Backpacking trails in North Shore

Vancouver’s North Shore is the perfect blend of urban city meets mountain wilderness. Surrounded by lush, alpine forest, with epic views and three ski resorts here, you can really enjoy the outdoors and the plushy perks of city living.

Encompassing North Vancouver and West Vancouver, the North Shore is a spectacular outdoor playground close to one of the most beautiful cities on earth.

This region is the epicenter of adventure in Vancouver, with options to ski, snowboard, hike or mountain bike along this epic landscape. Within minutes, you can be out of the downtown core and up into the relatively untouched mountains, where adventure is calling.

Here, find the famous twin peaks that dominate the North Shore skyline, often lovingly referred to as “The Lions.” The North Shore is also home to The Coast Mountains, which start on the shore and spread north across the B.C coastline, all the way to Alaska.

The mountains are the main draw of the area for both locals and travellers alike, where second-growth forests await discovery, alongside rocky beaches in the Burrard Inlet and even pothole lakes, that makes for a refreshing dip up in the peaks of the rocky cliff faces.

Discover the best activities the outdoor haven of the North Shore has to offer with our expert guides. Whether you spend every weekend in these magical mountains or you’re visiting for your first time, 10Adventures has the inside track to help you get moving in the North Shore.

Backpacking on the North Shore

The North Shore’s signature multi-day route is the Baden Powell backpacking trail, which runs roughly 45 km across the mountains from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove. With little backcountry camping along the way, it is most often split into day-hike-length sections rather than camped end to end, so it suits a flexible overnight or a series of shorter outings.

Best Time to Go Backpacking on the North Shore in 2026

The North Shore’s maritime climate makes for a long season. The largely forested, low-elevation Baden Powell Trail is hikeable from spring through fall and even on mild winter days, though it is often wet and muddy after rain and the higher sections near the ski areas hold snow into spring. July to September is driest and best for an overnight, while fall brings quieter trails. Pack for rain whatever the month, this is the Coast.

Planning Your 2026 North Shore Backpacking Trip

Because camping options are limited, plan your trailheads, transit and pickup points before you go, the trail is well served by Vancouver transit at several points. For more multi-day options, explore backpacking trails in British Columbia and backpacking routes across Canada, or pair your visit with the hiking trails on the North Shore. Prefer a guided trip? Browse guided hiking tours.