The most spectacular trips are often ones that are in popular or fragile places, so they often have reservation systems in place. And nothing sucks more than finding out a trip you want to do is booked up! Put these dates in your calendar! (Or if you’re like me, agonize over which trip to pick since they all sound amazing!)

I’ve got reservation dates for trips in British Columbia including Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Area, the BC Interior, and the Canadian Rockies (including some places that are technically in Alberta). Plus I’ve also got details on how to reserve and my top tips for getting those hard-to-get reservations.

Not sure how to make a reservation? I got you! Read my guide to Making Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC.

Didn’t get a reservation? No worries! Read my guide to Backpacking in BC Without Reservations. Or use an app like Campnab or Schnerp. Read my guide to camping cancellation apps to find out how they work and which one I recommend.

This post includes details on reservations for:

Vancouver Island backcountry reservations:

• West Coast Trail (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Keeha Beach (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve)

Sea to Sky backcountry reservations:

• Watersprite Lake (near Squamish)
• Garibaldi Provincial Park (Garibaldi Lake, Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake, Wedgemount Lake, and Russet Lake
• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (near Pemberton)
• Tenquille Lake (near Pemberton)

BC Interior backcountry reservations:

• E.C. Manning Provincial Park (Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds)
• Eva and Jade Lakes (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
• Hermit Meadows (Glacier National Park)
• Bowron Lake Circuit (Bowron Lakes Provincial Park)

Rocky Mountains backcountry reservations:

• Lake O’Hara (Yoho National Park)
• Yoho National Park (Iceline, Whaleback, Little Yoho, etc.)
• Rockwall Trail (Kootenay National Park)
• Banff National Park (Egypt Lake, Skoki Loop, etc.)
• Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
• Jasper National Park
• Berg Lake (Mount Robson Provincial Park)

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

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West Coast Trail Reservations for 2026

What: This 75km (46.5 mi) trail is full of beaches, coastal rainforest, ladders, and boardwalks. It is probably the most popular multi-day hike in Canada, which is why it is at the top of my list for 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates.

Want more info? I wrote a whole series of posts about the West Coast Trail. Start with my West Coast Trail Guide, then check out my section-by-section overview, itineraries, campground guide, packing list, transportation, and coastal hiking tips posts. The WCT is also featured in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 19, 2026 at 8 am PT Postponed to February 5 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $25.75. There is a $166.75 fee to hike the trail, plus two mandatory $28 ferry crossings and a National Parks entry fee ($11/person /day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia

Keeha Beach Reservations for 2026

What: This beautiful remote sandy beach is near the northern trailhead for the West Coast Trail in Pacific Rim National Park, but isn’t nearly as busy. The trail to get there is only 3.5 km long, but it’s really muddy so expect it to take longer than you think. You can also day hike to the Cape Beale Lighthouse. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park entry fees ($10.50/person/day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. The trail is open from May to September and you must reserve.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. This is probably one of the easiest trips to get a reservation for.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island) Reservations for 2026

What: It’s a short 2 km hike to the waterfront backcountry campground at Narvaez Bay on Saturna Island in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. There are several short day hikes from the campground. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Gulf Islands National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from May to September. The rest of the year all camping is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Watersprite Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A gorgeous ice-blue lake nestled against rocky spires in the remote mountains east of Squamish. The lake became very popular thanks to social media, so starting in 2022 the campground requires reservations. For more info, check out the BCMC website or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip. The campground requires reservations between July 1 and Thanksgiving weekend each year.

Where to Reserve: Online on the BCMC’s Watersprite Lake campground page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Sites are $20/night and must be paid in full at the time of booking to reserve a site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

Garibaldi Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: South West BC’s premiere alpine backpacking destination with several trailheads and campgrounds to choose from. Reservations are required for all the campgrounds as well as the Elfin Lakes Shelter. For more info on trails and destinations, check out my guide to the Elfin Lakes trail, my guide to Russet Lake, or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites and $15 for the Elfin Lakes Shelter. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. Consider booking the slightly less popular Taylor Meadows or Helm Creek campgrounds, and then hiking over to Garibaldi Lake for the day. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: This super-popular lake near Whistler has a backcountry campground next to a glacier lake. It’s a short 5.5km hike from the trailhead, so it’s one of the best easy backpacking destinations close to Vancouver. For more info on the trail, check out my Joffre Lakes hiking guide or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Get my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia – it has all the info you need to backpack to Joffre Lakes

Tenquille Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A beautiful sub-alpine lake near Pemberton BC, surrounded by mountains. It’s a popular location for fishing as well as scrambling the nearby peaks, which are mostly non-technical. The lake has both a cabin and campsites that can be reserved.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online on the Pemberton Wildlife Association’s Tenquille Lake booking page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Camping reservations are $25/tent/night. You can fit up to two tents on each site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes from July 1 to October 31. Tenting outside of those dates is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

E.C. Manning Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

What: There are three campgrounds in Manning Park that require reservations: Buckhorn and Kicking Horse on the Heather Trail and Frosty Creek on the Frosty Mountain Trail. All other backcountry campgrounds in the park are first-come, first-serve.

The Heather Trail is a gorgeous alpine hike along a ridge through wildflower meadows high in the mountains of E.C. Manning Provincial Park. The hike to Buckhorn Camp is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. The hike to Frosty Mountain (the highest peak in the park) heads through a stand of gorgeous larch trees.

For more info on these two trails, check out my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and my Frosty Mountain hiking guide.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available for Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds. (But all other backcountry campground in the park are first-come, first-served.)

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

Eva and Jade Lakes Reservations for 2026

What: This hike starts high on the slopes of Mount Revelstoke in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through wildflower meadows and forest to the shores of Eva Lake, one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. Jade Lake is a few extra kilometres away over a pass. Both lakes have backcountry campgrounds.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Mount Revelstoke National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from June 30 to July 27 and September 18 to October 9 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC

Hermit Meadows Reservations for 2026

What: This steep hike in Glacier National Park is fairly short but has incredible views and alpine meadows. The backcountry campground has an incredible setting.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Glacier National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from July 1 to July 27 and September 18 to October 1 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Lake O’Hara Reservations for 2026

What: Lake O’Hara is a truly spectacular spot set among alpine lakes and hanging valleys in the Rocky Mountains inside Yoho National Park. You can base yourself at the campground or hut and hike the spectacular Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit. You can take a shuttle bus on a private road right to your campsite! If you can’t get a camping reservation, you can also just take the shuttle bus up for the day. For more info and some drool-worthy photos, check out my Lake O’Hara Camping and Hiking Guide.

When to Reserve Camping: January 22, 2026 at 7 am PT Postponed to Feb 10, 2026 at 8 am MT

When to Reserve Day-Use Shuttle Bus: Reservations by lottery. In 2026 the lottery is open for applications between March 2 and 23.

When to Reserve the Hut: Summer hut reservations are by lottery. The summer 2026 lottery is open for applications between December 15, 2025 and January 30, 2026.

Where to Reserve: Reserve camping or enter the day-use shuttle bus lottery on the Parks Canada Reservation site. Submit a lottery application on the Alpine Club of Canada website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost:  Camping Reservations cost $11.50. You’ll also need to pay $12.50/person/night for camping and $17.14/person for the shuttle bus. Bus reservations cost $11.50/reservation for up to 6 people plus $17.14/person. Hut lottery entries cost $15.50 each. Nightly hut fees are $60 per person.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred dates and a few alternates. For better odds, avoid August which is the busiest. If you want to stay in the hut, avoid popular weekends and consider submitting multiple lottery applications.

If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you. (It works for ACC huts too!)

READ NEXT: Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park Backcountry Reservations for 2026

What: Yoho National Park has a network of trails in the Yoho Valley that lead to four backcountry campgrounds. The most popular option is the Yoho Valley Loop that includes the Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The loop includes great views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Yoho National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no first-come, first-served sites.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

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Rockwall Trail Reservations for 2026

What: The premier backpacking destination in Kootenay National Park is the Rockwall Trail.  It’s a 55km multi-day high alpine backpacking route through the Rocky Mountains. It passes by alpine lakes, incredible wildflower meadwos and the famous rockwall with cliffs up to 900m tall. For more information, read my Rockwall Trail Guide.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: Rockwall Trail Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Banff National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Banff National Park backcountry. I recommend Egypt Lake and the Skoki Loop.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Mount Assiniboine Reservations for 2026

What: Nestled at the base of Mount Assiniboine in the Canadian Rockies is a cluster of small lakes, plus tons of hiking trails to gorgeous views. The core area of the park at Lake Magog has a popular BC Parks backcountry campground and rustic backcountry huts. To get there, choose from several different hiking trails or charter a helicopter. I’ve got tons of info in my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide. Note: The info below applies only to the BC Parks campground.

When to Reserve Camping: Up to three months before your trip starting at 7 am PT. (Reservations are required for trips between June 26 and September 30.)

When to Reserve Huts: January 13th, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. MST.

Where to Reserve: For camping, online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850. For huts, via Mount Assiniboine Lodge by phone: 403-678-2883.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: For camping, reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites. For the huts, rates range from $150-$240 per night depending on the size of the cabin (they sleep 5-8 people)

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Jasper National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Jasper National Park backcountry. One of the most popular options is the Skyline Trail.

When to Reserve: January 27, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Berg Lake Reservations for 2026

NOTE: The Berg Lake Trail suffered severe flooding damage in July, 2021. The full trail reopened in 2025 and will be open for summer 2026.

What: The Berg Lake Trail is a 23km backcountry trail into a gorgeous glacier lake in Mount Robson Provincial Park on the BC side of the Rocky Mountains. It’s called Berg Lake since the glacier calves icebergs right into the lake. For more info check out my super detailed guide to hiking the Berg Lake Trail and the BC Parks website.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10/person/night. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers. There are 7 campgrounds on the trail and you need to book your whole itinerary in advance, so be sure to have a few options for first choice, second choice, etc.

Since this trail books up so far in advance, there are often cancellations as people change their minds. Keep checking back to see if spots open up or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Berg Lake Trail

Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit Reservations for 2026

What: The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit connects numerous lakes and rivers through portages to make a roughly square-shaped 116km (72 mi) route. It takes about 6 to 10 days to complete. (Yes I know this is a canoe trip, but it’s a similar wilderness experience and the only canoe trip in BC that requires reservations, so it made the list of BC backpacking reservation dates.) To plan your trip, see my complete Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit paddling guide.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: The reservation fee is $18.00 per vessel (plus tax) and there is also a $60 per person canoe circuit user fee. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: Book online as it is faster and you won’t have to wait on hold. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers.

Know how many canoes and people will be in your party before you make your reservation as only a set number of canoes and people may depart per day.

July and August are the busiest and if you opt for June or September you’ll have much better chances. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations.

READ NEXT: Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit: Paddling in British Columbia

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates for lots of different trips. How many of these hikes have you done already? Tell me in the comments. I’ve done almost all of them.

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Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

BC BACKPACKING TRIP GUIDES:

• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

BACKPACKING TIPS AND ADVICE:

• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• The Best Camping Cancellation Apps: Campnab vs. Schnerp
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• Backpacking for Beginners: Tips for Getting Started
• My book: Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

The post 2026 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this guide to snowshoeing in Squamish, you’ll get info and directions for 9 different trails ranging from super flat beginner trails to all-day epics to deep backcountry wilderness. I’m a Squamish local, so I’ve got the inside scoop on the best places to snowshoe in Squamish.

This guide to snowshoeing in Squamish includes:

• Quick reference guide: An easy overview of the stats for all the trails
• Snowshoeing safety: key info to help get you prepared to snowshoe in Vancouver
• Where to rent snowshoes in Squamish including which shops have the best price
• Snowshoe tours in Squamish: options for going with a guide
• Snowshoe trails in Squamish: details for 10 trails
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing

Looking for other places to snowshoe in BC? Check out these posts about Vancouver-area snowshoe trails:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley
• Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Snowshoeing in Squamish Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from busy ski areas, they access serious wilderness. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Use the great trip planning tools from Adventure Smart.
• Check the weather, trail conditions, and avalanche forecast: If the weather and trail conditions don’t look good, don’t go. Use my list of the best weather apps for hiking. Check the avalanche forecast. Unless you have taken an avalanche safety course, you probably shouldn’t go out unless the forecast is rated “Low”. 
• Wear winter clothing and pack the essentials: Prepare for emergencies by packing the 10 essentials. Read my recommendations for what to wear snowshoeing and tips for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Use safe snowshoeing techniques: Snowshoes keep you from sinking into deep snow, but they aren’t great for walking sideways or downhill – it’s easy to slip and injure yourself. Read up on snowshoeing safety and check out my guide to choosing snowshoes.) They also have crampons and other traction aids underfoot to help grip icy snow.
• Take an avalanche safety course: If you plan to stray from flat terrain, you need avalanche safety training. Avvy Savvy is a great FREE online beginner tutorial on Avalanche.ca. You should also take a 2.5 day AST1 course with avalanche Canada.

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

Snowshoeing at the Sea to Sky Gondola

The easiest place to go snowshoeing in Squamish is at the Sea to Sky Gondola. They have lots of trails to choose from (beginner to expert), and you don’t have to worry about driving on unplowed mountain roads. The only downside is the cost.

Permits/Fees: Day tickets for the gondola are $72. Once you get to the top there are no additional charges for snowshoeing.

If you want to avoid paying for the gondola up, you can hike up the Sea to Summit Trail instead, carrying your snowshoes. (You can take the gondola down for only $19.)

However, in the winter the Sea to Summit Trail sometimes closes due to hazardous conditions and if it’s open, it can be icy and dangerous so you will need crampons and an ice axe. For more information on the Sea to Summit trail including trail closures and conditions, see the Sea to Sky Gondola website.

Dogs: Not permitted on the gondola and on most trails. You can hike up via the Sea to Summit Trail and then snowshoe with your dog on a leash on the Al’s Habrich Ridge, Sky Pilot Valley and Skyline Trail and they must be on leash.

Driving Directions: Drive 50 min from Vancouver to Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot. If you’re coming from Squamish, it’s a 10-minute drive south of downtown. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on highway 99 between October and April.

Transit Access: The Sea to Sky Gondola runs a shuttle service from Vancouver each day. It’s $112 for a combo shuttle and gondola pass, which isn’t a bad deal. Be sure to keep the shuttle schedule in mind when planning which trail to tackle.

Panorama Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This is the Sea to Sky Gondola’s signature trail in both summer and winter. It’s a loop through gently rolling terrain that leads to some great viewpoints. The best one by far is the Chief viewing platform where you can look down to the Chief, the town of Squamish, the Squamish River valley and Howe Sound. Choose a sunny day for this one to really soak up the views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Panorama trail and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Wonderland Lake Loop, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This short and easy loop provides a bit more of a wilderness experience (and sees far fewer tourists) than the Panorama trail. It loops around through rolling terrain and passes several viewpoints. Be sure to take the narrow side Wonder View Spur to the right (south) to get the views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Wonderland Lake Loop and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Shannon Basin Loop, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail follows an old road on a meandering loop that descends to cross Shannon Creek on a bridge, then comes back up to the gondola on a portion of the Sea to Summit Trail. While it does gain over 400m, since it’s on an old roadbed, it’s never very steep. This is the lowest elevation trail at the Sea to Sky Gondola, so in mild weather it may not have enough snow to snowshoe.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Shannon Basin Trail and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Al’s Habrich Ridge, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This backcountry trail travels a few hundred meters on a road before heading off into the forest. It immediately crosses a creek (there is no bridge), then heads uphill through the trees. The trail emerges onto a ridge and follows the crest of the ridge past several great viewpoints. The official winter route stops at the far end of the ridge. Unlike the other snowshoeing trails at the Sea to Sky Gondola, this trail mostly avoids roads and tourist attractions so it feels like real wilderness.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The initial stream crossing can be a bit awkward: The creek doesn’t ice over but the rocks you need to use to hop across are icy. The far bank of the stream is also very steep. Take off your snowshoes to cross the stream and use poles for balance.

Watch carefully for diamond markers in the trees – it can be easy to lose the trail Once on the ridge, stay on the top of the ridge: there is a lot of steep and dangerous terrain if you leave the marked route.

The official winter route stops at the far end of the ridge. The summer trail continues past here and climbs steeply through the trees. It is very difficult to follow and is not well marked. Unless you are an expert in backcountry winter navigation, turn around at the far end of the ridge.

Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: My Al’s Habrich Trail guide has all the info you need. The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Sky Pilot Valley Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail is primarily used by experienced backcountry skiers and mountaineers accessing challenging terrain. But it does follow an old road in a beautiful valley so it is accessible for snowshoers just looking for a winter walk with great views of the surrounding mountains.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Past the end of the marked trail the skiers/climbers route goes steeply uphill into avalanche terrain. The slopes above the road are steep enough to slide – use caution if the avalanche forecast is anything except low. Please be prepared to share the trail with skiers and step aside to let them pass, especially when they are coming downhill. Don’t walk in the ski tracks – leave them intact for the skiers to use. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website. There’s also information on the summer hiking route on the Skyline Pilot Valley Trail. Keep in mind that the winter route only covers the first three-quarters of the trail before turning around.

Skyline Ridge Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail follows an old (and sometimes overgrown) road through the valley before climbing on to the shoulder of Goat Ridge where there are some views. It’s a long way to go in a day, but it is a good option if you’re looking for a challenging trip from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Be sure to stop at the end of the marked trail since route-finding past there will be very difficult and potentially dangerous in the winter.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the the Skyline Ridge Trail and snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Other Places to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

Red Heather/Elfin Lakes, Garibaldi Provincial Park

The Trail: The trail follows an old road for the first 5km to the Red Heather warming hut. Past there, the winter route is marked by reflective bamboo poles that lead another 6km along the undulations of Paul Ridge to the Elfin Lakes Hut. There are great views of the mountains from the ridge. Red Heather hut makes a great destination for shorter day trips.

Going all the way to Elfin Lakes and back is doable in a day but it is challenging. You can also snow camp overnight next to both Red Heather and Elfin Lakes huts, or you can reserve a bunk inside the Elfin Lakes Hut.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger or hazards below Red Heather hut.

After Red Heather hut the trail emerges above treeline on to the ridge. The winter route is placed to minimize avalanche exposure, but the trail does travel through avalanche terrain and on slopes that can slide.

Use caution in these areas and do not attempt this trail if the avalanche forecast is above moderate. Avalanche.ca rates this as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: My Elfin Lakes hiking guide has all the info you need.

Permits/Fees: No permits or fees are required for day trips on the trail in winter. If you want to camp or stay overnight in the Elfin Lakes hut you need to make a reservation and pay backcountry fees. Elfin Lakes Hut is $15/person/night + $6 reservation fee. Camping is $10/person/night + $6 reservation fee.

Dogs: Not permitted in Garibaldi Park.

Getting There: Drive 2 hours from Vancouver to the trailhead. If you’re coming from Squamish, it’s a 45-minute drive. After passing Quest University in Squamish the road turns to gravel and it is not plowed often.

You will need chains and possibly also 4-wheel drive (depending on the conditions) to get up this road in the winter. Cars without chains slip off the road every year and require very expensive tow trucks to get them out. 

The parking lot can fill up on winter weekends so carpool and be prepared to park in the pullouts further down the road and walk up. Don’t park on the shoulder as you will block the narrow road.

READ NEXT: Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

Garibaldi Lake/Taylor Meadows, Garibaldi Provincial Park

The Trail: This snowshoe route follows the usual summer trail up the switchbacks to Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadows. At the 6km the trail forks: left for Taylor Meadows, right for Garibaldi Lake. The trail can be icy lower down and covered in deep snow higher up so you may need to pack both microspikes and snowshoes. (Read my guide to the differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.) It’s a long hike to either destination so be sure to give yourself plenty of time and pack a headlamp in case you end up coming down in the dark.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The switchbacks up to the 6km junction are steep and can be icy. Bring microspikes just in case. Watch for open creek crossings and partially buried bridges. Later in the year Barrier Lake and Lesser Garibaldi Lake on the Garibaldi Lake route freeze over. You can take a shortcut by walking across the lakes. Use extreme caution if you decide to walk on the lakes. 

Avalanche.ca rates the trail as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. The terrain is rated challenging past Taylor Meadows. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

On your descent stay on trail and don’t follow skier descent trails into the Rubble Creek valley. The valley is prone to slides. A snowshoer drowned in Rubble Creek in 2008 after getting lost on the descent.

Trail Map/Guide: You can also find more information on the BC Parks website.

Permits/Fees: No permits or fees are required for day trips on the trail in winter. If you want to camp overnight you need to make a reservation and pay backcountry fees. Camping is $10/night + $6 reservation fee.

Dogs: Not permitted in Garibaldi Park.

Getting There: Drive 1.5 hours from Vancouver to the trailhead. If you are coming from Squamish it’s only 30 minutes. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on highway 99 between October and April.

The road to the trailhead and the parking lot is plowed sporadically. However, it is still a mountain road so winter tires and chains are recommended in case the plow has not been through recently.

Brandywine Falls

The Trail: The flat and easy trail to the Brandywine Falls viewing platform is a great option for snowshoeing near Whistler. If you want to extend your trip, you can snowshoe a portion of the Sea to Sky trail over to the Whistler Bungee Bridge. You can look down into the depths of the Cheakamus River canyon and maybe even watch people bungee jump.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The trail crosses train tracks: use caution. There is no maintained trail down to the base of Brandywine Falls: there is an illegal route that uses a scary old rope to descend a cliff but it travels over slippery rocks and is very icy and dangerous in the winter. No avalanche hazard.

Trail Map/Guide: My Brandywine Falls hiking guide has all the info you need.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Permitted on leash.

Driving Directions: Drive 1.5 hours from Vancouver. It’s only 30 minutes from Squamish. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on Highway 99 between October and April.

Getting There: The park gate is locked in the winter and unfortunately you are not allowed to park on the side of Highway 99. (Your car will get towed.) Unless you get dropped off and picked up, unfortunately the only way to do this snowshoe trip currently is to park at Whistler Bungee on the Cal-Cheak Forest Service Road and walk in from that direction. Whistler Bungee does plow the road but it is rough.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in Squamish

There are lots of summer hiking trails in Squamish that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, are closed in winter, or just don’t have enough consistent snow for good snowshoeing.

Here’s my list of no-go trails for snowshoeing:

• Sea to Summit Trail: Only the last section of the Sea to Summit Trail is high enough to see consistent snow, and it’s steep enough to make microspikes or crampons a safer choice than snowshoes even if there is snow.
• Stawamus Chief: It snows on top of the Chief a few times a year, but it doesn’t usually stick for long since it is not at a high enough elevation. As well, it’s too steep for snowshoes – microspikes are better here.
• Watersprite Lake: The road to Watersprite Lake is not plowed so even with 4×4 and chains, you often have to walk a long distance just to get to the trailhead. The summer trail has significant avalanche hazard, so in winter, you have to use an unmarked route to get to the lake. Watersprite Lake is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training and experience with off-trail winter navigation.

Squamish Snowshoeing FAQ

Final Thoughts

How many of these snowshoe trails have you done? Which is your favourite? Have questions about snowshoeing in Squamish? Hit me up in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Manning Park Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing in Vancouver’s Fraser Valley

Advice for Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking:

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

More Squamish Posts:

• The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)
• 70+ Things to Do in Squamish
• Camping in Squamish, BC: 22 Places to Camp Near Squamish
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• 10 Best Hotels in Squamish

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve done all of these trips, some of them multiple times. I’ve also done lots of other backpacking trips across BC that didn’t make the list, so you can rest assured that these are the best of the best.

For each trip, I’ve got all the details you need to make it happen: difficulty, duration, distance, best time to go, fees, reservations, and links to trail guides.

The trips on this list are:

• Vacation-worthy – you won’t mind travelling a bit to get there
• Located all over BC including near Vancouver, on Vancouver Island, and in Eastern BC including the Rocky Mountains.
• For hikers of all abilities – there are trips for both beginners and experts, and lots in between. (I’ve also got a whole list of Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners.)
• Great for any vacation length from quick overnighters to long-weekend-length trips to week long epics.
• Great for planners or last-minute trips: A few of these trips require reservations, but most do not.

Here’s a handy map I made for you that shows the locations for each of my picks for the best backpacking trips in BC.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Backpacking Trips Near Vancouver

Howe Sound Crest Trail

Duration: 2-4 days

Distance: 31.7 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Howe Sound Crest Trail is very rough and difficult. Honestly, it is more like a route in some places and requires occasional hands-on scrambling moves as you traverse a chain of rocky summits high above Howe Sound near Vancouver. If you’re up for the challenge, the views are worth it.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Watersprite Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 17 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Both the hut and campground require reservations and fees.

The Trail: Watersprite Lake is an Instagram sensation thanks to its ice blue water and dramatic rock tower. We can credit the BC Mountaineering Club for building the trail to the lake along with a cabin and campground. I think it’s one of the best hikes in Squamish.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Make cabin reservations through the BCMC.

Elfin Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 22 km round-trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: Even though the hike to Elfin Lakes is on an old road, it’s worth doing since the views are so incredible. You can see Mount Garibaldi/Nch’kay and lots of glaciers. Its worth spending more than one night at the Elfin Lakes campground or Elfin Lakes Shelter to do some of the great day hikes.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Elfin Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and the hut through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: Located just north of Squamish, Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular backpacking trips in BC. But it’s also one of the most picturesque with tumbling glaciers, alpine meadows, and unique volcanic geology. From the lake, you can tackle incredible day hikes like Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Russet Lake

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 25 to 29 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping and the hut.

The Trail: Nestled into the mountains above Whistler, Russet Lake is home to a backcountry campground and a luxurious hut. There are two ways to get there: a steep trail from the village or an undulating traverse across mountain summits from the top of the Whistler Gondola via the High Note Trail.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my guide to hiking and backpacking at Russet Lake and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• For hut reservations, see the Spearhead Huts Society.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Joffre Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes in summer and early fall. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 10 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for camping.

The Trail: The chain of three Joffre Lakes near Pemberton make up one of the Vancouver area’s most popular day hikes. But leave the day-time crowds behind by scoring a coveted reservation to camp at the Upper Lake. Listen for chunks of glacier crashing down the rocks on warm days. This is also one of my picks for the best easy backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my Joffre Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

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Sunshine Coast Trail

Duration: 8-14 days

Distance: 180 km traverse

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: None.

The Trail: The Sunshine Coast Trail winds through the forests along the length of the upper Sunshine Coast near the town of Powell River. Hike by the ocean, through old-growth forest, and across mountain tops, staying in rustic backcountry huts along the way.

More Info:

• Find details on shorter backpacking trips you can do on sections of the SCT in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• For full details on the trail, pick up a copy of The Sunshine Coast Trail Guide Book by R. E. Walz or visit the Sunshine Coast Trail website.
• Some sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail are hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Heather Trail

Duration: 2 to 5 days

Distance: 45 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required for Buckhorn and Kicking Horse campgrounds. Nicomen Lake Campground is first-come, first-served and fees are required.

The Trail: The Heather Trail is Manning Park’s signature trail. With a start high in the alpine, you stay above treeline in meadows of wildflowers for nearly the entire length. Take a side trip to summit Three Brothers Mountain and dip in chilly Nicomen Lake.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.
• Booking camping and pay fees and through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Frosty Mountain

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 14 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required year-round. Reservations are required between late July and late October.

The Trail: Frosty Mountain is the highest mountain in Manning Park and it has panoramic views. Break up your hike by camping at Frosty Creek camp. Plan your visit for fall when the larch tree needles turn golden.

More Info:

• Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, and my Frosty Mountain trail guide.
• Booking camping and pay fees through BC Parks.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Best Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island

Juan de Fuca Trail

Heads up: The Juan de Fuca Trail will be closed in 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach.

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are required. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

The Trail: The Juan de Fuca Trail is a gorgeous coastal trail is easier to access than the West Coast Trail thanks to first-come, first-served camping and trailheads close to Victoria. But the hike is just as challenging and spectacular, making it easy to include on a list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Juan de Fuca Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The JDF is hikeable all year and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

West Coast Trail

Duration: 5-8 days

Distance: 75 km

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The West Coast Trail is Canada’s premier multi-day backpacking trip. It follows the wild coastline for 75 kilometres, up and down ladders, across cable cars, through mud holes, and along beautiful beaches as it travels between the isolated towns of Port Renfrew and Bamfield.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• The West Coast Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Della Falls Trail

Duration: 2-5 days

Distance: 32 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations or fees are needed for camping. But if you want to take a water taxi to the trailhead, you’ll need to book in advance.

The Trail: Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in BC at 440 m tall. (Some sources claim it’s the tallest waterfall in Canada, but that’s not true.)

The hike starts with a boat trip across Great Central Lake. From there you hike up a river valley to the base of the falls. Allow time for the 6 km side trip to Love Lake where there is an incredible view of the entire waterfall from above.

More Info:

• Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Wild Side Trail

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Easy

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required but you must pay trail fees and water taxi fees.

The Trail: The Wild Side Trail takes you along the shoreline of Flores Island in Ahousaht First Nation territory. Most of the hike is along incredible sandy beaches. The trail is a short water taxi ride from Tofino. This off-the-beaten-path hike doesn’t get many visitors, making it one of the quietest hikes on this list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• The Wild Side Trail opens in May and made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• It’s also on my list of the best easy backpacking trips in BC.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Circlet Lake and Mount Albert Edward

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 31 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Summit Mount Albert Edward, one of the highest peaks on Vancouver Island. On the way, you’ll stay at tiny Circlet Lake. This Strathcona Provincial Park trip starts at Mount Washington and is a rite of passage for many Vancouver Island hikers.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Bedwell Lakes

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Climb steeply up through the forest to emerge on the granite shores of Bedwell and Baby Bedwell Lakes, each with their own campground. Intrepid hikers can continue to isolated Cream Lake, which makes a great day trip destination. The trailhead is in a remote area near Buttle Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Elk River Trail and Landslide Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 22 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: Follow the trail through a beautiful forest alongside the shady Elk River to its terminus at picturesque Landslide Lake and great views of Mount Colonel Foster. There are two campgrounds along the river to choose from. Find the trailhead along the highway to Gold River.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.

Nootka Trail

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Distance: 35 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required. You must pay camping fees. You also need to book in advance for the water taxi or float plane.

The Trail: Arrange a water taxi or floatplane to shuttle you to the Nootka Trail on Nootka Island near Gold River. It’s a remote coastal hike that sees few visitors but has incredible scenery. Highlights include sandy beaches, wolf sightings, Calvin Falls, and the tiny Mowachaht First Nation village of Yuquot.

More Info:

• See my trip report from my Nootka Trail hike. Get details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Pay camping fees to the Mowachaht/Muchalaht Nation
• The Nootka Trail made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

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North Coast Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 43 to 59 km traverse

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. You also need to book the water taxi in advance.

The Trail: The rough and rugged North Coast Trail follows the coastline around the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Start with a water taxi from Port Hardy, then get ready for lots of mud, steep hills with rope assists, and rocky beaches.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The North Coast Trail is a great destination between May and September, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Cape Scott Trail

Duration: 3 days

Distance: 47 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees.

The Trail: The Cape Scott Trail follows an old settler’s route through the muddy forest to the wild beaches at the north end of Vancouver Island. Choose from several campsites on sandy beaches, then day hike out to the Cape Scott Lighthouse.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.
• Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions. For camping fee info, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• The Cape Scott Trail is hikeable all year, so it made my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Best Backpacking Trips in Eastern BC and the Rocky Mountains

Kaslo Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: No reservations required for camping (all campsites are first-come, first-served) but you must pay camping fees. Reservations and fees required for the hut.

The Trail: Hike into the backcountry of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park near Nelson to camp next to Kaslo Lake. Follow beautiful trails through the alpine to viewpoints and peaks. You can also book the palatial Kokanee Glacier Cabin nearby.

More Info:

• See Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park for trail info.
• Pay fees through BC Parks.
• See the Alpine Club of Canada for cabin reservations.

Eva and Jade Lakes

Duration: 2 days

Distance: 12 to 18 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: This alpine hike is easily accessible thanks to the paved Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through the alpine to a beautiful campsite on the shores of Eva Lake, an easy distance for beginners and made my list of beginner-friendly backpacking trips in BC. If you want more solitude, head over a pass to Jade Lake.

More Info:

• Get the details in my Mount Revelstoke National Park guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.

Mount Assiniboine

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Distance: 52 to 55 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees if you camp in Banff National Park on the way to the trail.

The Trail: The scenery at Mount Assiniboine is postcard-worthy, but getting there can be a challenge. The hike itself is long, but not too difficult and the camping at Lake Magog is gorgeous. But it requires reservations in both a BC Park and Banff National Park, which can be tough to arrange.

More Info:

• See my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide for trail info and reservation strategies.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park through BC Parks.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping in Banff National Park on the way to Assiniboine with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Mount Assiniboine Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Rockwall Trail

Duration: 4 to 5 days

Distance: 55 km traverse

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: The spectacular Rockwall Trail traverses the mountains of Kootenay National Park near Banff, climbing up and over several high passes. There are glacier views, alpine lakes, and the best wildflower meadows I’ve ever seen. I think it has the best effort to reward ratio of all the backpacking trips in BC.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Rockwall Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada.
• Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• Join the Rockwall Trail Facebook group for updates on trail conditions.

Yoho Valley Loop/Iceline and Whaleback Trails

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Distance: 29.4 km loop

Difficulty: Challenging

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required. You will also need to pay National Park entry fees.

The Trail: Combine several trails in Yoho National Park near Field to make an epic loop that takes in the spectacular Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The views of nearby peaks and waterfalls are breathtaking. Choose from two backcountry campgrounds along the way.

More Info:

• Get trail details in my Yoho Valley Loop backpacking guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping with Parks Canada. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• This hike is on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Berg Lake

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Distance: 42 km round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and camping fees are required.

The Trail: The incredible Berg Lake Trail near Valemount follows the Robson River uphill to Berg Lake, named for the glaciers crashing into it from Mount Robson, the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Plan to spend a few days in the area to tackle spectacular day hikes.

More Info:

• Get details on this hike in my Berg Lake Trail guide.
• Make reservations and pay fees for camping through BC Parks. Use my guide to making backcountry camping reservations to get ready to book.
• You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.
• It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

BC Backpacking in Your Inbox!

Sign up to receive a bi-monthly newsletter from Taryn at Dawn Outdoors stuffed with the latest on backpacking in BC including:

• conditions reports,
  
• reservation dates,
  
• seasonal trip recommendations,
  
• gear deals,
  
• backpacking news,
• and lots more!

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Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 25 recommendations for the best backpacking trips in BC. How many of these trips have you done? Is there an amazing backpacking destination that I left off the list? Tell me in the comments.

Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

MORE BC BACKPACKING DESTINATIONS:

• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 35+ Places to Go Backpacking in BC Without A Car
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

BC BACKPACKING RESERVATION INFO:

• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know

The post 25 Best Backpacking Trips in BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

This list of the most Instagrammed hikes in Vancouver was first published in February 2017. I update the numbers each year. I’ve run the numbers fresh for 2024… (drumroll please)… and this year the hikes on the list haven’t changed – but their order has a bit. (You’ll still have to read the whole post to see which hike is number 1!)

Tons of people location tag their photos when they go hiking and post them to Instagram. (I know I do!)  So it’s a great way to figure out which Vancouver hikes are the most popular. I scrolled through a lot of hashtags before coming up with this list of the most Instagrammed hikes in Vancouver.

If you’re looking to up your ‘gram game this is the list you need. And if you like solitude, here are the top 10 hikes you should avoid! 

Before you scroll down and read the list, can you guess which hikes made the top 10?

Of course Vancouver isn’t the only city with Instagram-worthy trails. If you’re in San Diego, you have to hike to Potato Chip Rock. Looking for some Instagram inspiration? Check out this huge list of adventure quotes that make great Instagram captions.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

10. Black Tusk

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Trail Info: Black Tusk is an iconic Sea to Sky landmark. (It’s one of the best hikes in Whistler too.) As of 2024, there are 40.6k photos hashtagged #BlackTusk on Instagram (up from 39.4 k in 2023, 38k in 2022, 35.8k in 2021, and 33.7k in 2020).

The trailhead for Black Tusk is the same as for Garibaldi Lake. But instead of going right to the lake, you go left through Taylor Meadows campground and then ascend on loose volcanic rocks above treeline. (Climbing to the top of Black Tusk is technically a scramble or a rock climb, so most people should stop at the base. Get directions and more info in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Stats: Black Tusk is a long, hard hike. It is 29km round trip with 1750m of elevation gain. It takes most people 11 or 12 hours (or you can camp overnight at the Taylor Meadows or Garibaldi Lake campgrounds.)

Where to Get the Shot: As you get close to the base of the Tusk there is a BC Parks sign indicating that you have reached the end of the marked trail. It is not crazy steep in that area so its a popular place to sit down for a snack and take some photos of the incredible view.

9. Stawamus Chief

Trail Info: Between #StawamusChief and #SquamishChief, the Chief (as it is sometimes known) has 46k hashtagged photos on Instagram (up from 44.2 k in 2023, 41.8k in 2022, 37.4k in 2021, and 34.1k in 2020).

Located next door to the Sea to Sky Gondola, it is one of the best hikes in Squamish even though it’s super steep. (It’s the steepest hike on my list of Grouse Grind Alternatives.) You’ll climb up stairs, ladders and even use chains to reach the top where you can look down the sheer cliff face. Get directions and more info on the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park website.

Stats: This steep hike has three peaks to choose from: First Peak 3km round trip with 540m elevation gain; Second Peak 3.4km round trip with 590m elevation gain; Third Peak 1.8km 3.6km round trip with 630m elevation gain. It takes about 2.5 hours to do the first peak, and 5 or 6 hours if you want to do all three.

Where to Get the Shot: You’ll find great locations for photos at the tops of each of the peaks. For the most dramatic shots head to third peak where you can get shots of the other two peaks (and all the tiny hikers on them).

8. Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Trail Info: #GaribaldiLake is one of the best hikes in Whistler and has been drawing Vancouver hikers for years, so it’s no surprise it has 51k hashtagged photos on Instagram (up from 48.7k in 2023, 46.6k in 2022, 42.7k in 2021, and 39.8k in 2020).

The first half of the trail switchback steadily uphill through the forest, then passes by the Barrier and two smaller lakes before finally emerging on the shores of the massive Garibaldi Lake. Get directions and more info in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Stats: It’s an 18km round trip hike with about 900m of elevation gain so allow 6 or 7 hours for the trip.

Where to Get the Shot: Many people take shots on the beach where the trail first enters the campground. However, you can get some more spectacular photos by continuing along the shore past the campground to the ranger’s boat dock.

7. Golden Ears

Heads up: Day passes are required at Golden Ears Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Trail Info: There are tons of short hikes in Golden Ears Provincial Park and the 60k photos on the #GoldenEars hashtag reflects that. (Up from 57.7k in 2023, 54.8k in 2022, 49.8k in 2021, and 44k in 2020.) Golden Ears and Lighthouse Park keep leapfrogging each other in the rankings. Last year Golden Ears was #6, but Lighthouse Park took that spot this year.

But if you want the pinnacle hiking experience, you need to summit Golden Ears. It’s a long hike with a steep climb towards the peak. You’ll pass the emergency shelter on Panorama Ridge before crossing a snowfield to the true summit. Get directions and more info in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Stats: It’s a 24km round trip with 1700m of elevation gain. Allow 12 hours (or consider staying overnight at Alder Flats or Panorama Ridge campgrounds).

Where to Get the Shot: On a clear day the summit and the area around the emergency shelter have great views.

6. Lighthouse Park

Trail Info: There are lots of trails at Lighthouse park, from a simple 10 minute walk on an old road to the lighthouse to longer routes. It’s a popular place, with 60.3k photos hashtagged #LighthousePark. (It had 57.7k photos in 2023, 55.8k in 2022, 49.8k photos in 2021, and 44k in 2020.)

My favourite route involves a loop around the perimeter of the park that visits lots of bluffs with ocean views. You can find a map and directions for this route on my Coastal Hiking in Vancouver post.

Stats: The loop around the park is only 6km but there are plenty of side trails to viewpoints to distract you. And even though there is no real elevation gain, there are many short, steep hills. Allow 3 hours for this hike.

Where to Get the Shot: It depends what you want shots of, as you are spoiled for choice here. For iconic shots of the Lighthouse take the West Beach Trail. For beautiful city shots, go to East Beach. And for views of Howe Sound and Bowen Island go to Juniper Point or Shorepine Point.

5. Quarry Rock

Trail Info: The hike to Quarry Rock is relatively short but has a huge payoff, so it’s no surprise that is fairly popular on Instagram with 64.5k photos hashtagged #QuarryRock. (It had 62k in 2023, 61.4k in 2022, 59.7k in 2021, and 57.9k in 2020.)

The trail heads through the forest and crosses several bridges over fern festooned streams. At the end it emerges on to a big granite bluff with great views of Deep Cove and Belcarra. Get directions and more info on Vancouver Trails and Outdoor Vancouver.

Stats: It’s a short 4km round trip hike with just 100m of elevation gain (although it feels like more). It only takes about 1.5 hours to do the hike.

Where to Get the Shot: The money shot is of course on the granite bluffs of Quarry Rock at the end of the hike. However, there are lots of beautiful forest scenes on the mossy wooden bridges throughout the hike.

4. Panorama Ridge

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Trail Info: At 68.5k hashtagged photos, the success of #PanoramaRidge on Instagram can probably be explained by its particularly epic view. (It had 65.9k in 2023, 62.6k in 2022, 55.1k in 2021, and 45.9k in 2020.)

It’s a long and difficult hike to get there but I think everyone who’s been would agree it’s worth the slog.  Try to time your visit for late July or early August to see the wildflower meadows in bloom along the way.

If the trail is too much for you to tackle in one day, stay overnight at Taylor Meadows or Garibaldi Lake campgrounds. Get directions and more info in my book Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. (Panorama Ridge is one of my favourite trails, and my pick for the top 10 hikes near Vancouver.)

Stats: The 30km round trip to the viewpoint gains about 1520m. Most people hike it in 11-12 hours.

Where to Get the Shot: For views of the lake, head to the very top. If you take the trail to the left along the ridge, you’ll have fewer people trying to get the same shot. For pics of Black Tusk, take them on the way up or at the top.

3. Grouse Grind

Note: The Grouse Grind is closed in winter and during periods of bad weather. See the Grouse Mountain Regional Park website for opening info.

Trail Info: For three years running, the #GrouseGrind was the most Instagrammed hike in Vancouver. But in 2020 it was finally unseated and it’s been dropping in the stats since then – it was second in 2023, but has dropped to third this year. In 2024 it has 78.7k hashtagged photos (compared to 78k in 2023, 76k in 2022, 73.8k in 2021, and 72.2k in 2020).

Many people hike it weekly to stay in shape. It climbs steeply up through the forest on stairs and rocks. (In fact it is often called Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.) There are no views until you emerge from the trees just below the Grouse Mountain Lodge.

You are not permitted to hike down the Grind. Instead you can pay $20 to take the gondola down (and save your knees!) You can find more information on the Grouse Mountain Regional Park website.

Stats: It’s a brutally steep 2.9km hike with over 800m of elevation gain. It takes most people 1.5 to 2 hours to hike. The fittest people run it in under an hour and the all-time record is just 25 minutes!

Where to Get the Shot: The viewpoint just below the lodge is a popular place for sweaty and triumphant selfies. There are also some cheeky motivational signs along the way that make cute photos. (The one that says “Legs, you got this!” is my fave.)

2. Lynn Canyon

Trail Info: If you just want to see the famous Lynn Canyon suspension bridge, it’s only about 100m from the parking lot. Most of the 79.3k photos with the hashtag #LynnCanyon are of the bridge (up from 77k in 2023, 74k in 2022, 71.3k in 2021, and 69.5k in 2020).

But there is lots to see in the area so it’s worth heading out on a short hike. A popular loop route crosses the suspension bridge then heads downstream to the bridge at Twin Falls. Get more info and directions on Vancouver Trails. There are lots of trail options: bring a copy of the trail map and choose your own adventure.

Stats: The short Twin Falls loop is just 1.5km long with less than 100m of elevation gain. It takes about an hour to hike.

Where to Get the Shot: The classic shot is of the suspension bridge, of course. But you can also get great shots at Twin Falls and 30 Foot Pool.

1. Joffre Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Trail Info: It’s no surprise that Joffre Lakes has topped the most Instagrammed hikes in Vancouver rankings since 2020 as it seems like most of Vancouver is up there on long weekends. There are now 98.5k photos hashtagged #JoffreLakes. (In 2023 there were 93.3k. There were 86.7k in 2022. In 2021, there were 79.7k. In 2020, there were 78.4k. There were 63.3k in 2019. In 2018, there were 43.7k photos. And in 2017, there were 25.6k photos. Those are some huge jumps.)

Joffre Lakes is actually just outside of Pemberton, a good 2.5 hour drive from Vancouver. But the three incredible turquoise lakes and glacier views are extremely popular with hikers. The first lake is just 10 minutes from the parking lot. The second lake is a steep uphill hike, and the hike finishes at the third lake where there is a campground.

In the summer, you may need a free BC Parks parking pass. Get more directions and more information in my Joffre Lakes hiking guide.

Stats: It’s a moderate 10km round trip hike to the Upper Lake with about 400m of elevation gain. Allow 4 hours for the hike (but lots more for photos).

Where to Get the Shot: The best views of the glaciers are a short spur trail across the rocks where the main trail first reaches Upper Joffre Lake. Another popular location for photos is the floating log along the shore of the Middle Lake. On sunny weekends there is often a line up of people waiting to walk out on to the log to take photos. (Many people up the difficulty factor by striking a yoga pose).

So there’s the list of the Top 10 Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver as of early 2024. Were there any surprises on the list for you? Which ones did you guess right? Personally I’m surprised St. Mark’s Summit (still!) didn’t make the top 10.

More Awesome Hikes Near Vancouver:

• BC Parks Day Passes 2024 – Everything You Need to Know
• The 10 Best Hikes in Vancouver: A Local’s Guide
• The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
• 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
• Alternatives to the Grouse Grind
• 35 Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit
• Waterfalls Near Vancouver You Can Hike To
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

The post Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver for 2024 appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

The Sea to Sky Highway is a gorgeous drive along the side of Howe Sound, an ocean fjord, and then up into the snowy mountains to the Whistler ski village. Along the way you’ll pass through the town of Squamish (where I live), one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures and home to world class hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Instead of just speeding through all the way to Whistler, take a little longer and get out of your car. There are so many amazing places to stop including viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, swimming, picnic spots and museums.

In this guide I’ll give you directions to all my favourite places along the Sea to Sky Highway, plus include tips for driving and recommendations for where to eat and stay.

This post includes:

• Sea to Sky Highway driving directions
• Sea to Sky Highway map including locations of all the places I recommend to stop
• How long it takes to drive the Sea to Sky Highway
• Sea to Sky Highway road conditions and driving tips
• How to take a Sea to Sky Highway road trip without a car – shuttle bus services, tours, and more
• The best places to stop on the Sea to Sky Highway – 20 of my favourite places to stop
• My favourite places to eat and drink on the Sea to Sky Highway
• Where to stay along the Sea to Sky Highway: hotels, cabins, hostels, and more
• Sea to Sky Highway FAQ: all your Sea to Sky road trip questions answered

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Sea to Sky Highway Driving Directions

Total Distance: About 120km from Vancouver to Whistler

The Sea to Sky highway (also known as Highway 99) runs from West Vancouver to Whistler, passing Squamish about half way between the two. It also extends past Whistler to the towns of Pemberton and Mount Currie before ending at Lillooet. 

To get to the Sea to Sky Highway, take the Lions Gate bridge from Vancouver. Once over the bridge, follow the signs left for Highway 99 and Whistler. Turn right onto Taylor Way, continuing to follow the signs. Go up the hill on Taylor Way. Then go under the highway and turn left to merge on to the highway.

At this point you are on a highway that is both Highway 1 and Highway 99. Continue for about 10km. Watch for the signs for Whistler where the highway splits. Stay in the left lane to continue onto Highway 99 (the Sea to Sky Highway). Continue following the Sea to Sky Highway for another 100 kilometres to Whistler. You stay on the same highway the whole time so it’s easy to follow.

Click here for Google maps driving directions.

Sea to Sky Highway Map

I’ve made a custom clickable map of the Sea to Sky Highway for you showing all my recommended stops including places to eat and sleep. 

Sea to Sky Highway Driving Times 

Driving Time: Minimum 2 hours

If traffic is light and the weather is good, you can drive the entire Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler in about 2 hours. However, if you want to make a lot of stops, allow a full day. If you want to make any longer stops, I’d recommend splitting the trip up over 2 or 3 days.

Sea to Sky Highway Road Conditions and Driving Tips

Best time to drive the Sea to Sky Highway: June-September

You can drive the Sea to Sky Highway all year, but the best time to go is from June to September when the snow has melted and the hiking trails are accessible. The most popular time is July and August on the weekend. If possible, try to go mid-week.

The Sea to Sky Highway was upgraded for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, so it’s in much better shape than it was before. However, it is still narrow in a few places and very winding, especially south of Squamish. Accidents are common so take your time and go slow (even if the locals are speeding). 

The weather can also be a huge factor when you drive from Vancouver to Whistler. There can be lots of snow in the winter. Heavy rain and fog can make the drive treacherous any time of the year. You can check conditions before you go on the highway webcams.

From October 1st to March 31st you must have winter tires on your car to drive the Sea to Sky highway. If you don’t, you could be fined. 

There are lots of gas stations, restaurants and shops in Squamish, but there are few services along the rest of the drive.

The Sea to Sky Highway is in the ancestral territory of the Squamish (Skwxwú7mesh) and Lil’wat First Nations. Along the way there are interpretive signs in kiosks in the shape of traditional cedar bark hats. If you want to learn more about First Nations culture and history, be sure to stop when you see one.

The highway can be busy with a mix of tourists who want to go slow to enjoy the view and locals who are in a hurry to get home. Be a courteous driver and stay out of the left lane, except to pass.

It’s easy to rent a car in Vancouver or at the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). I use Discover Cars since they let you compare prices between tons of different rental companies.

Experiencing the Sea to Sky Highway Without a Car

If you don’t want to drive yourself, you have a few options for experiencing the Sea to Sky Highway.

Sea to Sky Shuttle Bus Services

There are several bus services that go from Vancouver to Squamish and Whistler. These services are intended to get you to your destination. They don’t stop at any attractions. However, you will still get great views out the window.

For the best views, sit on the left side of the bus on the way to Whistler and the right on the way back.

Local companies currently offering shuttle services include:

• YVR Skylynx (Vancouver airport, downtown Vancouver, Squamish, and Whistler)
• Epic Rides (Downtown Vancouver, Whistler)
• Whistler Shuttle (Vancouver airport, Whistler)
• Squamish Connector (Downtown Vancouver, West Vancouver, Squamish)

Sea to Sky Tours

Several companies offer Sea to Sky bus and small group van tours.

A popular option is a 10-hour Sea to Sky small van tour that goes from Vancouver to Whistler and back, stopping at popular spots like Shannon Falls and Porteau Cove along the way. Check prices.

If you want to include the Sea to to Sky Gondola, book a Sea to Sky Gondola and Whistler day trip. The tour includes stops at Shannon Falls, the Sea to Sky Gondola, and Whistler. Check prices.

Taxis, Limos, and Private Transfers

You can also take a taxi, limousine or private transfer from Vancouver to Whistler. Prices vary depending on what you book and how many stops you want to make.

Some Vancouver taxi companies will pick you up at the airport or downtown and take you to Whistler. However, it’s fairly expensive (about $350 one way) and the driver won’t want to make any stops since they will be in a hurry to get back to Vancouver to get their next customer.

If you want to customize your itinerary or are travelling with a group, a private transfer in a limo or van makes the most sense. With vehicles ranging from town cars to luxe mini buses, they can come up with a quote and itinerary that works for your group. Check prices.

Places to Stop on the Sea to Sky Highway

Whytecliff Park

This beautiful park is nestled into a pocket cove surrounded by fancy West Vancouver mansions. Head down to the beach for great views of Howe Sound and the nearby Sunshine Coast. Or explore the trails to various bluff-top viewpoints.

At low tide you can scramble across the rocks out to Whyte Islet, the rocky island just offshore. 

Getting there: 7102 Marine Dr, West Vancouver. From the highway, take exit 2 for Eagleridge Drive. Go right at the round about and continue past the the ticket booths for the ferry terminal. Turn left onto Marine Drive.

At next two roundabouts, go straight to continue on Marine Drive. Stay on Marine Drive as it winds through the neighbourhood and ends at the Whytecliff parking lot. Click here for Google maps driving directions.

Lions Bay

The tiny village of Lions Bay (population 1300) is perched on the side of the steep mountainside. If you need a snack, there is a small general store and cafe accessed via the Lions Bay Avenue exit. There are also several small beaches (Lions Bay Beach, Kelvin Grove Beach), but parking is quite limited.

One of the main reasons to visit Lions Bay is the hiking trails. Challenging routes lead high into the mountains to the summits of iconic peaks like the Lions (for which the town is named). An easier and equally picturesque option is the 4 hour hike to Tunnel Bluffs, which has an incredible view.

READ NEXT: My guide to the Tunnel Bluffs Hike in Lions Bay

Porteau Cove

This small provincial park is wedged between the Sea to Sky Highway, a rail line and the deep waters of Howe Sound. The day use area is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. Be sure to take a walk out on the pier for great views of the surrounding mountains.

Fun fact: The pier actually doubles as an emergency ferry terminal in case parts of the Sea to Sky Highway are impassable. However, it’s never actually been used for that purpose.

Getting There: Turn left at the sign for Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Click here for google maps driving directions.

More info: Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Psst! Porteau Cove Provincial Park is on my list of the best places to camp near Vancouver and the best places to camp near Squamish.

Britannia Mine Museum

This little village of Britannia Beach used to be home to the largest copper mine in the British Commonwealth. These days the mine is a museum and the village is exploding with new condo developments.

The museum is pretty cool. They have lots of old hulking machinery on display, including a GIANT truck. But I found the historical displays the most interesting. They explain the history of the village and what it was like for the miners and their families who lived there. In the mine’s heyday, there was no road to Britannia so it was a pretty isolated spot.

The highlight of the museum is the underground mine tour. You get to ride on an old mine train, wear a hardhat and experience what it was actually like to mine for copper. (Hint: It was LOUD!) 

They also have a new multimedia show called BOOM! that provides a behind the scenes look at what the giant mill building looked, sounded, and smelled like when it was operational. I sometimes find shows like this to be a little cheesy, but this one was really well done.

Getting There: 1 Forbes Way, Britannia Beach. Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Copper Drive at the traffic light in Britannia Beach. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Britannia Mine Museum

Detour: If you’re hungry, don’t miss Mountain Woman Take-Out. This tiny old-school shack of a restaurant in Britannia Beach has great fish and chips. If you’re looking for something a bit more hip, check out Outbound Station, also in Britannia Beach. They have great burgers and coffee.

Murrin Provincial Park

On summer weekends you’ll be lucky to get a spot in the parking lot at Murrin Provincial Park. That’s because tiny Browning Lake is a super popular swimming spot with warm water and a nice sandy beach. It’s a nice spot for a picnic any time of year too. Keep an eye out for rock climbers on the nearby cliffs.

If you are adventurous, there is also a fun hike up onto the bluffs with incredible views. However, it involves a bit of scrambling so it’s best for experienced hikers.

Getting There: Turn left at the flashing yellow light and signs for Murrin Provincial Park. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Murrin Provincial Park

Nch’kay Viewpoint

As you round the corner into Squamish, you’ll see a pull out on the left. This is the Nch’kay viewpoint. From here you get a great view of Mount Garibaldi, known as Nch’kay in the Indigenous Skwxwu7mesh language.

Mount Garibaldi is a huge dormant volcano that towers over the town. If the weather is clear, pull over here for a quick photo op of Nch’kay and the town of Squamish.

Getting there: Turn left into the pullout about 1.5km after Murrin Park.

Shannon Falls

At 335m tall, Shannon Falls is the 3rd highest waterfall in BC. It’s a short 5 minute hike to the falls. Be sure to check out both the upper and lower viewing platforms to see the falls from different vantage points.

Getting there: Turn right at the Darrell Bay Road traffic light and follow the park road into the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Shannon Falls Provincial Park, my guide to Vancouver area waterfall hikes

Sea to Sky Gondola

Opened in 2014, the Sea to Sky gondola is one of best attractions in between Vancouver and Whistler. I have an annual pass and head up there every few months.

The gondola carries passengers from the side of the highway, up past granite cliffs to a lodge perched high above Howe Sound. It’s an easy way to get up into the mountains without a breaking a sweat. (Although it will give your wallet a minor workout.) 

If you want to save some money, you can also hike up to the top via the challenging Sea to Summit Trail. It climbs 900m over 7km and will take most people about 3.5 hours. If you want, you can take the gondola down for a fraction of the price it costs to go up.

Once you arrive at the top, be sure to check out the viewing platforms and suspension bridge near the lodge. For more epic views, walk the Panorama Trail. It’s mostly flat and quite easy and at only 1.6km long, it’s short enough for almost everyone.

If you are up for a longer hike, Al’s Habrich Trail made my list as one of the best hikes near Vancouver. In the winter, the Sea to Sky Gondola also has some of the best snowshoeing trails in Squamish.

If you get hungry, the lodge has a small cafe. Grab a bowl of poutine and a beer, then sit out on the patio in the sunshine and enjoy the views.

Tip: Save time by buying your Sea to Sky Gondola tickets ahead of time.

Getting there: 36800 Highway 99, Squamish, BC. Watch for the entrance on the right hand side of the Sea to Sky highway just after the Darrell Bay Road traffic light. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Sea to Sky Gondola 

Stawamus Chief

The Stawamus Chief is a huge granite dome that towers over the town of Squamish. The Sea to Sky highway passes right beneath the base. The Chief is 700m tall and is one of the largest granite monoliths in the world.

If you just want to pull over for a quick look, the best place is the roadside parking lot just after the pedestrian overpass. See if you can spot rock climbers high above you! If you want to try it out, you can go on a guided rock climbing trip that’s geared for beginners.

However, you don’t need a rope and harness to get to the top. There’s a steep hike up the backside of the Stawamus Chief that takes you all the way to the top of the cliffs. Be careful as there are no railings and it’s a LONG way down! This is a popular hike and is one of Vancouver’s most Instagrammed hikes.

Getting there: For the best view, turn right off the Sea to Sky highway into the parking lot next to the highway just past the pedestrian overpass. (This isn’t the main parking lot.) Click here for Google maps driving directions.

More info: Stawamus Chief Provincial Park

Downtown Squamish

Be sure to turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway to explore downtown Squamish along Cleveland Avenue. As a local, my favourites are Billie’s House for house plants and home goods, Empire of Dirt for gifts and housewares, Lucas Tea, and Xocolat chocolates.

If you are driving the Sea to Sky Highway on a Saturday in the spring, summer, or fall, be sure to stop in at the Farmer’s Market for local produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music.

Getting There: Turn left at Cleveland Avenue and follow it a few blocks into downtown Squamish. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Squamish Farmer’s Market

Psst! Looking for even more things to do in Squamish? Check out my Squamish activities guide – it has over 70 ideas.

Railway Museum of British Columbia

I’m not into trains, so I have to be honest and say I’ve never been here. However, my nephew loves it and has been several times. The Railway Museum of British Columbia has all kinds of vintage train cars, engines, and parts (over 90 of them!) Some of them are over 100 years old.

They also have a miniature railway that is popular with kids. At Christmas they have a special Polar Express Event. There’s also a Thomas the Tank Engine event in the spring.

Getting There: 39645 Government Rd, Squamish, BC. Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Commercial Way. Go straight through the roundabout, then turn right on Queens Way. Follow Queens Way as it curves around to the left and becomes Government Road. Cross the railway tracks and find the entrance to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park on your right. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Hours: The museum is only open on Saturdays in the summer. The rest of the year they are open for special events like the Polar Express and Thomas the Tank Engine.

More Info: Railway Museum of British Columbia

Squamish Estuary and Spit

For the best view of the Stawamus Chief, head to the Squamish Estuary and Spit. This finger of land sticks out into Howe Sound at the mouth of the Squamish River. There are several short, flat trails where you can spot birds and other wildlife.

But for the best views, head out to the end of the spit. Squamish means Mother of the Wind, and the spit is the windiest place in Squamish. There are usually lots of kitesurfers and windsurfers playing in the waves just offshore.

Getting There: Turn left on Commercial Way. Go straight through the roundabout, then turn right onto Queen’s Way. Follow this road as it curves around to the left and becomes Government Road. Cross the train tracks and keep going on Government.

Look for Spit Road on your right. It’s gravel, and can be very bumpy, but it’s fine for 2WD vehicles if you go slow. Follow Spit Road to a T-junction and turn left. Keep going to the end of the road. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Brackendale Eagle Viewing

Squamish has more eagles than anywhere else in the world, usually around 1,300 every year. Many eagles migrate to Squamish in the fall to feed on spawning salmon, then stay for the winter. Head to the dykes along the Squamish River in the Brackendale neighbourhood to see them.

From November until January there are volunteers along the dyke on weekends with telescopes to help you get a better look. You can also bring your own binoculars of course!

Another great way to see the eagles is on a floating raft tour. I did this eagle float tour a few years ago and had a great time. 

Getting There: Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Garibaldi Way. Turn right at Government Road and follow it as it approaches the river. Park in the gravel parking lot on the right just before the Watershed Grill or on the shoulder. Cross the road and follow the path to the top of the dyke. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Alice Lake Provincial Park

Alice Lake has a popular campground and picnic area that makes a great place for break when driving to Whistler. You can go for a swim in the lake or rent a paddleboard or kayak. It’s also a great place to swim on a hot day.

There’s also an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. If you’re looking for an easy hike, I like the Four Lakes Trail. It’s mostly flat and only takes 2 hours to complete. Details are in my guide to hiking in Squamish.

Getting There: Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway at the flashing yellow light at Alice Lake Road. Follow the road into the park. On busy summer weekends when the parking lot fills up park rangers may close the entrance gate. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Alice Lake Provincial Park 

Psst! Alice Lake Provincial Park is on my list of the best places to camp near Vancouver and the best places to camp near Squamish.

Cat Lake

This small lake 15 minutes north of Squamish gets fairly warm in the summer. It also has several docks you can jump off. The lake is surrounded by walk-in campsites. It’s a popular spot for partiers on the weekend, but during the week you can have it mostly to yourself.

Getting There: Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto the Cheekeye Forest Service Road about 3 minutes after you pass the turn off to Alice Lake. Follow the gravel road about 2.5km to the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Cat Lake Recreation Site

Brohm Lake

From the highway Brohm Lake looks pretty marshy. However, if you head around the corner you’ll discover a pretty little lake surrounded by forest and granite bluffs. There’s a trail around the lake so you can stake out your own lakeside spot.

There is also a great network of hiking trails that lead to several viewpoints. Get more details in my guide to the best hikes in Squamish.

Locals love to swing into the water from the rope swing or jump off the short cliffs. The parking lot is small so go early on summer weekends to get a spot.

Getting There: Turn left off the Sea to Sky highway at the sign for Brohm Lake. There’s a small left-hand turn lane. It’s just past the turn off for Cat Lake. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: My guide to Brohm Lake trails

Tantalus Lookout

The snow-capped mountains on the west side of the Squamish River are called the Tantalus Range. There are no roads and just a few trails that access the jagged peaks. But you can get a great view just by pulling off the road. 

Getting There: Turn right off the highway at the viewpoint sign. It’s about 2.5km past the Brohm Lake turnoff. Follow the road uphill for a few meters to a parking lot on the left. Click here for Google Maps driving directions. (Use these if you are going northbound.)

There’s actually an even better view, but you can only access it when you are driving southbound from Whistler to Vancouver. Look for it on the west side of the highway. (You can’t turn left going northbound so save it for the drive home.) Click here for Google Maps driving directions. (Use these if you are going southbound.)

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular (and most beautiful) hikes in BC. It’s a long hike so allow a full day to get there. It is 18km return with 800m of elevation gain and will take at least 5 hours. Make sure to leave enough time at the top to take photos or even go for a dip in the freezing cold glacial lake.

If you’re really keen, you can add on the hike to Panorama Ridge. The views are great but it will add another 12km, 700m and 6 hours to your hike. You can also camp overnight.

(FYI: Garibaldi Lake is on my list of the 10 best hikes near Vancouver, so if you’re a hiker, you shouldn’t miss it.)

Getting there: Watch for the sign for Garibaldi Provincial Park, then turn right on Daisy Lake Road just after going over a bridge. The trailhead is 2.5km down the road from the Sea to Sky Highway. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park

Brandywine Falls

The 70m tall Brandywine Falls are pretty spectacular since they have carved a huge canyon into lava columns. The waterfall is one of the Sea to Sky Highway’s best known attractions. It’s a short half-kilometre hike to the viewing platforms.

There’s a steep and dangerous trail down to the bottom of the falls, but it’s officially out of bounds so I don’t recommend it.

If you visit in the winter, the trails around Brandywine Falls are also one of the best places near Squamish to go snowshoeing.

Getting there: Turn right off the highway at the sign for Brandywine Falls. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: My Brandywine Falls hiking guide

Alexander Falls

It’s a bit off the beaten track, so Alexander Falls doesn’t get as much buzz as Brandywine Falls or Shannon Falls. But I’d argue that it is equally impressive. It’s 43m tall and drops down over several tiers. You can drive right up to the viewing platform.

Getting there: Watch for the sign for Whistler Olympic Park, and turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Callaghan Road. Follow the road for about 10 minutes. Look for the Alexander Falls Recreation Site sign on the left and turn into the gravel parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Whistler Olympic Park

During the 2010 Olympics and Paralympics, the nordic skiing, biathlon and ski jump events were held at Whistler Olympic Park in the Callaghan Valley. In the winter you can cross country ski or snowshoe here. (Checkout my guide to snowshoe trails.)

The trails are open in the summer too, including hiking up the ski jump. You can also sign up for biathlon lessons and shoot on the same course as the Olympians! There’s a small fee to get in.

It’s also worth a drive up this road as its one of the best places in the Sea to Sky corridor to see bears. If you see a bear, stay in your car and take photos from a distance. Never, ever feed a bear! Read more about bear safety. 

Getting there: 5 Callaghan Rd, Whistler, BC. Watch for the sign for Whistler Olympic Park, and turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Callaghan Road. Follow the road for about 15 minutes to the lodge, passing Alexander Falls along the way. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Whistler Olympic Park

Whistler Bungee

I’m a chicken and have never bungee jumped. (And I likely never will unless someone is paying me to do it!)  But if bungee jumping is on your bucket list, you can do it in Whistler.

You’ll plummet 50 metres (160 feet) off a narrow bridge into the Cheakamus River canyon. The river is glacially fed so it’s a beautiful bright blue colour. Even if you don’t jump, it’s worth a detour to see the canyon. If you’re up for a slightly longer hike, you can also get to Brandywine Falls from here.

Getting there: Calcheak Forest Service Rd, Whistler, BC. Just after the turn-off to Whistler Olympic Park, turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Cal-Cheak Forest Service Road. You’ll cross train tracks right away and then the road turns to gravel. Follow the road for about 7 minutes to the bungee bridge. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Whistler Bungee

Whistler

From skiing to mountain biking, to hiking, to food, Whistler has something for everyone. I’ve got a huge list of the best things to do in Whistler.

Best Places to Eat and Drink on the Sea to Sky Highway

As a Squamish local, I’ve eaten at pretty much every restaurant along the Sea to Sky Highway. Here are my favourites.

Taka Ramen & Sushi

The BEST Japanese food in the Sea to Sky area. Top notch sushi, delicious ramen, and great staff. The only downside is that they don’t take reservations, so you often have to wait for a table.

Getting There: 38065 Cleveland Avenue, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left onto Cleveland Avenue and follow it for a few blocks. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Fox & Oak

This is my favourite spot in Squamish for coffee and a sweet treat. The interior is gorgeous with sleek wood, tile, and lots of plants They have under cover outdoor seating too. Their coffee is great, but the real reason to visit is their artisanal doughnuts.

They have cake doughnuts, brioche doughnuts, and vegan doughnuts in classic flavours like chocolate glaze and more experimental flavours like Earl Grey tea. I always get the mango passion fruit.

Getting there: 1396 Main Street, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left on Cleveland and follow it for a few blocks to the intersection with Main Street. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Zephyr Cafe

Want a healthy meal in Squamish? Head to Zephyr Cafe downtown. They serve breakfast and lunch, including lots of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. I usually get the qunioa bowl with their delicious sesame dressing.

Getting there: 8084 Cleveland Ave, Squamish. Turn left off Highway 99 onto Cleveland Avenue. Zephyr Cafe is on the left hand side about half a block past Winnipeg Street. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Luz Tacos at Geo Cider

Squamish has several great places to get Mexican food, but I think Luz tacos is by far the best. Their burritos are huge and oh so good. They are located inside Geo Cider, so you can get your food to go or enjoy it along with their tasty cider.

Getting there: 1201 Commercial Way, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left on Industrial Way. Go right at the T-junction on to Queens’s Way, then turn right at the first driveway into the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Watershed Grill

The Watershed Grill in Brackendale is one of my favourite places to eat in Squamish. It’s right on the banks of the river, so the patio has a great view. They have tasty pub-style food. It’s a locals hangout so expect crowds on nights when there’s hockey on TV.

Getting There: 41101 Government Rd, Brackendale. Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Garibaldi Way. Turn right at Government Road and follow it as it approaches the river. Look for a gravel parking lot on the right just after a cross walk. Park here and cross the road. The restaurant is just ahead behind the trees. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Fergie’s Cafe

Fergie’s Cafe has some of the best food in Squamish. In fact, I think they have the best eggs Benedict I’ve ever had! This small restaurant is attached to the Sunwolf resort. They moved into a new building a few years ago with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. They’re just open for breakfast and brunch. Go early (especially on wekends) to get a table as they don’t take reservations.

Getting There: 70002 Squamish Valley Rd, Brackendale. Turn left off the highway at the flashing yellow light onto Squamish Valley Road. Look for the entrance to Fergie’s on the right hand side just before going over a bridge. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Where to Stay Along the Sea to Sky Highway

If you really want to make the most out of your Sea to Sky Highway road trip, you should break it up over a few days and stay overnight.

The easiest place to base yourself is in Squamish where there are lots of options from cabins to hotels to hostels. (In fact, Squamish made my list of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver.)

I’ve got a whole guide to the best hotels in Squamish that you should check out. It’s got details on the best places for families, groups, those on a budget, and more.

Camping

For a complete list of campgrounds on the Sea to Sky Highway, check out my guides to camping in Squamish and camping in Whistler.

Some campgrounds require advance reservations while others are first-come, first served. Plan ahead on summer weekends as it can get REALLY busy.

Boutique Hotel: Howe Sound Inn

The Howe Sound Brewing Company also has their own boutique hotel, the Howe Sound Inn. It’s right in the heart of Squamish so you can walk to shops and cafes. And if it’s raining, you don’t even have to go outside – just go downstairs to the brew pub! Check rates. 

Hotel Suites: Executive Suites Hotel

Every room at the condo-style Executive Suites Hotel has a kitchen, which is great if you want more space or prefer to cook for yourself. It’s also one of the more upscale hotels in town. It’s located north of downtown Squamish, but there is a restaurant on site and lots of hiking trails nearby. Check rates.

Cabins: Sunwolf

I stayed at the Sunwolf cabins a few years ago. It’s an old fishing lodge right next to the Cheakamus River in Brackendale. The cozy wooden cabins have river views and fireplaces, but no TVs – just what you need for a wilderness getaway. Plus its on the same property as Fergie’s! Check rates.

(Want even more cabin options? Check out my list of the best cozy cabins near Vancouver.)

Hostel: Squamish Adventure Inn & Hostel

The Squamish Adventure Inn has both dorms and private rooms, a kitchen, and patios. It’s located just off the highway next to the river. If you’ve had enough driving, it’s within walking distance to bike trails, hiking, rock climbing, restaurants and groceries. My sister stayed here for the weekend and says it’s a great place to meet other travellers to go hiking or exploring. Check rates. 

Sea to Sky Highway FAQ

With all that info, you should be ready to head out on your own Sea to Sky Highway road trip. What’s your favourite spot to stop between Vancouver and Whistler? Do you have questions about driving the Sea to Sky highway? Let me know in the comments.

More Whistler posts:

• The Best Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)
• 42 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
• Visiting Whistler, BC in Summer (By a Local)
• 44 Best Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
• Camping in Whistler
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler

More Squamish posts:

• 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)
• 10 Best Hotels in Squamish
• Camping in Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

More Vancouver posts:

• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds

The post Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Between hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and dirt bike trails, there are literally hundreds of hiking trails in Squamish. But in this post, I’ve got my local’s picks for just the best hikes in Squamish. The list includes over 20 hikes from easy to very challenging and from 1 km to 30 km.

Psst! Looking for more Squamish activities? Check out my list of the best things to do in Squamish – It has over 70 ideas!

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Squamish Hiking Basics

Getting to Squamish

Squamish is located in British Columbia, Canada, about an hour north of Vancouver. It’s an easy drive on Highway 99 (a.ka. the Sea to Sky Highway). You can drive yourself or take a shuttle bus.

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Backroad Driving in Squamish

To get to some Squamish trails, you will need to drive on unpaved backroads, also called logging roads. Some of these roads can be very steep, bumpy, and loose. But you can get to almost all of these Squamish hikes in a regular 2WD car. I’ve included access road notes for each hike about what kind of vehicle you will need.

Hiking Season in Squamish

Squamish sits on the ocean, surrounded by mountains. That means that valley bottom trails can be snow-free most of the year, while the high mountain trails are only accessible between June and September. I’ve included the “best months to go” for each hike below. (If you’re visiting in winter, use my guide to snowshoeing in Squamish.)

What to Bring Hiking in Squamish

Even if you are just going for a short hike, you need to be prepared for the weather and conditions. Don’t forget the 10 essentials. Rain gear and warm clothing are especially important since the weather can change quickly.

READ NEXT: 16 Things to do Before a Hike

Bear Safety

Squamish is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while you hike to reduce your risk of a negative bear encounter. Read my guide to bear safety for more tips.

Leave No Trace

The area around Squamish is sensitive wilderness. It’s also home for 20,000 residents of this small town. In recent years, locals have become concerned about increased garbage, human waste, and illegal camping. Be respectful. Learn about Leave No Trace principles to help keep the wilderness wild.

Indigenous Context

Squamish is located in the traditional territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) Nation. To learn more about the Indigenous context of the area, visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler. Online resources include the Squamish Nation website and the Squamish Atlas.

Squamish Trail Maps

Some hikes in Squamish are easy to find and have good trail markers. But some can be confusing to follow. I recommend using the Gaia GPS app. The premium version has detailed maps of this area that make it really easy to stay on track.

You can also buy a paper map of Squamish Trails at the Squamish Adventure Centre.

I made a custom Google map for you that shows all of the Squamish hiking trails on this list with the exact location of the trailhead. But don’t use Google maps once you are on the trails – they don’t have all of the trails and in some places, there is no cell service.

Murrin Loop and Jurassic Ridge

The granite outcroppings above Browning Lake at Murrin Provincial Park are popular with rock climbers. Steep trails loop through the rugged terrain to several gorgeous viewpoints. I recommend following the Loop trail and Jurassic Ridge trails to make a loop that passes the Quercus Lookout, Jurassic Peak (Watt’s Point), and Brian’s Lookout.

Choose a dry day for this hike as it traverses steep granite slabs that can be very slippery. And use caution: this hike involves steep terrain and a little bit of scrambling.

Getting there: Murrin Provincial Park is on the west side of Highway 99 9 km south of Squamish. The small parking lot fills fast on summer weekends. Click here for driving directions.

Shannon Falls

Spectacular Shannon Falls is the third highest waterfall in British Columbia at 335-meters-tall and one of the best waterfall hikes near Vancouver. A short trail leads uphill from the parking to several different viewing platforms.

Getting there: The parking lot is located on the east side of Highway 99 4 km south of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: 40+ Waterfall Hikes Near Vancouver

Sea to Summit Trail

This steep trail climbs from the valley floor to the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola – it’s reminiscent of Vancouver’s Grouse Grind. Along the way, it passes the rushing waters of Upper Shannon Falls and several spectacular viewpoints. In several places, you will need to scramble upwards over steep rocks with the help of ropes.

Note: This is typically completed as a one-way trail as most hikers take the gondola down for $20. Dogs are allowed on the gondola for download only. Check gondola hours before you go.

Getting there: The trail starts at the Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot on the east side of Highway 99 just south of the town of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Panorama Trail

There are several short and easy trails at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, but the Panorama Trail is the most scenic. It’s an easy loop with several spur trails that lead to viewpoints. You can hike it all year, but expect snow between November and April. (The snow is usually packed down enough that you won’t need snowshoes but you may want microspikes.)

Note: This trail starts at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. You can get there by hiking the Sea to Summit Trail (above) or by paying to ride the gondola.

Getting there: The trail starts at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Find the parking lot on the east side of Highway 99 just south of the town of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail

This is the best backcountry trail at the Sea to Sky Gondola and one of my favourite hikes in Squamish. It follows an open granite ridge uphill with great views. After a steep climb in the forest, you emerge on an outcrop with an even better view. If you continue along the trail, you’ll travel through subalpine terrain past small ponds to a waterfall.

Note: This trail starts at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. You can get there by hiking the Sea to Summit Trail (above) or by paying to ride the gondola. Dogs are allowed on the gondola for download only.

Snowshoeing: Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail is one of the best places to go snowshoeing in Squamish.

Getting there: The trail starts at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Find the parking lot on the east side of Highway 99 just south of the town of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Stawamus Chief

The imposing granite face of the Stawamus Chief towers over Squamish making the trail to the top a must-do hike in Squamish. The trails include lots of stairs and some have ladders and chains to help negotiate the terrain. In some spots, you’ll be close to precipitous cliffs. It’s even steeper than the Grouse Grind.

The main trail splits off into separate trails for the three peaks. You can hike to just one peak or take in all three. First Peak is the most popular, but I like Second and Third Peaks because they are quieter and you can get photos with First Peak in the foreground.

Getting there: Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is located on the east side of Highway 99 just south of the town of Squamish. The parking lots can fill up on sunny weekends. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: Alternatives to the Grouse Grind: Steep Workout Hikes Near Vancouver

Slhanay

Slhanay Peak is often overlooked because it sits behind the Stawamus Chief and doesn’t have the same spectacular cliffs. However, the real reason to visit Slhanay is for the incredible views of the Chief. The best viewpoint is part-way up, but the summit is also worth visiting.

The trail is very steep and since it is an informal trail, it is very rough. Trail markings are sparse and there is a huge trail network near the summit that can be confusing. Use a GPS app like Gaia to stay on track.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on the Mamquam Forest Service Road. The road is gravel and can be bumpy but is fine for 2WD vehicles. Click here for driving directions.

Mamquam Falls

This short hike leads to a spectacular waterfall in a granite canyon on the Mamquam River. While the falls are next to a power station and near roads, it’s still a spectacular spot. The easy loop hike is mostly on gated gravel roads, but the middle section travels on a rough trail next to the river that leads to a viewing platform.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Powerhouse Springs Road, which is accessed from Mamquam Forest Service Road. The roads are gravel and can be bumpy but are fine for 2WD vehicles. Click here for driving directions.

Watersprite Lake

Watersprite Lake is a gorgeous turquoise blue sub-alpine lake deep in the mountains and is one of the most popular hikes in Squamish. The lake is dotted with rocky islands and backed by a crumbling tower of granite, which makes it especially photogenic. The hike to the lake is mostly on old roads, but it does have great views of the surrounding peaks.

Backcountry camping: There is a backcountry campsite at the lake along with a hut. You can book a stay at either through the BCMC. For details on camping, see my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Skookum Forest Service Road, which is accessed from Mamquam Forest Service Road. The roads are gravel, bumpy, loose, and very steep. You will need a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the trailhead. Click here for driving directions.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Mount Crumpit

The hike to the summit of Mount Crumpit is one of my favourite trails in Squamish. It has a great view of the Stawamus Chief and Slhanay from the top. There are a few steep sections, but overall, it’s a pleasant walk in the forest. And it’s never too busy.

However, the route travels through a confusing network of mountain bike, dirt bike, and hiking trails. Be sure to follow the turn-by-turn directions in my Mount Crumpit hiking guide. I also recommend using a GPS app like Gaia to stay on track.

Getting there: The trailhead is located in Squamish’s Valleycliffe neighbourhood at the intersection of Westway Avenue and Cherry Drive. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: Hike to Mount Crumpit in Squamish

Estuary Trail

The hike through the Squamish River estuary is one of my favourite places to take visitors to Squamish. The flat and easy trail makes a loop next to a tidal channel in the estuary and then loops back along the Town Dyke trail. The views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and the Stawamus Chief from the estuary are great.

Getting there: There are several places to start this hike. The easiest place to park is just before the gate on Bailey Street in downtown Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Smoke Bluffs Loop

The Smoke Bluffs is one of Squamish’s most popular rock climbing areas. But it’s also a great place to go for a hike since the granite outcroppings have great views of downtown Squamish, Howe Sound, and the Stawamus Chief. Even though the hike is short, it is steep with several staircases.

There is a maze of climbers’ access trails, but as long as you stay on the main Loop Trail, it’s easy to follow. You may want to use a GPS app like Gaia if you’re worried about getting lost.

Getting there: The trail begins at Smoke Bluffs Park parking lot on Loggers Lane near the Squamish Adventure Centre. Click here for driving directions.

Elfin Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The hike to Elfin Lakes in Garibaldi Provincial Park is mostly along an old road. But you won’t mind because, after the first hour, you will get above the treeline onto a ridgeline where you will enjoy incredible mountain views. On hot days, you can swim in the larger Elfin Lake. (The smaller one is the water source.)

Backcountry camping: There is a backcountry campsite at Elfin Lake along with a hut. You can book a stay at either through BC Parks. For details see my Elfin Lakes hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Snowshoeing: The Elfin Lakes trail is one of the best places to go snowshoeing in Squamish.

Getting there: The trailhead is on Garibaldi Park Road, which is accessed from the Garibaldi Highlands neighbourhood. It is a gravel road and can be bumpy, but is fine for 2WD vehicles. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

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Four Lakes Trail

This easy trail passes four lakes and travels through a gorgeous mossy forest. Since it’s close to my house, I hike this trail often and I think it’s one of the best easy hikes in Squamish. In the summer, cool off with a dip in Alice Lake.

Getting there: The trail starts at the Stump Lake parking area in Alice Lake Provincial Park, located east of Highway 99 just north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Debeck’s Hill

The route to the top of Debeck’s Hill uses a steep old gravel road. It’s also known as the Debeck’s Grind, a reference to Vancouver’s Grouse Grind. Along the way, it passes an old steam engine leftover from the logging days. The view from the top is spectacular. You can see the Squamish River Valley and the Tantalus Mountains.

Getting there: The trail starts at the South Beach parking area in Alice Lake Provincial Park, located east of Highway 99 just north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Crooked Falls

Crooked Falls is a beautiful waterfall on Sigurd Creek that cascades onto a rock bluff, then makes a sharp 90-degree turn, giving it a “crooked” appearance. The hike to get there takes you up through a steep forest on a rough trail.

Getting there: The trailhead is on the Ashlu Forest Service Road. To get there, take Squamish Valley Road west from Highway 99. It is bumpy but fine for 2WD vehicles. Click here for driving directions.

High Falls Creek

High Falls Creek is a rugged hike that follows granite bluffs beside a deep canyon. The route is steep and at times you will haul yourself up with ropes. There are several good viewpoints of waterfalls.

The terrain is too steep for easy downhill travel, so the return half of the loop is on a gravel logging road with great views of the Squamish River Valley.

Getting there: The trailhead is on the Squamish River Forest Service Road. To get there, take Squamish Valley Road west from Highway 99. It is bumpy but fine for 2WD vehicles. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: 40+ Waterfall Hikes Near Vancouver

Cheakamus Canyon and Starvation Lake

This trail follows a section of the Sea to Sky Trail from the end of Paradise Valley past Starvation Lake to the side of the Cheakamus River Canyon. There are great views of the river and on a warm day, you can finish with a swim in the lake. This trail is a bit of a hidden gem compared to better-known hikes in Squamish.

Getting there: The trailhead is located at the end of Paradise Valley Road. After the road turns to gravel, it is bumpy but fine for 2WD vehicles. Continue on gravel for another 3 km to a parking area. Click here for driving directions.

Brohm Lake

From the highway, Brohm Lake looks marshy. But if you take the trail around the shoreline, you’ll find lots of rock outcroppings that are perfect for swimming on hot days. You can extend your hike by taking steeper trails up to viewpoints on the Cheakamus Loop, High Trail, and Powerline Trail.

Getting there: The main parking lot for Brohm Lake is located on the west side of Highway 99 15 km north of Squamish. It fills up on sunny weekends. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: Brohm Lake Hike in Squamish (By a Local)

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is a classic, and I think it’s one of the best hikes near Vancouver. The trail climbs up through the forest past a great viewpoint and several small lakes. Garibaldi Lake is glacially fed, giving the water an unreal blue tinge and there are incredible views of the glaciers across the lake. 

Backcountry camping: There is a backcountry campsite at Garibaldi Lake and nearby Taylor Meadows. You can book a stay at either through BC Parks. For details on camping and day hikes you can do from the campground, see my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Snowshoeing: Garibaldi Lake is one of the best places to go snowshoeing in Squamish.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Daisy Lake Road, accessed from the east side of Highway 99 33 km north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

READ NEXT: Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

Black Tusk

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Black Tusk is made of hardened lava from an extinct volcano. You can hike to the base of the Tusk, but only experienced rock climbers should make the final sketchy scramble to the summit. Your route starts on the Garibaldi Lake Trail to Taylor Meadows, then ascends a rocky slope to the base of the Tusk where you get great views of Garibaldi Lake.

Backcountry camping: There are backcountry campsites at Garibaldi Lake and Taylor Meadows, which you will pass on the way. You can book a stay at either through BC Parks. For details on camping and day hikes you can do from the campground, see my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Daisy Lake Road, accessed from the east side of Highway 99 33 km north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

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Panorama Ridge

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Panorama Ridge is one of my favourite trails and one of my picks for the best hikes near Vancouver. It’s a long day on the trails, but the views from the summit are truly incredible. Your hike starts on the Garibaldi Lake Trail, then goes through Taylor Meadows and past the turnoff to Black Tusk. Ascend the slopes of Panorama Ridge for mind-blowing 360-degree views.

Backcountry camping: There are backcountry campsites at Garibaldi Lake and Taylor Meadows, which you will pass on the way. You can book a stay at either through BC Parks. For details on camping and day hikes you can do from the campground, see my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Getting there: The trailhead is located on Daisy Lake Road, accessed from the east side of Highway 99 33 km north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Brandywine Falls

This short and easy hike heads to one of the area’s most spectacular waterfalls: Brandywine Falls. It plummets 70 meters down volcanic basalt cliffs into the canyon far below. You can get a great view of the falls from a viewing platform and it’s one of the best easy hikes in Squamish. It’s also part of the much longer Sea to Sky Trail.

Getting there: The parking lot is located on the east side of Highway 99 about 40 km north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

Cheakamus Bungee Bridge Loop

Many people don’t realize there are lots of trails at Brandywine Falls Provincial Park. You can connect the Sea to Sky Trail and Lava Lake Trail to make a big loop that visits the bungee bridge, a suspension bridge, and lots of little lakes.

Getting there: The parking lot is located on the east side of Highway 99 about 40 km north of Squamish. Click here for driving directions.

With over 20 trails to choose from, I’m sure you’ll find a Squamish hike on this list that you will love. Do you have other suggestions for the best hikes in Squamish? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• BC Parks Day Passes 2023 – Everything You Need to Know
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
• Camping in Squamish, BC: 22 Places to Camp Near Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• 70+ Things to Do in Squamish
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• Sea to Sky Trail from Squamish to Pemberton

The post The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

There is a Whistler hike for everyone on this list from short and easy hikes to all-day epic climbs. There are waterfalls, river canyons, historical ruins, lakes, viewpoints, and mountain tops.

These Whistler trails are all easy to navigate and don’t require tedious 4×4 driving to reach. Use this list of the best hikes in Whistler to plan your next adventure. 

Psst: Looking for a full list of Whistler activities? Check out my list of the best things to do in Whistler. It includes over 80 ideas!

Whistler Hiking Basics

Getting to Whistler: Whistler is located in British Columbia, Canada. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver via the Sea to Sky Highway a.k.a. Highway 99. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can take a shuttle bus. The drive to Whistler is gorgeous! For a complete list of things to see between Vancouver and Whistler, check out my Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide.

Hiking season in Whistler: Whistler sits high up in the Coast Mountains. That means it has a short summer hiking season from June to September. Generally, the valley bottom trails start to be snow-free in April or May with higher elevation trails staying snowy into July. By mid October, it has started to snow again in the mountains. No matter what time of year you hike, check the weather forecast before you head out. Checking the weather is just one of the things you should do before every hike. (And if you’re visiting in the winter, check out this list of places to snowshoe in Whistler.)

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

What to bring hiking in Whistler: Even if you are just going for a short hike, you need to be prepared for the weather and conditions. Don’t forget the 10 essentials. (Rain gear and warm clothing are especially important.)

Bear Safety: Whistler is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while you hike to reduce your risk of a negative bear encounter. For more info about hiking in bear country, read my post about bear safety for hikers.

Leave No Trace: The area around Whistler is sensitive wilderness. Learn about Leave No Trace principles to help keep the wilderness wild.

Whistler Trails Map

I made a custom Google map for you that shows all of the trails on this list, plus the exact location of the trailhead and parking.

Hikes in Whistler Village

Lost Lake

The Lost Lake Trail is almost in the heart of Whistler Village. It is an easy hike through the forest to the lake. The trail is fairly flat and smooth enough for strollers. Follow the trail around the lake, then retrace your steps on the main trail back to the trailhead. On hot summer days, take a break at the lake for a swim.

If you want to add on some additional distance, a huge network of multi-use trails wind their way around the area, including the Sea to Sky Trail that stretches from Squamish to Pemberton. A few of them also go to viewpoints. Just watch out for mountain bikes. (In the winter the trail network is a great place to cross country ski or go snowshoeing in Whistler.)

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 5km loop Elevation gain: 50m Time Needed: 1.25 hours Best Time to Go: March to October Trail Info: My Lost Lake Park guide How to get there: The trailhead is located in Whistler on Lorimer Road near the intersection with Blackcomb Way. It’s a 10-minute walk from the village.

Blackcomb Ascent Trails

The steep Blackcomb Ascent trail is one of the hardest hikes in Whistler. Challenge yourself by hiking directly up the side of Blackcomb Mountain. But your knees won’t have to suffer because you can take the gondola back down. Known collectively as the Burn trails, the Blackcomb Ascent hike starts with Little Burn, which is the mellowest gaining just 74m over 0.8km. In the middle is Big Burn, which is steep and challenging – it’s 2.2km long with 494m of elevation gain. At the end of Big Burn, you can load onto the gondola at the Blackcomb Midstation or continue climbing upwards to the Rendezvous Lodge gondola station on the Heartburn Trail for another 3.1km, gaining 607m. Be sure to look up the gondola schedule before you go!

Difficulty: Very Challenging Distance: 6.1km one-way Elevation gain: 1175m Time Needed: 3.5 hours Best Time to Go: mid-June to September Trail Info: Whistler Blackcomb How to get there: The trail starts at Blackcomb Base on Blackcomb Way in Whistler. It’s an easy 10-minute walk from Whistler Village.  To take the gondola back down, you’ll need to buy a ticket on the mountain.

Blackcomb Alpine Trails

You’ll need to buy a gondola ticket to get the Blackcomb Alpine Trails, but the views are worth the price. You’ll ascend to 1850m above sea level in the gondola, emerging into an alpine landscape of rocks, glaciers, and wildflowers. Follow the Alpine Loop trail to the Fitzsimmons Viewpoint, then continue onwards on the Overlord Trail to Decker Tarn and Blackcomb Lake via loop trails. Your high point is Overlord Glacier Viewpoint at an elevation of 2050m.

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: Up t0 10km loop Elevation gain: 200m Time Needed: 3 hours Best Time to Go: mid-July to September Trail Info: My Blackcomb Trails guide How to get there: Take the Blackcomb gondola from Blackcomb Base up to Rendezvous Lodge at the top of Blackcomb. You can also get there via the Whistler Gondola and Peak to Peak Gondola directly from Whistler Village. 

Singing Pass to Russet Lake

This trail is long and not particularly scenic, but it provides free access into the gorgeous alpine between Whistler and Blackcomb Peaks in Garibaldi Provincial Park. I’ve got a complete description for this trail in my Russet Lake hiking and backpacking guide.

The trail climbs first on an old road, then on a forested trail up the Fitzsimmons Creek valley. The trail has several washouts and unbridged creeks, so use caution during snow melt or after heavy rain. But at Singing Pass, you emerge into the alpine. The trail ends at Russet Lake, surrounded by glaciated peaks. You can also use this trail to connect with the Musical Bumps or High Note Trails to Whistler Peak.

Difficulty: Very Challenging Distance: 31km round trip Elevation gain: 1280m Time Needed: 10-11 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: My Russet Lake hiking guide, Garibaldi Provincial Park  How to get there: The trailhead is next to the Whistler Gondola bus loop on Blackcomb Way.

Musical Bumps

The Musical Bumps is one of the most beautiful hikes in Whistler. It travels along the top of a ridge, passing Harmony Lake, Symphony Lake, Piccolo Summit, Flute Summit, and Oboe Summit. Now do you understand why it’s called the Musical Bumps Trail?

To get there, pay for the gondola and take it all the way up to Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain. The trail ends at Singing Pass. From there, you can retrace your steps back to the Roundhouse, continue upward to Russet Lake, make a loop by using the High Note Trail, or walk all the way back down to Whistler Village on the Singing Pass Trail. Time your visit for mid-summer to see the wildflowers. 

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 19km round trip Elevation gain: 305m Time Needed: 8-9 hours  Best Time to Go: July-September Trail Info: Whistler Blackcomb, Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: Ride the gondola from Whistler Village to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain.

High Note Trail

The High Note Trail is one of the newest trails in Whistler, and also one of the most spectacular. (It made my list of the top 10 hikes near Vancouver.) You ascend to the very top of Whistler Peak, then make a descending loop. Along the way, there are gorgeous views of Cheakamus Lake below and Black Tusk across the valley. You can also connect this trail to the Musical Bumps. And if the entire High Note Trail is too long for you, there’s a shortcut halfway along called the Half Note. 

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 9.6km one-way Elevation gain: 430m Time Needed: 3-4.5 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: My High Note Trail Guide How to get there: Ride the gondola from Whistler Village to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain, then take the Peak Chair up to the peak.

Hikes on the West Side of Whistler

Rainbow Lake

The trail to Rainbow Lake climbs through the forest on the west side of the Whistler Valley, passing Rainbow Falls along the way. It emerges into the alpine on the shores of beautiful Rainbow Lake, nestled beneath the rocky bulk of Rainbow Mountain. The entire hike is within the Whistler watershed that supplies drinking water to the town so swimming isn’t allowed and you should use the three toilets along the trail. 

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 16km round trip Elevation gain: 850m Time Needed: 6-7 hours Best Time to Go: July-September Trail Info: Rainbow Mountain Trail Map, Vancouver Trails How to get there: From Whistler Village, head south on Highway 99, then turn right on Alta Lake Road. Follow it for 6km to the trailhead and parking area on the left side of the road. You can also take a taxi. 

Rainbow Falls

If the hike to Rainbow Lake is too long, just head a short distance up the trail to visit Rainbow Falls. The falls aren’t visible from the main trail, but you can take a side trail to visit them. The best time to see the falls is during the spring runoff, but they are beautiful at any time of year. You can also snowshoe to Rainbow Falls in the winter. Use my Rainbow Falls trail guide to find your way.

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 2.3 km loop Elevation gain: 130 m Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours Best Time to Go: May-October Trail Info: My Rainbow Falls trail guide. How to get there: From Whistler Village, head south on Highway 99, then turn right on Alta Lake Road. Follow it for 6km to the trailhead and parking area on the left side of the road. You can also take a taxi. 

Skywalk Trail

The Skywalk Trails are part of Whistler’s new alpine trail network on the northeast face of Rainbow Mountain. There are actually three trails: Skywalk South, 19 Mile Creek, and Skywalk North that connect to make several loop trips possible. All three trails top out in the alpine near the frozen waters of Iceberg Lake. A popular loop option is to combine the 19 Mile Creek and Skywalk North trails. 

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: Up to 20km Elevation gain: 1025m Time Needed: 9 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: Rainbow Mountain Trail Map, Vancouver Trails How to get there: The Skywalk North and 19 Mile Creek trails start at the end of Mountain View Drive in the Alpine Meadows neighbourhood. To get there from Whistler Village, drive Highway 99 north and turn left on Meadow Lane into Alpine Meadows. Immediately turn right onto Parkwood Drive, then go left on Mountain View Drive and follow it up the hill to its end. Bus route 30 stops at the intersection of Mountain View Drive and Valley drive a few minutes from the trailhead. You can also take a taxi.

Hikes in Cheakamus Crossing

Riverside and Farside Trails

This easy loop hike follows the Riverside and Farside Trails (also known as the Cheakamus River Trail) along the banks of the Cheakamus River through the Whistler Interpretive Forest. It is located just south of Whistler in the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood, which was the site of the Whistler Olympic Village. Halfway through the hike, cross the Cheakamus River on a suspension bridge, then follow the opposite bank back to the trailhead. (The Riverside Trail is also a great snowshoe trail in the winter.)

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 6km loop Elevation gain: 90m Time Needed: 2 hours Best Time to Go: March to October Trail Info: Whistler Interpretive Forest Map How to get there: The trailhead and parking lot are on Cheakamus Lake Road immediately after you turn off Highway 99. You can also take bus route 10 or 20 from Whistler Village. The bus stop is at the trailhead. 

READ NEXT: 40+ Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Crater Rim Trail

The Crater Rim trail makes a loop through the Whistler Interpretive Forest high above Loggers Lake. The lake is actually an extinct volcanic crater. As the trail passes above the lake, it visits several great viewpoints. If you want a longer hike, you could combine the Crater Rim Trail with the Riverside Trail or other trails in the Interpretive Forest. 

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4.5km loop Elevation gain: 230m Time Needed: 2 hours Best Time to Go: May to October Trail Info: Whistler Interpretive Forest Map, Vancouver Trails How to get there: Turn off Highway 99 onto Cheakamus Lake Road. Less than 1km later, go left on a gravel road, then make your first right and follow the road across a bridge. Park at the Logger’s Lake trailhead on the side of the road about 2km after you left the pavement. If you don’t have a car, take bus route 10 or 20 to Cheakamus Lake Road, then walk the gravel road to the trailhead. You can also take a taxi.

Cheakamus Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Cheakamus Lake in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

This is one of the best easy hikes in Whistler. It heads through old-growth forest to the shores of Cheakamus Lake. The lake has beautiful turquoise blue water thanks to glacial runoff. You can take a shorter 7km round trip hike to the west end of the lake, or continue along the trail until it ends at Singing Creek, for a 14km round trip hike. While the water looks beautiful, it’s bitterly cold so swim at your own risk. 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 7-14km round trip Elevation gain: 50m Time Needed: 2-4 hours Best Time to Go: May to November Trail Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: Turn off Highway 99 onto Cheakamus Lake Road. Stay on the road for 7.5km, avoiding all branches, until it ends at a parking lot and trailhead. The road is bumpy, but fine for all for all vehicles. Some Whistler taxi companies will also drive you to the trailhead. 

Helm Pass

Heads up: Day passes are required at the Cheakamus Lake trailehad in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

This challenging trail starts from the same trailhead as Cheakamus Lake. It crosses a bridge over the Cheakamus River then ascends forested slopes into the heart of Garibaldi Provincial Park. After passing the Helm Creek campground, you’ll arrive at the surreal volcanic landscape of Helm Pass. The pass has several beautiful light blue alpine lakes as well as a fascinating flat plain covered in lava rocks called the Cinder Flats. If you have the energy to continue onwards, you can connect to the Panorama Ridge, Garibaldi Lake and Black Tusk trails from Helm Pass.

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 25km round trip Elevation gain: 930m Time Needed: 8-9 hours Best Time to Go: July-September Trail Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: Turn off Highway 99 onto Cheakamus Lake Road. Stay on the road for 7.5km, avoiding all branches, until it ends at a parking lot and trailhead. The road is bumpy, but fine for all for all vehicles. Some Whistler taxi companies will also drive you to the trailhead. 

Whistler Train Wreck

The Whistler Train Wreck trail is one of the most unique trails in Whistler. A train derailed in the area in the 1950s. Today, the cars still lay where they landed in the forest, covered in graffiti, and surrounded by mountain bike trails. It’s an easy and flat hike to the wreck, which includes a suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River. The Whistler Train Wreck Trail is also a great place to snowshoe in the winter. 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 3km round trip Elevation gain: Minimal Time Needed: 1 hour  Best Time to Go: March to October Trail Info: My Whistler Train Wreck hiking guide. How to get there: From Whislter Village, go south on Highway 99, then turn left onto Cheakamus Lake Road, which becomes Legacy Way. Turn right off Legacy Way onto Jane Lake Road. The trailhead is on your right 500m later. You can also take bus route 10 or 20 to the stop on Legacy Way and walk Jane Lakes Road to the trailhead. Whistler taxis will also take you to the trailhead.

Hikes South of Whistler

Brandywine Falls

This short and easy hike heads to one of the Whistler area’s most spectacular waterfalls: Brandywine Falls. It plummets 70 meters down volcanic basalt cliffs into the canyon far below. You can get a great view of the falls from a viewing platform. If you want a longer hike, there are other trails in the park. Snowshoeing at Brandywine Falls is also great in the winter. 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 1km round trip Elevation gain: none Time Needed: 30 minutes  Best Time to Go: March to October Trail Info: My Brandywine Falls trail guide How to get there: Head south on Highway 99 from Whistler Village for 17km, then turn left into the parking lot for Brandywine Falls Provincial Park. 

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibadi Lake in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is a classic, and I think it’s one of the ten best hikes near Vancouver. The trail climbs up through the forest, passes a great viewpoint and several small lakes before arriving at Garibaldi Lake. This massive lake is glacially fed, giving the water an unreal blue tinge. From the picnic area and campground there are incredible views of the glaciers across the lake. 

Difficulty: Challenging Distance: 18km round trip Elevation gain: 820m Time Needed: 6-7 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: From Whistler Village, head south on Highway 99 for 25km. Turn left onto Daisy Lake Road and follow it to its end at the Rubble Creek parking lot and trailhead. 

Black Tusk

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Black Tusk is the prominent black peak you can see from many places in the Whistler area. It’s actually hardened lava from an extinct volcano. You can hike to the base of the Tusk, but only experienced rock climbers should make the final sketchy scramble to the summit. To get there, follow the Garibaldi Lake Trail uphill from the Rubble Creek trailhead to a junction. Go left through the wildflowers of Taylor Meadow, then turn left again to begin the tough slog up the rocky trail to the Tusk.

Difficulty: Very Challenging Distance: 29km round trip Elevation gain: 1740m Time Needed: 11-12 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: From Whistler Village, head south on Highway 99 for 25km. Turn left onto Daisy Lake Road and follow it to its end at the Rubble Creek parking lot and trailhead. 

Panorama Ridge

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

Panorama Ridge is one of my favourite hikes, and on my list for the best hikes in the Vancouver area. It’s a long day on the trails, but the views from the summit are truly incredible. You start on the forested Garibaldi Lake Trail, go left through Taylor Meadows, pass the turnoff to Black Tusk, and arrive at the volcanic landscape of Helm Pass. From there you ascend the slopes of Panorama Ridge. At the top, you get mind-blowing 360-degree views. Garibaldi Lake is in front of you, Black Tusk is behind you and snow-capped mountains are all around. 

Difficulty: Very Challenging Distance: 30km round trip Elevation gain: 1520m Time Needed: 11-12 hours Best Time to Go: July to September Trail Info: Garibaldi Park How to get there: From Whistler Village, head south on Highway 99 for 25km. Turn left onto Daisy Lake Road and follow it to its end at the Rubble Creek parking lot and trailhead. 

Hikes North of Whistler

Ancient Cedars Trail

The short Ancient Cedars Trail travels to a grove of huge old-growth cedar trees at the north end of Whistler. These massive trees are part of a small parcel that wasn’t logged. Some of the trees are over 900 years old! The trail was upgraded with new signage in 2013 and now it is much easier to find than it used to be.

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 5km round trip Elevation gain: 175m Time Needed: 2 hours Best Time to Go: June to October Trail Info: Cougar Mountain Trail Map, Vancouver Trails How to get there: Go north on Highway 99 from Whistler Village. Just past Green Lake, turn left onto the gravel Cougar Mountain Road about 8.5km from the village. The road is rough so you will need an AWD or 4WD vehicle. The trailhead is 4.5km up the road from the highway, past the ziplines and ATV rentals.

Parkhurst Ghost Town

Abandoned in the 1960s, Parkhurst was a logging settlement on the shores of Green Lake. Old buildings, machinery, and artefacts litter the site today, making it one of the area’s most unusual hikes. You can make a loop hike through the town to check it out. There are tons of mountain bike trails in the area that can be confusing and aren’t well marked, so bring a GPS. Parkhurst is also a great place to snowshoe in the winter. 

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 5km loop Elevation gain: Minimal Time Needed: 2 hours Best Time to Go: May to October Trail Info: Read my guide to the Parkhurst Ghost Town trail How to get there: Head north from Whistler Village on Highway 99 for 11.5km. Turn right across the train tracks onto Wedge Forest Service Road and cross a bridge. On the other side, go right at the junction and park just past Whistler Paintball. You can also take a taxi to the trailhead. 

Wedgemount Lake

The hike to Wedgemount Lake is the steepest and most challenging hike in Whistler. Your legs will certainly feel the effort. At the top you’ll arrive at a beautiful blue lake, surrounded by mountains. Follow the trail to the far end of the lake, then uphill through the rocks for a few minutes to the toe of a glacier. A few decades ago, this glacier ended at the lakeshore – it’s sad to see how far it has retreated in such a short time!

Difficulty: Very Challenging Distance: 14km round trip Elevation gain: 1200m Time Needed: 8-9 hours Best Time to Go: July-September Trail Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park How to get there: Head north from Whistler Village on Highway 99 for 11.5km. Turn right across the train tracks onto Wedge Forest Service Road and cross a bridge. On the other side, go left at the junction and follow signs for another 2km to the trailhead. The gravel road is rough but passable for all types of vehicles. You can also take a taxi to the trailhead. 

Nairn Falls

This easy hike follows the banks of the Green River to 60m-tall Nairn Falls. It’s one of many great waterfall hikes in the area.  The falls crash down through smooth granite rocks, worn away by thousands of years of flowing water. Two different platforms give you great views of the falls. If you visit in winter, snowshoeing to Nairn Falls is fun too. 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 3km round trip Elevation gain: None Time Needed: 1 hour  Best Time to Go: May to October Trail Info: Nairn Falls Provincial Park How to get there: From Whistler Village, head north on Highway 99 for 29km, then turn right into the park. 

Joffre Lakes

Heads up: Day passes are required Joffre Lakes in summer. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The popular hike to Joffre Lakes isn’t in Whistler – it’s actually closer to the towns of Pemberton and Mount Currie. But since many people do it as a day trip from Whistler, I’ve included Joffre Lakes on this list. The hike travels to three beautiful turquoise lakes and passes by a waterfall. At the third lake, there are amazing views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The Joffre Lakes trail near Whistler can get incredibly busy, so try to go on a weekday.

Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 10km round trip Elevation gain: 400m Time Needed: 4 hours Best Time to Go: June to September Trail Info: My Joffre Lakes hiking guide How to get there: Go north on Highway 99 from Whistler Village for 61km, then turn right into the parking lot. If the lot is full, there are overflow lots on the other side of the highway.

With over 20 trails to choose from, I’m sure you’ll find a Whistler hike on this list that you love. Do you have other Whistler hikes to recommend? Tell me in the comments. 

More Whistler Area Posts:

• 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)
• Visiting Whistler, BC in Summer (By a Local)
• 40+ Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
• 44 Best Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
• Camping in Whistler, BC: The Best Campgrounds
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

More Whistler Hiking Posts:

• Joffre Lakes Hike (By a Local)
• High Note Trail in Whistler
• Whistler Train Wreck Hike
• Blackcomb Hiking Trails in Whistler (By a Season’s Pass Holder)
• Rainbow Falls Loop Trail in Whistler
• Brandywine Falls Provincial Park Hiking Guide
• Hike to Parkhurst Ghost Town in Whistler
• The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)
• Sea to Sky Trail from Squamish to Pemberton

More Whistler Outdoor Adventures:

• How to Paddle the River of Golden Dreams in Whistler, BC
• Lost Lake in Whistler: Hiking, Swimming, Biking and More
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Cheakamus River Snowshoe Trail in Whistler
• Lost Lake Snowshoe Trails in Whistler

The post The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Al’s Habrich Ridge

This Vancouver area hike is one of my favourites since it’s a bit of a hidden gem. You have to take the Sea to Sky gondola to get to the trailhead, so the trail is never busy. It starts off with a little bit of road walking in the forest, but before too long you are ascending a gorgeous granite ridge with great views of Howe Sound. After leaving the ridge you’ll explore a little bit of alpine meadow, then follow a rough loop trail to rugged Neverland Falls. It’s a beautiful area with a great variety of terrain.

Distance: 7km round trip, Elevation gain: 440m, Time Needed: 5 hours, Difficulty: Moderate, Best Time to Go: July-October, Trail Info: See my Al’s Habrich Ridget Trail guide. How to get there: From Vancouver drive 45 minutes north to the Sea to Sky gondola in Squamish. Buy a ticket to take the gondola up. (You can also walk up via the Sea to Summit Trail but that adds another 3.5 hours and 900m of elevation gain to your day.)

Heather Trail to Three Brothers

This alpine trail in Manning park is a bit of a drive from Vancouver, but it’s well worth it, especially when the wildflowers are blooming. The hike starts at the end of Blackwall Peak road, high in the alpine. You’ll walk through seemingly endless meadows before climbing gradually up towards Three Brothers Mountain. The last kilometer to the peak is a steep and rocky scramble, but the summit at an elevation of 2272m is well worth it. The hike is doable in a day, but if you have more time, consider backcountry camping at one of the sites along the way and extending your trip to beautiful Nicomen Lake.

Distance: 21.5km round trip, Elevation gain: 480m, Time Needed: 7-8 hours, Difficulty: Difficult, Best Time to Go: July-September, Trail Info: See Manning Provincial Park, hike #79 in Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes book, and Vancouver Trails. How to get there: Drive 2.5 hours from Vancouver to Manning Park via highway 1, then highway 3. Take Blackwall Peak Road to the parking lot.

READ NEXT: Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver

High Note Trail

This trail has one of the best effort to reward ratios amongst hikes near Vancouver: the trail is never too steep or too technical and there are spectacular views the entire time. The only catch is the price. You’ll have to pay to take the Whistler gondola up to the peak to hike it. The trail drops down off Whistler peak and contours along the side of ridge with great views of Cheakamus Lake and Black Tusk. At a junction, it turns downhill to go past a couple of pretty alpine lakes and meadows to finish at the gondola roundhouse. If you have the energy, add a few extra kilometers to your trip by going right at the junction and doing an out and back section to Flute Summit or Oboe Summit on the Musical Bumps trail. The views are incredible and you’ll far fewer hikers up there. (This trail is so good it also made my list of the best hikes in Whistler.)

Distance: 9.5+km loop, Elevation gain: 300+m, Time Needed: 4+ hours, Difficulty: Moderate, Best Time to Go: July-September, Trail Info: See my High Note Trail hiking guide.  How to get there: Drive 1.5 hours from Vancouver to Whistler. In Whistler, purchase an alpine pass then take the Whistler gondola and the peak chair to the summit.

Psst! If you’re driving to Whistler from Vancouver, check out my complete guide to the Sea to Sky Highway. It includes all the best places to stop along the way.

Mount Seymour

Mount Seymour is my favourite hike on Vancouver’s North Shore. The trail to the summit starts out alongside the gravel ski runs before climbing up a rooty and rocky trail. Seymour has three different peaks, each with their own charms. In particular I love the slabby granite playground around First Peak. You can spend hours exploring the various outcrops, finding different viewpoints of the city and the surrounding mountains. After you’ve finished poking around First Peak (also called Pump Peak) be sure to hike the extra couple hundred meters to Tim Jones Peak (a.k.a. Second Peak) and the true summit (Third Peak) since the views from there are also great.

Distance: 9km round trip, Elevation gain: 450m, Time Needed: 5 hours, Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult, Best Time to Go: July-October, Trail Info: See Mount Seymour Provincial Park map, hike #1 in Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes book, Vancouver Trails, and Outdoor Vancouver. How to get there: It’s a 45 minute drive from Vancouver.

READ NEXT: 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver

Panorama Ridge and Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Lake in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

This is one of Vancouver’s most popular and well known hikes. And it deserves the reputation – it’s spectacular. The first 6km of the trail consists of long switchbacks in the forest. Eventually you top out in the alpine at Taylor Meadows. The trail follows the meadows gradually uphill until the base of Panorama Ridge. From the junction, it’s a steep and rocky climb up to the top of the ridge. The views up here are insane: you can see Garibaldi Lake in front of you and Black Tusk behind you. Be sure to walk along the ridge a little bit to escape the crowds. On the way back, take the trail from the outhouse junction down to Garibaldi Lake. Go for a quick (and cold!) swim before descending the switchbacks to your car. This is a really long and difficult day hike with a lot of elevation gain. Most hikers will need to build up to this one. If you aren’t ready to tackle it in a day, consider booking a backcountry campsite at Taylor Meadows or Garibaldi Lake so you can tackle the trip over a couple of days.

Distance: 30km round trip, Elevation gain: 1500m, Time Needed: 11-12 hours, Difficulty: Very Difficult, Best Time to Go: July-October, Trail Info: See hike #30 in Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes book, Vancouver Trails,  and Outdoor Vancouver How to get there: From Vancouver, drive 1 hour, 15 minutes to the trailhead just off highway 99 north of Squamish.

Eagle Bluff

I think this is one of the best hikes in Vancouver because I think it has everything you need in a North Shore hike: great viewpoints and beautiful little alpine lakes. The trail starts with a steep climb up towards Black Mountain plateau. At the top of the climb you can go left for a loop through the lakes or right to summit Black Mountain. The two trails meet up again and head slightly down hill to Eagle Bluff. It’s an open rocky area with killer views of West Vancouver. On the way back, stop by Cabin Lake for a quick dip.

Distance: 8km round trip, Elevation Gain: 350m, Time Needed: 4 Hours, Difficulty: Moderate, Best Time to Go: July-October, Trail Info: See Cypress Provincial Park map, hike #15 in Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes book, Vancouver Trails, and Outdoor Vancouver How to get there: The trail starts at the Cypress Mountain ski hill parking lot. It’s a 30 minute drive from Vancouver.

READ NEXT: Alternatives to the Grouse Grind: Steep Workout Hikes Near Vancouver

Lighthouse Park

Not every hike needs to be an epic trek up a mountain. I love the trails in Lighthouse Park for a more relaxed hike. (It’s a great one for out of town visitors too.) While most people make a bee-line for the lighthouse, there are actually lots of quiet trails leading to viewpoints, giant trees and hidden beaches. My favourite hike combines a bunch of trails into a loop around the park.

Distance: 6km loop, Elevation Gain: 50m, Time Needed: 2 hours, Difficulty: Easy, Best Time to Go: Year-Round, Trail Info: See my recommended route including a map. Outdoor Vancouver also has a good guide. Bring a copy of the trail map since there are a lot of trail junctions and it can get confusing. How to get there: Drive 40 minutes from Vancouver to the park entrance off Marine Drive in West Vancouver. You can also get there via bus 250 or 253.

St. Mark’s Summit

The hike to St. Mark’s summit has a bit of a split personality. The first half is on a wide gravel trail that makes for easy walking, even on the steep parts. But suddenly, part way up some steep switchbacks, the gravel ends and a true rooty and rocky North Shore trail begins. But it’s the finale that you’re really here for – the panoramic view over Howe Sound up at St. Mark’s Summit. The granite outcroppings seem to hang directly over the Sea to Sky highway far below. Be sure to go on a clear day. If you want to extend your trip, continue along the trail to Unnecessary Mountain. The descent down from St. Mark’s, then the climb back up might seem, umm, unnecessary, but the close-up views of the Lions are pretty incredible.

Distance: 11km round trip, Elevation Gain: 460m, Time Needed: 5 hours, Difficulty: Moderate, Best Time to Go: July-October, Trail Info: See my St. Mark’s Summit hiking guide. How to get there: The trail starts at the Cypress Mountain ski hill parking lot in West Vancouver. It’s a 30 minute drive from Vancouver.

READ NEXT: Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: 100+ Year-round Trails

Elk Mountain

Elk Mountain is probably the most popular trail in Vancouver’s Fraser Valley… but for a good reason. It’s a short and steep hike through the forest up to the summit. (In fact Chilliwack locals hike it instead of the Grouse Grind.) At the top you’ll find incredible views of the Chilliwack area and the mountains to the south. A gorgeous ridge-top trail extends a few kilometers further to the summit Mount Thurston as well. Be sure to head this way in the summer to see the alpine flowers blooming.

Distance: 7+km round trip, Elevation gain: 800m, Time Needed: 4-5 hours, Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult, Best Time To Go: June-October, Trail Info: See hike #64 in Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes book, Vancouver Trails, and Outdoor Vancouver How to get there: It takes 1.5 hours to drive to the trailhead in Chilliwack.

Lynn Canyon

Lynn Canyon is my pick for the best hike in Vancouver to take visitors from out of town since it’s short and easy. There’s tons to see including a suspension bridge, waterfalls, rainforest, boardwalk, a deep canyon and a gorgeously clear pool. It’s also a great place for a short hike on a rainy day or after work when all the tourists stay away. Be sure to explore upstream of the suspension bridge to see 30 foot pool and downstream to see Twin Falls. Lots of DIY loops are possible.

Distance: 1.5+km round trip Elevation gain: 70m Time needed: 1-1.5 hours Difficulty: easy. Best time to go: All year. Trail Info: See Vancouver Trails, and Outdoor Vancouver. Bring a copy of the trail map so you can plan your route. How to get there: It’s a 30 minute drive from Vancouver or accessible by bus 227 or 228.

So there’s my list for the 10 best hikes near Vancouver. Which ones do you agree with? Which Vancouver hikes would be on your list? Tell me in the comments.

More Vancouver Hikes:

• Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver
• The Worst Hikes in Vancouver (And Where to Hike Instead)
• The Best Vancouver Hiking Books
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Alternatives to the Grouse Grind: Steep Workout Hikes Near Vancouver
• 35 Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit
• Waterfalls Near Vancouver You Can Hike To
• 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails

The post The 10 Best Hikes in Vancouver – A Local’s Guide appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.