Hayward Lake Trail Route Guide

Route Description for Hayward Lake Trail

Hayward Lake Trail Guide | Mission, British Columbia
The Hayward Lake Trail is a scenic lakeside route in Mission, British Columbia that combines forested shoreline paths, dam crossings, and waterfall viewpoints. Hayward Lake is a popular recreation area for hiking, swimming, and relaxing by the water, making it a great destination for a full day outdoors.

Route Overview Around Hayward Lake

Completing the Hayward Lake Trail can be a bit of a tricky affair due to closures that frequently restrict access to certain sections of the loop. The most notable of these is the closure of the floating bridge across the Hairsine Inlet at the lake’s southern end, which has been closed for several years due to the need for repairs. The only safe option available to hikers who wish to complete the entire trail loop is to reach the floating bridge and then turn back along the same trail. This greatly extends the length of the hike. Some hikers have attempted to either swim across the waters of the Hairsine Inlet or skirt around its heavily wooded shoreline; however, both of these off-trail options present obvious risks and are not recommended.

Bridge closures aside, the Hayward Lake Trail is a wonderful route along the shoreline that offers several scenic vantage points. Hayward Lake also features two dam crossings - one over Ruskin Dam to the south and one over Stave Falls Dam to the north - adding a unique engineering element to the natural surroundings.

Starting out from the parking area, follow the trail south as you make your way past the beach and through the narrow stretch of land between the beaver pond and Hayward Lake. Continue south along the edge of Hayward Lake to pass by the Hayward Lake Dog Beach and off-leash area. Keep on the trail for 4.0 km, as it passes over two small bridges and dips in and out of the forest along the shoreline.

Towards the southern end of Hayward Lake, you will pass by a small beach area with a nice view of the lake as it stretches out toward Ruskin Dam. Make your way to the dam, taking the route through the parking lot and up to Wilson Street, which will take you over Ruskin Dam at Hayward Lake’s southwest corner.

After crossing the dam, go left into the trees to pick the trail back up as it works toward the floating expanse of the Hairsine Inlet Bridge. This bridge remains closed due to required repairs. As such, hikers will need to turn around at this point and retrace their steps to return safely. Attempting to bypass the closure by swimming across the inlet or travelling off-trail is unsafe and not advised.

Continue on the trail for 1.2 km to reach a junction in the trail to the left for the Canoe Landing Site. This brief detour offers beautiful views of Hayward Lake from the east side. Continuing on the main trail, head north through dense tree cover as the route continues to weave alongside the water’s edge.

After travelling for 5.0 km through the thick forest, you will reach a junction on the left for Steelhead Falls. This short detour brings you to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the picturesque falls as they cascade over moss-covered rocks into Hayward Lake.

When you’ve finished appreciating the falls, head back to the main trail and continue north towards Stave Falls Dam. Travelling 1km further along the trail will bring you to another lookout with sweeping views across Hayward Valley and Hayward Lake. Continue on the trail as it follows closely alongside the road before turning south and crossing over Stave Falls Dam. After crossing the dam, turn left onto Power Station Access Road to descend alongside Stave River. You will soon arrive back at your starting point near the waters of Hayward Lake.

Hiking Route Highlights

Steelhead Falls at Hayward Lake

Located just off the Reservoir Trail, Steelhead Falls is a scenic waterfall that cascades down moss-covered rocks on its way toward Hayward Lake. This picturesque location makes a rewarding side trip during your visit.

Stave Falls Dam

Completed in 1912, the Stave Falls Dam is part of a hydroelectric power complex. The historic powerhouse was once the largest hydroelectric power source in British Columbia and is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada.

Planning Your Visit to Hayward Lake

Parking and Access

Parking for Hayward Lake is available near the recreation area beaches and trailheads. During summer weekends, Hayward Lake can become busy, particularly near the beaches. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure parking.

Best Time to Visit Hayward Lake

Hayward Lake can be enjoyed year-round, though late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable conditions. Summer is ideal for swimming and beach use, while cooler months provide quieter hiking conditions.

Is Hayward Lake Family-Friendly?

The shoreline sections of Hayward Lake are generally suitable for families, with relatively gentle terrain. The extended out-and-back required due to the floating bridge closure may make the full route quite long for younger hikers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in Hayward Lake?

Hayward Lake is open to the public for swimming and offers two beaches along its western shore. Visitors should follow posted safety guidelines and be aware of changing water conditions.

What activities can be done around Hayward Lake?

The area around Hayward Lake offers recreational space for activities including swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and fishing.

What’s New at Hayward Lake Trail in 2026

As of 2026, the floating bridge across the Hairsine Inlet remains closed, and there have been no major changes to access or overall route conditions at Hayward Lake. Hikers should continue to expect to turn around at the bridge closure and retrace their steps. Always check current BC Hydro or regional advisories before visiting.

If you’re interested in exploring more of British Columbia on foot, browse our guided hiking tours in Canada for multi-day trips through scenic mountain and lakeside landscapes.