The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Vancouver, BC

Explore the Best Trails, Easy Hikes, and Scenic Views

Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the best cities in the world for hiking. It’s surrounded by ocean, mountains, and dense forest. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a full-day challenge, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the best hikes in and around Vancouver. You’ll also find tips on safety, gear, and when to go.

Why Hike in Vancouver?

Hiking in Vancouver is special. You don’t need to drive far to find amazing trails. Many hikes start just minutes from downtown. The views are incredible—think ocean cliffs, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and snow-capped mountains.

Thanks to the mild coastal climate, many trails are open year-round. Summer is the most popular season, but autumn and spring also offer great hiking. In winter, you can snowshoe some of the same trails.

Easy Hikes in Vancouver

1. Stanley Park Seawall

Distance: 9 km loop

Time: 2–3 hours

Location: Downtown Vancouver

The Stanley Park Seawall is one of the most famous walks in Canada. It circles around Stanley Park along the ocean. You’ll get views of downtown, the North Shore Mountains, and even wildlife like seals and herons. It’s flat and paved, so it’s perfect for all ages.

2. Lighthouse Park

Distance: 3–6 km depending on route

Time: 1–2 hours

Location: West Vancouver

Lighthouse Park offers short, forested trails with incredible views of the ocean. The park is home to old-growth cedar and Douglas fir trees. The main trail leads to a lighthouse and rocky viewpoint. It's peaceful and not too crowded on weekdays.

3. Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Distance: Up to 10 km

Time: 1–3 hours

Location: Near UBC

This park is great for a quiet forest walk. There are dozens of wide, easy trails that twist through dense trees. It’s dog-friendly, peaceful, and rarely busy. Great for families or anyone who just wants to unwind.

4. Quarry Rock

Distance: 4 km round-trip

Time: 1.5–2 hours

Location: Deep Cove, North Vancouver

This short hike is very popular. It takes you through forest and up a gradual climb to a large rock viewpoint. From the top, you’ll see Indian Arm, mountains, and the Deep Cove marina. Grab a doughnut from Honey’s Doughnuts after your hike—it’s a local tradition.

5. Dog Mountain

Distance: 5.5 km round-trip

Time: 2 hours

Location: Mount Seymour

Dog Mountain is a great trail for beginners. It’s mostly flat, though some parts can be muddy. The views at the end are amazing—downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, and the Pacific Ocean all in one shot. It’s especially pretty at sunset.

Moderate Hikes Near Vancouver

If you're ready for a bit more effort, these trails are ideal. They require moderate fitness but don’t involve technical skills.

6. Norvan Falls

Distance: 14 km round-trip

Time: 4–5 hours

Location: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

This is a peaceful forest hike that ends at a beautiful waterfall. The trail follows a gentle incline and passes creeks, moss-covered trees, and wooden bridges. It's quiet, even on weekends.

7. Eagle Bluffs

Distance: 8 km round-trip

Time: 3–4 hours

Location: Cypress Mountain

Eagle Bluffs offers one of the best views of Howe Sound and Bowen Island. The trail begins with a steep climb, then flattens out. At the summit, you’ll find a rocky outcrop perfect for photos or a picnic.

8. Mount Seymour

Distance: 9 km round-trip

Time: 4–5 hours

Location: Mount Seymour Provincial Park

This is one of the classic North Shore hikes. It includes three peaks with great views of the city and mountains. It can be rocky, so good footwear is recommended. In winter, it becomes a snowshoe trail.

9. Lynn Loop

Distance: 5 km

Time: 1.5 hours

Location: Lynn Headwaters

Shorter than Norvan Falls but just as pretty. The loop is a mix of forest and riverside walking. Ideal for a relaxed weekend stroll.

Difficult Hikes in Vancouver

For experienced hikers, Vancouver offers some tough but rewarding options.

10. The Grouse Grind

Distance: 2.9 km one-way

Time: 1–2 hours (very steep)

Location: Grouse Mountain

The Grouse Grind is known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.” It’s almost straight uphill. There are more than 2,800 steps, and you’ll climb 853 metres in elevation. Take the Skyride gondola down ($20), or hike back if you're up for it.

11. St. Mark’s Summit

Distance: 11 km round-trip

Time: 4–5 hours

Location: Cypress Mountain

This trail is part of the larger Howe Sound Crest Trail. It offers incredible views over Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast. The trail is a mix of forest, rocks, and steep climbs, but the view is worth every step.

When to Go Hiking

Spring (April–June): Trails start to open. Wildflowers bloom. Lower-elevation hikes are best.

Summer (July–September): Best time for alpine hikes. Weather is warm and dry.

Autumn (October–November): Crisp air and colourful leaves. Some higher trails start closing.

Winter (December–March): Great time for snowshoeing. Stick to safe, marked winter routes.

Hiking Safety Tips

Tell Someone – Always let a friend know your plan and when you'll return.

Pack Essentials – Bring water, snacks, a phone, flashlight, and basic first aid.

Dress in Layers – Weather can change quickly. Waterproof jackets are helpful.

Watch for Wildlife – You may see bears, coyotes, or cougars. Make noise while hiking.

Stay on the Trail – Avoid shortcuts. Stick to marked paths.

Check Trail Conditions – Some trails may be closed or under maintenance.

What to Bring on a Hike

Comfortable hiking shoes or boots

Water bottle or hydration pack

Trail map or GPS app (like AllTrails or Gaia GPS)

Light snacks like energy bars or fruit

Extra layer and rain jacket

Sunscreen and hat

Insect repellent in warmer months

Hikes You Can Do Without a Car

No car? No problem. Here are a few hikes accessible by public transit:

Stanley Park Seawall – Walkable from downtown

Lynn Canyon – Bus to Lynn Valley

Quarry Rock (Deep Cove) – Bus from Phibbs Exchange

Burnaby Mountain Trails – SkyTrain to Production Way

Pacific Spirit Park – Bus to UBC

Final Thoughts

Vancouver is a hiker’s paradise. With ocean views, deep forests, and alpine ridges all within reach, it’s no wonder locals and visitors love the trails here. Whether you're walking the Seawall or summiting St. Mark’s, every trail offers something unique.

Start with an easy hike like Lighthouse Park or Dog Mountain. Then work your way up to bigger climbs. Be safe, stay on the path, and take time to enjoy the views.

If you’re visiting the city, hiking is one of the best free things to do in Vancouver. You’ll discover the region’s natural beauty while getting some fresh air and exercise.

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