If you’ve completed all our great neighbourhood walks around downtown Vancouver and are looking for something slightly further afield, you have a huge number of options to choose from. As I’m sure you’ll be aware Vancouver, British Columbia, is surrounded by stunning mountains, offering numerous hiking opportunities close to downtown.  In addition, there are some very large green spaces in the suburbs. Here are five popular hikes near Vancouver, along with the best times to go and notable features of each.

Grouse Grind (aka Grouse Mountain)

Best Time to Go

Spring to Fall (May to October)

Key Facts

2.9km one way (take the gondola back down), 853m elevation gain, 1 to 2 hours hiking time.

Notable Features

Known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” Grouse Grind is a challenging trail that ascends Grouse Mountain. It’s popular among locals and visitors for its steep incline and panoramic views of Vancouver at the top. The trail is closed during winter due to snow and icy conditions but when it is open, it is not to be missed. Once you start, there is only one way to go, and that is up – burning thighs all the way.

Stawamus Chief (aka The Chief)

Best Time to Go

Spring to Fall (April to October)

Key Facts

Granite cliff face rising approximately 702 meters (2,303 feet) above the surrounding landscape.

Notable Features

Located in nearby Squamish, often viewed from the Sea to Sky highway, The Chief offers three peaks (First, Second, and Third Peak) with varying difficulty levels. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of Howe Sound, Squamish, and surrounding mountains from the summits. It’s a popular spot for hiking and rock climbers as well, with over 300 routes.

Lynn Canyon Park

Best Time to Go

Spring to Fall (April to October)

Key Facts

Approximately 250 acres and offers over 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) of hiking trails.

Notable Features

Lynn Canyon Park offers several hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The park is known for its suspension bridge, which offers thrilling views of Lynn Creek and lush forest below. Hikers can explore trails leading to waterfalls, swimming holes, and old-growth forests.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Best Time to Go

Year-round

Key Facts

874 hectares (2,160 acres) of forested land. It offers over 78 kilometers (48 miles) of trails.

Notable Features

Located near the University of British Columbia, Pacific Spirit Regional Park offers a network of forested trails ideal for leisurely walks or invigorating hikes.

The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including lush temperate rainforest and wetlands. It’s a great place for birdwatching and enjoying nature close to the city.

 

 

 

Mount Seymour Provincial Park

Best Time to Go

Spring to Fall (June to October for higher elevations)

Key Facts

Approximately 35,000 hectares (86,500 acres) of rugged wilderness. The park offers a network of hiking trails totalling over 100 kilometers (62 miles) in length, ranging from easy walks to challenging summit hikes.

Notable Features

Mount Seymour Provincial Park offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging summit hikes. Popular trails include Dog Mountain and Mystery Lake, both offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Burrard Inlet. In winter, the park is a popular destination for snowshoeing and skiing.

 

These hikes near downtown Vancouver offer diverse experiences, from challenging ascents to leisurely strolls, and each provides unique opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Vancouver area. However, if you are a tourist with a good level of fitness, and you just have one day to do something outside of downtown, we recommend The Grind. It’s a Vancouver institution!