10 Best Winter Hikes Near Vancouver, British Columbia
Hiking in winter is a delightful way to enjoy the great outdoors. Metro Vancouver, Whistler area and the Lower Mainland have no shortage of incredible trails to discover. While cold weather keeps bugs at bay and large predators asleep in their dens, the importance of safety and respecting nature and the elements remain critical; particularly with the limited daylight hours and cold temperatures of the winter season.
Hiking in winter can be snow-free at some of the urban hiking destinations, but always be ready for weather to change—and never underestimate the mountains. Bring essential hiking gear, including winter hiking boots with good tread, trekking poles and microspikes/crampons and/or snowshoes. Be prepared by leaving behind a detailed trip plan, carry avalanche/emergency winter gear, a recently replenished first-aid kit and ensure you have the proper training before venturing into the backcountry.
Dog Mountain, Mount Seymour
Distance: 5.6 km
Time: 1-3 hours
Elevation Gain: 165 m
A personal favorite, the hike to Dog Mountain is very popular, particularly with families, as it’s fairly easy and short, and ends with a scenic vista. This trail can get quite busy, which can compact the snow, creating slippery mounds and icy patches. Dogs are allowed on-leash, and you’re likely to meet more than a few four-legged hiking buddies on your trek. Pack a picnic to enjoy while admiring the city views from the summit, and don’t forget to pack out your garbage.
Where can I find this trail? Park in the Mount Seymour parking lot. The trail starts at the bottom of Mystery Peak, at the BC Parks sign.
Dinkey Peak, Mount Seymour
Distance: 2.4 km
Time: 30 min-1 hour
Elevation Gain: 96 m
This short loop trail shares its start with the Dog Mountain trail, but heads north, in the opposite direction, connecting at First Lake before looping back. Snow can remain on the trail well into early summer. Dinkey Peak offers great southwest views including Suicide Bluffs and the Search and Rescue Cabin. The First Lake Overlook is also accessible along this trail.
Where can I find this trail? Park in the Mount Seymour parking lot. The trail starts at the bottom of Mystery Peak, at the BC Parks sign.
Grouse Mountain Light Walk, North Vancouver
Distance: 1.5 km
Time: 30 – 45 minutes
Elevation gain: minimal
A fun walk to do with the littles in the family. This short winter walk through an illuminated pathway on Grouse Mountain loops around the Blue Grouse Lake through a forest of snow-covered pines light up with bright fairy lights. Good shoe treads and microspikes may be needed if there’s been recent snowfall or conditions are icy.
Where can I find this trail? Ride the Skyride gondola up to Grouse Mountain summit and follow the signs.
Bowen Lookout, West Vancouver
Distance: 4.3 km
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Elevation Gain: 110 m
This is a moderate winter hiking trail with a steep climb that offers the lure of scenic views across Howe Sound to Bowen Island. The relatively short Lookout Trail is popular with families. Be sure to pack a headlamp for the return journey, should you wish to catch a stunning winter sunset.
Where can I find this trail? Park in Cypress Mountain parking lot and look for the Howe Sound Crest Trail sign.
St. Mark’s Summit, Cypress Provincial Park
Distance: 11 km roundtrip
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 460 m
This experts-only winter hike offers stunning views of Howe Sound and Vancouver Island. Part of the Howe Sounds Crest Trail, St. Mark’s Summit is a popular hiking trail that can be hiked in light snow with microspikes, conditions permitting. In wintertime, the trail can be very dangerous, so only adventurers who are well-experienced, well-equipped and well-educated in avalanche safety should attempt this trek. Steep sections that invite care and caution. The trail is not maintained by BC Parks in winter.
Where can I find this trail? Park in Cypress Mountain parking lot and look for the Howe Sound Crest Trail sign.
Hollyburn Peak via Winter Access Trail, West Vancouver
Distance: 7 km roundtrip
Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 415 m
This is a busy trail with a decent elevation gain, making for a great outdoor workout. The wide trail permits social distancing and features a waterfall attraction, as well as 360-degree views at the summit. Dogs are permitted on leash.
Where can I find this trail? Park in Cypress Provincial Park lot (towards Nordic ski area) and look for the BC Parks sign board.
Lightning Lake Loop, Manning Park
Distance: 8.5 km
Time: 2.5 hours
Elevation Gain: Minimal
This is a stunning winter loop trail through snow-covered pine forests around Lightning Lake in E.C. Manning Provincial Park. Hikers can do a shortened loop by crossing the Rainbow Bridge at its narrowest point. The peaceful forested trail offers views of the lake and the adjacent hills, including Frosty Mountain. Dogs are permitted on-leash. You will likely want snowshoes and/or microspikes.
Where can I find this trail? From Vancouver, take Highway 1 eastbound towards Hope. Take the Highway 3 (Crowsnest) exit to Manning Park and drive towards Lightning Lake day use area.
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, Squamish
Distance: 2 km roundtrip
Time: 30 minutes
Elevation Gain: 55 m
This is a picturesque and easy winter hike approximately 25-minutes north of Squamish. The well-defined trail leads over a wooden bridge to Brandywine Falls. It’s dog and family friendly, and a great spot to stretch the legs on route to or from Whistler.
Where can I find this trail? Trail begins at the parking lot of Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, off of Highway 99.
Yew Lake Trail, Cypress Provincial Park
Distance: 2.3 km roundtrip
Time: 1 hour
Elevation Gain: minimal
Located in West Vancouver, this easy, enjoyable loop trail passes by picnic tables and benches on which you can stop, sit, sip hot chocolate and enjoy the snow-filled views. The trail is flat and easy to follow, but you may want microspikes or snowshoes in the winter. Along the trail, you’ll find educational signs that describe the old-growth trees and flora in the area.
Where can I find this trail? The trail can be accessed from the Cypress Mountain parking lot. Walk past the lodge, following the signs.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver
Distance, Elevation Gain and Time: Varies by trail
The large greenspace between Vancouver and UBC is filled with over 55 kilometers of trails to explore. The Camosun Bog trail is a favorite with families, as its interpretive signage and boardwalks are fun and educational. Walk down the steps from SW Marine Drive to Wreak Breach and along the Fraser River on the Foreshore Trail or discover the Canyon Trails and access Spanish Banks beaches on the north side of the park.
Where can I find this trail? Depending on your trail choice, bike to on park on Camosun, SW Marine or Chancellor Boulevard.
