Best Winter Hikes in Vancouver: Top 26 Trails

Winter mountain climbing in Vancouver, British Columbia generally is a really magical expertise. With its towering mountains, snow-covered forests, and crisp, clear air, winter hikes in Vancouver are the right solution to take pleasure in the great thing about the winter season

I lived in Vancouver for six years and one in all my favorite issues about Vancouver was how you can go mountain climbing all 12 months spherical. There are such a lot of superior winter hikes in Vancouver each snow-free and snowy ones and getting out on a winter hike is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Vancouver in winter.

Whilst you do must take some further preparation and precautions for winter hikes in Vancouver, they’re so price it! Since Vancouver has a light local weather, yow will discover winter hikes each with and with out snow. I’ve included each choices under so you possibly can choose what you fancy!

Whether or not you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, there are many winter hikes in Vancouver that provide breathtaking views and an opportunity to get some train whereas surrounded by nature.

There’s additionally an enormous checklist of transit accessible hikes in Vancouver for those who don’t have a automobile.

What to pack for winter hikes in Vancouver Canada

• Take a look at my day hike packing checklist right here.
• For Vancouver hikes in winter after the snow has began falling you’ll want microspikes on the very least. If there may be numerous snow you’ll most likely want snowshoes.
• You must also take loads of layers together with a fleece layer, a puffy insulated jacket and a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hats and gloves are additionally vital in addition to a great backpack to maintain all the pieces in (mine is also my ski touring backpack!).
• You must also pack water and a few snacks too to maintain you going as they’re a part of the ten necessities for mountain climbing!
• Hand heaters: I at all times take a pair of hand heaters with me on winter hikes since my circulation is garbage and my palms at all times get chilly. I desire Little Hotties over different manufacturers as they appear to final the longest and get the warmest.

In terms of issues to do in Vancouver within the winter, winter hikes are at all times enjoyable. Nonetheless, it may be laborious to know whether or not to pack microspikes, snowshoes or crampons. Right here is a few extra element on when every of those traction units is most helpful for winter hikes in Vancouver.

Microspikes

Microspikes are greatest for strolling or operating on hard-packed snow or in icy circumstances. These characteristic small spikes, or coils, which can be saved collectively by chains or rubber.

They slip onto your boots or sneakers and provide you with extra traction on slippery surfaces. My favorite fashions have a velcro strap that goes throughout the highest of your foot and retains them in place higher.

A number of the greatest choices for microspikes are:

• Yak trax: these are what I take advantage of and have utilized in Canada, whereas winter mountain climbing in Lofoten, Norway and whereas exploring Scotland in winter.
• Kahtoola microspikes: These are very fashionable and are typically a bit extra sturdy than microspikes. Nonetheless, I get extra use out of my microspikes since I can use them operating when cities are snowy too.
• Hillsound microspikes: Hillsound is a neighborhood Vancouver model that will get nice evaluations. In the event you’re on the lookout for one thing dependable that does the job, they’re a stable choice.

Snowshoes

If there may be contemporary snow on the path, otherwise you’re mountain climbing someplace which doesn’t see a lot site visitors then you definately’re going to need snowshoes.

Snowshoes assist hold you on prime of the snow (reasonably than sinking by means of it) when there may be deep, powdery snow that hasn’t been compacted but.

For among the longer winter hikes in Vancouver corresponding to Elfin and Garibaldi Lake and Windy Joe, I might suggest taking snowshoes simply in case you want them. They’ll normally be secured simply to most mountain climbing backpacks.

The very best snowshoes have a heel lifter which will help you rise up steeper sections of the path.

MSR snowshoes are an incredible choice for longer, steeper hikes however will be costly. In the event you’re simply getting began and don’t plan on doing longer, steeper hikes, these snowshoes are a great choice too.

You may as well lease snowshoes in Vancouver from MEC and different shops together with Busy Bees Bike Leases on Burrard Road. You may usually get actually good offers on second-hand snowshoes too.

Crampons

Crampons supply extra traction than microspikes. They’re principally utilized by mountaineers when travelling over glaciers, scaling icy rocks, or on ice fields. You’ll not want them for the winter walks in Vancouver on this checklist.

Many individuals use the time period ‘crampon’ and ‘microspike’ interchangeably however they’re fairly totally different units.

What to know earlier than happening winter hikes in Vancouver

• Path circumstances: You may examine path circumstances earlier than happening hikes both by asking in Fb teams, checking latest evaluations on AllTrails or, if the hike is inside BC Parks, they usually have path circumstances posted on-line.
• Avalanche coaching: Examine Avalanche Canada earlier than going out in your hike. If it’s reasonable or above you must rethink your plan for those who don’t have avalanche coaching.
• Depart no hint: At all times keep in mind to depart no hint once you’re
• Be AdventureSmart: journey plan, practice, and take the necessities
• Mountain climbing within the snow is extra tiring and takes longer than these hikes do in the summertime. Give your self loads of time and begin early to keep away from mountain climbing at midnight.

Map of winter hikes in Vancouver

Click on the picture under to open up an interactive map of Vancouver winter hikes.

AllTrails is my go-to mountain climbing app for locating, planning and navigating whereas I’m out on the paths. With offline maps on AllTrails+, you will be assured you’re nonetheless heading in the right direction, even with out cell sign.

Greatest snow-free hikes in Vancouver

Not a fan of the snow? No worries! There are many Vancouver trails in winter that keep snow-free (nearly) the entire 12 months spherical.

After all, if it’s snowed in Vancouver, or you possibly can see snow over in North Vancouver, then these hikes might be snowy too.

And, simply because they’re not snowy doesn’t imply they’re not icy. I strongly suggest taking your microspikes with you in your backpack on this checklist of the very best hikes in Vancouver BC as you by no means know once you’ll hit some slippery sections!

Quarry Rock

Replace March 2023: Quarry Rock path is now open once more

Quarry Rock is without doubt one of the hottest simple hikes in Vancouver. The trailhead for Quarry Rock is in Deep Cowl and the hike takes 1-2 hours relying on how lengthy you spend having fun with the views on the prime.

You’ll stroll by means of the forest with some mild uphill sections over roots and rocks earlier than popping out to a big rock (Quarry Rock!) with views of Deep Cove, Indian Arm and over to Belcarra.

This is without doubt one of the greatest simple winter hikes in Vancouver and you must take a look at these different issues to do in Deep Cove (together with doughnuts!) after your stroll.

Quarry Rock can also be one of many Vancouver hikes that may be accessed by public transit so that you don’t even want a automobile.

• Issue: Straightforward
• Distance: 3.8 km
• Length: 1-2 hours

Diez Vistas

Over in Buntzen Lake Regional Park is the Diez Vistas Path. This is without doubt one of the hottest trails within the space.

Although its title suggests there are 10 views, there are actually fewer now with all of the tree development. However, mountain climbing Diez Vistas in winter means you’ll get a couple of extra views than regular since there are fewer leaves blocking your views!

In peak winter in Vancouver you might discover snow on the higher components of the path, so at all times have your microspikes. Nonetheless, nearly all of this hike is snow-free year-round.

To start out, you’ll stroll alongside the aspect of Buntzen Lake earlier than heading up and strolling the Diez Vistas path.

One of many good issues about this winter stroll in Vancouver is that it’s a loop path so that you gained’t be retracing your steps.

When you’ve left the lake behind the path will be fairly tough to stroll on, particularly if there’s no snow. There are some steep sections and loads of tree roots and rocks to navigate which might decelerate your tempo.

Provided that, I might count on this hike to take you longer than you initially assume.

You’re going to get some unimaginable views of the Indian Arm and Deep Cove although. And, for those who’ve already finished Quarry Rock you possibly can enjoy having seen the identical view from two totally different angles which is fairly cool! You’ll additionally get views out in direction of downtown Vancouver within the distance.

• Issue: Average/laborious
• Distance: 13 km
• Length: 3 – 4 hours

Buntzen Lake

The Buntzen Lake path is a simple winter stroll in the identical areas because the Diez Vistas path.

On this hike, you’ll stroll all the way in which round stunning Buntzen Lake on a ten km, well-maintained and easy-to-follow path.

There are small sections uphill however it’s minimal and makes for an incredible winter stroll that’s nearly at all times snow free.

Alongside the way in which are a number of viewing areas and benches the place you possibly can sit and soak within the views. For that reason, I wish to pack a scorching drink on this hike and have a cup of tea (so British!), or scorching chocolate half method by means of.

• Distance: 10 km
• Issue: Straightforward
• Length: 2-3 hours

Belcarra Bluffs Lookout

Belcarra Bluffs Lookout is a fairly quiet path that takes you thru the forest and out to a lovely viewpoint.

The hike begins from the Belcarra Regional Park car parking zone and will be finished as a loop or an out and again. If there’s a loop path accessible, then I’m at all times going to decide on the loop!

On the viewpoint, you possibly can see downtown Vancouver and among the North Shore in addition to Deep Cove and the Indian Arm.

When you get to the viewpoint at Belcarra Bluffs, you possibly can head down alongside the ocean for some extra beautiful views, earlier than looping again to the car parking zone.

Whereas this hike does have snow if it’s snowy within the metropolis, for a lot of the winter in Vancouver it’ll be snow free.

• Distance: 6.5 km
• Issue: Straightforward/reasonable
• Length: 2-3 hours

Whyte Lake

For winter hikes in West Vancouver, you possibly can’t beat Whyte Lake. Whyte Lake is one other simple hike in Vancouver throughout winter.

The path to Whyte Lake has minimal elevation and goes by means of the forest of West Vancouver earlier than popping out to the lake.

On the lake, there’s a picket dock and a few boardwalk.

In actually chilly winters individuals skated on this lake! That’s a fairly uncommon prevalence, however tremendous cool for those who get to see it. A lot of the season the ice gained’t be very frozen over and the path might be snow free.

You may as well proceed from Whyte Lake as much as West Knob however this path will get steeper and has a better likelihood of snow. There are additionally routes in direction of Eagle Bluffs alongside the Baden Powell Path. However, once more, this might be snowy in winter.

• Distance: 5 km
• Issue: Straightforward
• Length: 1 – 2 hours

Tunnel Bluffs

The ever-popular Tunnel Bluffs hike is a superb Vancouver hike all 12 months spherical.

The path begins from Lions Bay (for the reason that Sea to Sky trailhead is now not accessible as a result of parking restrictions).

The path from Lions Bay is way simpler than it was from the freeway (I’ve hiked it each methods). After the preliminary climb and switchbacks on the logging roads, you’ll come to a turn-off earlier than heading throughout to Tunnel Bluffs.

Right here, there are lengthy sections of flat trails and a few river crossings earlier than you get to the primary viewpoint.

On the viewpoint you get superb views of the Howe Sounds, and over to Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast.

There will be snow on this hike so be sure to’ve checked path circumstances earlier than heading out, and at all times pack your microspikes.

Earlier than mountain climbing Tunnel Bluffs: Please notice that you’re not allowed to camp on Tunnel Bluffs. At all times take your garbage with you, the final time I visited there was a lot left up there. Parking at Lions Bay will be very tough although it’s simple for winter hikes than summer season ones.

• Distance: 11.5 km
• Length: 3-5 hours
• Issue: Average

Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver is a very fashionable park that mixes forest trails with oceans, rocky outcrops and, after all, a lighthouse.

The lighthouse at Lighthouse Park appears to be like all the way in which again to downtown Vancouver and Stanely Park. Additionally close by there’s a hidden bunker that’s one of many prime Vancouver secrets and techniques to search out!

Lighthouse Park is well-liked with each climbers and walkers and it’s canine pleasant too! In the event you’re on the lookout for someplace for a winter stroll in Vancouver then this park is a superb spot.

There are quite a few trails that cross over one another and a few take you right down to the waterfront.

From right here, you possibly can watch the climbers prime out on the arbutus bushes on the rock, or hold your eyes open for seals and sea lions down within the water under (I’ve seen a lot right here!).

It’s additionally an incredible place for winter mountain climbing trails in Vancouver, BC with kids since there’s not a lot elevation on any of the routes.

• Distance: varies, will be 0.5 km to five km
• Length: 30 minutes – 2 hours
• Issue: Straightforward

Kennedy Falls

Kennedy Falls is without doubt one of the greatest hikes in North Vancouver is a superb hike by means of the forest that ends in a fairly spectacular waterfall. that is one other superior Vancouver hike that’s accessible on public transit.

Although the waterfall isn’t the tallest one within the space, it’s nonetheless fairly spectacular and properly price mountain climbing to in winter.

Alongside the way in which, you’ll additionally go previous the Large Cedar tree which is an enormous Crimson Cedar tree that’s estimated to be over 600 years previous! There’s additionally some previous logging tools that’s been left behind within the forest to look out for.

There’s some elevation acquire alongside the route, however nothing tremendous steep.

At sure occasions all through the winter season, this route can have snow on it. Nonetheless, it stays snow free properly into winter and turns into principally snow-free sooner than the ‘snowy’ winter hikes in Vancouver talked about under. Both method, be sure to pack your microspikes.

• Distance: 10 km
• Length: 3-4 hours
• Issue: Average

Rice Lake

Rice Lake is one in all my favorite locations in North Vancouver for path operating or simple winter walks. It’s a kind of Vancouver mountain climbing trails that doesn’t take up a lot time however is ideal to clear your head.

The trail round Rice Lake is simply over 2 km lengthy with nearly no elevation acquire (bar a couple of metres right here and there the place you go uphill a bit). You may simply mix a stroll or run round Rice Lake with a stroll over to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge or in direction of Norvan Falls.

Rice Lake is an ideal winter stroll in Vancouver for households and the lake itself may be very picturesque. It’s top-of-the-line and most accessible simple hikes in North Vancouver.

• Distance: 2.2 km
• Length: 30 minutes
• Issue: Straightforward

Pacific Spirit Regional Park & Stanley Park trails

Don’t low cost the 2 stunning parks throughout the metropolis as an choice for winter walks in Vancouver!

Pacific Spirit Regional Park and the interior trails in Stanley Park are stunning in the course of the winter. The pine forests are a soothing place to be and so they look tremendous cool when the mist rolls in.

These two parks are among the greatest locations to stroll in Vancouver no doubt.

If it’s raining you get a peaceable sound because the droplets come by means of the bushes. Plus, for those who’re a canine fan, you get to say whats up to loads of canines on the off-leash trails in Pacific Spirit!

• Distance: Varies, will be a number of km
• Issue: Straightforward
• Length: 1 -2 hours

Murrin Loop Path

One of the crucial well-liked hikes in Squamish with nice views is the Murrin Loop path. Happily, because you’re doing this in winter, it’s a bit quieter and far simpler to get a parking spot within the car parking zone.

The path begins simply off the freeway on the car parking zone for Murrin Lake and takes you up by means of the forest earlier than popping out to the Quercus Viewpoint.

This is without doubt one of the greatest hikes round Vancouver to observe the sundown because it’s corresponding to quick and simple path. You’ll additionally get unimaginable views of the Howe Sound because the solar goes down and you can too see the Sea to Sky freeway.

If you wish to make it tricker, you possibly can stroll alongside the Jurassic Ridge path which has some extra technical sections.

• Length: 1 hour
• Issue: Straightforward
• Distance: 2 km

Brohm Lake and Tantalus Lookout

Brohm Lake is an excellent well-liked lake in Squamish however most guests don’t hike as much as the Tantalus Lookout which I feel is a mistake!

The Tantalus Mountain Vary is my favorite mountain vary within the space and from the Tantalus Lookout at Brohm Lake, you get such a great view of it.

The hike takes you from the car parking zone across the lake after which by means of the forest earlier than heading as much as the point of view. You may loop again down a special method and cross over a small picket bridge on the different finish of Brohm Lake to the place you began.

Whilst you would possibly discover snow on the upper elevation sections as you attain the point of view, this path might be majority snow free for a lot of the winter.

• Distance: Varies relying on the route you are taking, normally below 5 km
• Length: 2 hours
• Issue: Straightforward-moderate

Norvan Falls

Norvan Falls is a protracted winter hike in Vancouver that has minimal elevation. It goes by means of among the most stunning forests in North Vancouver so it’s excellent for a wet day hike. Or, you possibly can take the flat gravel path alongside the river for among the route earlier than heading into the forest.

One of many cool issues about Norvan Falls is that if there’s been per week or so of chilly temperatures, Norvan Falls truly freezes! It’s uncommon for the waterfalls close to Vancouver to freeze so for those who get the prospect, undoubtedly go test it out

The primary time I noticed Norvan Falls was when it was frozen. I then returned a second time a couple of years later and ran the path to see it when it wasn’t frozen.

It’s such an incredible choice for those who’re on the lookout for North Vancouver strolling trails. It’s additionally one of many prime hikes in Vancouver in the course of the fall.

Whilst you ought to count on there to be snowy or icy patches at sure occasions throughout winter, this is without doubt one of the trails that stays and turns into snow-free sooner than others.

• Length: 5 hours
• Distance: 14 km
• Issue: Average

Jug Island Path

This was one of many first Vancouver hikes I did and I nonetheless assume it’s an incredible one. Particularly for those who’re on the lookout for winter walks in Vancouver.

Jug Island is a small island simply off the northern tip of Belcarra Regional Park to the east of Vancouver. Whilst you can’t stroll out to the island, you possibly can stroll to the seaside which sits simply throughout from it.

On the seaside, you’ll get nice views of the Indian Arm too.

One factor to notice is that the seaside can both be barely there or comparatively huge, relying on the tide occasions. In the event you’re planning to take a seat on the seaside, it’d be a good suggestion to examine the tide occasions earlier than your hike.

The path begins to climb from the car parking zone fairly rapidly however quickly flattens out. It’ll then get a bit wider and heads ever so barely downhill, by means of the attractive forest and comes out on the seaside and Jug Island.

This winter path in Vancouver BC is transit accessible and permits canines too!

• Distance: 5.5 km
• Length: 2-3 hours
• Issue: Straightforward-moderate

Stawamus Chief – The Chief

One of the crucial well-known hikes in Squamish is the Stawamus Chief or the Squamish Chief path.

The Chief is the title given to the massive granite rock that appears down over Squamish and will be seen from just about wherever within the city.

The primary part of the path is predominately on a picket staircase that will get your legs burning from the get-go. Then you could have the choice of going to 1, 2 or 3 of the peaks on the Chief.

The most well-liked peak is the primary peak which provides you that basic view down of downtown Squamish. To get to the primary peak you’ll should navigate some ladders and steep areas the place chains are used that can assist you rise up.

When you attain the highest, you’ll additionally have the ability to see among the Tantalus Vary in addition to the Howe Sound. the views are spectacular!

There are another nice winter hikes in Squamish that offers you views of the Chief too. Such because the hike to Mt Crumpit and the Slhanay Path.

Generally you will see that snow on the Chief and the rocks can get icy so be sure you examine path circumstances and pack accordingly.

• Distance: 4-6 km
• Length: 4 – 6 hours
• Issue: Average

Hunter path

A path that’s turn into tremendous well-liked lately is the Hunter Path close to Mission.

That is fairly a simple winter hike in Vancouver and takes you alongside a forestry service highway for a lot of the method. On the finish of the hike, you’ll come out to a lovely viewpoint of Stave Lake.

The hike itself isn’t essentially the most fascinating, it’s actually all concerning the views on the finish, reasonably than what you see alongside the way in which. Having mentioned that, you possibly can nonetheless admire the forest as you stroll alongside the logging highway.

This path will be snowy at sure occasions throughout winter so be sure you examine path circumstances or latest evaluations on AllTrails earlier than heading out. If it’s snowed in a single day, you might want snowshoes.

• Distance: 7.7 km
• Length: 2-3 hours
• Issue: Average

Greatest Hikes With Snow in Vancouver

In the event you’re seeking to go mountain climbing within the snow, listed here are some hikes that keep snowy lengthy into winter and are normally among the first to get snow too. These winter hikes are magical for those who’ve ready and introduced the appropriate nice with you!

Bowen Lookout

Bowen Lookout up at Cypress Mountain Ski Space is the hike close to Vancouver that I’ve finished essentially the most. It’s excellent for just a little after-work stroll in spring and fall, or for weekend winter walks within the winter. It’s simply one in all my favorite mountain climbing spots in Vancouver.

Bowen Lookout sits above the bottom of Cypress Mountain ski space and is snowy fairly early on in winter (early December, or late November various from 12 months to 12 months) and the snow lasts into spring.

The hike is brief however does handle to slot in some steep climbing on a few switchbacks earlier than you head downhill barely and are available out on the viewpoint.

The view from Bowen Lookout is gorgeous and you’ll see Bowen Island, the Sunshine Coast and the Howe Sound. It’s notably fairly at sundown when you possibly can watch the solar sink into the Pacific.

Very often within the winter, it may be tremendous cloudy in Vancouver however, for those who examine the Cypress Mountain webcams and see it’s sunny on the prime of the chairlifts, it’ll be sunny at Bowen Lookout too and you’ll see a cloud inversion! It’s tremendous cool to get above the clouds like this.

Since this can be a well-liked hike and the path is well-trodden, you’re normally okay with simply microspikes right here. Nonetheless, if it has snowed quite a bit not too long ago or is snowing closely once you do that hike then I like to recommend packing snowshoes.

• Distance: 5 km
• Length: 30 minutes – 1.5 hours
• Issue: Straightforward

Brockton Level and Pump Peak on Mount Seymour

Brockton Level will at all times maintain a particular place in my coronary heart as I received engaged simply previous Brockton Level in one in all my favorite locations for free tenting in Vancouver.

Brockton Level is a brief winter hike on Mount Seymour that takes you alongside the ski space and uphill to some improbable views over downtown Vancouver and out in direction of Grouse Mountain.

You may proceed the hike as much as the First Peak on the Mount Seymour Path, Pump Peak if you want.

Nonetheless, you have to be conscious that this passes by means of avalanche terrain. Don’t attempt to reduce the hike shorter by taking the direct line as much as Pump Peak as that is the place avalanches can occur.

As a substitute, take the marked winter route and rethink this hike if the avalanche circumstances are increased than reasonable.

From the height of Pump Mountain, you not solely get nice views of downtown Vancouver, however you get 360-degree views throughout you. It’s one in all my favorite views from hikes on the North Shore.

Although I’ve finished this hike each in direction of the beginning and tail-end of winter. I’ve by no means been to Pump Peak in mid-winter. Nonetheless, once I’ve been to Brockton Level, I’ve normally been grateful to have snowshoes with me (whether or not I used them the entire method or not).

Brockton Level and Pump Peak are additionally tremendous well-liked for ski touring close to Vancouver too.

• Distance: 7 km (to Pump Peak)
• Length: 4 hours
• Issue: Average

Canine Mountain

A neater hike with nice views at Mt Seymour is Canine Mountain.

Canine Mountain is a brief stroll with out a lot elevation that takes you previous a few lakes (although they’ll be lined in snow in winter) and out in direction of a rocky space with some nice views of downtown Vancouver and Burnaby.

This path will get numerous guests, and you’ll normally solely want microspikes for this winter hike close to Vancouver.

• Distance: 5 km
• Length: 2 hours
• Issue: Straightforward

For the 22/23 winter season, you will have a day-use move to entry Mount Seymour and Brockton Level. Passes will be booked from 7 am, two days earlier than your deliberate go to. Cancelled passes are added again to the checklist to e book so you can e book a cancellation. You may solely e book one AM/PM/All-day move per day. you don’t want a move you probably have a ski ticket for Seymour. Book your pass here.

Hollyburn Mountain

One among my favorite winter hikes in Vancouver is Hollyburn Mountain. Hollyburn Mountain up close to the Cypress Ski Space is a well-liked route that provides nice views of The Lions in addition to some views of downtown Vancouver as you hike again down.

It’s a preferred route for snowshoeing and ski touring in Vancouver. It’s essential take care to start out from the small path off the highway to the Nordic Ski Space, reasonably than from the bottom of the Nordic space. In the event you begin from the Nordic space you will have to pay the path charge for this hike.

There are fairly a couple of false summits alongside the way in which however you’ll know once you’re on the prime as you merely can’t go any additional and also you get unimaginable views!

• Distance: 7 km
• Length: 3-4 hours
• Issue: Average

Black Mountain & Eagle Bluffs

Yet one more winter hike at Cypress is the Black Mountain and Eagle Bluffs Path. This hike is well-liked with ski tourers and each skiers and hikers use the identical path on the way in which up.

This hike begins out very steeply whilst you climb alongside (not on) the ski path. When you’ve reached the highest of the ski path and Black Mountain, the path flattens out considerably.

Whilst you do get some views from Black Mountain, they’re not so good as from Eagle Bluffs so I like to recommend persevering with to Eagle Bluffs.

You’ll then stroll deeper into the forest earlier than descending to a rocky outcrop which is called Eagle Bluffs.

From Eagle Bluffs, you get nice views of the Howe Sound and down in direction of Horseshoe Bay.

• Length: 8 km
• Distance: 3-4 hours
• Issue: Average

Snowshoe Grind at Grouse Mountain / Dam Mountain

The Snowshoe Grind at Grouse Mountain is the resort’s reply to the Grouse Grind for the winter season.

This steep winter hike is certainly a exercise (particularly in snowshoes) however is a superb substitute for the Grouse Grind which is closed in winter.

Begin by taking the Grouse gondola as much as the highest after which once you arrive search for the orange SSG markers.

You’ll see a timer chip the place you possibly can observe your time if you want. Then, it’s merely a case of simply following the markers as you make your method up the snowshoe grind and the summit of Dam Mountain.

In the event you’re doing this hike earlier than or after the ski space has closed for the season, you can too hyperlink up Dam Mountain with a hike over to Thunderbird Ridge which is one other superior viewpoint.

• Distance: 4.3 km
• Issue: Straightforward-moderate
• Length: 1 hour

Elfin Lakes

A basic winter hike in Vancouver, Elfin Lakes is without doubt one of the greatest trails close to Squamish for snowshoers or ski tourers. It’s simple to see why it’s top-of-the-line day hikes from Vancouver.

The path is lengthy and can take all day, however the views when you get previous Crimson Heather Hut are properly well worth the effort.

Elfin Lakes is in Garibaldi Provincial Park and the highway as much as the car parking zone is a logging highway which is tremendous snowy in winter. You’ll possible want snow chains to make it up the highway and a 4×4 or good AWD car. At sure occasions throughout winter, BC Parks employees might be checking to make sure you have snow chains on you.

Whereas this path is 22 km lengthy, there aren’t any tremendous steep sections. You may as well simply go so far as Cowboy Ridge previous Crimson Heather Hut for those who don’t wish to go all the way in which right down to the lakes.

Snow on the Elfin Lakes path lasts into summer season and so you must pack your micro spikes for those who’re doing this hike any time earlier than July.

After I hiked Elfin Lakes in late April, the path was principally lined in snow from Crimson Heather Hut and the campsites have been buried below snow. The lakes have been simply beginning to thaw out and have been essentially the most unimaginable glacial blue color!

If you wish to begin winter tenting, camping at Elfin Lakes is an effective place for it. The Elfin Lakes shelter hasn’t been in operation for a number of years and it’s unclear whether or not it’s going to reopen.

In the event you’ve beforehand hiked Elfin Lakes in the summertime, the path in winter is totally different, so don’t depend on your earlier map or route discovering. This can be a path I counsel you at all times have snowshoes for throughout winter, even for those who don’t want them the entire method.

• Distance: 22km
• Length: 6-8 hours
• Issue: Tough (as a result of size, not elevation)

Garibaldi Lake

One other full-day winter hike close to Vancouver is Garibaldi Lake. A brilliant well-liked hike in the summertime (and one in all my favourites!), Garibaldi Lake can also be an incredible winter hike the place you’ll really feel as if you’re in a magical winter wonderland.

The stroll on the switchbacks by means of the forest isn’t at all times essentially the most thrilling, and also you’ll have to observe for skiers coming down, however you may get some nice views from the Barrier Lake lookout.

Relying on precisely when in winter you’re doing this hike, Garibaldi Lake will almost definitely be frozen over so that you gained’t see that lovely blue color.

Nonetheless, you possibly can nonetheless take pleasure in views of the encircling mountains all lined in snow.

Additionally, remember that Rubble Creek Highway shouldn’t be at all times ploughed and should require snow chains to drive up it.

You must also have expertise in winter mountain climbing and avalanche coaching as circumstances up at Garibaldi Lake will be harmful.

• Distance: 18 km
• Length: 6-8 hours
• Issue: Average, however lengthy

Windy Joe in Manning Park

For one thing a bit additional away, you can attempt a snowshoe hike to Windy Joe in Manning Park.

That is one other lengthy hike with a good bit of elevation acquire, however you get superb views on the prime of Windy Joe. Plus, there’s a cool fireplace cabin there which you’ll be able to go inside to take pleasure in your lunch and benefit from the views throughout.

This can be a winter hike close to Vancouver that you just’ll undoubtedly need snowshoes for because it’s not tremendous trafficked and also you’ll most likely discover some comfortable patches the place snowshoes will assist.

There are many snowshoeing trails in Manning Park and Manning Park Resort however this needs to be one of many snowshoeing and winter mountain climbing trails in Manning Park with the very best mountain views.

For one thing simpler, take a snowshoe round Lightning Lakes.

• Distance: 15.8 km
• Length: 4-6 hours
• Issue: Average-Strenuous

Artist’s Level in Mt Baker

Fancy a visit throughout the border? One among my favorite winter hikes close to Vancouver is definitely in Washington close to Mt Baker!

The Artist’s Level snowshoe is such a lovely winter hike and simply one of many greatest winter hikes in Washington.

It’s not too tough, although there are some uphill climbs, and also you get unimaginable mountain views just about the entire method.

Whenever you attain the highest, you’ll get views of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan in entrance of you.

It’s a busy path because it’s neither too laborious nor too lengthy. However you’ll nonetheless have the ability to discover a spot close to the highest of Artist Level to benefit from the views in peace.

• Distance: 6.3 km
• Length: 2-3 hours
• Issue: Average

FAQs on the very best Vancouver hikes in winter

Final Up to date on March 18, 2023 by Hannah