Hikes in British Columbia
Beautiful British Columbia is a great place for a hiking holiday. Fly into Vancouver and from there explore everything from the rugged BC coast to the interior mountain peaks. In between, stop for a glass of wine in the vineyards of the Okanagan or some lake kayaking on one of the great lakes of the BC interior.
BC has a little bit of everything for visitors. There are stunning coastal walks on Vancouver Island and near Vancouver, where you can also combine some sea kayaking. Surfers flock to the village of Tofino, for big waves surrounded by forests.
In winter, BC is home to great ski resorts. Famed for the light champagne powder that falls here, you can choose world-class Whistler or any number of smaller regional resorts, all of which boast great ski terrain and wonderful, fun little towns nearby. Consider a trip ski touring or snowshoeing while in the mountains, a great way to enjoy some serenity in a busy world.
Summer sees hikers, climbers and mountain bikers descend on the BC mountains. Famous mountain ranges, like the Island Alps, Coast Mountains, Monashees, Purcells, Selkirks and Rockies provide enormous opportunities to explore. Many of these mountains are crossed by only a single road, providing the ability to truly get off-grid and explore.
20 Greatest Hikes in British Columbia
British Columbia may be one of the most beautiful hiking destinations on earth! With countless options, there is something for everyone regardless of skill level, time or fitness level. From family-friendly hikes, to post-work jaunts, to epic, multi-day hikes, British Columbia has it all in terms of stunning trails.
- Elfin Lakes: Find this popular trail within Garibaldi Provincial Park, as you traverse to two pristine lakes perfect for an alpine dip.
- Jocelyn Hill from Caleb Pike: This underrated trail is a moderately challenging, but immensely rewarding climb. Follow the path as it undulates up and down to Holmes Peak, then steeply climbs to breathtaking Saanich Arm— our favourite spot for an epic picnic.
- Elk Lake: This family-friendly trail weaves in and around glistening Beaver Lake for a picturesque walk. Continue through scenic and shaded woodlands before spotting stunning Elk Lake off in the distance.
- Fry Creek Canyon: If you’re looking to hike in B.C during the shoulder season, Fry Creek Canyon is the perfect spot. Pass by beaches, canyons and forests on this unique trail hiking through varying landscapes.
- Kokanee Glacier Cabin: This epic hike makes for a great overnight trip with older children to experience the magic of the Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Snuggle up in a cabin overnight, then spend the next day exploring the surrounding wildflower fields and wilderness.
- Panorama Ridge Hike: Making for an ideal long day or multi-day hike, this trail will provide ridge views you’ll never forget. Prepare for lots of switchbacks, wildflower fields and alpine meadows on this unforgettable adventure.
- Lake O'Hara All Souls Route: This is one of the standout hikes located directly in the Canadian Rocky Mountains! This circuit trail passes beautiful lakes and amazing views from the ridgeline, all kept pristine by the limited access to the trail.
- Stawamus Chief: One of the most popular hikes in the Squamish area, this is a can’t miss hike! With multiple peaks, this trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels and rewarding views regardless of which peak you choose to summit.
- Mount Loki: Prepare for an incredible challenging feat at Mount Loki, the highest peak seen from the highway between Nelson and Kaslo. This mountain is only to be hiked during the summer season and offers 360 degree views as far as the eye can see.
- Capilano River Regional Park: For an easy, but beautiful urban hike, check out Metro Vancouver's oldest park. With multiple trails spanning over the beautiful Capilano Canyon, this stroller-friendly trail makes for a quick, but adventurous day spent in nature.
- Widgeon Falls: This epic hike starts out with a canoe or kayak paddle to reach the starting point. Widgeon Falls is especially spectacular during the fall season with leaves dazzling in brilliant colour.
- Macbeth Icefield: Set out on an incredibly challenging, but rewarding hike traversing through forests, staircases, rockface and marshland--all with the icefield towering above.
- Emerald Lake Circuit: Perfect for families, this quick 1-2 hour hike features a B.C. highlight-- kool-aid blue Emerald Lake. Be sure to have your camera ready, you’ll want to grab a snap or two at this picturesque spot.
- Black Tusk: This long and arduous journey will take you up one of Whistler’s famous mountain peaks--the Black Tusk. From the top, revel in the views over Garibaldi Provincial Park and down to Garibaldi Lake.
- Jug Island: Perfect for those with older-children (we’d avoid strollers on this one!), Jug Island offers plenty of shoreline to explore. With picturesque coves surrounding the island and a fantastic beach for a dip--this trail is an ideal summer hiking spot.
- Brandywine Falls Hike: Those looking for a quick and easy hike in Whistler or those who are new to hiking will love this trail. In just a short walk from the parking lot, hikers can take in a cascading waterfall that feeds into Daisy Lake below.
- Mount Finlayson: This short, but steep hike will have you sweating for a quick cardio challenge! Prepare for a bit of scramble on all fours, but that’s half of what makes this trail so fun.
- Mt. Albert Edward: This dramatic ridge is an iconic view from Mt Washington ski hill and only the most daring hikers should take on this gargantuan mountain. Set out on a full day's climb to reach the peak, but find mesmerizing views over all of Strathcona Park.
- Dog Mountain: This incredibly popular trail is known for its easy grade and stunning views. A win-win combination! Push onwards to the tip top of the mountain to spot Mount Baker, the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland, Stanley Park and the Strait of Georgia.
- Howe Sound Crest Trail: Arguably one of the best trails in the Vancouver area, if not all of B.C., this incredible hike takes on average two days to complete-- but it’s plenty worth it for the multiple peaks you’ll conquer.
When is the Best Time to Hike in British Columbia
British Columbia is beautiful across multiple seasons, but the best time for hiking is during the warmer and drier months of April through October. While trails are at their most beautiful during the summer months, they’re also often flooded with tourists. Our favourite time is the shoulder seasons, spring and fall, which offer beautiful temperatures and no crowds.
Best Regions to Hike in British Columbia
British Columbia is bursting with stunning locations for avid hikers to lace up their boots. Kootenay National Park is one of the locations that make up the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site and is popular for good reason. Here, you’ll find countless natural attractions that are a feast for the eyes. Squamish is easily accessible, just a skip, hop and a jump from both Vancouver and Whistler. With multiple mountain ranges, there are plenty of options for all skill levels in this adventurous town.
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, Strathcona Provincial Park is a hidden gem located on Vancouver Island, home to a pristine chain of mountains and lakes. And if you’re short on time or want to keep close to the big city, just East of Vancouver is the new hotspot for hiking with plenty of famed parks in close proximity. For hidden coves and beaches to watch the sunset from, the North Shore is home to stunning waterfront trails.
Visiting B.C’s capital city? Victoria offers plenty of rugged trails. For exceptional hiking, the mountain towns of West Kootenays are a must visit. And for a lesser explored destination in the Rocky Mountains, Yoho National Park offers peace and tranquility far from the crowds.
Other Activities in British Columbia
British Columbia is an outdoor adventure playground, with endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Canada. From rock climbing to hiking, backpacking, road biking, mountain biking and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone. If you’re more into the winter sports, British Columbia is home to plenty of world-class ski resorts where you can practice everything from downhill skiing, backcountry skiing, snowboarding…or even just dabbling in the après ski life.
British Columbia's Adventure Tours
If you’d rather skip the headache of planning your own trip, why not let 10Adventures help? With our wide-range of tours in British Columbia, all you have to do is pack your bag—the rest is taken care of! From fresh powder ski safaris to trekking the remote rocky mountains, our 10Adventure tour options are guaranteed to be epic and worry-free.
How to Plan a Trip to British Columbia
Convinced you need to hit the trails in beautiful British Columbia? We’ve got you covered with our complete guides on planning a trip to B.C, outlining the best spots across the province for food and a pint (or two), cozy hotels, and fun activities to fill your day. From Squamish, to The West Kootenays, to Kananaskis Country, to Strathcona Provincial Park, to Whistler, to Yoho National Park, to Victoria—we took out all the guesswork, leaving more time for daydreaming.
Hiking regions in British Columbia
- Courtenay (10)
- E.C. Manning Provincial Park (9)
- East Kootenays (51)
- East of Vancouver (49)
- Fernie (24)
- Fraser Valley (62)
- Glacier National Park, BC (17)
- Golden (21)
- Invermere (28)
- Kootenay National Park (15)
- Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park (9)
- Mount Revelstoke National Park (22)
- Nanaimo (21)
- North Shore (61)
- North Thompson Valley (36)
- North Vancouver Island (15)
- Okanagan Valley (47)
- Pemberton (14)
- Port Alberni (15)
- Prince George (10)
- Squamish (35)
- Strathcona Provincial Park (28)
- Sunshine Coast (55)
- Tofino (20)
- Victoria (32)
- Wells Gray Provincial Park (18)
- West Kootenays (52)
- Whistler (45)
- Yoho National Park (31)
Best Hikes in British Columbia
Video Peak Trail
The Video Peak Trail is a scenic 13.5 km hiking route in Glacier National Park that takes you through a picturesque alpine valley on the way to the summit. Along the trail, you will hike through a dense stretch of forest and cross over several creeks before breaking out into the alpine landscape and making your ascent of the mountain. From there, you will experience amazing views over the parks and the countless mountain peaks that mark the rugged landscape.
User Ratings
Peach Cliff Trail
Peach Cliff Trail is a kid-friendly hike that follows an out-and-back route to a viewpoint that gives a bird’s eye view of Skaha Lake nestled into the lush, rolling valley below. Make this hike an unforgettable experience by packing a lunch and enjoying a picnic while you admire the vistas layered across the land from atop Peach Cliff.
User Ratings
Emerald Triangle Hike
The Emerald Triangle Hike is a stunning route in Yoho National Park that will take you around the picturesque shores of Emerald Lake and uphill along the slopes of Wapta Mountain and Mount Field for some breathtaking views of the park. The trail does feature a fair bit of elevation gain and some demanding switchbacks along the mountainside; however, the portion along the ridge is fairly level and pleasant to hike through. Make sure to arrive early, as the parking area can become quite chaotic during peak hours.
User Ratings
Sombrio Beach Trail
The Sombrio Beach Trail is a 1.4 km out-and-back hiking route in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park that is split up into two separate halves on either side of the Sombrio River. Along the western trail, hikers will pass through a beautiful stretch of West Coast temperate rainforest and cross over a swaying suspension bridge to arrive at a rocky beach with views of the Pacific Ocean. Taking the route to the east will lead you through the rainforest to another stretch of beach with a hidden waterfall. Hikers looking to stay the night can also camp on either one of the beaches for a fee.
User Ratings
Hermit Trail
Hike along the Hermit Trail for a physically demanding but ultimately rewarding journey up to an alpine campsite in Glacier National Park. This route takes hikers on a steep uphill climb that is sure to leave your legs burning; however, the views of surrounding mountains are certainly worth the effort. Remember to bring a GPS, as route finding can be a bit difficult on this hike.
User Ratings
Mount Kobau Hike
The Mount Kobau Hike is a fantastic family-friendly walk that unveils stunning views of the Okanagan Valley. Unfortunately, the trailhead sits around an hour from both Osoyoos and Oliver, making it essential to pack some snacks and drive a long distance for a short hike. But when you get to the top, after little effort, the unreal sweeping vistas peppering the land make the mini road trip worth it.
User Ratings
Sherbrooke Lake Hike
The hike to Sherbrooke Lake is a great family-friendly adventure that will take you between the beautifully scenic shores of two different lakes within Yoho National Park. While out on the trail, you will experience some lovely views of Wapta lake before climbing gently up the forested hillside to reach the breathtaking shores of Sherbrooke Lake surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. While this route is best hiked during the summer, it is accessible nearly year-round.
User Ratings
Mount Finlayson
Mount Finlayson is a steep, adventurous hike that will undoubtedly elevate your heart rate. Locals in Victoria, BC love this classic hike for the scramble—which can have you crawling on all four limbs—and decent views of the landscape layered in vibrant greens below.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Loop Brook Trail
The Loop Brook Trail is a short, informative hiking route that will take you through the scenic valley to visit the stone remnants of an old railway trestle. Along the hike you will find informative signs that highlight the history of the area and experience the sights of nearby mountains including Bonney Mountain and the Bonney Glacier. This route is perfect for anyone looking to combine a love of history with the outdoors.
User Ratings
Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit
Hiking the Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit is an amazing experience that will see you traverse the rugged, yet beautiful terrain surrounding Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park. A fair amount of this hike takes place above the treeline, making for some incredible views overlooking the lake and dramatic peaks of the surrounding area. Remember to book your shuttle into the trailhead in advance, or else you will have to hike an extra 11.0 km each way along the service road.
User Ratings
Goldstream Trestle
The Goldstream Trestle hike is a pleasant family-friendly hike in Goldstream Provincial Park. It has you traversing through an underground tunnel, along creek beds and boardwalks until you reach Victoria's Niagara Falls, cascading down a carpet of flora, and later on, the photo-worthy trestle. Do avoid going on the trestle, though!
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Great Glacier Trail
The Great Glacier Trail is an 7.9 km out-and back hiking route in Glacier National Park that features waterfalls, as well as amazing views of the Vaux Glacier and Mount Sir Donald. This hiking route travels along some fairly easy terrain and has a small elevation gain, making it a fun trek for hikers of all skill levels, including families. This is a low effort/high reward hiking route that should definitely be on your list if you are looking to explore the natural beauty of Glacier National Park.
User Ratings
Ogden Point via Dallas Road
This walk to Ogden Point winds along the coastline, granting sea-scented smells, glimpses of paddle boarders and windsurfers. Every so often, opt to leave the path for a refreshing dip into the water. This hike perfectly blends a flavour of chill and relaxation with a sprinkle of shimmering scenery!
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Mount Douglas
The Mount Douglas, also known as Mount Doug, will undoubtedly have you sweating, making it the ideal getaway from the city for those seeking adventure and a workout. Families with older children tend to flock to this area as well! Just be ready for the final steep climb to reach the pinnacle.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Elk Lake
Looking for a walk that blends the fresh air exploding throughout forested land with glistening lake views? You’ve come to the right place! The Elk Lake Trail winds along Beaver Lake on a relatively flat path, passing through areas of charming woodland, before views of Elk Lake emerge.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Norvan Falls
Embark on a hike at Norvan Falls, located in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, in North Vancouver where a dazzling waterfall awaits at the end of the trail. This trail runs parallel to Lynn Creek and is relatively flat, making for an accessible hike for all and a great spot for trail running. While there is no sweeping vista to enjoy on this hike, the waterfall is beautiful, and the trail through the forest is itself rewarding.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Whytecliff Park
Grab the whole family and head to Whytecliff Park, a beautiful oceanside spot in West Vancouver. While one can hardly call this trail a hike, it makes for a fun outing for kiddies of all-ages and is family-friendly. Whytecliff is a fantastic spot to enjoy the natural scenery of Vancouver and watch the sunset over the water.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Dog Mountain
The Dog Mountain hike is the most popular trail in the Mount Seymour Provincial Park—and for good reason. From the top of Dog Mountain, hikers are rewarded with views of Mount Baker, the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland, Stanley Park and the Strait of Georgia.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Crown Mountain Trail
The Crown Mountain Trail is an exciting and technical route up one of the North Shore’s most recognizable peaks. This 9.0 km out-and-back is a difficult hike that is not meant for novices, families or hikers with dogs due to the steep incline to the summit. After making your way up the challenging final scramble, take in the sweeping views of the Fraser Valley and the Capilano Watershed.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Montane Trail
The Montane Trail is a 5.0 km out-and-back trail used for several outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing. The route traverses some easy terrain and doesn’t have much strenuous elevation gain, making it a great trail for hikers of all skill levels. You can expect to enjoy a peaceful forest atmosphere and views through the trees of the surrounding mountain peaks along the trail.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty