Editor’s note: In honor of Canada Day, we share a few of our favorite hikes near Vancouver. Americans can’t cross the border right now, but you can add these to your wish list!
Like Seattle, Portland and other great Northwest cities, Vancouver, B.C., is a gem of a city surrounded by natural beauty.
As such, it’s easy to dash out for day hike almost anytime throughout the year. And because the nearby nature is so stunning, it’s not hard to feel like you’re in the middle of the wilderness and not just an hour or two from the city.
For some of the best hikes in and around Vancouver, check out any or all of these on your next trip.
Garibaldi Lake — If you’re itching for a jaw-dropping alpine lake surrounded by mountains and fed by glaciers, Garibaldi Lake is calling your name. It’s long — about 12 miles roundtrip — and you’ll gain more than 2,600 feet going up, but once you get there, you’ll see why every step was worth it.
Distance: 12 miles roundtrip
Season: Summer and fall
Tunnel Bluff — This one starts out steep but levels off nicely and offers quick glimpses of nearby peaks and the Howe Sound off in the distance. Once you arrive at the actual Tunnel Bluffs, the vista is nothing short of awe-inspiring. When the clouds are forgiving, you’ll take in everything from the islands in Howe Sound to the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
Distance: 5 miles roundtrip
Season: Spring through late fall
Lighthouse Park — You won’t have to go far to hit the trails of Lighthouse Park, forested park with a real lighthouse in West Vancouver. The old growth forest here is sliced through with about six miles of easy walking trails which lead throughout the park and to the shore and lighthouse.
Distance: Varies
Season: All year
Quarry Rock — Hike through the trees above Deep Cove in North Vancouver to this scenic overlook, which offers an ideal place to relax and take in the mountain views above and the maritime traffic — mostly small boats — down below.
Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip
Season: All year
Mount Seymour — This is one of those hikes that will take you to the edge of the wilderness while keeping you somewhat close to the city. The trail climbs up multiple peaks, each of which offers its own unique viewpoint, and tops out on a rocky summit that takes in far-off mountains, valleys and Vancouver Island.
Distance: 5.5 miles roundtrip
Season: All year
Image: Garibaldi Lake by stockstudioX
Tags: near vancouver, vancouver hikes, wilderness
