With the weather finally heating up across North Vancouver, it’s time to start exploring the outdoors again! I’m very excited to get back into my walking / running / hiking routine, and can’t wait to explore the trails we have right outside our doorsteps. If you’re ready to soak up some of the Vancouver greenery, take a look at my favourite trails listed below!
One of my go-to trails is the Baden Powell. As Vancouver Trails explains, “the eastern section of the Baden Powell trail travels through North Vancouver from Deep Cove to the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge. This section of the trail passes several scenic landscapes, from a view of Deep Cove and Indian Arm, to great canyon scenery of the Seymour River and Lynn Creek.” Personally I like to head into the Baden Powell trail and do around a 45 minute walk with my furry friend. It’s fairly easy, very calming, and overall a great spot to get your steps in!
Another great one is the BCMC Trail. The BCMC Trail is located just east of the Grouse Grind and offers a less busy alternative workout. The start of the trail is the same place as the start of the Grind before branching off onto the Baden Powell, then left at the junction up the steep hill to the Grouse Mountain chalet.
Photo: Jonathan Hayward/The Canadian Press
If you’re like me and you plan to take the Gondola down, make sure to reserve a spot, otherwise you may have to make your way down on your own. Reservations are mandatory to ride!
I’m sure many of you are also familiar with Mystery Creek and Hyannis Loop, this is also one of my favourites. Not only is it very easy to get to, but the trail also features excellent viewpoints and is perfect for walkers, runners, and mountain bikers! My only suggestion is to make sure you’re wearing comfortable shoes – the trail can get a bit rocky in some areas but is still considerably mild.
If you’re wanting a trail with a little less difficulty, I would highly recommend checking out the Capilano Canyon. From the parking lot, make your way towards the dam, taking in the view of Grouse Mountain and the Lions off in the distance to your right. Then continue on for a very easy stroll through the forest. For a full breakdown on this hike, click here. This hike / walk shouldn’t take you more than about an hour, and is a great spot for your furry friends as well!
Last but not least I love heading up to Dog Mountain, you should expect to see lots of snow there right now but this is a great hike both in the cooler months and when the snow melts and the weather really heats up.
Photo: Vancouver Trails