Hikes in North Shore
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.
Best Hikes in North Shore
Lynn Valley Link Trail
The Lynn Valley Link Trail is a great day hike to experience the city while making use of the existing trails that spread throughout the Lynn Canyon area. Set off on an urban hike that climbs uphill before entering the tree cover, traversing the Baden Powell trail on its way to Lynn Canyon. From here, experience the attractions of Lynn Canyon Park before making your way along Lynn Creek to the starting trailhead.
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Lynn Headwater Trail to Norvan Falls
Hike along the network of trails that pass through the beautiful Lynn Headwaters Regional Park as you make your way around the Lynn Loop and into the backcountry of the North Shore. Cross over mountain streams and exposed roots to cap off the day with views of the stunning Norvan Falls. This popular day hike is definitely one to have on your list.
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Brothers Creek Trail
The Brothers Creek Trail is a fun half-day hike that takes you through a thickly covered forest as it climbs its way uphill alongside the creek. Spend the day exploring trails around Cypress Provincial Park, or hang out by Blue Gentian Lake before making the technical descent back down along the trail. This is a quick little hike for when you are looking for a bit of peace and quiet or just to spend the day by a secluded lake.
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Mosquito Creek Hike
The Mosquito Creek Hike is a secluded and scenic urban hiking trail on the North Shore of Vancouver that features a gentle incline and forested paths. This makes it popular with hikers and dog walkers alike, as the route is not overly difficult but gives off the feeling of having escaped the city. The trail also serves as a great access point for the network of routes along the Baden Powell trail that can be found at the northern tip of the Mosquito Creek Hike.
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Skyline Trail
The Skyline Trail is a 3.5 km loop that climbs up a steep slope and descends through a dense covering of West Coast forest. Along the route, there will be scenic views at the top of the old ski run, as well as a historic site marking the location of the US Airforce F-86 crash that occurred in 1954. The steep incline and rocky trail make this hike a great option for getting in a challenging workout, similar to the nearby Grouse Grind and BCMC trails.
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Yew Lake Loop
The Yew Lake Loop is a 2.3 km interpretive trail with educational signs posted throughout, providing valuable information on the trees and wildlife of the area. This makes it the perfect day hike option for families looking to get outdoors and explore nature. Alternatively, this trail is great for a quick warmup/cooldown when tackling other trails in the Cypress Provincial Park.
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Fisherman’s Trail
The Fisherman’s Trail is a 12.1 km out-and-back hike that follows closely alongside the Seymour River as it winds through the beautiful forests of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. Popular with mountain bikers and hikers, this multi-use trail is wide enough to accommodate both, making for a pleasant afternoon of walking or riding along the river. Make sure you bring a lunch to enjoy while soaking up the views from the Mid Valley Viewpoint.
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Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail is a scenic hiking route that runs along the coastline between Lions Bay and Brunswick Beach, symbolically linking the two communities together. This easy-going out-and-back trail sets off from the Lions Bay General Store and offers beautiful views of Howe Sound as it meanders alongside the Sea to Sky Highway. Make sure to stop at the information signs along the route to learn about the local trees, wildlife and natural elements that are highlighted.
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Seymour Valley Trail
The Seymour Valley Trail is a 24.0 km out-and-back that follows alongside the Seymour River and is primarily used as a biking trail. The wide paved paths and gentle terrain make this route popular with families and the initial stretch of trail up to Rice Lake is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Hikers that reach the end of the trail at Seymour Lake will be greeted with a lookout that has beautiful views of the lake and its mountainous backdrop.
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Centennial Seawalk
The Centennial Seawalk is a stunning 5.0 km out-and-back trail that follows closely along the shoreline of West Vancouver and is accessible year-round. This route is perfect for those who want an easy trail within the city that offers beautiful views of the Burrard Inlet, Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park. This trail passes by several beaches and is a prime location for watching a spectacular summer sunset.
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Spirit Trail
The Spirit Trail is an easy-going 11.1 km hike along the shipyards of Vancouver’s North Shore that offers beautiful views of the water and the chance to see a steady stream of boats coming in and out of the harbour. A popular route with runners, hikers, and dog walkers, this paved trail is a great option for a steady walk along the water’s edge to experience a beautiful Vancouver sunset. Don’t forget to bring your camera to grab some amazing photos of the city from the Burrard Dry Dock Pier.
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Deep Cove Lookout via Perimeter Trail
Hiking to the Deep Cove Lookout via Perimeter Trail will take hikers on a technical route through the lower portion of Mount Seymour Provincial Park with the main highlight being a partially obscured vantage point over Deep Cove. This route isn’t particularly known for its views, but the Perimeter Trail is a fun path along some rocky and root-covered stretches that make it an interesting hike. This short trail is also a great option if you are looking to branch off and explore the network of trails near Goldie and Flower lakes.
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Mackay Creek Trail Loop
The Mackay Creek Loop Trail is an intense workout for hikers that love a steep incline along a short route. Similar to the Grouse Grind or BCMC, this route works up the steep slope of Grouse Mountain, although the Mackay Creek Trail offers a loop for hikers to return along another path. If you’re a fan of short workout style hikes, this one just might be for you.
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Bear and Beaver Trail Loop
The Bear and Beaver Trail Loop is a perfect half-day hike that passes through Lynn Canyon and hits all the major highlights of the park. Cross over the swaying expanse of the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge, take in the sights of Twin Falls, and stop for a quick swim in the pristine waters of 30 Foot Pool. This short hike has a lot packed into its 4.3 km kilometers.
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Dinky Peak Trail
The Dinky Peak Trail is a less-travelled path in Mount Seymour Provincial Park, partly because it can be tricky to find! Nestled in between two other paths, this trail takes you on a loop to two separate vantage points, First Lake Overlook and Dinky Peak. This is a great hike if you are looking for a quick outing or are looking to do a few trails in one day.
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Goldie and Flower Lake Loop
The Goldie and Flower Lake Loop is a short trail that makes its way through the peaceful terrain surrounding these two beautiful lakes. This route is sometimes used as an introduction to backcountry hiking, as it offers a slightly rugged trail that is close to a main access point. At only 3.2 km, this trail is perfect for a quick trip to reconnect with nature or as an add-on when tackling other routes in the Mount Seymour area.
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Old Buck and Bridle Trail Loop
The Old Buck and Bridle Trail Loop is an amalgamation of the Old Buck, Bridle, and Baden Powell trails that create a forested 6.1 km loop in Mount Seymour Provincial Park. Popular with hikers and mountain bike enthusiasts, this trail has some technical bits with exposed roots and rocks, as well as a dense forest cover, making it a great option to stay in the shade on a hot day. Hikers can also explore the network of trails within the loop to extend their hike—just make sure to bring a trail map for navigation.
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Lynn Lake Trail
The Lynn Lake Trail is a lengthy hike through the Lynn Headwaters backcountry that is sure to get you off the beaten path (and more than a little wet). The trail passes through the dense West Coast forest and forces hikers to trek through Lynn Creek for a stretch, making waterproof hiking footwear essential. The entire experience is worth the trouble, as you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Norvan Falls and Lynn Lake, in addition to spending the day out on some fairly unpopulated trails.
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Hike to South Needle
The Hike to South Needle follows along an extension of the trail to Lynn Peak, passing by the viewpoint and on to the south and north peaks before reaching South Needle further along the Lynn Ridge. This is a dangerous route along an unofficial trail, but for experienced hikers the reward is worth the effort, as South Needle offers some stunning views of the surrounding area. This route will take longer than you think, so leave early to tackle this relatively untravelled trail.
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Whytecliff Park – Panorama Ridge Trail
The Panorama Ridge Trail is a short trail within Whytecliff Park that is perfect for an afternoon stroll to get the kids outdoors and exploring nature. The trail features a few gentle ups and downs, making it easy to navigate. Make sure to utilize the nearby beach facilities for a full day in the sun.