Take the Pacific Ocean a combine it with a mild climate, then throw in a few mountains and some old growth rainforest for good measure. What do you get? One of the most livable cities in the world: Vancouver, British Columbia.
As it happens, you also get some pretty near perfect hiking conditions. Challenging but accessible climbs, insanely gorgeous views, and four seasons of hiking—it’s every outdoor lover’s dream.
If you happen to find yourself near Vancouver, we recommend you check out these 6 hikes. If you’re not planning a trip to Vancouver any time soon—well, you just might change your mind after reading this.
The Lions
If you’re looking for a challenging hike that will reward you with top-notch views, head up Highway 99 towards the small community of Lions Bay. The two towering peaks you’ll see on the drive up at known as The Lions. Hiking them is practically a Vancouver rite of passage.
This trail has a little bit of everything: gravel logging road, dirt trails through Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar forests, rocky scrambles, steep climbs, and—finally—an open ridge offering views one of the best views of Howe Sound down below and the city of Vancouver off in the distance.
Mount Cheam
Take a drive into the Fraser Valley and check out Chilliwack’s Mount Cheam. You won’t have to walk too far to take in some incredible views, but we promise that the further you go, the better they get.
You’ll need to tackle a few steep sections to earn views of the entire Fraser Valley, surrounding lakes, and Mount Baker off in the distance. Be careful at the peak—the north side of the summit is a steep drop and has claimed a few lives.
The Chief
Rock climbers from all over the world come to British Columbia to tackle the infamous Stawamus Chief. Located in Squamish (less than an hour from Vancouver), this granite monolith features some incredible sheer walls of rock that climbers just can’t get enough of. But there’s another way to get to the top: a well-marked, easy to follow trail. This hike is definitely a challenge, but it’s short enough that most reasonably fit people can do it without too much difficulty.
There are three different peaks to choose from—the first is the most popular, the second arguably features the best views (though they’re all pretty spectacular), and die-hards insist on tackling all three for the full experience. Mind the chipmunks while you have lunch—they’re used to hikers feeding them and will not hesitate to help themselves.
Black Tusk
Black Tusk is this writer’s absolute favorite hike of all time. It really feels like several different hikes in one, with dirt trails beneath tree canopies, sections stretching through picturesque alpine meadows, and a rocky climb towards the monumental Black Tusk peak.
Many people opt to camp out as part of the hike (or to camp at nearby Garibaldi Lake—another worthy hike), but the fit and ambitious can tackle the 18-mile hike in one day.
Dog Mountain
If you’re looking for an easier memorable hike, put North Vancouver’s Dog Mountain on your to-do list. The trail is tricky and technical, but relatively short and with minimal elevation gain.
This hike starts at the top of Mount Seymour (don’t worry—you can drive up to the top), so you get the benefit of great views without having to put in all the legwork.
Mount Gardner
Hop on a ferry and bring your hiking boots to Bowen Island, a charming community in the Howe Sound. The Mount Gardner hike is relatively challenging, with sections through forests, meadows, gravel roads, and rocks. There are multiple viewpoints along the way, and you’ll also pass the stunning Killarney Lake en route. Don’t forget your camera!
by Magee Walker