Top Hiking Trails in Metro Vancouver
One of the best things about living in the Lower Mainland is hiking. Whether you live north or south of the Fraser, there is always a great hike only minutes away from you.
We’ve selected our top picks for hikes that are great for beginners that want to take on a more serious trail.
North Shore: Hollyburn Mountain
Hollyburn Mountain is the perfect half-day hike. Plus, it’s only 45 minutes away by car.
This 7-kilometre hike gains 450 metres of elevation as you climb.
Enjoy stunning views all the way to the peak! You can see Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, and the Lions.
As well, dogs are welcome, but they must be on a leash!
Ridge Meadows: UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest
The UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest is near Maple Ridge.
Maintained by the Faculty of Forestry at UBC, it is open from February to November.
There are many options for trails to hike here. Maps are available for pick up at the office building by the gate to the park.
Unfortunately, the park is not dog-friendly.
Fraser Valley: Abby Grind
While not as steep as the Grouse Grind, the Fraser Valley’s Abby Grind stands its ground.
This hike gains 320 metres of elevation up 2 kilometres. In total, it is a 1.5-hour, 4-kilometre round trip.
The halfway point of the Abby Grind is in one of the steepest sections of the route. We recommend going up the steep section until the trail levels off. Here, there is more room to breathe.
But once you get to the top, the amazing views of the Fraser Valley reward you.
Howe Sound: Sea To Summit Trail
This steep hike starts at the bottom of the Sea to Sky Gondola. It ends at the Summit Lodge at the top.
The Sea to Sky Summit is 7.5 kilometres just one way. Don’t worry, there’s a gondola to take you back down at the end. Be sure you have money, or a pass, for the gondola.
It is well-marked with Sea To Summit signs. Just keep following those signs on the trees to stay on the path.
Tri-Cities: Swan Falls
This hike is north of Port Moody and about an hour away from Vancouver by car. It’s on the east side of Buntzen Lake.
This hike takes 3.5 hours and is a 10-kilometre round trip. While most of the trails at the lake are dog-friendly, this path is not.
Watch out – this rugged trail is difficult in sections! Be sure you’re wearing the proper trail shoes for this kind of hike.
Trail Runners vs. Trail Hikers
Not sure what kind of shoes you should get for your outdoor adventures? See the differences between trail runners and trail hikers.
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