The weather is cooperating. The roads are clear. The mountains and valleys of our province are beginning to bloom in rich hues of green.
It’s time to get out there and enjoy what’s beyond our Kitsilano neighbourhood. Grab your walking sticks! Here’s just a tiny sample of where to go hiking this spring in the lower mainland.
Day Trip
There are a plethora of options when it comes to taking a stroll outside around here, and an easy gateway into the hiking groove is nearby Pacific Spirit Regional Park. The walking and biking trails there are nothing too strenuous, and are perfect for beginners and families, or those just looking for an hour or two of genuine forest bliss in the midst of the city.
For a little more work and denser groves, wider views, and options for all levels of fitness, the Lynn Valley and Deep Cove communities on the North Shore have endless networks of trails heading further north. Lynn Canyon Park has the bonus of a modest but free suspension bridge, while Deep Cove has an idyllic little bay with lots of cozy eateries for afterwards.
Head north of Coquitlam to Belcarra Regional Park to get an alternative, and much higher perspective of Deep Cove and the Indian Arm fjord, or do a relatively easy loop around BC Hydro’s pretty reservoir, Buntzen Lake.
Beyond Maple Ridge lies the vast Golden Ears Provincial Park where you can attempt to traverse the 5,000ft peaks on foot. Horseback riding trails and serious 4×4 trails crisscross these lush mountains as well, plus you can camp overnight at one of the three main campgrounds (or wherever you may find yourself and your tent).
Forego the ferry and hop on a water taxi or charter a boat to popular Bowen Island with its easy-to-advanced hiking and biking trails around Killarney Lake or up Mount Gardner. Don’t miss Artisan Eats for an unforgettable and surprisingly authentic selection of sweet and savoury French pastries before or after your trek.
And for durable outdoor clothing and gear, check out The North Face, Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and Atmosphere – all in Kits.
Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out Where To Hiking This Spring – Part II
Last modified: August 6, 2020
