Categories > Guides and Tips
11 Unbelievable Hiking Trails in or Near Vancouver That You Need to Conquer
My friends and I growing up always talked about finding the perfect adventure—something that pushed us just enough but left us in awe of where we’d ended up.
Hiking became that escape. There’s something about walking through towering forests, reaching a summit, and just standing there, letting the view sink in.
Vancouver is packed with trails that do exactly that. Whether you want an easy stroll with ocean views or a grind that leaves your legs shaking but your heart full, there’s a hike for every kind of adventurer.
So, here are some of the best trails that’ll make you fall in love with the outdoors all over again. Without further ado, let’s get this list started!
Garibaldi Lake Trail
Media from _punchy_
Address: British Columbia 99, Brackendale
Contact Details: +18006899025
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: $
Website
The first part of this particular hike feels like a never-ending climb through switchbacks, but patience pays off. Once the trees start thinning, the view opens up, and you realize why this trail is one of Vancouver’s best.
Garibaldi Lake sits at the top, a bright turquoise stretch of water surrounded by mountains. After the long trek up, it’s the perfect spot to rest, refuel, and take in the scenery.
If stopping here isn’t enough, side trails lead to even better views. Camping overnight is also an option if you want to wake up to one of the most incredible backdrops in the region.
Good shoes are a must, and don’t forget layers—the temperature can drop fast. The water may look tempting, but it’s glacier-fed, so it’ll wake you up real quick.
Pro Tip: Head up in the fall for fewer crowds and even better views. The changing leaves add a whole new layer to the hike.
Stanley Park Inner Loop
Media from fidehr.j12
Address: Stanley Park
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Website
Walking through Stanley Park feels like stepping into a different world, even though you’re right in the city. The Inner Loop takes you through quiet forested paths, open green spaces, and some of the best waterfront views in Vancouver.
The wide, well-maintained trails make it an easy walk, perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon. Along the way, you’ll pass giant cedar trees, gardens, and even a few hidden viewpoints.
Unlike the Seawall, this loop takes you into the heart of the park, away from the busier tourist spots. It’s a good choice if you want a peaceful walk but still want to see a mix of landscapes.
Biking is also an option if you want to cover more ground. No matter how you explore, the mix of nature and city skyline makes this hiking trail a must.
Pro Tip: Try going there early for a quieter walk and a chance to see wildlife like herons and raccoons before the crowds roll in.
Sunset Beach to Second Beach Hiking Trail
Media from sunsetbeachclub
Address: Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Website
This walk connects two of Vancouver’s best waterfront spots with a trail that’s as easy as it is scenic. The path follows the coastline, giving you nonstop views of the ocean, mountains, and city skyline.
There are plenty of places to stop along the way, whether you want to sit on a bench or dip your feet in the sand. Sunset Beach is usually quieter, while Second Beach has a pool, picnic areas, and more people.
The trail is flat and paved, making it accessible for walking, running, or biking. It’s a good choice if you want something low-effort but still packed with great views.
If you time it right, the sunset here is one of the best in the city. Grab a coffee or bring a snack—it’s the kind of walk that’s worth taking slow.
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket and stay at Sunset Beach after your walk. The sunset over English Bay is one of the best ways to end the day.
Vancouver Family-Friendly Walking Tour
Media from vanconventions
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Contact Details: +16046898232
Opening Hours: Weekdays 8 AM–4:30 PM
Entrance Fees: Free
Website
Exploring the city on foot doesn’t have to be exhausting, and this route proves it. The trail is easy to follow, flat, and packed with interesting stops that keep things fun for all ages.
Along the way, you’ll pass by parks, playgrounds, and plenty of spots to take a break. It’s a great way to spend quality time outdoors without straying far from the city’s amenities.
The total distance is manageable, so you won’t have to worry about little ones getting too tired. Plus, there are numerous cafes and restrooms along the route to keep everyone comfortable.
Pro Tip: Pack some snacks and a picnic blanket. There are several ideal spots to stop and enjoy a family picnic with beautiful views.
Vancouver Seawall
Address: Vancouver
Contact Details: +16046822222
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Website
The False Creek section of the Seawall gives you one of the best walks in the city without much effort. The paved path runs along the waterfront, with a mix of skyline views, marinas, and green spaces along the way.
Benches and open areas make it easy to take breaks, whether you want to sit by the water or grab a coffee from a nearby café. The steady stream of walkers, joggers, and cyclists gives the trail a lively feel without making it overwhelming.
You’ll pass Granville Island, Science World, and plenty of spots to stop for food or drinks. If you don’t feel like walking the whole way back, the Aquabus ferry is an easy way to switch things up.
Pro Tip: Walk this route around sunset for some of the best city views. The light reflecting off the water makes it one of the most scenic spots in Vancouver.
BCMC Trail
Media from zedroyale
Address: North Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Some hikes ease you in, but BCMC doesn’t waste time. Right from the start, it’s a steep climb through thick forest, making every step count.
As you ascend, you’ll navigate a variety of terrains, including rocky sections and root-laden paths, which require careful footing. The trail is well-marked, with signs indicating your progress, helping you pace yourself during the climb.
Upon reaching the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding areas, making the effort worthwhile. The trail ends near the Grouse Mountain chalet, where you can rest and refuel before heading back down.
Pro Tip: Take the gondola down if your legs are shot. It saves your knees and gives you one last view before you head back.
Bowen Lookout Trail
Media from charliebrowngoldenretriever
Address: West Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
This hike doesn’t take long, but the Bowen Lookout Trail will make you really work for the view. The trail starts off easy, winding through the forest before climbing steadily with switchbacks.
Switchbacks make up most of the ascent, cutting through dense trees before opening up. When you finally step out onto the lookout, the view of Howe Sound is unbeatable.
This is a solid hike if you want something quick but still rewarding. It’s steep in sections, but nothing too technical, making it a good option for different skill levels.
Pro Tip: Snow sticks around in the colder months, so microspikes help a lot. If you go at sunset, bring a headlamp for the way down.
Pump Peak
Address: North Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
We can’t count how many trails we’ve encountered that lead you to quite a slippery slope, but this one gets straight to the point. The steep ascent starts early, weaving through thick forest before opening up to rocky terrain.
Snow sticks around for most of the year, so be ready for icy sections even when the sun’s out. The final push to the summit is short but steep, with a few scrambles before you reach the top.
Once you’re up there, the views stretch over Vancouver, the ocean, and surrounding peaks. It’s a solid workout, but the kind that leaves you feeling accomplished when you finally catch your breath.
Pro Tip: Bring microspikes in the winter. The last section gets slippery, and the extra grip makes a big difference.
Burnaby Mountain Park Loop
Media from williamjoy
Address: 100 Centennial Way, Burnaby
Contact Details: +16042947450
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Website
This trail gives you a little bit of everything—forest paths, open viewpoints, and quiet side trails that make you forget you’re still in the city. The loop connects several smaller trails, so you’re always walking through something new.
Some sections are steep, but they don’t last long, making this a solid choice for an easier but still active hike. There are plenty of spots to stop and take in the views, especially near the top where you can see downtown Vancouver and Burrard Inlet.
The mix of paved and dirt trails means you can hike it year-round without much trouble. Even if you’ve been here before, taking different routes through the park keeps it interesting.
Pro Tip: Check out the totem poles and Japanese cherry trees near the top. In the spring, the blossoms make the area even better.
Twin Falls Loop
Media from gracefulspiritdreams
Address: North Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
Waterfall hikes always have a way of making the effort feel worth it, and this one is no different. The trail takes you through mossy forest paths before bringing you right up to the falls.
Bridges and wooden walkways make the route feel more like an adventure than just a walk in the woods. The water crashes down between the rocks, and if you time it after some rain, the flow is even more impressive.
It’s a quick loop, so you don’t need to set aside a whole day, but the scenery makes it feel like you’re deeper into nature than you actually are. Some sections can get slick, so good shoes help a lot.
Pro Tip: Go early in the morning if you want the falls to yourself. Later in the day, it gets busy with people stopping for photos.
Kennedy Falls
Media from vancouvertrails
Address: North Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fees: Free
This trail doesn’t make things easy, but that’s part of the appeal. Right from the start, you’ll be stepping over tangled roots, crossing small creeks, and navigating some seriously muddy sections.
One of the most striking features along the way is a towering old-growth cedar, a rare giant that’s been standing for centuries. The trail keeps its rough, unmarked feel until you finally hear the roar of Kennedy Falls in the distance.
The waterfall itself is hidden deep in the forest, cascading over rugged rock with no crowds or fences in sight. It’s the kind of spot that feels like you stumbled onto something few people get to see.
Pro Tip: Bring waterproof shoes and extra socks. The trail stays wet year-round, and you’ll be stepping through more than a few puddles.
