as you cross the bridge over Magnesia Creek and admire the wildflowers that grow around here. There will be another break in the trail with one path heading to Tunnel Bluffs and the other to Brunswick Mountain.
From here on out, it’s a challenging climb! This path can be quite overgrown and uneven and it’s uphill of course. You’ll get some great views of Howe Sound, so make sure to stop and enjoy those.
Eventually, you will hit the Howe Sound Crest Trail but you are going to want to continue straight along the path toward the Brunswick Mountain trail. The scramble for the rest of the trail was easily the most challenging for us but remember to keep looking back at the incredible views along the way.
Once you reach the summit, you will remember why the strenuous hike was worth it as the views are absolutely breathtaking (or so we have heard!). Be extra careful here as the ridge is very exposed and it’s a hell of a drop!
If it’s a clear day, you’ll have unbeatable views over The Lions, Grouse Mountain, Sky Pilot Mountain, Vancouver Island, and other iconic places. However, be prepared that depending on the day, you may not see much. We got to the top and couldn’t see a thing! Hopefully next time we hike this trail the weather will cooperate.
15. Golden Ears Summit Trail

- Distance: 22 km
- Elevation gain: 1,695 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 11+ hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 90 minutes
The Golden Ears Summit Trail is an epic hike for hikers looking for a challenge! Attempting this trail isn’t easy, especially making it to the peak, but there are some unbeatable views throughout that help make it worth the effort. Plus, you can camp partway through the hike at two different campsites (make sure to book through BC Parks before you go!) to help break it up a bit.
The hike is located within Golden Ears Provincial Park and the trail itself begins at the West Canyon parking lot where you’ll start off following the West Canyon Trail. You’ll follow this trail for about 3 km (1.8 miles) as you cross multiple bridges.
Then you’ll see a sign pointing left for the Golden Ears and Alder Flats trail that you’ll take. From here on out, the climb gets steeper and the trail is rockier. If you’re breaking up the hike into two days, you’ll want to stop at the Alder Flats campground – about 5.5 kms (3.4 miles) into the hike. This is also the official end of the West Canyon Trail and where the Golden Ears Summit Trail begins.
Now the more technical climbing kicks in! There are lots of markers along the way, so the trail isn’t too hard to follow, but it isn’t easy to complete. There are lots of stairs, ropes where you’ll need to do a bit of scrambling, a wooden ladder to scale down, and very rocky paths.
About 10.5 km (6.5 miles) into the hike, you’ll have climbed up Panorama Ridge and reached the Emergency Hut. Stop and take in the incredible view around you! This is where most people stop. You can actually camp here on wooden tent pads, but it is first-come, first-serve. There are also washrooms here (a composting toilet) but the hut is not accessible – it’s only for emergencies.
If you want to head up to the summit from here, you can. It’s another 45 minutes and there’s not really a marked path. You’ll be climbing up loose rocks and it’s extremely challenging. Make sure you save energy for the descent back down!
This is a LONG trail that we really wouldn’t recommend trying to complete in one day unless you are a very experienced hiker. We have completed this trail a few times and always like staying at one of the campsites so we can complete the hike over a weekend.
16. Capilano Suspension Bridge Walk

- Distance: 2.6 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 100 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 1 hour, plus longer to hang out in the park
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
Now, this is a hike in Vancouver perfect for families or anyone looking for an easy hike with a bit of adventure thrown in. The Capilano Suspension Bridge gives you a front-row seat to the beauty of British Columbia’s forests – just make sure you’re not afraid of heights!
While hiking is one of the best free things to do in Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has an admission fee. You’ll need to buy an entrance ticket to the park, but that includes multiple experiences!
You can buy a ticket once you arrive for around $65 CAD, but we like this Capilano Suspension Bridge Park ticket that you can buy in advance because it also includes a shuttle from downtown Vancouver in the $69 CAD cost!
Once you’re here, you’ll walk over the suspension bridge right away after entering the gates. This is my favorite part with the forest scenery surrounding you and the river rushing underneath you. I guarantee you’ll be grabbing a few photos as you make your way across this 450-foot (137-meter) bridge!
After you’re across, there’s a trail and boardwalk path to follow through the trees. If you’re up for another adventure, you can also do the tree-walk experience where you’ll cross suspension bridges hanging between trees. It’s a squirrel’s eye view of the forest!
There’s also a Cliffwalk where you’ll venture out onto a walkway coming out of a granite cliff above Capilano Canyon. It’s a set of suspended walkways along the face of the cliff and is quite the experience for thrill-seekers.
If you’re coming as a family, just be aware that strollers can’t get over the suspension bridge – you’ll need some type of carrier that’s strapped to you (but not a shoulder carrier).
Because this is a popular attraction in Vancouver, it does get busy. But with the big trees, rushing rivers, and mountain views, it’s one of our must-see attractions on any Vancouver itinerary.
Related Read: Along with this easy hike, another great activity for families is visiting the Vancouver Aquarium!
17. Eagle Bluffs

- Distance: 9 km
- Elevation gain: 350 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 4 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes
For an eagle’s eye view of downtown Vancouver and Howe Sound, the Eagle Bluffs Trail is our pick! It’s one of the most popular hikes in Vancouver because it’s not too far from the city and the hike is really doable.
While we would say it’s an intermediate hike as there are some challenging sections, for the most part, we found the trail very enjoyable and well worth it!
From Vancouver, you’ll need to get to Cypress Provincial Park. So head on the highway towards Whistler and stop at the Cypress Mountain Ski Resort to get to the trailhead. You’ll find free parking at the Cypress Mountain downhill ski area or you can park outside the gates (which close at 7 pm) if you’re attempting a sunset hike in the summer.
From the parking lot, head to the first ski lift on the left to climb up Black Mountain. You’ll follow signs to Black Mountain at first and the trek is steep to start since you’re climbing beside the ski hills, but it evens out as you reach Cabin Lake. This is a great place for a picnic or a dip in the chilly water (if you are brave enough)!
Slightly further along you will come to Black Mountain Summit which is a gorgeous lookout spot. The trail then continues to go further down the mountain which can get quite muddy, particularly in the summer months before you start climbing up again.
When the forest clears you will come to the rocky terrain of Eagle Bluffs, one of our favorite viewpoints in Vancouver! We hiked on a clear, sunny day and could easily see downtown and Howe Sound.
18. Mount Seymour

- Distance: 9 km
- Elevation gain: 450 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 5 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 50 minutes
The well-trodden trail up Mount Seymour is a must-do hike in Vancouver! From the summit, you’ll have what seems like endless views of mountains, the city of Vancouver and you may even be able to see as far as Vancouver Island.
There are actually three different peaks on Mount Seymour, Tim Jones Peak, Pump Peak, and Mount Seymour Peak. All offer stunning views and scenery but by far the most popular is Mount Seymour Peak. We would recommend trying to do this route during a weekday as we have seen it get absolutely packed on weekends!
The trail begins at the Mount Seymour Ski Resort where there is paid parking available in the summer. Head to the end of the parking lot and look for the BC Parks info sign. You go towards the ski hill and head uphill, following the trail that runs parallel.
The trail all the way up has many splits for other routes but make sure to keep on track and look out for the orange markers which mark the trail up Mount Seymour.
The trail between the second peak and the last is the most difficult and many hikers will turn back here. However, if you can manage the scramble and the weather allows, the final peak has far superior views to the previous two peaks.
You will want to take some time to soak up the 360° views looking over Lynn Ridge, Mount Fromme, Vancouver Island, on a clear day, Mount Eslay, and Mount Garibaldi before embarking back down the mountain.
19. Brandywine Falls

- Distance: 1 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 56 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 0.5 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
If there’s a hike to a waterfall, I’m always in! I just love hearing the thundering of the falls as you get close and spending time admiring the cascading water. As one of the best hikes in Vancouver, the trek to Brandywine Falls delivers!
The local explanation behind the name of the falls is that two surveyors made a bet for a bottle of brandy who could estimate the height of the falls. Once it was measured, the winning surveyor got to name the waterfall and picked Brandywine Falls.
This is a really short hike – only about 15 minutes one-way starting from the parking lot. It’s accessible from April to October and you’ll cross a wooden footbridge, some train tracks and head through the forest until you make it to the first viewing platform.
Once you’re at the platform, take in the view! Brandywine Falls drops 230 feet (70 meters) and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs. If you keep walking along a short path nearby you’ll get to another viewpoint where you can see the falls along with Daisy Lake and the mountains in the distance.
The trail itself is pretty flat and easy – so it’s great for families or anyone looking for a quick hike. We like to hop out when we’re driving to Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway. It’s a great place to stretch your legs.
If it’s raining, don’t let that stop you! There’s something about waterfalls in the rain that’s extra special. Plus, the parking lot and trail aren’t nearly as busy.
Related Read: For some of the most spectacular waterfalls I’ve ever seen, head to Clearwater, BC which is on the drive from Vancouver to Jasper and check out the dozens of waterfalls in Wells Gray Park!!
20. The Lions

- Distance: 16 km
- Elevation gain: 1,280 meters
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Time needed: 8 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes
If you’ve been exploring Vancouver, you will have seen the Lions peaks in the distance. These twin peaks north of the city are so iconic, the Lions Gate Bridge and the CFL football team the BC Lions are named after them!
Hiking to the Lions is easily one of the best things to do in Vancouver because the view is incredible. While there are two peaks, only the west peak is accessible.
Most climbers, including us, will stop at the shoulder of the West Lion as the climb to the very top is dangerous and only recommend for expert climbers to attempt. Don’t worry though – the view from the base of the West Lion is still well worth the hike!
To access this trail you can park at the end of Sunset Drive but get there early if you want to snag a spot as we have seen it get filled up very quickly!
The beginning of the hike is a steady incline that isn’t the smoothest of terrains but about a third of the way through there is a flatter section with a stream to cross over on a bridge. Take some time to enjoy the less difficult walk as it is alllll uphill from here!
Heading through the woods is very steep with lots of rocks you will need to clamber over. There is a tough scramble in the last part of the trek just before you join up with the Howe Sound Crest Trail. Then it’s just a short distance and you’re at the viewpoint at the base of West Lion. This is where most people stop and soak up the views.
From here, you’ll see Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast, and Black Tusk. It’s a really memorable climb and then when you’re looking at the Lions from Vancouver, you’ll be able to say you climbed up there!
21. Gold Creek Falls at Alouette Lake

- Distance: 5.5 km round trip
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 2 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
For an easier hike in Golden Ears Provincial Park, we really like the Gold Creek Falls hike. This is not nearly as challenging as the Golden Ears Summit Trail we mentioned earlier (#15 on this list!), but it still has some big payoffs including Gold Creek Falls of course.
For this hike, plan for a day trip to Maple Ridge which is technically in the Greater Vancouver Region, but a bit more of a drive. Once you’re inside the park, start the hike from the parking lot and head towards the trail. It’s a decently wide trail that gradually goes uphill. You’ll be passing through dense trees and the trail is blanketed with moss.
After only 15 minutes or so, Gold Creek will appear on your left and then you’ll hear the falls before you see them! Take some time to enjoy it here and then continue up the trail to another viewpoint at the top of the falls.
If you happen to be hiking in the spring, you’re in luck! The waterfall will be more spectacular with the extra water from all the snow melting in the mountains giving it a boost.
After you complete the loop trail, head down to Alouette Lake beach where you can spend the rest of the day enjoying the gorgeous (but freezing!) lake right in the park.
22. Pacific Spirit Regional Park trails


- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
- Type of trail: Loop
- Distance from Vancouver: 15 minutes or less
While Stanley Park may be the more well-known park in Vancouver, Pacific Spirit Regional Park is definitely nothing to scoff at. This park near the University of British Columbia (UBC) has more than 70 km (43 miles) of rainforest trails!
What I love about these trails is how accessible they are. Within a 15-minute drive from downtown, it feels like you’ve escaped into the forest.
Most of the trails here are easy to walk and many of them are also good for biking, horseback riding, or bringing your dog along. These are forest trails, so the scenery is all around you with these majestic trees – rather than hiking to a viewpoint.
There are LOTS of dogs on these trails, so if you’re a dog lover maybe build some extra time into your walk to visit with some of the pups. It’s estimated that this park gets around 360,000 dog visits every year!
There’s a huge variety of trails in Pacific Spirit whether you want to walk for a few minutes or a few hours! If you are interested in a longer walk, complete the Huckleberry, Hemlock, Salish, and Imperial Loop which should take about 3 hours.
There’s plenty of free parking around and you can often find a spot along W 16th Ave, Chancellor Boulevard, or Marine Drive. Because it’s so close to UBC, public transit is also a great option to get here.
23. Velodrome Trail on Burnaby Mountain

- Distance: 3 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 240 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 1 hour, plus some time at the top to explore or get a drink
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes
If you’ve already tackled the Grouse Grind (#3 on our list!) or want another scenic hike in Vancouver that’s not quite as intense, then head for the Velodrome Trail. This trek takes you up Burnaby Moutain – which is also the home of Simon Fraser University.
This trail is commonly known as Burnaby’s Grind, so you know there’s going to be a bit of a challenge in it … mainly the 500 wooden steps as you make your way up Burnaby Mountain. I mean that’s a lot of steps, but nothing like the almost 3,000 stairs at Grouse!
You’ll find the start of the Velodrome Trail at Burnaby Velodrome which is a sports complex along Barnet Highway. There’s parking here and you’ll start the ascent from the parking lot. Follow the trail up the north side of Burnaby Mountain before it connects up with the Pandora trail.
Throughout the hike, everything is really well-marked, so there’s no worry of getting lost. A note-worthy point we always stop at is the beautiful Japanese totem poles. You’ll head just a bit further up from here to get some great views looking out over the Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet.
You can either head back the same way you came or you can keep going to the Simon Fraser University campus. There are plenty of coffee and food options around here to fuel up for your next adventure!
24. High Knoll

- Distance: 10 km round trip
- Elevation gain: 180 meters
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time needed: 2.5 hours
- Type of trail: Out and back
- Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour
NOTE: The High Knoll trail is closed due to damage from forest fires in the fall of 2022. Check here for updates on the trail reopening.
Just outside Vancouver is Minnekhada Regional Park which is a nature sanctuary in the community of Port Coquitlam. There are a ton of trails in this peaceful park and because it isn’t as well-known, they won’t be nearly as busy as some of the other popular Vancouver hikes we’ve mentioned.
You can start the hike to High Knoll from the Quarry Road parking lot in Minnekhada Park. There’s a gravel path at the beginning before it turns into a rocky and root-covered trail. Overall the trail is relatively flat until the last push when it gets It’s well-signed, so you’ll be able to easily follow the path to High Knoll.
Once you’re at the top, the viewpoint here gives you dramatic views of the Minnekhada Park flatlands and the Fraser River. Then you can easily head back down the way you came.
Keep an eye out for wildlife on this trail! There are tons of birds around, frogs that will hop by you, and sometimes bears – so have your bear spray on you just in case.
25. Sea to Summit Trail


- Distance: 6.5 km
- Elevation gain: 918 meters
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time needed: 3-5 hours
- Type of trail: One way (take the gondola down)
- Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour
Combine an epic hike with a gondola ride by tackling the Sea to Summit Trail! It’s a great hike near Vancouver that’s one of the best things to do while visiting Squamish.
The trail takes you from the base of the Sea to Sky Gondola all the way to the lodge at the top. It’s a steep hike that you can either start from the far side of the parking lot or from the Base parking lot which will take you past Shannon Falls via the Shannon Falls Connector Trail. There are handy trail maps available through an app you can download.
This trail has some amazing views of Howe Sound along the way and you’ll have the chance to wave at the people flying by in the gondola! There are constant markers on this trail (every 164 feet/50 meters), so you don’t need to worry about finding your way. It’s also a good way to track your progress – there are 128 trail markers to the top!
The hardest part for us was the final climb to the summit which required a bit of scrambling and using the rope to pull ourselves over a large rock. The best part of finishing the climb is the huge patio at the top! You can grab a drink and soak up the views of the Coast Mountains.
Make sure you purchase a Ride Down ticket for the gondola for around $19 CAD so you can relax on the way back to the parking lot. While you’re technically allowed to hike back down, it’s not recommended and the trail was designed for one-way traffic up.
If you’re not interested in the hike up, you can also purchase a round-trip ticket for the gondola here and check out our full guide to the Sea to Sky Gondola including all the fun activities at the top!
To summit-up (get it, haha!), we loved this hike!
Where to Stay in Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is one of the most popular cities in Canada. The fact is that in the summer and winter the city books up in advance very fast! Booking your hotel or hostel well in advance is the only way to secure the best place to stay for you!
Some great hotels and hostels in Vancouver that we love are:
The Cambie Hostel Gastown – This budget hostel is an overall good budget choice. The location is in the heart of Gastown and close to lots of bars and restaurants and attached to the hostel is a very lively bar too. Rooms are clean but the bathrooms are a little cramped. It’s perfect for backpackers on a budget and is considerably cheaper than others offering comparable quality. You can easily book a stay on either Hostelworld.com or Booking.com!
Times Square Suites – For a beautiful hotel close to Stanley Park you can’t go past the Times Square Hotel. It’s very hard to fault this hotel and the location is perfect. It is a good mix between being affordable as well as a very nice hotel.
Hyatt Regency Vancouver – For those wanting the perfect location halfway between Stanley Park and Gastown, the Hyatt Regency is a perfect choice. As you can imagine, it’s a luxury stay in a large hotel chain that is highly reviewed!
Click here to browse all hotels in Vancouver!
For more info on the best areas and hotels, check out my complete guide on where to stay in Vancouver. It breaks down everything you need to know before choosing the right hotel!
Getting Around Vancouver

Transportation and ease of navigating a new city are super important to consider when planning a trip. It will help you determine where to stay and what you’ll be able to visit while in the city. In Vancouver, there are a few different options for transportation in and around the city.
Driving
This is probably the best form of transportation if you want to explore anywhere outside of downtown Vancouver and participate in activities like hiking or skiing, which require getting a bit further away. Traffic in downtown Vancouver can be fairly busy, just like any city center.
There is ample parking available both on the streets and in parkades, though it can be expensive. Some hotels provide parking, so check ahead of time.
If you can rent a car so you can explore Vancouver with ease! Just be prepared to pay for parking unless your hotel includes it.
Car share
A great option besides renting a car is using a car share service like Modo or Evo. These services allow you to rent a car and pay based on the time it’s used (i.e., pay for 30 minutes, two hours, or the full day, depending on how long you drive for).
You can pick up and drop off the car at specific checkpoints around the city and the best part is they get lots of free parking. This makes it super easy to use a car for just the time that you need it.
Public transportation
Vancouver’s public transit system is not as extensive as many other major cities, but it is still a good way to get around to main attractions. The SkyTrain provides excellent access to some of the neighboring cities, such as Burnaby, New Westminster, or Surrey, so it offers a good option if you plan on exploring outside of downtown. It also runs from the airport, so again, a good option to get into the city from the airport.
There are also many buses in the city that run frequently. Note that public transportation options are extremely limited overnight, with only a couple of night buses and no SkyTrain options after around 1 am. All public transportation is run by the company TransLink and is fairly affordable; a single trip costs $3.20 CAD, and a day pass costs $11 CAD.
Taxis and rideshares
Taxis are available throughout the city, as are Uber and Lyft. These are good options in the downtown core but can get pricey if you are going further outside of that region. For example, the taxi cost from YVR to Vancouver is about $30-50.
Aquabus
The Aquabus is one of the more unique ways to get around Vancouver. These small boats visit 8 locations in the harbor all the way from The Village to Granville Island. The Aquabus costs $17 CAD for a full day pass or round-trip tickets start at $3.85 but prices vary depending on the route you take. You can check out all their routes and prices here.
Walking and biking
Vancouver is a very walkable city, and it is possible to walk just about anywhere in the downtown core
Biking is also a good option, as there are dedicated bike lanes throughout most of the city. You can rent bikes all over the city and pretty much ride everywhere you want to downtown. I love doing this, especially on a beautiful day!
Other Things to do While You’re in Vancouver


Vancouver is a city filled with tons of things to do and see. So while you’re here, be sure not to miss some of the top attractions and activities:
- Whale Watching – Without a doubt, the most popular tour in Vancouver is whale watching. Set off from the city on a half-day on the ocean looking for whales. If you’re lucky, you might even see Orcas (also known as Killer Whales.) This whale-watching tour is a ton of fun, and at only about $200 CAD it is good value too!
- Ride in a Seaplane – One of our favorite memories in Vancouver was riding in a seaplane. Taking off and landing on the ocean is super exciting, and then the views from the air are breathtaking. This seaplane ride lasts for 20 minutes and costs $160 CAD. It departs and returns to Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver. The best part is that seaplane tours in Vancouver operate all year round, so even if you’re visiting Vancouver in the winter you can take to the sky!
- Eat ALL the food! – Vancouver is a foodie destination. Showcasing cuisine from all around the world in top-rated restaurants, you really need to make an effort to eat out a few times while in Vancouver. For breakfast, Jam Cafe or Medina are our go-to’s. For Asian cuisine, you can’t pass up Minami for sushi or Danbo for Ramen. You can also join this highly-rated food tour that takes you to some of the city’s best restaurants in the area of Gastown.
- Explore Kitsilano – One of our favorite areas in all of Vancouver is Kitsilano. This suburb is super trendy and has many cute stores, cafes, and restaurants that are well worth checking out. On top of that, Kitsilano Beach is one of the best beaches in Vancouver and the perfect place to relax. It’s also our favorite place to watch the sunset.
Renting a Car in British Columbia

If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province, and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.
Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Read my tips on using Motorhome Republic here before you book!
Thanks for reading!

There you have it, all the best hikes to do in and around Vancouver! It’s really a hiker’s paradise around here with a nice mix of easy trails and challenging climbs. I’m sure you can find a route that works for you – let me know which of these hikes is your favorite!
Thanks so much for reading! If you loved this blog about hiking around Vancouver be sure to check out some of our other Canada blogs or these articles below.
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Guide to Visiting Yaletown, Vancouver + 11 BEST Things to do!