Begins at the Skookum Power Project Intake Dam
From the gate 100 meters before the Skookum Power Project Intake Dam, hike up a steep but short gravel road to right of the gate and main road. Follow this for approximately 100 meters until reaching a large gravel debris field. Cross the entire gravel debris field (footpath marked with flags and rock cairns) to reach the start of an old road to the North marked by a "0" KM marker sign and large reflective orange metal marker. This is the official trailhead.
Time: 4 to 4.5 hours one way in the trail's current condition *Cars will not make it to the parking lot (All wheel drive or 4 wheel drive highly recommended) *Donations to the BCMC for trail maintenance is always appreciated and needed *Outhouses are soon to be constructed, and the cabin will be paid accommodation which can be reserved on the BCMC website. *Camp only in designated camping areas. *Keep in mind at all times that this area is a rugged wilderness, with unforgiving weather that changes quickly. tshirt and sneakers as an example are not recommended, proper outerware is for your comfort and safety, we want you to enjoy the outdoors. *There is a large bear population and other wildlife in the valley which is often encountered on the trail, so dogs are not recommended for the trail or Watersprite Lake. A new bear attack study indicates that 93% of all bear attacks are male bears and 53% of those involve dogs. *Human waste continues to be a major problem in the Skookum Valley and Watersprite Lake, so please do not leave your toilet paper and deeds near the lake or the trail. This will contaminate the lake and the creeks in the area and make other hikers in the future sick (contaminated drinking water from a creek on the trail already infected one hiker with bacteria) *Open campfires at Watersprite Lake are forbidden and highly detrimental to the fragile environment. **Abuse this fragile and special area and everyone loses**
The route is an old road once used to access the old Diamond Head Lodge -- now a part of history. What remains is a jeep road that is still used by B.C. Parks to supply the ranger station at Elfin Lakes. It's generally a good double-track except for some loose rock and a few muddy areas after a rain.
The hiking trail-head is 16 kilometers from the Sea-to-Sky highway (99) at an elevation of 1000 metres. If you park at the trail-head the area has seen a bit of criminal activity by local dysfunctionals so be sure to take valuables with you or keep them out of site.
The first 3.5-4 kilometres from the trail-head are the steepest until you get to Red Heather Meadows (1450metres). A great waterfall on the way provides a fresh cold drink. The meadows in winter provide perfect terrain to practice your tele-turns. In another 2.5 kilometres the high point of Paul Ridge (1660metres) is reached. The vistas open up and you can see your destination another 5 kilometres in the distance. Mt. Atwell can be seen as the diamond shaped peak to the north, the areas namesake. On the north the spire in behind is the actual summit of Mt.Garibaldi (2678metres). The route is completely surrounded by mountains: the Tantalus Range to thewest, Mt. Garibaldi and Diamond Head to the north, Mt. Mamquamto the east. All have glaciers which cascade to tree line.
Before and during the last ice age about 15-20,000 years ago Garibaldi Provincial Park was one of the premier volcanic areas of the Cascades. The Garibaldi Massif is in fact an old volcano. The sides have eroded away leaving a lava plug that still stands today. Mt. Atwell (Diamond Head) is mostly composed of compressed unstable muds. Black Tusk in Northern Garibaldi Park is another example of this volcanic geology.
A gentle descent to Elfin provides superb riding around granite outcrops, past stunted alpine fir and through meadows of flowering heather. Eventually, the 11-kilometre track ends atthe shelter and ranger outpost at the lakes. Campsites in the area make the trip suitable as an overnighter. Deeper in the park, many hiking options exist. Don't forget the sunscreen.
One final note, if hiking up in late July or August, the hot hike up (or ride, this is one of the few areas that allow bikes up to the Elfin Lakes shelter area), is compensated for by an incredible swim in the larger of the lakes. On a hot end of July day, our trio made straight for the lake, and while some find it still cold, others swim. It's clear cold water. The adjacent lake near the Ranger station is for drinking water.
Trail Information
Elfin Lakes to Little Diamond Head: Length, 7 km; suggested time, 2 to 3 hours one way; elevation change, 625 metres. This is a fairly arduous hike past the Gargoyles (strange visages sculptured by nature in lava) to 2,100 metre Little Diamond Head.
Elfin Lakes to the Opal Cone: Length, 6.5 km; suggested time, 2 to 3 hours one way; elevation change, 250 metres. Trail leads down to Ring Creek then climbs the Opal Cone, an extinct volcano with a crater. Garibaldi Neve and Mamquam Lake can be seen from the top.
Elfin Lakes to Mamquam Lake: Length, 11 km; suggested time, 4 to 5 hrs one way; elevation change, 570 metres. A strenuous hike that follows the route to the Opal Cone and then continues eastward past the Rampart Ponds. The trail descends to the lake from here. Overnight camping is NOT permitted.
Items of Importance:
Mountain bikes are permitted on the trail from the parking lot to Elfin Lakes only. Please obey the signs.
Starts out a smooth constructed trail in Cypress Bowl, becomes a beaten path as you go along the ridge. Some roots, mud, etc.
Route: Follows the crest of the range on the east side of Howe Sound, from Cypress Bowl to Hat Pass. Beyond Hat Pass, a route continues as the Deeks Lake Trail.
How to Find: The south trailhead is at the Cypress Bowl Ski Area.
Description: This long trail traverses over the many summits on the East Side of Howe Sound ending at Deeks Lake and the Deeks Lake Trail. It is a very ambitious overnight hike. Begin at at Cypress Bowl ski lodge, stay the night in Magnesia meadow's emergency hut, and finish at Porteau Cove.
From BC Parks: This hike offers spectacular views of the famed rocky outcroppings known as the "Lions", Howe Sound and an expanse of the Coastal Mountain Range. The 30 km trail streches north from Cypress Bowl in Cypress Provincial Park to Highway 99 just south of Porteau Cove Provincial Park on Howe Sound. Shorter day trips from either end also offer beautiful scenery. Cypress Park is accessed from the Upper Levels Highway in West Vancouver and Highway 99, near Porteau Cove, 22 km north of Horshoe Bay.
This is a summer use only trail, as several areas pose a high winter avalanche danger. Snow-free season generally starts mid-July and ends mid-October. Access during the rest of the year shoudl be reserved for properly equipped and experience ski parties. Steep and rocky areas along the ridges require extra attention in wet or foggy weather.
This busy and popular trails begins at the Mount Seymour Ski Resort Parking Area and ascends to the summit of Mount Seymour.
Length, 4 km. Suggested hiking time, 2.5 hours. Elevation change, 450 metres. This busy trail starts near the north end of the top parking lot, traversing Brockton Point and First and Second Pump Peaks. From the summit there is a panoramic view of Vancouver, the lower mainland and, on a clear day, the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. This hike is rated moderate to difficult.
The Black Tusk Trail begins at Taylor meadows and ascends to the summit climb of the Black Tusk. It is a BC Parks Grade and maintained Trail.
How to Find: To get to the point where the Black Tusk trail starts, you first have to hike up the Rubble Creek Trail for 6 km, then at the fork, turn onto the Taylor Meadows trail, and continue up past the campground and into the alpine. Here you will find the start of the Black Tusk Trail. (Most people stay at the campground the first day, and then hike up Black tusk the second day.)
Trail Description: The trodden trail climbs up through scree on a beaten path, then reaches the solid rock of Black Tusk. At the start of the final climb of Black Tusk is a short 20 meter chimney with marked handholds. It looks fairly fearsome, however the handholds are very good, like steps, such that it is very rare that adults uses a rope. Parties with children often carry a short rope. Once above the chimney, it is a walk to the broad area which is the normal summit. Just to the north of the normal summit is a steep rock spire which is a little bit higher, but almost never climbed.
The Cheakamus Lake Trail is well maintained by BC Parks all the way to Singing Creek. Mountain biking is permitted.
Route: Runs along the reasonably level north side of the Cheakamus River to Cheakamus Lake, then continues along the north shore of the lake to Singing creek.
How to Find: Start at the parking lot at the end of the Cheakamus Lake Road (Cheakamus East FSR), and follow the trail east. The Cheakamus Lake Road is a rough 2-wheel drive road with some cross ditches.
Trail Description: It is a pleasant three kilometer hike to the first campground at the lake outflow, and another four kilometers to the camping area at Singing Creek. Elevation gain is minimal. Both of these campsite areas are equipped with outhouses and food caches. Those seeking off trail adventure may wish to climb up to Singing Pass and connect with the Singing Pass Trail. A rough, flagged trail continues beyond Singing Creek to the end of the lake, where terrain becomes swampy. Presumably this trail can be followed farther up the Cheakamus River. The Helm Creek Trail branches off 1.5 kilometers from the parking lot, climbing towards The Black Tusk and over to Garibaldi Lake. The cable car crossing of the Cheakamus River has been replaced with a new pedestrian bridge.
The Garibaldi Lake Trail is meticulously maintained by BC Parks. All junctions are marked with trail destinations and distances.
Route: The Garibaldi Lake Trail is the main trail connecting with Black Tusk Meadows Trail and S end of Helm Lake Trail. Trail maps are available at the trailhead or from BC Parks, but do not show much geographic detail. The route switchbacks up the north side of Rubble Creek and then swings around the north sides of Barrier Lake and Lesser Garibaldi Lake to Garibaldi Lake.
How to Find: From Squamish, drive north on Highway 99 about 35 km, then turn right (east) onto the Rubble Creek Road, and then drive another 2.6km up to the Garibaldi Lake parking lot. The turn is marked by a BC Parks sign to Garibaldi Lake. The turn is before Daisy Lake, if you see Daisy lake, you've gone too far.
Trail Description: From the Rubble Creek Parking Lot, head north on the only trail, and follow the signs to Garibaldi Lake. The first part of the trail climbs steadily in the forest, somewhat away from Rubble Creek. Then approximately north of the label for "The Barrier the trail begins the exhausting switchbacks up the forested slopes just north of the open cliff of the Barrier. After the switchbacks, you see one brief view of the barrier, and then the trail runs north of Barrier Lake and lesser Garibaldi Lake, and finally reaches the outlet of Garibaldi Lake. At this point, the trail crosses a bridge to the south side of Rubble Creek. This area is labelled "Battleship Islands" on the map. The trail officially ends at the Battleship Islands campground.
In winter, many skiers choose to ski across Barrier and Lesser Garibaldi Lakes, but a steep canyon in Rubble Creek beyond Lesser Garibaldi Lake forces a return to the trail on the north side of the creek. Garibaldi Lake usually freezes over in late December, but caution should be excercised as the far side of the lake is the last to freeze.
Outhouses are available at Rubble Creek Parking Lot, Garibaldi Lake (Battleship Islands Campground), Taylor Meadows and Black Tusk Meadows.
The 12.0 Kilometer BC Parks grade Helm Creel Trail consists of trail, beaten path in woods and raised roadbed in meadows. It is mostly flat, with one steep section at the far north end of the trail. There is now a Footbridge across the Cheakamus River.
Route: This trail traverses the subalpine meadows around Black Tusk from near Garibaldi Lake right down into the old growth forest in Helm Creek, linking up with the Cheakamus Lake Trail.
Trail Description:
From the north, go along the Cheakamus trail untill you see a turnoff to the right. Go down to the metal footbridge, cross it and follow the trail steeply up through the trees. Eventually you will get above tree line and go past Black Tusk on the east. You are supposed to camp in designated spots. Eventually after going through the alpine pass, the trail merges with Black Tusk trails at Jct 54.
If instead, you start from the south end, get to the start of the trail by hiking the first 6km of the Garibaldi Lake trail, and bear left at the first major junction to Taylor Meadows Campground.
The High Note Trail begins at the summit of Whistler Mountain and is accessed by the Peak Chair. The trail then quickly drops down onto the south side of Whistler Mountain away from all the ski lifts and runs. It also intersects the Musical Bumps Trail that travels from the Whistler Roundhouse to Singing Pass.
The Mount Price Trail (route to be more accurate) is a hiking and Backcountry ski destination in Garibaldi Park next to Garibaldi Lake. The trail is rough and poorly marked by ribbons and requires some clamboring over rocks.
Access:
Since this is not an official trail, it is not marked. From the outlet of Garibaldi Lake, skirt around the lake to the campground. Go through the campground, and then head directly south, going cross country. You will soon hit the main trail to Mount Price just south of Battleship Bay. Or skirt along the lake to the wharf, and then pick up trail beyond that.
Descrption:
This trail is poorly marked and quite rough, involving a lot of scrambling over boulders. The trail itself ends at treeline below Clinker Peak, 3.2 km past the Ranger Station, and from there it is just a route up the rocks.
The first part of the trail is a beaten path, but as you start to climb, you need to scramble over the big boulders of the lava flow. Here the trail was marked by the occasional pink ribbon, which are helpful, since there's not really a beaten path. Between the rough sections, the beaten path resumed. The lava flow parts of the trail are the roughest part of the trail.
In the upper section above treeline, you have a choice of trying to skirt across bare permanent ice in the gully between Clinker peak and the main Mount Price, or instead staying right and climbing up Clinker, then dropping to the col to go up Price. The crossing of the ice is tricky in plain boots.
The Musical Bumps Trail is a highly scenic and generally gentle and meandering trail that was jointly built through volunteer and park efforts, the Musical Bumps Trail provides a ramble through mostly alpine terrain with fine views of the mountains and glaciers of central Garibaldi Park. The trail travels through a variety of environments, from lush meadows to desolate rocky summits. If accessed via the Whistler Mountain lift system, the most commonly used portion of the trail initially crosses Harmony Ridge before crossing two flat summits in a row, starting with Flute Summit and then Oboe Summit. The trail meanders through alpine trundra for most of its length, before entering the lush meadows near Singing Pass. The Musical Bumps Trail is fast becoming the more common approach to the Himmelsbach Hut at Russett Lake, beneath Mount Fissile, regardless of season.
Access: From Roundhouse Lift Station, walk or take the smaller lift up to Little Whistler Mt. Then go down Burnt Stew ski run and follow Musical Bumps ridgeline and beaten path. (There is no signpost for the trailhead at Burnt Stew.)
General Route: From Whistler Gondola to Little Whistler to Piccolo Summit to Flute Summit to Oboe Summit to Singing Pass. Or from bus loop near GLC head up the Singing Pass Trail to a signed cut-off at the pass then to Oboe, Flute, Piccolo, and the summit of Whistler. Can be hard to follow in fog or poor weather.
BC Parks Description:
Whistler Mountain Gondola to Whistler Village via Musical Bumps: Length, 21 km; suggested time, 6 to 8 hours; elevation change, 1,300 metres. From the top of the gondola, Singing Pass is accessible by an alpine route traversing Piccolo, Flute and Oboe peaks. From the pass, return to the village via the Singing Pass trail. Be sure to check on Whistler Mountain lift operations.
The Panorama Ridge Trail is the popular BC Parks Trail that begins in Taylor Meadows and climbs to the summit of Panorama Peak.
Panorma Peak is 15 Km Round Trip from the Taylor Way Campsight (605 meters elevation gain), or 30 Km Round Trip from the Rubble Creek Parking Lot.
Topographical map 92-J-2 1:50,000
The Singing Pass area provides magnificent views of the Fitzsimmons and Spearhead Mountain ranges and Cheakamus Glacier. The slopes of the pass are sprinkled with wild flowers in the summer.
Singing Pass Access:
At the resort community of Whistler, follow the signs to village parking at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Park in the day lots, or in the area authorized for overnight parking in lot 4 if staying overnight in Singing Pass. The new trailhead is located adjacent to the bus loop and passenger drop-off area.
Facilities:
There are no garbage facilities so always pack out what you pack in!
Camping is permitted at the northwest end of Russet Lake. There is a small, basic hut which can sleep 6 people. Be prepared to camp in outdoor conditions if the hut is full. A year-round pit toilet is located near the hut. No other amenities are provided.
Whistler Village to Singing Pass: Length, 11.5 km; suggested time, 4 hours one way; elevation change, 1,000 metres. The trail follows Fitzsimmons and Melody Creeks before it opens up at Singing Pass. The pass is also accessible from Whistler Mountain by a high, sustained alpine route crossing Piccolo, Flute and Oboe summits. This route is known as the Musical Bumps.
Singing Pass to Russet Lake: Length, 3 km; suggested time, 1 hour one way; elevation change, 250 metres. Good views of Overlord Glacier and surrounding peaks.
Whistler Mountain Gondola to Whistler Village via Musical Bumps: Length, 21 km; suggested time, 6 to 8 hours; elevation change, 1,300 metres. From the top of the gondola, Singing Pass is accessible by an alpine route traversing Piccolo, Flute and Oboe peaks. From the pass, return to the village via the Singing Pass trail. Be sure to check on Whistler Mountain lift operations.
Mountain bikes are NOT permitted on this trail.
Camping/Overnight stay: (From BC Parks)
All campers must make a reservation through the Discover Camping Reservation Service year-round and must produce proof of reservation – failure to do so can result in an eviction and fines.
Topographical map 92-J-2 1:50,000
This spectacular glacial lake is circled by Wedgemount and Armchair Glaciers. Wedge Mountain, 2,891 metres, the highest peak in the park, lies to the south. This is a popular destination for mountaineers.
Access:
Turn right off Hwy 99, 13 km north of Whistler. You must cross the BC Rail train track to access the road. Use caution as this is an uncontrolled railway crossing. The parking lot is located 2 km from Hwy 99 along a Forest Service road.
Camping fees are in effect year-round and must be paid in full before entering the park. Proof of payment must be carried at all times while in the park.
This is a strenuous hike. Parking lot to Wedgemount Lake: Length, 7 km; suggested time, 4 to 6 hours one way; elevation change, 1,200 metres. The upper part of the trail provides a view of a waterfall where Wedgemount Creek tumbles down for almost 300 metres in a white spray. The last part of the trail climbs steeply up a boulder strewn slope which can be slippery when wet. This trail is steep and strenuous but offers very rewarding views from the top.
From BC Parks Website:
Camping/Overnight stay:
The camping areas and the shelter at Wedgemount Lake are operated on a first-come, first-served basis. A reservation guarantees you a space, but not a specific spot or tentpad. Camping is permitted in designated areas only.
All campers must make a reservation through the Discover Camping Reservation Service year-round and must produce proof of reservation – failure to do so can result in an eviction and fines.
Parking lot to Wedgemount Lake: Length, 7 km; suggested time, 4 to 6 hours one way; elevation change, 1,200 metres. The upper part of the trail provides a view of a waterfall where Wedgemount Creek tumbles down for almost 300 metres in a white spray. The last part of the trail climbs steeply up a boulder strewn slope which can be slippery when wet. This trail is steep and strenuous but offers very rewarding views from the top.
Begins at Elfin Lakes and runs to Mamquam Lake.
From Elfin Lakes, shortly past the shelter take the right fork toward Opal Cone and Mamquam Lake. The left fork will take you to The Saddle and The Gargoyles.
The trail drops down to Ring Creek and then up again on the other side of the moraine toward Opal Cone. To get to Opal Cone, look for a trail that leads off to the left of the main trail. Opal Cone is the rim of an extinct volcano that overlooks the Bishop Glacier. Stunning views are to be had from here on a clear day! The trail will lead you back to the main trail to Mamquam Lake.
Shortly after passing Opal Cone, you move onto an area called The Barrens. As of Aug. 19, 2010, this area is still covered by packed snow, but is easy to navigate. Just follow the cairns. On the other side of the barrens, you descend one side of Zig Zag Creek, cross the creek, and then ascend the other side. The descent, as well as one short stretch on the other side, follows a narrow trail (<30cm) with some exposure and slippery footing. Be careful crossing Zig Zag Creek if the bridge has been removed, as the waters run higher late in the day.
As you ascend the final ridge, you reach the Rampart Ponds and finally descend 260m over the last 1.6km into Mamquam Lake. This section is apparently fairly treacherous during rain, as it acts as a water channel 1-2 feet deep in places.
*Mamquam Lake Campground is permanently closed for overnight use.
All overnight campers must use the new Rampart Ponds Campground located 1.5 km before Mamquam Lake.
Trail Information
Parking Lot to Elfin Lakes: Length, 11 km; suggested time, 3 to 5 hours one way; elevation change, 600 metres. The trail follows Paul Ridge and provides beautiful vistas. At Elfin Lakes, Columnar Peak, the Gargoyles, Opal Cone and Mamquam Icefield come into view.
Elfin Lakes to Little Diamond Head: Length, 7 km; suggested time, 2 to 3 hours one way; elevation change, 625 metres. This is a fairly arduous hike past the Gargoyles (strange visages sculptured by nature in lava) to 2,100 metre Little Diamond Head.
Elfin Lakes to the Opal Cone: Length, 6.5 km; suggested time, 2 to 3 hours one way; elevation change, 250 metres. Trail leads down to Ring Creek then climbs the Opal Cone, an extinct volcano with a crater. Garibaldi Neve and Mamquam Lake can be seen from the top.
Items of Importance:
Mountain bikes are permitted on the trail from the parking lot to Elfin Lakes only. Please obey the signs.
Length: 9.6 km
Condition: Starts as old road, some blowdown in middle section, some parts rough walking.
General Route: Runs from Mike Lake to Alouette Mountain Summit
How to Find: From Maple Ridge, drive up the Golden Ears Parkway, through the gate, and then left turn on the Mike Lake Road, and drive to trailhead. The trailhead is just before Mike Lake itself. There were only 2-3 parking spaces right at the trailhead, but I assume you could park nearby.
Trail Description: This is the standard route up Alouette mountain. It is a long but gradual trail that is patched together from pieces of the old fire access road, and various shortcuts. It is marked with a variety of markers - orange squares, a few ancient BC Parks squares, and some blue ribbons. There are lots of junctions, but most of them have signs. There are no streams that you cross on this entire trail, so you better carry water.
Length: 9.6 km
Condition: Some parts newly built, some very heavily eroded
General Route: Follows above and west of Gold Creek in a northerly direction on an old logging road. From the Gold Creek Lookout the path deviates west to Alder Flats and Panorama Ridge.
Note: The PARK GATES are open from 7am to 11pm sharp, during summer
Trail Description: After entering Golden Ears Provincial Park, follow signs indicating "West Canyon Trail". You will reach a parking lot of decent size , and find a sign board and an outhouse in the southwest corner.
The start of the trail is an old, mostly level, logging road in good condition. You will travel it for just over 3 km, so a bike is a great idea for this portion of the trail (there is a sign indicating "no bikes allowed", but looks very dated). The rocky trail now ascends to Alder Flats (5 km from the start) where there is good camping. The trail gains most of its elevation from here to Panorama Ridge, and is a little rougher. The trail meets up with a very old and washed out logging spur (basically a dry creek bed).
The trail becomes a little stiffer as it reaches sub-alpine, and the views down the Gold Creek Valley are stellar. Ascend to a new, small, A-Frame emergency shelter just above Panorama Ridge (great views of Pitt Lake), and come to a permanent snowfield (neve). An ice axe is recommended for the snowfield, although it is not too steep or precarious, and it is possible to stay on the rocks in late summer. The summit is a short Class 2 scramble.
Length: 8.2 km
General Route: Trail follows Buntzen Creek in an easterly direction before striking north into the "Lakes District".
Trail Description: From the Buntzen Lake Parking Lot, locate the gated "Powerhouse Road". Walk past the gate for 100m and you will find a signed trailhead. The steep but manageable trail gains elevation following just south of Buntzen Creek. Strong hikers will arrive at the Polytrichum Lookout in about 45 minutes. From here, the trail moves in a northeasterly direction, but not before passing an area regenerating after logging. Arriving at the signed "El Paso Junction", you are presented with a couple of options. The southwest option is ideal, as it allows you to pass a few (Barton, Sphat, Little Valhalla) of Halvor Lunden's lookouts. Following in a northerly direction you will soon descend gently to Lindsay Lake. This is where the trail swings back in the direction from which you came, taking you by small lakes in what is known as "The Lakes District". Soon after the lakes you reach the El Paso Junction, and the trail leading back to the Buntzen Lake area.
Length: 6.1 km
Condition: Gently rolling on BC Hydro service road, then overgrown logging access road and single-track trail. There are beautiful views of Indian Arm, the Fannin Range and the lower Mainland on the lower viewpoints (Croker, 157) then spanning views of Indian Arm and Coquitlam Lake from the Ridge top and Dilly Dally Peak.
Though the trail is snow-free eight or nine months a year, the park has strict gate opening and closing times. Therefore it's best to experience Dilly Dally, or the span of the entire Eagle Ridge, when the daytime hours are longest.
General Route: Climbs up from N end of Buntzen lake and loops around to Dilly Dally peak.
How to Find: Situated near Port Moody on the outskirts of Anmore. Drive to the parking lot at the south end of Buntzen Lake, and then find the trailhead. There are signs.
Trail Description: The hike begins from the South beach parking lot with a walk along the East side of Buntzen Lake, on the BC hydro access road or on the shoreline Trail. At the north end of the lake, keep right continue north on a gravel access road underneath the power line (The left road continues down to the Indian Arm powerhouses). The right road eventually leads to the Buntzen Bay settlement, but there is a turnoff to the Dilly Dally trail right before the village is reached. At first, the trail is an overgrown logging access road - metal railings, hooks, planks still remain on or near the trail. The trail climbs steadily to the first viewpoint - Croker Lookout, reached after about 2 hours of steady walking - with views of Croker Island, the headwaters of Indian Arm and the Fanning range across Indian Arm. The trail then continues through second-growth forest past another viewpoint (157 Lookout, with views of Indian Arm and the Lower Mainland). The trail eventually becomes a single-track trail, well-marked, in excellent condition, twisting and rising, spanning across a couple of creeks until it reaches Dilly Dally Pass and, after a steep climb, Dilly Dally peak.
From Dilly Dally Peak, you may retrace your steps or continue along the ridge and return via one of the other two trails (Swan Falls and Lindsay lake) that climb from Buntzen Lake to the top of Eagle Ridge.
Length: 11.9 km
Condition: Well maintained, moderately difficult.
General Route: This is a popular loop circuit around Buntzen Lake. The actual Diez Vistas trail is this western portion; it follows the height of the land between Buntzen Lake and Indian Arm.
On the East Shore the trail runs between the BC Hydro access road and the lakeshore. The two beaches on either side of the lake (South beach near parking lot, North beach across the lake) are very popular in the summer. The Buntzen Lake area is the location of a 50km race in early spring.
How to Find: Situated near Port Moody on the outskirts of Anmore. Drive to the parking lot at the south end of Buntzen Lake, and then find the trailhead. There are signs.
Trail Description: The East trail around the lake is quick and very well graded. It features several small, secluded beaches and patios away from the throngs of South or North Beach. East Trail leads to North Beach and the Coquitlam Lake tunnel.
After North Beach, cross the suspension bridge and take a right on the trail until you reach the BC Hydro service road. Follow the service road up until you see a signpost (on your left) to the Diez Vistas trail. The trail is rises gently (and sometimes a little steeply) then rolls as it follows the ridgeline - offering several stunning views of mountains, cities and water. Past the final view, the trail begins to drop as it returns to South Beach. Follow the trail marked with square metal blazes until Saddle Ridge trail, then use handy little map available at Park entrance to negotiate horse trails back to Pumphouse Rd, the floating bridge, and the trail to the beach and parking lot.
An easier alternative to the Diez Vistas trail on the west side is the Buntzen Lake trail itself. It does not rise as high above the lake. Both trails finish by crossing the floating bridge at the south end of the lake.
Length: 9.8 km
Condition: No deadfall, usually broken trail in winter (Intended for Winter Use Only)
General Route: The route branches off Similkameen River and goes up Fat Dog Creek. Start at Cambie Creek parking lot, initially following a logging road. From the end of the logging road, the trail climbs towards Big Buck and Three Brothers Mountain. The alpine area has excellent meadows for skiing.
How to Find: Look for signs on Highway 3, about 2km east of Allison Pass. The parking lot is on the northeast side of the highway.
Trail Description: TRAIL ONLY INTENDED FOR WINTER USE. From the parking lot, ski up the obvious road heading up the Similkameen River. Very soon you come to a fork. Take the right fork which takes you down to the river and over a log bridge. [The left fork is documented as the Similkameen Headwaters fireroad]. Soon after the bridge, bear right again up a hill. At the third fork keep right again. Near the back end of the valley, there is a large clearcut. The trail switchbacks up to a saddle towards a large burn in the subalpine. Ridges and meadows lead up towards the Heather Trail and an alternative descent via Blackwall Peak road.
Length: 9.2 km
Condition: Excellent well constructed parks trail, no deadfall, dry and level
General Route: Starts from the dam at the east end Lightning Lakes and climbs up the ridge to Frosty.
How to Find: From the Lightning Lakes parking lot, go around to the east end of the lake on the old earth dam. As soon as you are across the dam, you will come to the junction where the "Frosty Loop Trail" heads uphill and the Lightning Lake Trail stays along the lake. There is a signpost.
Trail Description: The trail climbs steadily till it reaches the official campsite at the head of the small stream shown on the 1:50K map. (One outhouse, three level spots, a small stream, food cache, and a beaten down cabin). This is the only water till you get close to the peak, and may not have water in late season. Once past the campsite, the trail levels out on the top of the ridge, going through the spectacular larch trees. The final section of the trail climbs the north ridge of the east peak of Frosty Mountain. At the top of the north ridge there is a junction with the trail coming up from Windy Joe.
Length: 9.7 km
Condition: Clear of deadfall, all bridges intact, gradual grade.
General Route: This hiking trail branches off from the Hope Pass horse trail to Nicomen Lake. Can be combined with the Heather Trail to make a 2 or 3 day traverse. Highway 3 - Nicomen Lake is about 20km.
How to Find: Hike up the Hope Pass trail, then turn at grainger Creek. There are signs.
Description: Summary: This trail has an even gradient all the way up. As of 2012, it is often used by mountain bikes who ride starting from Blackwall Peak.
Trail Description: The trail starts out with a couple of small switchbacks coming up from Skaist Creek. At If hiking up the Hope Pass trail, you could avoid the first two tiny switchbacks by contouring through the forest. Then you go on a long slow climb across a steep slope above Grainger Creek, and then curve south above the first big sidecreek, coming down from Norske peak (Norske Creek). After a very short descent, you cross Norske Creek. This is the only elevation loss on the entire trail, and only 30m or so. There is a camping spot here, and the creek must always have water, since it did even after 2 months dry in 2012.
After crossing Norske creek, the trail does a hairpin and continues to climb in a northeast direction, before going around a nose at about +4.5 km. Then there is another long reach before you finally cross Grainger Creek itself at about +6.6 km. After Grainger crossing, the trail switchbacks up and crosses several other forks of Grainger creek before swinging around to the SE and Nicomen Lake.
In the lower sections, it is cut into a steep slope that would be a serious crash if you went off the trail. Higher sections it contours up side creeks to avoid elevation loss.
Length: 21.5 km
Condition: Beaten path, easy to follow in summer. Difficult to find in winter.
General Route: Runs from Blackwall Peak, past Big Buck Mountain to Three Brothers.
How to Find: From Highway 3 at Manning Park, drive up the Blackwall Peak Road. The trail starts from the parking lot.
Trail Description: From the Blackwall Peak parking lot, the trail first of all drops down along Lone Man Ridge to a first col. At this point the trail leaves the old jeep road and contours across the slopes of peak 6500', and eventually reaches the col at the head of Buckhorn Creek. At this location is "Buckhorn Campsite, with tent platforms, an outhouse and water. The trail then climbs up toward Big Buck mountain, contouring over the south ridge of Big Buck mountain. It then climbs through open country and passes south of Three Brothers mountain.
Length:15.1 km
Condition: Graded BC Parks trail. Smooth surface, little deadfall, good drainage. Rock outcrops have been blasted or removed with pick axe. About 1 meter wide. Gradual climb with low angle switchbacks.
How to Find: To get onto the Skyline II trail from the west, follow the Silver-Skagit road south to km 55.3. Here there is a parking lot and large Parks billboard type sign. The sign incorrectly shows the elevation gain to Mowich Camp.
To get onto the Skyline II trail from the east, drive towards the Gibson's Pass ski area in Manning Park. The trailhead is on the south side of the road past lightning lakes and skyline I.
Trail Description: This is a spectacular mountain traverse of Western Manning Park, from Silver Skagit road to Strawberry flats, on high grade parks trails. A large part of the trail is above tree line, with views of distant peaks, deep gorges and hillsides covered with wildflowers. Water can be a problem in late season. The whole traverse is probably best done by dividing into 2 parties, one party starting from each end, and exchanging car keys in the center. An ambitious party can climb Hozameen Mountain from the center point, but for a more relaxing trip, the objective could be the rounded bump on Hozameen Ridge (49:01-120:59.4) just before the climb of Hozameen starts.
The Skyline II trail connects the Silver-Skagit Road with the Gibson Pass area of Manning Park. From Silver-Skagit, it climbs up over Hozameen Ridge, then follows the high ridges above Thunder Lake to connect with the Skyline I trail at Despair Pass.
The trail starts off in old growth Douglas fir forest with a vine maples, wild roses and Pacific Rhodendron in the forest. The trail climbs gradually on long switchbacks till you are above tree line. Once you get above treeline, the trail goes across several spectacular sidehills, with numerous vantage points of Hozameen. In summer, these hillsides are covered with flowers: Blue Flox, giant yellow daisies (Balsam Root), orange Devil's Paintbrush. The trail eventually crosses Hozameen Ridge in wide open meadows and subalpine tree islands.
Once past the junction with the Hozameen Ridge trail (about eleven kilometers from the trailhead), the trail descends through trees to Mowich Camp, in the meadow at the head of Mowich Creek. Mowich Camp consists of a old log lean-to with a mud floor. There is also a relatively new outhouse. Most parties would stay in a tent or sleep outdoors. By late August, Mowich Camp may be one of the few places you can find water. After Mowich Camp, the trail continues east, climbing around the south side of Lone Goat mountain, across Snow Camp Mountain, and down to Despair Pass. The trail ends at a junction with the Skyline 1 trail, about 300 feet above Despair Pass.
Length: 8.7 km
Condition: Continuous well beaten trail, zero deadfall. Two short muddy sections. Last km is narrow and helpful to have hiking boots. As of 2013, the lower trail is marked with multiple orange ribbons placed high in the trees. There are almost no permanent markers.
General Route: Runs up the north side of Memaloose Creek then up to Poland lake.
How to Find: From Hope, drive up highway 3 till you reach Allison Pass. At the pass is a large highway department works yard. As of 2013, the entrance to the works yard is blocked with concrete barriers and a gate. But there is ample parking just outside the barriers. The trailhead is directly across the works yard, and marked by a large sign.
Trail Description: Once on the trail, it runs more or less right up the north bank of the creek. In many places you are within sight of the creek. In one place the trail briefly switchbacks away from the creek, and goes on a higher bench to get around a canyon, then drops back down to the creek. Finally almost at the headwaters of Memaloose creek at 5500 feet, the trail crosses the creek and climbs the last km up to Poland Lake. There is one large switchback on the trail as it climbs to the lake.
Length: 7.2 km
Condition: Well trodden, in winter it is often a broken trail.
General Route: From parking lot at Strawberry Flats, the trail runs along the NW side of the road, then angles up steadily in a well defined road. Runs south of Grassy Mtn then Bojo Mtn, and around to Poland Lake.
How to Find: To find the trail in summer, drive up the paved road to Gibson pass. About 1 km before reaching the downhill area, there is a long parking area for Strawberry Flats X country area. There are two places you can start the trail: (1) At Strawberry Flats and (2) About 1.5 km further up the road, at the bottom of the downhill ski lifts.
If you are starting from Strawberry Flats, park in the strip of parking spaces on the south side of the road, and look for the Poland Lake trail sign on the north side of the road. Then follow the well defined signs and upsloping road cut until you emerge on the downhill ski run at about 5100' (see waypoints). Then you can either switchback north eastward and follow the creek drainage shown faintly on the 1:50k map, till you come around the north side of the Orange chair. Then head northwest across the crest of the ridge till you find a parks sign marking the Poland Lake trail.
[If you are starting directly from the bottom of the downhill ski lifts (at 4700'), stay to the western edge of the westmost run down from the orange chair. It is a wide run, and you won't be obstructing any downhill skiers. Then climb directly up the run, and leave the run at the northwest corner, almost at the top, just before it climbs eastward back to the top of the chair. There is then a short tricky switchback and then look for a Poland Lake trail sign, or the trail. Don't try and contour westward too early, as there are lots of micro gullies.]
With either lower route, once you find the Poland Lake trail sign, follow the well defined trail up a short switchback and then westward below Grassy Mountain, then Bojo Mountain, and finally around to the lake. The trail drops gradually almost 200 feet before climbing to the lake.
Trail Description: From the Strawberry Flats parking lot, the trail parallels the road for 1km, then becomes a road and ascends away from the main road to the ski area. When the road crosses under the lift line and switches back to the right, the trail continues north-northwest. The location where the trail leaves the road is not signed.
Length: 2.6 km
Condition: Groomed
General Route: Runs along the north side of Similkameen River from treatment plant to Manning Park Lodge.
How to Find: From the lodge, go down the toboggan hill from the rink, and cross the Gibson's pass road.
Trail Description: This trail is always groomed in winter, at least to the sewage treatment plant, and often further east to the turn around loop.
From the lodge you go down the toboggan hill, cross the Gibson's pass road, and then turn left at Jct 69, which is 0.2km from the lodge. Now you are going south east, near the north bank of the Similkameen River. Soon you go through a horse corral with a barn on your left. Then the smooth trail continues south through the big trees, and at least at one point you have a view of the river. [At Jct 57 (1.6km) you come to the point where you would turn right to beat thru the woods to the troll bridge]. Just beyond Jct 57 is a steep little hill that takes you up past the sewage plant, and then continues close to the highway. You cross the road going to the sewage plant and then continue a short distance to the place where the grooming machine turns around. Beyond this "turn around" point is a rough trail that angles down and goes a short distance to the actual beaver pond.
Length: 1.0 km
Condition: Well beaten path, constructed in places
General Route: Branches off Heather Trail and follows ridge to summit of "Big Brother".
Trail Description: To get to the summit of "First Brother" (Big Brother) (Three Brothers highest peak) you follow the crest of a rocky ridge that dips down and then climbs to the final summit. Because of winds, there is usually very little snow on the ridge, and thus not suitable for skiing, even in winter. Most ascents you take off your skis even before descending to the gap and walk the rest of the way. By April the summit is usually bare.
Length: 3.2 km
Condition: Usually groomed, can flood in early season.
General Route: Parallels the Gibson Pass road.
How to Find: Drive into the road leading to the main Manning Park Lodge. Park on the south side of the lodge and walk a few meters northwest to a turnoff immediately before the first of the cabins. Turn left, and ski down the kids toboggan hill.
Trail Description: This is a ski trail which is normally groomed in winter. From Manning Park Lodge, you ski down the toboggan hill then cross the Gibsons Pass Road. On the other side, is a T intersection - south is the Beaver Pond Trail and north is the South Gibson trail. This part of the trail may flood in early season. The next landmark is the road bridge over the Similkameen river. People skiing the trail usually cross the bridge along the edge, where there is usually a ski track. In heavy snow, the trail just crosses the Similkameen river directly.
Once across the bridge, you then come the new trailhead for the Windy Joe trail, [which goes off to the SE again following the south side of the Similkameen.] But the South Gibsons trail continues SW, paralleling the Gibsons Pass road, and climbing a hill that is sometimes a challenge with wax. Eventually you get to Twenty Minute Lake. Here there is a fork: [the north fork crosses the Lightning Lake spur then stays north to intersect the Lightning Lake loop at the north end of the north bay of Lightning lake.] The south branch goes directly to the east end of Lightning Lake.
Length: 5.0 km
Condition: Wide parks grade trail, smooth, dry surface. Will be some snow on higher stretches till July.
General Route: Runs up from the parking area at Strawberry flats to the ridge.
How to Find: Drive up the Gibson Pass road, and look for the trailhead at Strawberry flats, at the long parking area. Signs may refer to Skyline I or II trail.
Trail Description: Once on the trail, it climbs steadily until it reaches the crest of the Gibson-Lighting Divide and runs into the Full Skyline trail that came up from Lightning Lakes.
Length: 8.8 km
Condition: Smooth, dry, well beaten trail
General Route: Follows Lightning Creek valley from Gibson Pass Road as far as Thunder Lake.
Trail Description: From Lightning Lake Campground on N shore of Lightning Lake, get to the SW end of Lightning Lake, then follow well beaten trail past Flash Lake, Strike Lake, and finally Thunder Lake. The water level in Thunder Lake is often down about 30 meters. Lightning Lake is actually the high point and Lightning Creek flows west into Ross Lake. There is a small dam on the east end of Lightning Lake.
Length: 8.0 km
Condition: Continuous, well marked
General Route: Branches off Windy Joe trail just before summit of Windy Joe and goes southeast along the crest of the ridge of Frosty Mountain. It intersects the regular Frosty trail where the east ridge meets the north ridge of Frosty Mountain.
How to Find: From Manning Park Lodge, go up the Windy Joe road and then branch off near the top. There is a large signpost at the junction.
Trail Description: Once you are on the trail, it climbs a few hundred feet, then goes southwest through many larch trees, some of which are 2000 years old. Eventually you get to the base of the east peak of Frosty, and a beaten trail will take you to the top. Or you can continue north, and go down to Lightning Lake.
Length: 7.7 km
Condition: In summer it is an old road.
General Route: Goes to Windy Joe summit, where there is an old forest fire lookout in a good state of preservation.
How to Find: The official start is from the Gibson's Pass road, just past the bridge over the Similkameen River. There is a sign and parking area.
Trail Description: the current Windy Joe trail has two parts:
(1) Backcountry Route from Gibsons Pass road to old Windy Joe Fireroad
(2) Actual climb on old Windy Joe Fireroad
Details: From the Gibson's pass road, hike east along well-gravelled trail which runs along the south side of the Similkameen River. There are several footbridges, and after 2 km you intersect with the old Windy Joe fireroad that used to start at highway 3. I call this "Jct 57" see waypoints below.
Once past Jct 57 you are on the old jeep road that will take you all the way to the summit of Windy Joe.
The old fire tower is right on the summit. It is a two story building with a ladder leading to the second story. It has giant protractor sighting device for reporting fires upstairs. There is no stove. The hut is in very good shape.
This section of trail is also referred to as the Skyline II trail and connects the Skagit River and Silver Skagit Road to Manning Park and the main Lightening Skyline Trail that begins at Lightening Lakes.
Length: 7.2 km
Condition: 2015: Some deadfall, Brush obscuring tread in places.
General Route: Climbs up from Silver Skagit Road to Hozameen Ridge
This is the northern Manning Park segment to the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs from Canada to Mexico.
Length: 5.6 km
Condition: Constructed trail segment of the Pacific Crest Trail.
General Route: Runs south down from the Windy Joe - Frosty Connector to Castle Creek, and joins the Monument 78 Trail just before the US border.
How to Find: Hike up Windy Joe trail, take the Frosty fork, and then 1 km later, another fork.
Trail Description: There is a campsite shown on the BC Parks map, shortly after the fork. Parks says: "The Frosty connector goes 1 km south, then there is another fork, and the PCT. Keep left, and there is a PCT campsite, and then descends to Castle Creek in a SW direction. At the bottom, it crosses Castle Creek, then joins up with the Monument 78 trail which goes to the border. "
Length: 18.8 km
Condition: This hiking and horse trail
General Route: Runs up the Skaist River to Hope Pass and beyond.
How to Find: From Hope, drive south on Highway 3 to a point where you cross Skaist Creek (which is marked with a sign). There are two trailheads. (1) An old jeep road about 200m past Skaist Creek itself, marked by a yellow gate. However there is no convenient parking at this point. (2) The best parking is on the right side of the road, close to the bridge. It is a wide pullout area, right at the Cayuse Creek FSR (Canam Road) on Hwy 3. Across the highway is a trailhead which joins the yellow gate branch in several hundred meters. The main purpose of this second trailhead is probably so horses can immediately get away from the highway, but hikers may well find it shorter to just walk up the road to the yellow gate.
Trail Description: From the Cayuse trailhead, the trail parallels the highway for several hundred meters before it joins the road with the yellow gate. Once the trails are merged, the first 2km of the road have been improved and are driveable but gated. Beyond that it becomes a cart track built in the heyday of the Cariboo goldrush.
The first section of the trail is about 10 km from the Yellow Gate to a major campground at Grainger Creek. This trail is very evenly graded, with a gradual climb all the way, and few ups and downs. It runs entirely on the south side of the creek, often several hundred feet above the river. At about 10km is the Grainger Creek campground, and a junction with the Grainger creek Trail.
From the Grainger campground, the Hope Pass track continues up the Skaist river. It becomes more and more of a trail. This section is marked with orange metal markers on the trees, and is again well graded. Part way up is a series of switchbacks, which end up with the trail high above the north side of the creek and into Hope Pass.
Beyond Hope Pass, it joins with the Whatcom Trail (an earlier goldrush trail) at Paradise Meadows.
General Route: Branches east off regular Mount Seymour trail and drops steeply into bowl above Gopher Lake, then swings around Elsay Peak to Elsay Creek and up to lake. Huge drop.
Elsay Lake Trail Description:
To find the beginning of the trail, hike the Mount Seymour Trail to where it starts to swing around Pump Peak. Here you will find the well signed junction with the Elsay Lake trail at 1250m. The first part of the Elsay trail traverses an incredible ledge at 1200m, then switchbacks steeply down the slopes east of Pump Peak. This rocky basin is sometimes referred to as the "black hole". It then gradually drops as it traverses toward Canadian Pass (at 950m on maps, and then crosses the south branch of Elsay Creek, at about 860m. At this point there will be little lakes both above and below the trail. Beyond this, the flagged route stays level for a bit through an open bear garden then eventually drops steeply through some huge boulders to below 660m. Here it enters the old growth, and shortly afterward crosses Elsay Creek. Elsay Creek is a substantial size, and will usually require taking boots off. People have been known to turn back here, but it usually is no problem. Once across the creek, the trail climbs gradually up to the lake itself, at 758m.
This trail which ascends to the summit of Mount Hollyburn in Cypress Provincial Park is popular in both Winter and Summer.
Route: Runs up to Hollyburn just west of the groomed run.
How to Find: From Vancouver, drive up the Cypress Bowl Road, then turn into the cross country area.
Trail Description: This trail provides access to Hollyburn without going on the groomed trails. It is free. It is heavily used by people on snowshoes. From the parking area, climb over the snowbank and follow the trail up just to the west of the wide open area under the power lines (which is the groomed area). The trail climbs a little hill, then turns east, and goes down a small hill, then runs south of some tiny lakes. It then swings north and goes up through the trees, emerging just beside the groomed trail at one point. Eventually it merges with the wide open swath at the upper end of the groomed area. Then you can continue on up the steep slope to the summit. There will almost always be tracks, and a beaten trail in the snow.
The Baden Powel Trail (Segment Run) runs from Horsebay to Cypress Bowl.
Condition: Parks grade constructed trail, orange metal markers
General Route: From Horseshoe bay, climbs up to Black Mountain, then down to Cypress Bowl. Most often done in reverse as "Black Mountain Trail".
How to Find:
From Cypress Bowl: Park in one of the downhill parking lots, then hike or ski northwest past the giant new ski lodge. Pass just east of the lift motor building for the most northerly ski run (big green building). Trail starts at marked signs just beyond. In winter, you may be given an "access corridor Waiver" to cross the ski run.
From Horseshoe Bay: To see the starting point, use Google maps, and zoom in to 50 m scale so you can see the green exit numbers on the highway. While driving west on the highway, take exit 2. This initially takes you off the north side of the highway, but then goes under, goes thru a round about at Eagleridge drive, and up the narrow road just east of the Ferry parking lot. This road bypasses the ticket gates, and that is where the trail starts. Just past the stop sign, you will see the gravel parking lot on the right. There is parking for six cars. It is the base of the Black Mountain Trail.
Trail Description: From Cypress Bowl, once on the trail, you almost immediately come to a signed fork, stay left for Baden Powell Trail. [the right fork is the Howe Sound Crest Trail]. Once past the fork, the trail starts to climb fairly steeply within sight of the ski run.
This segment of the Baden Powel Trail runs from Cypress Bowl to the Cleveland Dam.
Length: 3.6 km
Condition: Smooth at start, rough in rockslide above first lake.
General Route: Goes from Duffey Lake road, past the three Joffre Lakes to the Matier Glacier Icefall. Distances are 0.5km to the lower lake, 4km to the middle lake and 5.5km to the campground at Upper Joffre Lake.
How to Find: Trailhead is located at SE end of the Joffre Lake Parking Lot
Trail Description: From the parking lot, the obvious trail leads five kilometers up Joffre Creek past three beautiful alpine lakes (Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes). At Upper Joffre Lake, the trail forks, with the right branch continuing south up the valley towards Mount Taylor and Tszil Mountain. The left branch ends shortly at an undeveloped campground on the shores of Upper Joffre Lake with the dramatic Matier Glacier icefall high above.
This trail provides the easiest approach for Mount Taylor, Tszil Mountain, Slalok Mountain (N Face and W Ridge). Cerise Creek is the other approach for the Matier Glacier and is usually preferred in winter.
For Mountaineers Only:
To reach the Matier Glacier, traverse quickly under the icefall to the east side. A series of broken slabs make for an easy (even easy when wet) class 2 ascent up towards the glacier. From high up on the slabs, traverse right on snowslopes towards a corridor between the icefall on the right and a rock buttress on the left. When snow covered, this corridor gives easy access to the Matier Glacier. Hearsay has it that this section offers loose 3rd class scrambling once the snow melts (Kevin McLane, Alpine Select). An alternative is to ascend directly up over the rock buttress and down the other side to the glacier. Once above the Matier Icefall, it is an easy glacier walk up to the Matier-Joffre Col, or to the other peaks that border the icefield.
Length: 1.6 km
Condition: Well travelled to Bachelor Lake
General Route: From the Edwards-Bachelor junction goes SW on old logging road, then leaves road and goes SE across the divide between Tannis Lake and Bachelor Lake.
How to Find: From either parking lot, follow the road up till you get to a signposted fork. Left is Edwards Lake trail, right is Bachelor Lake trail.
Trail Description: From the upper parking lot, walk up the road to the Edwards-Bachelor junction (Jct 96). It is signposted. At the junction, take the right fork. You are still on an old logging road, but it has partially grown in, with the willows cleared to make a path up the center. Continue till you come to a point where you turn left off the logging road and onto a constructed trail. These days you can't miss this turn because the old Mayne lake spur beyond is totally overgrown and useless.
Once you are on the constructed part of the trail you soon see Tannis lake on your left. The trail goes southeast along the ridge between Tannis Lake and Bachelor Lake. Eventually you cross the stream coming from Bachelor lake and then eventually you see the green roof of the Bachelor Lake cabin. You will come to a T intersection in sight of the cabin. If you continue a short distance past the cabin, you come to the Victor-Mayne fork (Fork 95). We regard this as the final end of the Bachelor Lake table.
Length: 4.2 km
Condition: Well marked trail on road then on constructed trail.
General Route: Starts at the Edwards-Bachelor fork and runs along old logging road, then cuts down to W end of Edwards Lake. Then goes east on the north side of the lake to the cabin.
How to Find: From either parking lot, continue hiking up the road until you come to a big signposted fork between Bachelor trail and Edwards trail. Turn left.
Trail Description: The trail starts with a fine gravel path on top of an old road surface. Various efforts were made to disguise the old road such as dragging old stumps up onto the road. After 0.8km you come to Victors Landing which has signposts. Continuing on at 2.1 km the route of the trail leaves the old road surface and goes down toward Edwards Lake. As you approach the lake at 2.4km, you will come to a triple trail marker marking the junction with the Mayne Lake trail. Continue north along the edge of Edwards Lake, and then wrap around to go east. The trail is some distance from the lake such that the lake is not visible. The trail goes past the end of the lake and continues uphill to the Edwards Lake cabin. Note that the cabin is far past the end of Edwards Lake.
Length: 3.4 km
Condition: Steep but continuous beaten path.
General Route: Continues east from Edwards Lake cabin and climbs steeply to Mount Steele Cabin
How to Find: To find the trail, first hike to the Edwards Lake Cabin and continue just past it to the Steele creek crossing. A bit further is the Steele-McNair fork where the trail starts. Signposted.
Description: From the Edwards Lake cabin continue east. After several hundred meters, you'll cross a deep creek (Steele Creek). There may be no bridge, but you can climb down about 5 meters and step across the creek. Immediately after crossing Steele Creek, you'll come to the junction with the McNair trail. Continue straight (left). Soon you'll start to climb. Part way up the trail levels off in an open area, then climbs again to reach Hippo Col. At this point, you turn 90 degrees and head east up the steep open rocks. This can be icy in fall. After climbing another 100 meters you emerge onto a plateau, and you can see the Mount Steele Cabin off to your left (north). If your objective is a day trip up Steele, then continue southeast up the ridge to the south peak of Steele. Note that the highest point is the south peak, not where "Mount Steele" is printed on the 1:50k map.
Length: 1.1 km
Condition: Good walking on logging spur, and connector is freshly cleared.
General Route: Runs south from the Edwards Lake Spur above Bachelor Lake
How to Find:
From Edwards Lake Trail: Hike along the main Edwards Lake trail till you come to Victors Landing. Sign posts.
From Bachelor Lake cabin: Go up to the T intersection behind the outhouse, turn northeast, go a short distance and you come to Fork 95 (unsigned). Stay left for Victors Landing, [right is the Mayne Lake Trail].
Trail Description: This trail connects Victors Landing and the Bachelor Lake Cabin, and is made up of an old logging spur plus a newly constructed "connector" trail.
The starting point for these waypoints is at "Victors Landing" which is an old logging road junction that branches off the road that has become the Edwards lake trail. (Jct 05). It is sign posted. From the junction, the old logging spur goes south, climbing from 1090m to 1150m, contouring along the western face of Mistie Peak north ridge. This offers numerous views of Tanis Lake, which has often been confused with Bachelor lake. You never actually see Bachelor Lake. After 0.8km on the logging spur, you come to a junction where you have to leave the logging spur and head directly down the slope on a freshly cleared wide path. In 2016, this junction had new yellow signs, some of which were broken. We refer to this junction as the "Golden Lookout" junction. Once you leave the Golden Lookout, you are on the newly constructed "connector" trail that drops down the slopes to Bachelor Lake. In only 0.3 km, you run into the end of the Bachelor Lake trail, and from there it is a hundred feet or so to the cabin.
Forbidden Plateau on Vancouver Island is home to a network of quality BC Parks Hiking Trail. This is the track for the main trail which runs to the summit of Mount Albert Edward. Below is the BC Park's trail map for the area:
This is the main private jeep road (now unimog) that access Cathedral Park and Cathedral Lakes Lodge.
Length: 13.8 km
Condition: Gated, the road is a private jeep road. A hiking trail parallels and crosses the road in several places.
General Route: From Ashnola River Road, crosses a bridge then climbs steeply up the west side of Lakeview creek to the Cathedral Lakes lodge.
Trail/Road Description: Begins at gated bridge near km 20 on Ashnola River Road.
Length: 13.8 km
Condition: Actively Maintained trail
General Route: Leaves the Wall Creek trail, then up and over ridge and down to Quiniscoe Lake.
How to Find: From Hwy 3 near Keremeos follow signs to Cathedral Provincial Park. Follow Ashnola River Road to km 39. Look for obvious wooden foot bridge across Ashnola River. Follow Wall creek trail.
Trail Description: From the foot bridge the trail crosses over to Wall Creek. After paralleling Wall Creek for a short section, it climbs up the north slope of Wall Creek valley through open pine forest.
This is the Eastern Section of the Stein Valley Trail (also known as the Stein Traverse).
Length: 32.6 km
Trail/Route Description: From the parking lot, the trail runs up the south side of the Stein River, then crosses on the suspension bridge to the north side of the river. At Cottonwood creek (about 27 km up the Stein trail), the lower trail ends. Here you can choose to go north via the Cottonwood Creek trail, or continue southwest on the "middle Stein River trail.
Length: 7.5 km
Condition: Good trail to Norvan Falls, then rough, many roots, some difficult stream crossings, steep boulder and scree slopes. Higher elevation sections are usually snow covered until June or early July.
General Route: Runs up the east side of Lynn Creek for 6.5 km, to the footbridge over Norvan Creek.
How to Find: From Highway 1, take exit 19 onto Lynn Valley Road, and drive to the end of it. It runs northward up the west side of Lynn Creek. Just after you pass Dempsey Road, you go thru the park gates, and can keep driving for 1.5 km, and will finally reach the parking lot. On maps, the parking lot is just before you would cross Lynn Creek. This is the trailhead.
Trail Description: From the parking lot, walk the short distance, and you'll cross the dam to the east side of Lynn Creek. Turn left and first follow the Lynn Loop Trail (for 2 km) and then the Cedars Mill Trail (another 2 km) upstream on the east side. At the "Third Debris Chute" the trail joins up with the Headwaters Trail. There is some confusion of trail names in various guidebooks, but one way or the other, you'll easily be able to follow a trail upstream all the way to the trail bridge over Norvan Creek. Just before the bridge is the Norvan Creek trail to the right. A short distance beyond Norvan Creek is the junction with the Lynn Creek and Haynes Valley Trails. From here, you can go two ways: (1) Continue up to Lynn Lake and (2) Go up Hanes Creek to Crown Pass. The junction is labeled on the park map as the Hanes Valley Junction.
Length: 4.6 km
Condition: Well maintained and wide trail
General Route: From the bridge over Lynn Creek, turn right at the trail register and follow trail past the Lynn Ridge Trail. Ends at the Headwaters/Cedars Mill Trail Junction (3rd Debris Chute)
Trail Description: This trail is an alternate route up the Lower Lynn Creek Valley, with access also to the Lynn Ridge Trail. The first section heads downstream briefly before turning uphill and meeting the Lynn Ridge Trail. The trail then parallels the creek upstream to a junction connection to the lower section of the Lynn Loop Trail and the Cedars Mill Trail. From here the trail is signed as the Headwaters Trail. Ends at the Third Debris Chute, where it is joined by the Cedars Mill Trail.
Length: 6.8 km
Condition: Rocky, bushy, mostly dry
General Route: Runs up from the Lynn Creek Headwaters, and along the Lynn Peaks to North Needle
How to Find: The trail starts on the Lynn Loop Trail about 1km from Lynn headwaters parking lot (go right after the bridge, then left).
Trail Description: Once on the trail, the first part appears to be the remenants an old road, although it is improbably steep in places and looks more like a creek bed with large rocks, small boulders and running water in the wet season. After a few switchbacks it reaches the ridge at the first lockout towards the Seymour Valley. Then the trail becomes narrower, flatter and more pleasant in places. After a steeper section there is a view of Mt Seymour, then at above 800m you can look back towards the city past an old fir.
After a rocky step there is a view to the left across Lynn valley. About 100m further the trail splits, to the right is the official end at Lynn Lookout. To the left the trail bypasses this rocky knoll and continues to a junction with the southern Lynn Pk 980m (the peak is a minute to the left, but there is no view) Now comes the 1st drop of 65m followed by a short climb of 25m and a long flat ridge. Then the 2nd drop of 50m is followed by a climb of 75m. The 3rd drop is only 20m and the climb of 70m gets you to the top of North Lynn Pk 1015m.
Length: 4.2 km
Condition: Rough, bushy, very steep, short swampy sections
General Route: The trail follows the south side of Norvan Cr. then briefly crosses to the north before ascending to the ridge NE of Norvan Pass, then follows the SE ridge to the summit of Coliseum.
How to Find: To find this trail, hike up the Lynn Valley Trail almost to the bridge over Norvan Creek. Just before the bridge, look for a trail going up Norvan creek, signed as the Coliseum Mountain Route.
Trail Description: First section of the trail is very steep, and somewhat eroded. Trail eventually flattens out and crosses two small creeks by descending into minor ravines. Contours parallel to Norvan Creek before crossing a final small creek in an open bushy area. Crosses to the north side of Norvan Creek for a short time before crossing back to the south side of a tributary and climbing to the SE ridge of Coliseum. Trail turns north and follows along the ridge (mostly to the west side) through the subalpine. Just after the junction with the Paton Lookout Trail there is a short scrambling section. The final stretch contours over open granite terrain to the summit. From Coliseum there is a general route that continues on to Mount Burwell.
This trail is managed under partnership agreement with the Alpine Club of Canada - Whistler section. The trail is 5.72kms in length of which there are two options for 1.2 kms each on rough access roads from the highway to the trail head and then 4.55 kms (one way) is on the actual trail. The hike terminates at the Wendy Thompson Memorial Hut. This trail is a late summer/fall hiking trail and should be deemed black diamond as there are muddy sections and slippery logs and talus slope to navigate. 3.5 to 4.0 hours one way from the trail head. There is winter use as well. A non motorized trail!
Petgill Lake trail leads to a small lake. Rough wilderness camping available, no amenities at the lake. Trailhead starts across from Murin Park. Approx. 11km return, elevation gain is about 645m.
Enjoy this 11 km hike through the forest following Murdo Creek just to the south. Once you have travelled the logging road portion of the trail, you will begin to hike uphill through a second growth forest. Within half an hour of hiking, you will find yourself at beautiful McKay Lake which lies below a tall cliff of Mount St. Benedict. Follow the trail around the lake to the left side before reaching an area where Murdo Creek drains from the lake. Begin a steep climb uphill to a ridge which flattens out into a small meadow with a pond. Continue on to the view point from where you can see Stave Lake and some of the Fraser Valley.
The Vedder Mountain Trail is within the Vedder Interpretative Forest. Enjoy this 11 km hike through a pleasant forest with Vedder Mtn. at its center with an elevation of 924 m / 3031 ft. Along the trail, you will come across marshy areas, ponds and creeks. Upon reaching the summit you will enjoy excellent views of Chilliwack and the surrounding vallies with Cultus Lake to the East, Greendale Valley to the North and a view of Sumas Mtn. lying to the Northwest.
When venturing along this 8 km trail you will enjoy a steady hike under the cover of the forest for the first half. Once out of the forest, you will encounter a lookout point with stunning views of the Fraser Valley. Within the next 10 minutes of hiking, you will find yourself on the mountain's ridge which is covered with blooming flowers and wild strawberries during the summer months. The view from the ridge is spectacular as you will be able to see the mountain range to the south including Mts. MacGuire, Border Peaks, Mt. Slesse, and Mt. Baker.
This amazing hike leads you through an array of beautiful flowers, subalpine meadows and forests, glacial lakes and offers spectacular views through a series of well defined switch-backing trails. Enjoy the most breathtaking views from the summit as Mount Cheam offers an unobstructed 360-degree panoramic view of the Fraser Valley, from Chilliwack to the communities along the Fraser River, Jones Lake, the surrounding peaks and snow capped Mount Baker to the south. A real gem to hike. Although designated as a non-motorized trail, Mt. Cheam's backside bowl makes it a popular riding mountain for snowmobiles in the winter.
As you venture through the forest along this 16 km hike you will come upon an opening where you can experience picturesque views of Mt. Mercer and the Cheam Range. After this point, the trail lowers through a beautiful old growth forest guiding you across Pierce Creek. Once you have reached the summit, you will have the opportunity to fish in the deep blue water of Pierce Lake.
Enjoy a moderate 5 km hike in the Chilliwack River Valley area, in which you will experience great views of Mt. Slesse, Cheam Range, Welch and Foley Peak, Ford Mountain, and the Chilliwack Valley. The trail is accessed by a steep logging road which requires the use of a 4x4 vehicle to reach.
Enjoy this challenging but rewarding 11 km hike, which leads you from forest to flat plateau. The initial steep climb through the forest levels out and a gently rolling trail guides you to the summit. At the summit, you will find a spectacular 360 degree panorama of all of the surrounding peaks.
On this 13 km hike, you will venture from a road west of Foley Lake, through beautiful forest and meadows, to arrive at Williamson Lake. This majestic lake is surrounded by the picturesque peaks of Welch Mountain, Foley Mountain, and the Cheam Range.
Enjoy this moderately challenging 8.2 km hike to beautiful Eaton Lake. Along your journey, you will be accompanied by the roaring of Eaton Creek guiding you to the lake. Within the first 15 minutes of the hike you will come upon a brilliant waterfall gushing through the lush forest. Throughout the rest of the hike, the trail leads you over the creek several times by using log bridges and hopping stones. There are several scenic bench areas along the trail, which are great places to take a break. Once you have reached the end of the trail, the beauty of picturesque Eaton Lake rewards you for your effort.
Enjoy this challenging, but never extreme, 7 km hike to three summits of Wells Peak. This hike guides you through forests and alpine meadows to reach a steep ridge. Continuing along this ridge, you will arrive at the true summit of Wells Peak.
Section 57 Status Unkown ATP, sporadic clearing.
Length: 3.8 km
General Route: This trail goes west from the upper Four Mile Creek drainage, across a forested ridge to the upper Alexander Creek drainage, and then follows the southeast ridge of Hope Mountain to the summit.
How to Find: This trail starts from the end of Hope Mountain Road.
Trail Description: This trail consists of five distinct sections, three trail sections separated by two decommissioned logging road sections.
A bunch of ribbons on the west side of the landing at the end of Hope Mountain Road mark the beginning of this trail. It heads westward down to the upper part of Four Mile Creek. After crossing the creek on a board, the trail climbs a short distance to a decommissioned logging road on the west side of the creek.
It immediately crosses an overgrown road and then angles upward and north to another fork at a sharp switchback. Go right -- the left fork is the Wells Peak Northwest Trail. The logging road branch ends after about 50 m and turns into a proper trail, which climbs steeply to the crest of a ridge covered in second growth timber. The trail then drops down to a logging road branch in the upper Alexander Creek drainage.
Follow the road westward and go straight at the next fork. The third trail section starts a few hundred meters past the fork -- look for ribbons.
The trail parallels the logging road for a while and then climbs to a col on the southeast ridge of Hope Mountain. After skirting west around, and eventually gaining the first knoll, the trail continues along the ridge across steep, bumpy, and bluffy terrain to the summit.
Experience this challenging yet extremely rewarding 18 km hike up one of the tallest mountains near Manning Park. On your venture to the summit, you will travel through dense forest, while gaining elevation. The halfway point is indicated by the trail leading you across the Seventeen Mile Creek. At this point, the forest will begin to thin and you will encounter brilliant, rolling alpine meadows. Continuing on, a rocky viewpoint will be passed and shortly after you will encounter a meadow and small pond. Continue your climb upwards to reach Mount Outram's summit to experience its incredible 360 degree panorama view in which you can see the Interior Plateau, the Fraser Canyon, Mount Baker, the Fraser Valley and Manning Park in its entirety.
This departs from the Stawamus Chief Trail and ascends to the top station of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Section 57 status unknown.
Provides Access to the Kain Hut and Bugaboo Range
Provides access to Cobalt Lake and mountaineering access in the Bugaboos. Trail is rated as difficult.
Provides Access to the East Side of Cathedral Lakes Park (from the Susap FSR), South Slopes Cabin, and Juniper Creek Campsight. It Joins the Ewart Creek Trail at its 4.4 KM mark.
Length: 15.9 km
Condition: Continuous beaten path, no deadfall.
General Route: Starts at Junniper Cr, but goes N then NE to traverse above pass north of Flatiron, then climbs E to ridgr crest and contours at 2200m to Joe Lake
How to Find: Hike south up the Ewart creek trail for 4 km. You will come to a bridge to the E side of Ewart Creek. Continue south on Ewart Creek trail a short distance, and you will come to the point where the trail starts. The left fork is the south Slopes trail. A sign with a green horseshoe says "South Slope/ Joe Lake".
Trail Description: Once you are on the South slopes trail, it doubles back to the northwest, and soon crosses Juniper creek on a single log bridge with a cable railing. Horses ford the creek somewhat below. Once on the other side, there is a small campsite for 1-2 tents off to the left of the trail. Soon after that, the trail emerges into the open grasslands of the south slope. The next thousand feet are usually very hot without shade. Eventually after about 1.7 km, you emerge at the small creek shown on the 1:50K map, at about 5000'. Here there are two locked "Fish and Wildlife" cabins. One is a storage cabin, the other is the main cabin. The main cabin is labelled "South Slope" with an orange sign above the door. There is also a 2 meter long feeder hopper. This is used once a year by the hunters to bring in food for the big horn sheep which they hunt in the fall. There is some disagreement with Fish and Wildlife who don't approve of this.
Just beyond the Fish and Wildlife cabins, the trail crosses a tiny trickle of a creek, where there is a water bucket fed by a hose for use by horses. Just beyond the stream is a gate in what the horse people refer to as a "drift fence". Drift fence is a cowboy term loosely used to refer to any fence used to prevent cattle from moving to other areas.
Some distance beyond the drift fence is an A Frame cabin, built by the natives, and open to anybody. It is reasonably clean inside, but not much sleeping room. It has a new looking aluminium roof and a good stove pipe. Beyond here, the trail climbs to pass to the north of Flatiron Peak. There are many flowers in early September, and then sagebrush. Finally the trail gets above treeline at about 2000m and then contours along the south side of Observation Ridge toward Joe Lake. The only water since the Fish and Wildlife cabins is a tiny trickle in the creek just before Joe Lake. It is possible to find level spots for a couple of tents about 50 meters away from the trail, and to the east of the creek. Or continue to much larger meadows around Joe Lake. There is also a square fence just beyond the creek used as an experiment to see what the vegetation would look like if no animals could get it.
Finally the trail ends going around the east side of Joe Lake. There are two cabins at Joe Lake, both open to the first person who gets them. One has a sign which says "Fish and Wildlife Branch Cabin". A larger cabin is to the north of the trail.
This is a wide horse trail. It runs south up west bank of Ewart creek, then crosses to east side. It Ends at Newby Creek and intersects the South Slope Trail at KM 4.4, the Mountain Goat Creek Trail at KM 8.2, and the Newby Lake Trail at KM 10.2
This is probably the most frequently hiked part of the Alexander Mackenzie trail (section 3). It is also the most defined and well maintained of the three sections to the Mackenzie Trail. Once you get north of the park boundary, the trail or wagon road is a 4WD road. Section 3 Covers the land starting from the Dean River Road to Burnt Bridge.
Alexander Mackenzie Trail Section 2. This trail is a more rugged and ill-defined than the more well developed and more frequently hiked third section. Section 2 runs from Tsacha Lake to Dean River Road)
This long rugged section of the Alexander Mackenzie Trail (133 KM) runs from the Fraser River to Tsacha Lake. This is refered to as Section 1.
This 37.7 KM of trail consists of an old railway right of way, converted to a bike and hike path. Surface ranges from smooth hard crushed limestone to rough gravel. A few wet/muddy spots in spring. There are no services and other than logging, there are virtually no other signs of habitation. This Trail runs from Shawnigan Lake to Cowichan Lake and serves as a portion of the Trans Canada Trail.
This 19.4 KM Trail Runs down the Sooke River, and connects Sooke Road to Sook Lake. The northern section north of Leechtown may be inaccessable as it is in a community Watershed.
This 34.1 Km Trail begins at the Botanical Trailhead and runs to China Beach. This is a strenuous and rugged trail that is designed as a multi-day hike in a remote, rugged and isolated area. Bring lots of water. There are day hike possibilities as there are four separate trailhead that provide several access points.
To hike the entire trail normall takes four days for most groups.
This is the well known Parks Canada Trail that runs along the west coast of Vancouver Island from Port Renfrew to Bamfield. This is a multi-day 70.5 Km backpacking trip that requires proper planning and reservations.
This Trail begins at Cameron Lake and climbs up McBey Creek up the South Ridge of Mount Cokley.
Parallels CPR Trail to the east, with access to lookout over McBey Creek
From the end of Pass 60, traverses to summit of Cokely from north to south, ending at the Saddle Route.
The trail begins by heading up an old ski run, before meeting the Rousseau Chute Trail just below the summit. After going over the summit, the trail intersects with the Rousseau trail, before descending to the Arrowsmith/Cokely saddle and the Saddle Trail.
This is an old road that ascends the NW slopes of Mount Cokely to just below the summit. It begins at Paass 60 and connects with the Mount Cokley Trail.
This is the mostly gravel road that ascends to the top of Mount Maxwell on Saltspring Island. There is a gravel parking lot and outhouse at the end. There is a small network of hiking trails originating at the summit parking area that run throughout the park.
Mt. Bruce is the tallest peak on Saltspring Island and of the Southern Gulf Island. This track is of the steep Hydro Access service road that ascends to its summit and summit communications towers. Mt. Bruce sports impressive views on its summit, including an aluminum heli-landing pad and a small para-glide launch ramp. Mt. Bruce has two lower sub-summits which also feature communications towers/infrastructure.
Length: 4.1 km
Condition: Recently fixed, good trail markers
General Route: Runs up the west side of Cerise Creek. While not technically in Joffre Lake's Provincial Park and not a BC Parks Triail, this trail does provides access to the Anniversary Glacier, the Joffre Group and Kieth's Hut.
How to Find: From Pemberton, drive west up the Duffey Lake road. Drive past the Marriott Sand Shed and continue about 4 km till you are opposite Cerise Creek. See Cerise Creek Parking Lot on GMap. Pull off on the right, just after the no stopping zone sign, but before the second one.
Trail Description: From the parking spot on Duffey Lake road, the trail goes down and cross Cayoosh Creek, then climbs up the other side till it hits the decommissioned Cerise Creek main. Walk along the Cerise main less than 1 km, then fork right onto an old logging spur (visible on satellite). From the end of the spur, the trail continues south. It has markers all the way.
Toward the southern end, the trail has a fork after a minor creek crossing. The right fork will lead to a steep climb up a talus slope that exits into meadows very near Keith's Hut. The left fork climbs more gradually and passes the terminal moraine of the Anniversary Glacier before entering the meadows surrounding Keith's Hut.
Length: 3.9 km
Condition: Steep, dangerous, not for the timid, and spectacular. Aside from the lowest sections which are a thrash through a clearcut, the trail is in pretty good condition. There is a reason most people choose to fly by helicopter to Lake Lovely Water.
General Route: From the Squamish River up through old growth to Lake Lovely Water.
How to Find: Take an unmarked dirt road at Mile 9.1 on the Squamish Main. The road winds its way ~1km to the E bank of the Squamish River. At the river, there is a cable across the river for water surveying and shortly afterwards the road ends at the river bank. River is usually crossed by canoe. The parking area on the E bank of the river is Squamish Indian Band territory, so parking is at own risk.
Trail Description: It is similar in length and ruggedness to the Wedgemount Lake Trail in Garibaldi Park. Parties carrying heavy packs should allow about 3-4 hours to reach the Tantalus Hut. Travel to the Jim Haberl Hut is a long day.
It is much more common to use a canoe than to use the cable car. It may be advised to hide the paddles separate from the canoe, or lock the canoe to a tree on W side. (Some were left stranded when their unlocked canoe was stolen.) If crossing by canoe, it is possible to put in upstream of the cable tower and ferry across to sand bars on W side. The landing on the west side is easy, about 300m upstream from the cable car. There is a trail from the sandy beach that joins the other trail (from the cable car) in a clearcut. Crossing normally requires two paddlers and experience is recommended. From the cable tower on W side, the trail leads upstream for a short distance before it angles away from the river. Unfortunately many people now fly in and out, and thus never experience the spectacular beauty of the trail. The lower part of the Lake Lovely Water trail crosses private land and was logged in 1995.
Length: 8.9 km
Condition: Marked with yellow signs, obvious footbed. Bushy at times through the slide paths. Cleared of brush and deadfall to footbridge at 3300'.
General Route: Runs up the north side of the creek to a major footbridge over Sigurd Creek.
How to Find: From Squamish, drive up the Squamish main, then turn onto Ashlu main and cross the Squamish river bridge and the twin bridges across Ashlu Creek. Immediately after crossing the 2nd bridge is the trailhead. The start of it is on the old A200 spur road which is undriveable, that leads to the trailhead. Hike up the A200 road, then find the trailhead on the south side of the second switchback, at about 160m elevation. There are ample signs.
Trail Description: From the parking area on Ashlu Main, walk up the old roadbed A200 on the left hand side. This is now considered the first section of the trail, although people sometimes still try to drive it. At the second switchback, leave the old road and head south on a much older roadbed, overgrown by trees. This roadbed is level and goes south. All too soon, you leave this old roadbed and start climbing. The trail zig zags up the steep slopes and past some huge Douglas Fir trees. Eventually you come to a fork in the trail where the Crooked Falls trail goes south. From here a short distance later is a turnoff which runs out to the Stoltmann Lookout, over the Squamish River. And just beyond that is the major fork with lots of signs, where the Rose Trail to Sigurd Peak branches off. After the Rose Trail junction, the trail levels off and goes through swampy terrain to get closer to the roaring Sigurd Creek. From the trail at about 640m, you can see the confluence of two tributaries, both of them roaring waterfalls in summer. Continuing on, you come to a big hill which ends at 880m when it goes through a very short slide alder patch before resuming through open timber. From here, you start crossing avalanche paths--a total of four--before the trail descends to a footbridge that crosses to the south side of Sigurd Creek. After crossing the creek, the trail ascends up moderately steep forest before ending at the moraine below Ossa Peak.
Length: 2.0 km
Condition: Steep climbers route. Cleared with chainsaw 2008, 2013 (to 900 m ASL). There are steep sections of trail with unsure footing.
General Route: The east ridge of Sigurd Peak.
History: Named for Rose Tatlow. The name Station Rose was first ascribed to Sigurd Peak on a 1964 map of the Tantalus Range by Neal Carter.
How to Find: From Sigurd Trail near 650 meters at a marked and signed junction. The trail may be difficult to follow under snow.
Description: Originally marked and cleared by BCMC member Sev Heiberg, the trail is now maintained periodically by BC Mountaineering Club and North Shore Hikers volunteers. The trail follows terrain features without benefit of switchbacks. Rose Trail provides access to the east ridge of Sigurd Peak (Station Rose). It climbs steeply through a mix of closed and open timber to near the ridgeline then traverses on the south side of the ridge to a col. From there the marked route pretty much ends. Continue on the east ridge to the summit.
Length: 5.7 km
Condition: Maintained trail no deadfall. Occasional old aluminium markers on trees.
General Route: Branches off Ewart Creek trail then up Mountain Goat Creek to Haystack Creek, then forks into either Twin Buttes or Haystack trails.
How to Find: Hike south on the Ewart Creek trail for about 8 km. The Ewart creek trail comes down to Ewart Creek on the east side, and there is a footbridge across the creek to the west side.
Trail Description: Once you cross the footbridge, the trail climbs steeply up the north side of Mountain Goat creek. There is no water, since the trail is always some distance from the creek. At about 4 km up the trail, it comes down fairly close to the creek, but still some distance. There is a possible small campsite near here. At 4.5 km, you may spot the small stone cairn on your left, which marks the hidden entrance to the Haystack trail. The cairn is at 5800' and opposite the confluence of Haystack creek. [The "Narnia" campsite is just south of the cairn, about half way down to the creek. This is the first really good campsite since Ewart Creek]. The Mountain Goat creek trail continues on past the cairn and climbs about 100' then continues to run parallel to Mountain Goat creek. Eventually at about 5.8 km from the start, the trail turns north, leaves Mountain Goat Creek, and begins to climb steeply. We designate this as the end of the Mountain Goat Creek trail and the start of the Twin Buttes Trail.
Length: 1.2 km
General Route: Branches off the main trail and goes up the gulley between 2nd and 3rd peak, then joins the main ridgetop trail.
Trail Description: For those wishing a more direct way to and from the third peak.
From the Sea to Sky Gondola Website:
Distance: 7.5 km one way
Estimated time: 3 - 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 918 m
Level of difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced. Some steep & challenging sections. Requires fixed rope lines to assist you at certain sections. Not recommended for downhill travel. For hikers with dogs, you may need to assist your dog at some of the steeper steps (step heights of roughly 3 feet).
Dogs: As a courtesy to other hikers, please keep your dog on a leash. There are some visitors who are uncomfortable around dogs, especially the ones who run up to them, off-leash. In the past, dogs off-leash have knocked hikers while passing and we hope to minimize that risk. Please be considerate, thank you!
Price for gondola ride down: Tickets to ride the gondola down are $15 for humans and dogs. Tickets can be purchased at the base or at the summit.
Trail description: Starting from the Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot, the Sea to Summit Trail rises through the lower sections of the Stawamus Chief trail and eventually diverts onto the full Sea to Summit Trail, up what was once an inaccessible route through beautiful forest to the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Views of Howe Sound, Sky Pilot and the surrounding peaks are abound throughout. A three to five hour intermediate/advanced climbing hike just over 900 metres, the Sea to Summit Trail is definitely a must-do. Variations of the Sea to Summit hike include finishing with the Upper Sea to Summit Trail or the Shannon Basin Loop.
Trail entrance: Start at the Darrell Bay parking lot south of the Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot. Cross the highway to Shannon Falls and follow the signs to the Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot. Once at the Sea to Sky Gondola base parking lot, head northeast, towards the Stawamus Chief. Follow the gravel path to the connector entrace. Walk along the connector trail from marker 1-16. The connector trail is gradual, smooth and does not have any steep steps. However, please watch your step as there is often loose rock and dry dirt in the summer months. At marker 16, hikers will emerge on the Chief trail, at the beginning of the Chief stairs. Hike up the Chief trail until marker 68. At marker 68, the Sea to Summit trail separates from the Chief trail. Follow the Sea to Summit trail to the right all the way to the top!
From the Sea to Sky Gondola Website:
The Shannon Basin Loop Trail is a moderately easy, winding loop that follows the terrain around the Shannon Creek watershed and offers scenic views of Goat Ridge, Shannon Creek, and Skypilot Mountain.
The Shannon Basin Loop begins on the Backcountry Access road then drops down an old roadbed that meanders down 3.2 km to a bridge crossing over Shannon Creek. From there you can drop down the Sea to Summit Trail and continue to the bottom of the gondola, or stay right to take the Upper Sea to Summit Trail to return to the summit. Connecting to the Upper Sea to Summit Trail makes for a nice, moderately technical, 2-4 hour return trip from the top of the gondola.
Level of difficulty: Easy/Intermediate
Distance: 9.7 km loop
Estimated time: 2-3 hours (run times will be different)
Elevation Gain: Net gain 474 m, 292 m loss
Trail Markers: Numbered 1-200. Yellow blazers.
From the Sea to Sky Gondola Website:
The Skyline Ridge Trail travels up the centre ridge in the upper Shannon Creek watershed. It is a direct line up to the alpine between Sky Pilot massif and Goat Ridge and encompasses some of the most beautiful terrain in the area. Skyline Ridge Trail offers views of Goat Ridge, the granite dome of Mount Habrich and the high alpine peaks around Skypilot Mountain. Future plans involve continuing Skyline Ridge Trail through to the Skypilot Valley Trail and will form an incredible day’s hiking through old growth forest, spectacular alpine meadows and lakes to the lower alpine slopes of Skypilot Mountain. There it will cross below the alpine massif of Skypilot and Ledge Mountains and link back to the Skypilot Valley Trail.
Access is via the Backcountry Access Road staying right past the Sky Pilot Valley spur, across Shannon Creek and climbing slowly staying left at the next fork as it climbs the west side of the ridge to gain the high ground.
Level of difficulty: Advanced/Backcountry
Distance: 12km one way, 24km return
Estimated time: 6 - 8 hours return
Elevation Gain: 700 m
From the Sea to Sky Gondola:
Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail is our flagship backcountry hiking trail. Sweeping, epic views of Howe Sound, Skypilot Mountain and Habrich itself, the trail weaves through old growth forest, ancient glacial formations, creeks and waterfalls and offers a half to full day excursion for those seeking a little more from their hike. Dotted with granite outcroppings, sub alpine meadows and the picturesque Neverland Lake, Al’s Trail is not to be missed. The marked trail finishes at marker #44 and 'End of Marked Trail' sign at Neverland Lake.
Access is via the Backcountry Access Road, taking an uphill left hand road after Klettergarden Cliff and then continuing up past the water reservoir. Follow the marked signs to the start of Al’s Trail and cross Olesen Creek. The trail climbs steeply and weaves its way around ancient forest and granite slabs to Neverland Lake.
Our newest addition to Al's trail, the Neverland Loop Trail begins just before Neverland Lake on Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail and forms a loop that winds its way up through ancient, old growth coastal forest to a pair of waterfalls called Neverland Falls. There are a couple of swimming holes here to escape the summer heat. The trail meanders back to Al's trail.
Level of difficulty: Advanced/Backcountry
Distance: 4.2 km one way/8.4 km return
Estimated time: 3-6 hours return
Elevation Gain: 354 m
From the Sea to Sky Gondola Website:
The Upper Sea to Summit trail is a short, moderately technical, intermediate trail that begins just off the Summit Plaza at the top of the gondola. Weaving its way down the lift line through granite outcroppings and old growth forest, the trail eventually makes its way to the base of Wrinkle Rock. Here among the giant boulders and beautiful folded granite seams of Wrinkle Rock is a nice spot for a picnic. The trail can either be taken back up to the summit or continued further as it traverses out to join the lower part of the Sea to Summit Trail. Combined with the Shannon Basin Loop Trail, this is an excellent afternoon hike of easy to moderate difficulty.
Access is via the top of the gondola, just off the Summit Plaza.
Level of difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced. Some steep & challenging sections. Requires fixed rope lines to assist you.
Distance: 1 km one way/2 km direct return. 4.2 km when connected with Shannon Basin Loop
Estimated time: 1 hour return or 2 hours with loop
Elevation Gain: 162 m descent to Shannon Creek Basin Trail junction
Length: 4.5 km
Condition: Good hiking Trail.
General Route: Branches off Harvey Creek Spur, crosses Magnesia creek then up the west ridge of Brunswick.
Trail Description: There is a major homemade artwork signpost at the junction where you leave the Harvey Creek Spur. From there the old road goes north and crosses Magnesia creek at 620m, then continues northwest to a junction, where the M Creek Spur branches off. Still following an old logging roadbed, the trail climbs up to 840m then starts to do big switchbacks. At the top of these at 1040m the old roadbed ends and you are on a steep constructed trail. You soon hit the ridge at 1220m and then the trail continues up the long SW ridge of Brunswick. At 1480m you cross the Howe Sound Crest Trail (HSCT). Above there the trail continues to the summit. The last part of the "trail" is on the ridge crest and a bit exposed, but easy scrambling.
Length: 2.6 km
Condition: Good trail.
General Route: Runs up on N side of Alberta Ck, then onto SW ridge of Harvey.
How to Find: Park on Sunset Drive in Lions Bay. Hike up the old logging road as for the Paul Binkert Trail to the Lions. At each intersection take a right-hand turn. The trailhead is 100 meters before the old logging road crosses Alberta Creek waterfall. Look for the trail on the left-hand (uphill) side of the road.
Trail Description: The well-marked trail follows the Alberta Creek canyon on its north side and continues on the broad Southwest Ridge to the summit. The views of the West Lion are stunning.
Condition: Well maintained as far as the footbridge across Harvey Creek. Deteriorating and poorly maintained beyond Harvey Creek.
General Route: Begins on Sunset Drive in Lions bay. Then Departs Harvey Creek Spur to HSCT to provide a route up the Lions from Lions Bay. Labelled as Lions Trail/Binkert Trail
How to Find: The trailhead is reached from the top of Sunset Drive in Lions Bay, where it begins on a gated logging road. Labelled as Lions Trail/Binkert Trail
Trail Description: The logging road has branches to Brunswick Mountain, Magnesia Creek and Harvey Creek. Ignore the first overgrown spur on the right on the switchback above the water tower. After that, keep right at all intersections to stay on the Harvey Creek road and the trail to the Lions. After the road levels out near 600m, it swings south. Just after a big rock slide across the road and the shallow crossing of Alberta Creek, the route becomes more of a trail along the old road bed. The trail continues more or less level for ~1km before it climbs east above Harvey Creek.
The old ford across Harvey Creek is now closed. A new footbridge was placed across the creek in 2002. The footbridge is reached by a new branch of the trail off the Harvey Creek road, at a point 300m past the old branch. The newer one descends about 50m to the footbridge, where it connects on the opposite side to the original trail.
From the creek, the trail climbs through old growth forest to the subalpine shoulder west of the West Lion at GR859782, then southeast over a bushy, rocky route. At GR862778, it turns northeast to gain the ridge south of the West Lion via rocky slopes breaking the cliff system. Once on the ridge, the trail meets the Howe Sound Crest at GR864779 and carries on north for a short distance to the base of the West Lion. The Howe Sound Crest Trail goes down right (east) before the notch to gain the pass between the two Lions.
Note:
The West Lion itself is a class 3-4 climb from the south, begining with a descent into the notch; a fixed rope is often in place. Cross an exposed, sloping shelf rightward with good holds (technical crux, class 3-4) then scramble up steeply on vegetated ledges with good trail marking and minimal exposure (class 2-3) to the summit. Descend same route. Do not attempt unless properly equipped and mentally prepared. Fatalities have occured!
The Deeks Lake Trail form the final northern portion of Howe Sound Crest Trail in northern Cypress Provincial Park.
Length: 2.3 km
Condition: A popular and well-used trail. Maintenance is sporadic and badly eroded beyond the driveable road for about one kilometer.
General Route: This is the northern section of the Howe Sound Crest Trail. The Deeks Lake trail runs from the Porteau Cove interchange on Highway 99 up to Deeks Lake. For lack of a more inclusive name, we continue using the trail name up to the height of land at Hat Pass.
How to Find: The trailhead to the Deeks Lake Trail is on highway 99 just south of Porteau Cove. Park at a pullout on the east (northbound) side of the highway. The trail is signed as "Deeks Lake trail" as it heads immediately uphill from the highway pullout.
Length: 4.2 km
Condition: Well used trail, blazed to the alpine and often flagged in winter.
General Route: Park at south side of Zopkios Ridge Lookout exit. Find trailpost west of Boston Bar Creek near highway and follow trail up to the west ridge. Hike and scramble east on the west ridge to Needle Peak summit. Some sources rate the trail as 13km, round trip.
How to Find: Drive the Coquihalla Highway (Hwy 5) to exit 217, the Zopkios Ridge Lookout. This is about 9km south of the highway toll booths. Park on the south side of the exit, close to the highway maintenance sheds.
Trail Description: In summer, walk west, crossing Boston Bar Creek along the dirt road immediately north of the sheds to the trailhead post, visible from the eastbound exit offramp. In winter, use snow bridges to cross over Boston Bar Creek from the sheds and look for blazes immediately west of the creek.
Follow obvious trail and blazes through mature forest to open alpine. Continue south along the subsidiary north ridge to a wide bench which meets the toe of the west ridge. Hike east up the west ridge, then scramble near the summit. At the end of a long flat section near the summit, skirt summit block on the south side, then up short gully.
Length: 3.7 km
Condition: Narrow, dry footpath in summer.
General Route: Climbs to east ridge then around east peak and north of main summit
How to Find: From Falls Lake parking follow gravel road for 200m and look for narrow ATV road through bush and connect to pipeline road.
Description: coming soon.
Trail Description: This 6.0 km trail can make a fantastic climb for anyone with experience in alpine climbing and snow travel and is looking for a challenge. Its steep grades, boulder fields and snowfields make for a difficult ground and a slow trek. It is not recommended for the beginner. Users are encouraged to be well prepared and allow plenty of time, or even plan on staying the night to make it a two day trek to thoroughly enjoy all this amazing mountain has to offer. A unique feature of this mountain is it consists of high quality granite. Mount Rexford is the tallest mountain in the area, thereby providing spectacular views of Mt. Slesse, Mt. Baker and the Chilliwack range.
Experience a unique and historic 13 km hike along Ghost Pass Trail. Along the first 2 km of the trail, you will be following the path of the Dewdney wagon road, which was built in 1849 by the Queens Royal Engineers and used to connect the gold fields in BC to the coast. This area offers you amazing views of the Cascade Mountains. You will then be lead into a lush old growth forest. This trail is teaming with life as it is located at a point in which the very different ecosystems of the BC Coast Mountains and the Cascade Mountains meet. While venturing along this trail in the summer, you will encounter brilliant alpine wildflower meadows. At the end of the trail, you will have arrived at the mysterious Ghost Lake.
This upper and more rugged section of Trail on the top of Eagle Ridge runs from Lindsay Lake (and the Lindsay Lake Trail) over the summit of Mt. Beautiful and joins the Dilly Dally trail on the Summit of Mt. Dilly Dally.
The Swan Falls trail whose junction is between Mt. Beautiful and Mt. Dilly Dally provides for a steep and unpleasant retreat back to Buntzen Lake if needed.
Length: 6.5 km
Condition: A flagged route, easy to follow.
General Route: Runs from Lynn Creek, up the north side of Hanes Creek to Crown pass.
How to Find: This trail continues from the end of the Lynn Creek trail. Hike up the Lynn Creek Trail to the bridge over Norvan Creek, and continue a short distance beyond until you come to the Hanes Valley Junction, with the Lynn Lake trail splitting to the north.
Trail Description: The main use of the Hanes Creek trail is by people who are doing the loop route which goes up Lynn Creek, then up to Crown pass and then back to Grouse Mountain. This route is the occassional host to lost and ill-prepared hikers.
At an imposing 554 feet (169 meters) in height, mighty George Hill on the Northern tip of Pender Island has a commanding view of the Southern Gulf Islands. The long, arduous ferry ride combined with the grueling 800 meters of trail repells all but the hardiest of adventurers who dare to transit these pirate infested waters.
Now seriously,
Length: 0.8 km
Condition: Well Maintained
How to Find: From the end of Port Washington Road (Port Washington, North Pender Island), turn right onto Bridges Road and follow until reaching Stanley Point Drive. Turn right (north) on Stanley Point Drive. After 500 meters, turn left on Walden Road and follow until encountering Ogden Road where the trailhead is. There are direction signs along the way.
Trail Description: This trail accesses George Hill park and terminates at the best vantage point on George Hill, North Pender Island. It is very well maintained and features a ridge walk, open slopes and good views. Note that the trail does not reach the highest point on the hill. The true summit is forested with little/no views and is an easy off-trail walk from the main George Hill Trail.
The Demon Ridge "Trail" departs from the Watersprite Lake Trail at Km 4.7 and provides access to the impressive open scenery of Demon Ridge and Demon Peak.
Length: 2.9 km
Condition: Bush Free and flagged to the crest and alpine of Demon Ridge
General Route: Begins at KM 4.7 of the new Watersprite Lake Trail and wraps around to the south side of Demon Ridge, above Watersprite creek.
How to Find: The New Watersprite Lake Trail has restored access to this old logging spur. It is accessed from KM 4.7 of the new Watersprite trail and is marked by a green "Demon Ridge" sign post.
Trail Description: From the 4.7 sign turn left and follow the logging road: [ very important ] to it's very end. Now follow the marked flagged route up to the demon ridge, about 350 meters up. Once on the ridge follow it up to the peak. Once there you now have a choice to either retrace your route or carry on down the flagged marked route to the lake and take the regular route back to the trailhead. The reverse method can also be done. Take the regular route to the lake then from the cabin go down and cross the stream and follow the markers and flagging up to the demon peak and on down down the ridge watching for the flagging and markers on your left leading to the trail down to the logging road and the trailhead.
The Watersprite Lake to Demon Peak Route is a steep but well flagged route. The combination of the Watersprite Lake Trail, Demon Ridge Trail and Watersprite Lake to Demon Peak Route is referred to as the "Demon Peak Watersprite Loop".
It is very scenic alternative hike for more experienced hikers.