Top 17 Easy Hikes in Vancouver with Stunning Views

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Aisha Aslam

Ever wanted to find easy hikes in Vancouver for all skill levels and short Vancouver hikes you can do on your day off or after work? Vancouver offers a variety of easy hiking trails around the city and area that are short, easy, and great for beginners! I am sure you will enjoy one or many of these easy hikes near Vancouver BC.

Best Time to Hike in Vancouver

The best time to hike in Vancouver is during early spring and summer (June to September). This will ensure that most of the snow is gone from lower elevations and there are ideal conditions for hiking. You can enjoy any of the hikes below without having to worry about any snow on the trail. Of course, you can hike year round in Vancouver as it is also beautiful during winter. Please see my post here about winter hikes in Vancouver as well as some precautions you need to take. It is also important to educate yourself on Leave No Trace Principles here before you venture into the wilderness.

Top 17 Easy Hikes in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city that offers many hiking opportunities either short Vancouver hikes or some longer ones to get your heart pumping! The city is well-known for its beautiful natural environment and stunning views, so it’s no surprise that there are so many trails and hikes in the area! You can go from the mountains to the ocean or from the coast inland – there are plenty of options for exploring. Here are my top 17 easy hikes around Vancouver:

1. Norvan Falls

Norvan Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Vancouver, located in the North Shore Mountains. The trailhead to this hike is located in Lynn Waters Regional Park, in North Vancouver.

This is not one of those hikes where you’ll have to scramble up steep inclines or bushwhack through dense forest—the hike has been designed for those who want an easy stroll through some stunning scenery without having to worry about getting lost or injured on the way down! Just watch out for tree roots and slipper conditions if it has rained. 

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2. Quarry Rock

Quarry Rock is a popular hiking spot in West Vancouver, and it’s easy to see why. While the hike may be short—only 3.8 km roundtrip—it offers stunning views of Deep Cove and the surrounding islands.

The trailhead for this hike can be found at Quarry Rock Park, which is on Deep Cove Road, you drive until you reach Panorama Dr turn left then park on the right side. Parking here should be free, make sure to arrive early as it can be limited or you may have to wait for a spot as it is residential parking with permits only in the neighborhood. Once inside the park itself, there are plenty of picnic tables so you can enjoy your meal while taking in all those gorgeous sights around you after the hike up to Quarry Rock!

3. Jug Island

Located in the Burrard Inlet, Jug Island is a small island that you can take a hike to see it. You can start the hike from the Belcarra parking lot, and walk through the forest until you reach a rocky beach, with the island in sight. This is a great spot to stop for a picnic, swim, or paddle and it is a short Vancouver hike that you will enjoy. Jug Island has some amazing views of the island and Deep Cove.

4. Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain is located at Mount Seymour and is a popular hiking trail as it is easily accessible from the parking lot. The hike involves minimal elevation gain, making it the perfect hike to bring your family and friends as it is easy. This hike offers breathtaking views of Mt Baker, the city of Vancouver, and the surrounding mountains. 

5. Bunzten Lake

Bunzten Lake is a popular spot for hiking, and it’s also a great place to go if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax. Bunzten Lake is easily accessible and an easy hiking trail around the lake. But there are many trails to explore in this area if you have time. This is also a great place to spend the day, swimming or having a picnic after your hike!  

6. Bowen Lookout

Bowen Lookout is a relatively short hike with magnificent views of howe sound. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Vancouver, so it’s important to get there early before they fill up with other hikers on their way up or down. If you’re looking for something easy, this is your best bet! This hike is also amazing to watch the sunset from. 

7. High Knoll

Located in Minnekhada Regional Park, this area is a stunning spot for beautiful hikes, with a network of trails that are easily accessible within a short drive from Vancouver. The park has several walking trails with scenic views. My favourite trail in this park is the High Knoll trail which has a viewpoint that is worth checking out! 

This hike is about 2-2.5 hours and you start on the main road which is the Quarry Road parking lot. There is also a trail map available at the beginning. This trail will take you through marshes and forests. You will also get a chance to see some wildlife. Please stay bear aware as this park is known to have a lot of black bears around. 

Once you enjoy the scenic viewpoint you can head back the same way or take another trail in the park if you have time. They do close the gate at dusk so make sure you arrive back to your car early to avoid getting stuck.

8. Lynn Loop

Lynn Canyon is a beautiful park in North Vancouver with lots of trees, plants, and animals. It’s also home to one of the best hikes you’ll ever take!

The Lynn Loop is a short hike that takes about an hour or two (depending on your level of fitness) and offers stunning views of the forest and river. If you’re looking for something easy that is right in Vancouver, but still has some amazing scenery then this might be for you!

9. Gold Creek Falls

Gold Creek Falls is a beautiful hike that will bring you to the base of an impressive waterfall. The falls aren’t too big, but they’re still worth seeing! The trailhead is located at Gold Creek Parking Lot in Golden Ears Provincial Park and it’s an easy walk to the waterfalls. Enjoy the forest views along the river as you make your way to the lower falls. 

10. Lighthouse Park

Located in West Vancouver, this park offers scenic forest trails along the shore of the ocean. There are many trails in this park and there is also a map at the beginning where you can plan your route. Hike to the lighthouse and enjoy the views or hike further along the trail to get to the rocky beach area and spend some time by the water. This is a great place to have a snack or picnic. 

11. Stawamus Chief

The Stawamus Chief is a short, easy hike that offers stunning views of Howe Sound. The trail begins at the parking lot on the side of Highway 1, just past Squamish. It’s perfect for families and dogs (on a leash) alike—no matter your fitness level or age, you’ll have an enjoyable time exploring this beautiful area! You can choose to hike to the first peak which is 4km round, or do all 3 if you are up for the challenge. Note there are chains and ladders involved if you continue to the other 2 peaks.

12. Slahaney Peak

Slahaney Peak is a beautiful hike that offers stunning views of the chief, the town of Squamish, and the surrounding mountains. This trail isn’t just an easy hike; it’s one of the best ways to break up your visit to Vancouver, as well as a great way to see some new scenery in Squamish. 

The trail can be accessed on Mamquam forest service road, where you would park along the road to access the trailhead. You start the hike going uphill through the forest until you reach the Lower Slhanay Viewpoint, where you can stop and enjoy the views and eat some lunch. 

As mentioned above—the view from here really is something else…

You can then continue on to Tony’s Lookout if you want to extend your hike.

13. Murrin Lake Loop

Murrin Lake Loop is located in Squamish, British Columbia. This trail is a loop where you can start off climbing up steeply (this part is short!). The great thing about this hike is that it is one of the short Vancouver hikes where you can enjoy the views, and then hike back down and explore more of Squamish or go out to eat after. When you turn into the viewpoint, you will see a bench where you can take a break and enjoy the view. The viewpoint is quite scenic as you can see Howe Sound as well as the surrounding mountains and ocean. This trail is also nice and short to do for sunset to see the sunset colours. You can continue to complete the loop and head down the easier way. 

14. Hollyburn Mountain

Hollyburn Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Cypress Mountain. This trail is perfect if you want to do a short hike and then have some time to go back to the city. This trail is also nice to do in the wintertime with snowshoes. The view at the top is amazing with the surrounding north shore mountains and the view of the city. 

15. Lindeman Lake

Lindeman Lake is located in Chilliwack and is a gorgeous hike with a view of the lake. You drive along Chilliwack Road until you reach the parking lot on the left side for Lindeman Lake. The lake is one of many popular hiking destinations in the area, with stunning views of the water with its unique green and blue colour depending on if it is sunny. It’s also a great spot for swimming: In summertime, you can expect this trail to be busy so go early so you can find a parking spot or you may need to park along the road and walk to the trailhead.

16. Hunter Trail

The viewpoint at the top of Hunter Trail has stunning views of Stave Lake and surrounding mountains. Located in Mission, this hike goes up a logging road and is fairly easy for most people. This hike can be done in any season but it is the nicest during summertime when you can see the blue mountain peaks in the distance. Please note that there is no overnight parking allowed here.  

17. Rolley Peak

Also located in Mission, this Rolley Peak is perfect for all levels as it is not too challenging. The road to this hike is kind of bumpy but can be reached by most vehicles. This hike offers a beautiful view at the top that has a platform, where you can see Mt. Baker, and the surrounding mountains. This hike is worth checking out, especially the sunset I would say as it has an incredible view! 

Map of the Top 17 Easy Hikes in Vancouver

Where to Stay in Vancouver 

If you’re visiting Vancouver for hiking, you may want to consider staying in one of the neighborhoods that are close to the city’s many parks and trails. Here are some suggestions for places to stay in Vancouver that will be a short drive away from the mountains: 

1. North Vancouver: North Vancouver is home to several of Vancouver’s most popular hiking trails, including the Grouse Grind, Lynn Canyon Park, and Capilano River Regional Park. Staying in North Vancouver will give you easy access to these trails and stunning views of the North Shore mountains. Some popular hotels in this area include the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier and the Lonsdale Quay Hotel.

2. West Vancouver: West Vancouver is another great option if you’re looking for easy access to hiking trails. The area is home to the scenic Lighthouse Park, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and several other trails in the Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Some homestays include West Vancouver Luxury Home.

3. Downtown Vancouver: If you want to be in the heart of the action, downtown Vancouver is a great place to stay as you get the best of both worlds. You’ll be close to shopping, restaurants, and many of the city’s top attractions. Some popular hotels in this area include the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, the Pinnacle Hotel, and Days Inn.

These are just a few options for places to stay in Vancouver if you’re visiting for hiking. Depending on your preferences and the specific trails you want to explore, there are many other neighborhoods in the Lower Mainland and hotels to choose from as well.

Conclusion: Top 17 Easy Hikes in Vancouver

Vancouver is full of endless, easy amazing hikes, and these are just a few of the best easy hikes in Vancouver that I hope you can enjoy. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner hiker, looking for some short Vancouver hikes, or up to a challenge, then these trails can be enjoyed by everyone who visits Vancouver.