9 Incredible Hikes For Every Level Of Fitness In The North Shore

Started from the bottom now we're here.

Published July 04 2016

Presenting part 3 of the hikes for every level of fitness series. The North Shore has some of the most incredible hikes in all of Canada. It is a hiker's haven. What better way to explore than to lose yourself in nature. No matter your hiking expertise, there is something for everyone.

The North Shore is conveniently located around 20 minutes from downtown. With so many hikes at your disposal, don't miss out on the mountain views. Many of the hikes are even accessible by transit.

Please be extremely careful and follow trail etiquette when hiking. All times and distances are round-trip. Here are 9 surreal hikes for every level of hiker in the North Shore:

Beginner

Photo cred – @kbowman16

Quarry Rock

Undoubtedly one of the most popular hikes in the lower mainland, Quarry Rock offers lovely views of Deep Cove and Indian Arm all year round.

Distance: 3.8 km

Time: 0.5 – 1.5 hours

Elevation Gain: 100 meters

Season: Year-round

Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park is perfect if you want a short trail that leads to stunning views. You can marvel at the lighthouse, the beautiful Pacific ocean and cliffs, and large Douglas Firs. There's even cliff jumping here.

Distance: up to 6 km

Time: 0.5 – 1.5 hours

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Season: Year-round

Dog Mountain

Located in Seymour Provincial Park, Dog Mountain is one of the shorter and easier hikes but just as beautiful. You'll also pass by the clear First Lake on this trail.

Distance: 5 km

Time: 1 – 2 hours

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Season: May - October

Intermediate

Eagle Bluffs

I'm not bluffing about how beautiful this hike is. Eagle Bluffs offers a spectacular view of West Vancouver. The hike also passes by the picturesque Cabin Lake and Black Mountain.

Distance: 8 km

Time: 3 – 4 hours

Elevation Gain: 350 meters

Season: June - October

St Mark's Summit

This hike has one of the best views of the Sea to Sky in the Lower Mainland. The hike is definitely doable by seasoned and non-seasoned hikers alike. St. Mark's Summit is part of the Howe Sound Crest Trail and the base is located in Cypress Provincial Park.

Distance: 11 km

Time: 3 – 5 hours

Elevation Gain: 460 meters

Season: June - October

Photo cred - @j.dongalen

Grouse Grind or BCMC Trail

One of the most populated hikes in BC, the Grouse Grind is hailed as Mother Nature's stairmaster. More of a killer leg workout than a scenic hike, but the feeling when you get to the top is worth it. The BCMC Trail is located beside the Grouse Grind and also ends at the top of Grouse Mountain if you are looking for a less busy and developed hike.

Distance: 2.9 km

Time: 0.75 – 1.5 hours

Elevation Gain: 853 meters

Season: May - September

Advanced

Crown Mountain

Grouse Grind wasn't enough for you? Keep hiking up and you'll reach Crown Mountain. Experience surreal views of the Capilano Watershed, the Lions, Vancouver, and backcountry mountains.

Distance: 9.8 km

Time: 5 – 7 hours

Elevation Gain: 385 meters

Season: July - October

Mount Elsay

Mount Elsay is a cool backcountry route to explore in Mount Seymour Provincial Park. This trail is rather difficult and can be dangerous if you are unprepared as it is steep and poorly marked at times; so make sure you are an experienced hiker, and have a GPS and routefinding ready. Also try not to hike alone and go only when it is good conditions out.

Distance: 16 km

Time: 7 – 10 hours

Elevation Gain: 500 meters

Season: June - October

Hanes Valley Trail

This challenging backcountry trail starts from Lynn Headwaters Regional Park and finishes on top of Grouse Mountain. Along the way you'll pass by Norvan Falls and get views of Crown Mountain and Goat Mountain.

Distance: 16 km

Time: 6 – 8 hours

Elevation Gain: 1320 meters

Season: July - September

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