Discover The Best Day Hikes Near Vancouver: Must-Do Trails
If you’re looking to escape the urban buzz and breathe in some fresh mountain air, Vancouver is a paradise for day hikers. With its stunning landscapes and easy trails, this you can find some of the best day hikes near Vancouver. From lush forests to serene ocean views, Vancouver’s hikes are a gateway to nature’s wonders. Here’s your guide to hiking near Vancouver.
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Why Visit Vancouver?
With so many things to do in Vancouver, it is more than just a hiker’s haven—it’s a vibrant city with a mix of attractions. From exploring Gastown and Yaletown to enjoying the bustling markets of Granville Island, there’s always something happening. And let’s not forget about the stunning backdrop of the city: the majestic mountains that offer perfect trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Vancouver’s allure is undeniable. It’s the perfect place to start your outdoor journey with plenty of easy hikes near Vancouver.
Getting to Vancouver
By Air
Arriving in Vancouver by air is a breeze. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is a major hub, offering flights from around the world. From there, it’s a quick drive or transit ride to the city’s core, where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
By Car
For those who prefer the open road, a road trip to Vancouver from Calgary is an epic adventure. Covering approximately 1,000 kilometers, this journey takes you through some of Canada’s most picturesque landscapes, including the Canadian Rockies. With plenty of pit stops along the way, including Banff, you’ll arrive in Vancouver ready to hit the trails. Don’t forget to visit the amazing Takakkaw Falls on the BC-Alberta border.
Weather in Vancouver When Hiking
Vancouver’s weather is known for being a bit unpredictable, but that doesn’t stop hikers of all levels. Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect during hiking season:
Hiking Checklist
Before setting out on your hiking adventure, make sure you’re prepared. Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:
Download your FREE hiking checklist so you can ensure you check off everything you need.
Best Hikes in Vancouver
Rice Lake and Lynn Canyon Loop
Recommended by Melanie, The World Travel Girl
| Distance: 3.7 miles (6.0 km) | Elevation: 151 metres (495 feet) |
| Difficulty: Easy | Dog Friendly: No | Location: Trailhead |
Located just north of downtown, Lynn Canyon offers an easy hike in North Vancouver with plenty of natural beauty. The trail includes the iconic Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, where you can experience a thrilling walk 50 meters above the canyon floor.
This trail near Vancouver offers something for everyone. Families will appreciate the gentle paths and stunning photo opportunities, while more experienced hikers can challenge themselves with steeper sections and challenging staircases.
The trail around Rice Lake is a tranquil oasis, perfect for a stroll on a hot day. If you want to dip into the water, you cannot do so in Rice Lake, however, if you follow the people, you will find your way to the 30-foot pool. This is an extremely popular hike, so be prepared for the crowds and arrive early.
Quarry Rock Lookout from Deep Cove
Recommended by Melanie, The World Travel Girl
| Distance: 2.48 miles (4.0 km) | Elevation: 206 metres (676 feet) |
| Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Dog Friendly: Yes | Location: Trailhead |
The views of Burrard Inlet are amazing. This was one of the best hikes I’ve ever done in the area. The main trail that leads to the summit is the Baden Powell Trail which starts from the beach in Deep Cove. This scenic route blends varied terrain—from rugged paths and sturdy bridges to elevated boardwalks and moderately challenging staircases. The trail is maintained with safety features like anti-slip grips and handrails, but you still need to watch your step. It is ideal for hikers of all levels, though some sections may be more strenuous. The climb is worth it!
Be aware that Quarry Rock is a heavily frequented spot, especially on sunny weekends. Parking at Panorama Park can be scarce, so consider alternative lots indicated in Deep Cove. For a quieter experience, a weekday visit is recommended.
Dogs are permitted on the trail and there are even some areas that are off-leash, so your pup can run and explore. Make sure to obey posted signs to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike for all.
Stanley Park Seawall
Recommended by Melanie, The World Travel Girl
| Distance: 6.0 miles (9.7 km) | Elevation: 76 metres (249 feet) |
| Difficulty: Easy | Dog Friendly: Yes | Location: Trailhead |
Bordering downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park offers waterfront views and is a great destination for locals and tourists alike. The iconic Seawall Trail encircles the park, providing views of Coal Harbour, Burrard Inlet, and English Bay.
Parking is available in numerous lots throughout the park but comes with a fee. For a more convenient and eco-friendly option, consider taking public transit; a bus stop is located directly by the Seawall.
The Seawall is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists. While generally wide, there are busier sections and a particularly steep incline near Siwash Rock. It is a gentle walk around the park which every visitor to Vancouver must do at least once.
Stawamus Chief Hike
Recommended by Campbell, Stingy Nomads
| Distance: 8.11 miles (5.0 km) | Elevation: 903 metres (2962 feet) |
| Difficulty: Hard | Dog Friendly: Yes | Location: Trailhead |
The Stawamus Chief hike outside the village Squamish in British Columbia is one of the most popular hiking trails near the city of Vancouver in Canada. The Chief has three separate peaks that hikers can summit. The three peaks are separated by several deep gullies each to be crossed before starting to climb the next peak.
Climbing this steep granite rock is on the wishlist of many rock climbers. The Stawamus Chief hike is a challenging trail up steep rocks. Chains and ladders are needed to climb some of the tougher sections of the trail, scrambling up gullies. The main viewpoints offer spectacular views of Squamish, Howe Sound, and Garibaldi Provincial Park.
The route is an easy-to-follow, well-marked out-and-back trail. From the main route, well-marked trails lead to the three separate peaks. The complete trail, ascending all 3 peaks, takes anything from 3 to 6 hours to complete depending on your hiking speed.
The trailhead is a short drive from Vancouver with public transport options available, so this hike can get very busy in summer. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on a leash. The smooth rock is slippery when wet, and hiking here in rainy weather is not recommended.
Grouse Grind
Recommended by Melanie, Postcards & Places
| Distance: 1.5 miles (2.5 km) | Elevation: 800 metres (2624 feet) |
| Difficulty: Hard | Dog Friendly: No | Location: Trailhead |
Grouse Mountain rises 1200 metres (4100 feet) above sea level in North Vancouver. In winter, it’s covered in snow and becomes a festive winter wonderland. In summer, Grouse is a popular hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. There are two main trails up to the top: the BCMC and the legendary Grouse Grind.
The Grouse Grind is something many desire to achieve at least once. It’s a short but very steep climb up the mountain with about 2800 stairs. It’s grueling, but the views of Vancouver at the top are worth every step.
Due to its popularity (it’s always busy) and its steepness, it’s only possible to travel up, not down. To return, you can take the alternative BCMC trail or ride the gondola down; you can buy a downloading ticket at the summit.
The BCMC is slightly longer at 2.9 kilometers (1.8 miles), which means it’s also slightly less steep. It’s also less popular, so it’s a good choice if you prefer a quieter hike in the forest. Dogs are not allowed on the Grouse Mountain or either trail.
Cleveland Dam and Second Canyon Viewpoint Loop
Recommended by Tazim, Celebrate Life’s Adventures
| Distance: 2.2 miles (3.5 km) | Elevation: 179 metres (587 feet) |
| Difficulty: Easy | Dog Friendly: Yes | Location: Trailhead |
If you’re after a hike that’s got just the right balance of challenge and reward, the dog-friendly trails at Capilano River Regional Park in North Vancouver should be on your list.
Start from the parking lot and take the trail to the left. As you descend the set of stairs, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering old-growth trees. The trail is straightforward and well-signed. The river runs alongside, providing a calm soundtrack as you make your way along the trail. You’ll see the Capilano River Hatchery during your hike.
The trail loops back to the parking lot with a view of the Capilano Watershed with North Shore Mountains behind them as well as a view of Cleveland Dam from above.
What I love about this hike is that it’s versatile. If you’re feeling energetic, you can reverse the route, ending with the climb up the stairs and making the dam your start-of-hike view. Either way, you’ll get a taste of what makes this area so special—lush forests, powerful water features, and a trail that’s just challenging enough to keep things interesting.
Pump Peak
Recommended by Candace, A Journey Inspired
| Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km) | Elevation: 457 metres (1499 feet) |
| Difficulty: Moderate | Dog Friendly: Yes | Location: Trailhead |
Pump Peak at Mount Seymour Provincial Park is one of our favorite short day hikes on Vancouver’s North Shore because it checks off all our ideal criteria. It’s free to park and hike, easy to follow, and not very technical. Plus, it offers impeccable views, is dog-friendly (on leash), is not too busy, and is perfect for trail running. The trail also features fun scrambling without much exposure, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. It’s a great option for any season and a perfect after-work sunset adventure. What more could you ask for in a trail?
Pump Peak is the first of Seymour’s three peaks, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue to Tim Jones Peak (the second peak) and Mount Seymour (the third peak). The trail offers panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Baker on a clear day.
When planning this hike, make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and carry bear spray. In the winter, microspikes or snowshoes are necessary, and the trail does pass through avalanche terrain. Since this trail is popular, it’s always a good idea to check AllTrails for updated conditions before you head out.
Bear Safety and Essential Tips
While the best day hikes near Vancouver are relatively safe, it’s crucial to be aware of bears. Here are some safety tips:
FAQs about hiking in vancouver
Final Thoughts
Vancouver offers a range of hikes perfect for beginners and those more experienced. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor eager to experience Vancouver’s natural beauty, these hikes promise an unforgettable day out. So grab your gear and set out on an adventure to discover the best day hikes near Vancouver. Happy hiking!
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