Fall Hikes on Vancouver’s North Shore

While most any time of year is a good time for a hike on Vancouver’s North Shore, there’s something magical about Fall hikes through the North Shore’s forests, mountain passes and lakeside loops. From kid-friendly strolls to scenic climbs, there are many paths to the colour and splendour of Fall on the North Shore. Wherever you may roam, remember to Love it Like a Local by respecting the natural environment and wildlife that call it home.

Lynn Loop

There are a lot of trails to choose from in the vast Lynn Headwaters Park, but for shorter, easier jaunts that are still full of all the wonders of a coastal rainforest, you can’t beat the Lynn Canyon Loop. This 5.1 km round trip takes you up through lush green forest before looping back along the rushing water of Lynn Creek. You can even catch a view of Vancouver Island and the San Juan and Gulf Islands with a short detour.

Photo courtesy of @adventurestoapres

Dog Mountain

The Dog Mountain trail offers spectacular views of North Vancouver, Lions Gate Bridge, Stanley Park and downtown Vancouver, all from one relatively moderate 5 km hike straight from the Mount Seymour parking lot. From there it winds up through a forest, past First Lake and over numerous small streams. What it lacks in elevation, it makes up for in roots and rocky patches, and in there it may offer a challenge to some.

Pump Peak

Also from the Mount Seymour parking lot is the popular Pump Peak trail. Popular largely for the stunning 360-degree views of Vancouver and the surrounding North Shore mountains at its summit. The trail is well marked, but does have a consistent elevation gain with some steeper sections that may challenge beginners along its 6.9 kilometers. Its terrain is mostly exposed rock, with few trees, so do keep in mind weather conditions when you set out. 

Norvan Falls

For a little more effort that is rewarded by a beautiful destination, the trail to the Norvan 

Falls is also part of the Lynn Headwaters Park. This out-and-back, 14 km trail features a short incline and switchbacks that lead to a gorgeous alpine waterfall replete with fantasy-novel mist. For even more of a challenge, more experienced hikers can head up the alternate trail on the right for a more rustic, yet scenic route to the falls.

Photo courtesy of @alyshamaaarie

Cypress Falls

This 2.9 km trail in West Vancouver follows alongside Cypress Creek and features moderate inclines at times with mud and roots for a bit of a challenge. Your work is well rewarded however by not one but two spots to view the breathtaking waterfalls. The Lower Falls viewpoint is a short distance in, while the more impressive Upper Falls offers closer, unobscured views into the canyon.

Capilano Canyon Pacific Trail Loop 

This one has a little of everything. An easy 5.8 km loop contains terrain as varied as forested rolling trails, smooth gravel paths, and long staircases. All complemented by viewpoints overlooking the Capilano River canyon, the Cleveland Dam, Capilano Lake and the North Shore mountain ranges. It’s a popular trail not just for hikers, but birders, runners and dog-walkers too.

Photo courtesy of @bicramrijal

Hollyburn Mountain

When you want to get a little alpine adrenaline pumping and still have time for errands in the afternoon, head up Hollyburn Mountain. Its 7 kilometers takes about 3.5 hours to complete and takes you past Fourth Lake and through meadows full of berry bushes in the early fall—which means you just might spot a bear loading up before hibernation begins. Your destination is a rocky peak with panoramic vistas of Grouse Mountain, Georgia Strait, and the Gulf Islands.

St Marks Summit

Starting from the Cypress Mountain downhill parking lot, the trail to St Marks Summit makes for a very rewarding day hike through forest, meadow and rocky terrain. The round trip clocks in at 11 km and is considered an intermediate route due to the steep switchbacks that lead to the summit. Once there though, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Tantalus Mountain Range and on a clear day, all the way out to the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island.

As always when you come out to play on the North Shore mountains, Play Like a Local by starting out prepared and staying safe with proper gear, snacks, and a trip plan left with someone trusted. 

For more information on these and other ways to hike Vancouver’s North Shore, visit vancouversnorthshore.com. Whether you’re visiting or already call the North Shore home, take the pledge to North Shore Like a Local. Play, learn, and love it here just like we do. Let’s do our best to keep the North Shore as beautiful as we found it. Take the pledge today at northshorelikealocal.com.