North Shore Hikes
Vancouver’s North Shore hikes are simply incredible. Spanning North Vancouver and West Vancouver, it doesn’t get much better than hiking in Vancouver’s North Shore and taking in the coastal views.
The North Shore is all mountains, meaning just about any trail will get your blood pumping. Hiking on the North Shore is a great way to get outdoors without the need to take a long drive from Vancouver, as many of the trails are easily accessible from urban areas.
North Shore hikes allow you to marvel at the incredible views of downtown Vancouver, Vancouver Harbour, and the vast expanse of Indian Arm. Venture further west on the North Shore and you will be hiking in West Vancouver, with incredible views of Burrard Inlet and Howe Sound.
The scenery changes drastically as you explore different parts of the North Shore, from alpine forests to crystal-clear lakes, to craggy mountain peaks. The stunning backcountry you can access on North Shore hikes offers mesmerizing views from three main mountains: Cypress, Seymour and Grouse. With a huge network of trails, outdoor enthusiasts of all varieties will find something here, with ski trails to trek in the winter and beautiful, forest lined hills in the summer.
Those who dare will be rewarded with unparalleled views on the multiple summits crossing the Howe Sound Crest trail, while Norvan Falls offers a magical waterfall at the height of the path, and for the little ones, Capilano River Regional Park is sure to delight with canyon views and old-growth trees.
The Top 10 North Shore Hikes
These ten epic hikes in the North Shore bring some of the best hikes in North Vancouver and West Vancouver. These hikes mix family-friendly walks with remote, rigorous treks that you can stretch over two days to complete. But regardless of time or fitness level, hikers will be blown away by the rolling hills, wildflower meadows, pristine lakes and of course, jaw-dropping mountain peaks that won’t soon be forgotten. Better yet, with so many options, the North Shore remains a destination to be visited over and over again. Below are the 10 best hikes in Vancouver’s North Shore:
- Howe Sound Crest Trail: This is a legendary hike and a must-do for all experienced hikers. Be warned, this trail is incredibly challenging, but also highly rewarding with multiple summit views and fun, backcountry camping spots.
- Norvan Falls: Set out on this year-round trail for an easy hike at a lower elevation than most spots in the North Shore. This spot is especially popular for dog-walkers and leads to a scenic waterfall.
- Crown Mountain: Next to Howe Sound, this is one of the most difficult North Shore hikes, as it leads to a pointed summit. This one is also for experienced hikers only, but those who are fit enough will be rewarded with incredible summit views of the North Shore Mountains.
- Mount Seymour: This hike is easy to access from the many ski-resorts located around the trail. Delight in several viewpoints on the way to the upper summit, or feel free to turn back sooner knowing you already took in incredible views.
- Hanes Valley: If you are a serious trail runner, this can be completed in a loop, or for most hikers, this is as a point-to-point hike. Scramble over big rocks and steep canyons in the Hanes Valley, then carry onward to Grouse Mountain Resort.
- Capilano River Regional Park: This central park trail has something for everyone. There are numerous, paths throughout the park so you can make the hike as short or as long as you wish. It's a great place for kids, and has a huge dam, salmon hatchery, and several old-growth trees.
- Mount Strachan: This is another difficult hike offering terrific views and also an interesting historical monument for an airplane wreck for the Royal Canadian Navy T-33 Jet, which crashed in 1963.
- Whytecliff Park: This park has some nice short walking trails, perfect for families to enjoy trails along the beach. The BC Ferries vessels can be seen coming and leaving Horseshoe Bay, and wildlife can also be spotted, including seals and if extremely lucky, even orcas.
- Coliseum Mountain: Embark on a full-day hike at Coliseum Mountain, where at the summit hikers will find panoramic, 360-degree views. This is an extension from Norvan Falls, for hikers looking for an extra challenge.
- Dog Mountain: This is another popular North Shore hike in Mount Seymour Provincial Park. The trail is technical, but doesn’t have much elevation gain. It makes a great place for an after-work hike.
When is the best time to hike in the North Shore?
A large amount of the trails within the North Shore can be completed year-round, but some are season dependent. Since some areas are covered by large mountain summits, the parks might not see much sunlight—meaning rain and snow can stick to the ground much longer than usual. For that reason, early summer to late fall is the best time for most North Shore hikes. The ground is typically less muddy, with drier terrain to make for easier and safer hiking.
How to plan a trip to the North Shore?
Not sure where to start on planning your trip to the North Shore? No sweat, we have a full guide on planning your trip to the North Shore outlining all our insider secrets, like how to get here, where to stay, and the best food and drinks in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions about the North Shore
Are there a lot of bears in the North Shore area?
To be honest, yes, there are bears in the North Shore area. Hikers should always be prepared and well-versed on dealing with bears before setting out on a hike. It is important to give a bear space and do not run! Use a bear spray if it approaches and never turn your back.
Which trail is the hardest to complete in the North Shore?
There are multiple challenging hikes in the North Shore area, but completing the entire Howe Sound Crest Trail is definitely the hardest hike. But it crosses multiple summits and you won’t find better views over all of Vancouver than on this trail.
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Howe Sound Crest Trail
The Howe Sound Crest Trail (HSCT) is arguably one of the best hiking trails near Vancouver for serious hikers, stretching over 30.0 km from Cypress Bowl to Porteau Cove. Keep your hiking boots laced tight as you head over multiple summits, offering spectacular views of Howe Sound, The Lions, and the beautifully turquoise Deeks Lakes, to name a few.
Grouse Grind Trail
The Grouse Grind Trail is a physically demanding route in North Vancouver that attracts over 150,000 hikers annually. Affectionately known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” this short 2.9 km hike has an elevation gain of 789 m, meaning you will need to be on top of your strength and endurance game to enjoy the spectacular views from the summit of Grouse Mountain!
Quarry Rock Hike from Deep Cove
The Quarry Rock Hike from Deep Cove is a short, 3.7 km out-and-back route that is a popular destination for family hikes and school trips due to its easy terrain and scenic views. The trail includes several newly built wooden bridges to improve accessibility. Catch the stunning views of the Indian Arm and Belcarra Mountains to the east before heading back down the trail to Deep Cove for a treat at Honey Doughnuts and Goodies.
Capilano River Regional Park
Wander in one of Metro Vancouver’s oldest parks, the Capilano River Regional Park. Choose from trails spanning over 26.0 km, featuring highlights like the incredible Capilano Canyon, the Cleveland Dam, the Capilano River, and a salmon hatchery. Feel small among the impressive canyon walls of jutting cliffs then observe the rushing white-water of the river for a quick outdoor adventure.
Mount Strachan
Mount Strachan is a wonderful hike in West Vancouver, offering quiet trails and stunning panoramic views of Howe Sound.
Coliseum Mountain
Prepare for a demanding day hike at the Coliseum Mountain. But those who dare this hike will reap high rewards, with striking, panoramic views overlooking Mount Burwell, Burwell Lake and Cathedral Mountain to the north.
Mount Seymour
The Mount Seymour hike is home to three unique trails leading to peaks, each offering their own panoramic vista. After a heart-pumping workout to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with views of Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, and the Indian Arm.
St. Mark’s Summit
St. Mark’s Summit gives hikers unparalleled views of the beautiful Howe Sound. Hiking to Saint Mark’s Summit can be a great hike to complete in one afternoon. From the peak, you can see the islands of Howe Sound, the Tantalus Range and even Vancouver Island.
Hanes Valley
The Hanes Valley Trail hike makes for a hard and strenuous day, but the view at the top will make it all worth it. Starting from Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, you’ll travel past steep valleys, glistening lakes and wildflower fields to reach the top of Grouse Mountain.
Hike to Eagle Bluffs via Black Mountain
The Eagle Bluffs are recognized as one of the best lookouts over Vancouver’s North Shore, and can be easily accessed from the Cypress Mountain downhill ski area along the Black Mountain Trail. Highlights along the route include the North and South summits of Black Mountain, Cabin and Owen lakes, and of course the stunning vantage point from the Eagle Bluffs themselves. Here you can find the most beautiful views of Eagle Harbour, Howe Sound, and Point Roberts.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Whyte Lake Hike
Follow along the Whyte Lake Trail as it meanders along creeks, over moss-covered bridges, and past mammoth old-growth Douglas Firs. Relax on the secluded north shore beach of Whyte Lake, or hop off the wooden dock to cool off for a swim. This scenic hike offers a prime example of hiking through a Pacific temperate rainforest climate.
Hike to Lynn Peak
The Hike to Lynn Peak is a challenging trail for hikers looking to push themselves through a tough elevation gain. Climbing 1,019 m along a rugged ridge line, this trail offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and a series of drops that are sure to get your heart pumping as you ascend to North Lynn Peak. Get ready for the toughness of the Grouse Grind, without the fuss of the crowds.
Mystery Lake Loop
The Mystery Lake Loop is a popular hiking trail on the North Shore due to its picturesque namesake lake. While most people head up the trail for a swim in the cool waters of the lake, the loop continues around to the top of mystery peak, offering a view of the city of Vancouver on a clear day. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including the salamanders that call the lake their home.
Lynn Loop Trail
The Lynn Loop Trail is an excellent day hike option for beginner hikers and weekend warriors alike. Offering beautiful stretches of mixed forest with several elevation changes, the trail starts and finishes along the rushing waters of the Lynn Creek, with Mount Fromme looming in the backdrop.
Capilano River Loop
The Capilano River Loop is a great day hike option for hikers looking to make their way through various types of terrain. Although it’s rated an easy hike, the trail has some changes in elevation and allows you to pass through dense rainforests and steep river canyons. Make sure to spend some time at the Capilano River Hatchery to learn about salmon species, and cross the Capilano Suspension bridge to catch some gorgeous scenery.
BCMC Trail
The BCMC Trail is a workout based hike in Vancouver’s North Shore that allows hikers to break a sweat while climbing a short but steep incline. Sharing the same mountain as the Grouse Grind, and often compared to it in terms of length and intensity, this hiking route is more rugged and less maintained than its neighbour, making it an ideal option for a great workout without the crowds.
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