Beautiful, Easy Fall Hikes Near Vancouver
Early fall has perfect weather for hiking in and around Vancouver. Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in British Columbia; the colours are changing, the temperature is cooling, the high season for tourists is over and there’s still plenty of sunlight. Fall doesn’t have to mean back to school, it can also mean getting back on the trail! Try these stunning, easy and family-friendly hikes around Vancouver this October.
Dog Mountain
One of the most popular hikes in Mount Seymour Provincial Park, fall is the perfect time to try this trail. It’s not only beautiful, but also a little quieter than in the height of summer. Considered a moderate hike, this trail has some things to look out for: roots, rocks, and slippery areas, so be warned! The trail leads to a spectacular view, looking out towards Mount Baker, The Fraser Valley, Stanley Park and the Strait of Georgia. You’ll instantly see why it’s a crowd favourite.
Dog Mountain is located about a 50 minute drive from downtown Vancouver. The trail starts and ends in the parking area of Mount Seymour.
Length (3 km or 1.5 hours)
Beaver Lake
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s iconic Stanley Park, Beaver Lake is an easy, beautiful and accessible walk through the park wetlands. Starting at Stanley Park Drive, take a leisurely pace along Beaver Creek and around the lake. Having a park like this in the middle of the city is a feature that’s unique to Vancouver, and a must-do experience.
On your way around the lake, look out for local wildlife (beavers, flying squirels, great blue herons and, if you’re bringing snacks, watch out for raccoons).
Length (3 km or 1.5 hours)
Mystery Lake
Mystery Lake is known as one of the best swimming holes in summer, but for those that enjoy fewer crowds and cooler weather, fall is wonderful time to hike in the area. Located on Mount Seymour, it’s technically a short distance but involves a uphill climb that adds a bit of a challenge to a mostly easy hike. If it’s dry enough, the shore around the lake is also a great spot for chilling out and having a picnic.
Length (3 km or 1.5 hours)
Burnaby Mountain
Burnaby Mountain has a large network of trails and most are easy hikes that you can access year round. If you need a quick escape from the daily grind, walking through the bright fall leaves on any of these trails is almost guaranteed to give you peace of mind.
Length (Depending on trail selection, up to 7.5 km or 1 – 3 hrs.)
Quarry Rock
A famously beautiful and popular day hike in North Vancouver, Quarry Rock is perfect for visitors, beginners and quick trips for seasoned hikers. Short and easy enough for any new hiker to tackle with gorgeous views of Deep Cove and Indian Arm. The views are sure to inspire you to get out on the trail and try even more.
Yervana Insight
Remember to stop in Deep Cove Village following your hike to enjoy a coffee and doughnut at Honey Doughnuts and Goodies!
Length ( 3.8 km or .5 up to 1.5 hrs)
Cypress Falls
Only a 30 minute drive from Vancouver, Cypress Falls features massive trees that are over 300 hundred years old. The trail is home to these giants of nature and is located in a beautiful forested area near West Vancouver. The trail is accessible year round, and equally as beautiful when it’s overcast and raining as it is in sunshine.
Making your way around Cypress Creek, you’re on your way to two beautiful waterfalls. The trail leads to both the Upper Cypress Falls and Lower Cypress Falls. The trail markers can be confusing, so make sure you know your route and take precautions before you set out.
Length ( 3 km or 1.5 hrs.)
Twin Falls Loop, Lynn Canyon
If you’re looking for scenic forest, great swimming and easy hiking paths, Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver is a must-see. Capilano Suspension Bridge may be more famous, but the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is just as amazing (and there’s no entry fee.) The Twin Falls Loops will take you over the suspension bridge, into the forest and over the top of Twin Falls. Fall is the perfect time to visit as the masses of tourists slows down and you’ll be able to enjoy the views without being crowded.
Length ( 1.3 km, or 1 hour)
The North Shore
Local, Cole, can take you up a North Shore mountain to experience an epic West Coast sunrise. Once you get to the top, sit back and relax while enjoying the snacks Cole brings along! And, if the weather is treating you right and you feel brave, you may get a chance to have a morning, mountainside lake dip. This Adventure will include transportation if requested- just send Cole a message to figure it out.
Hiking during the fall has its perks: less people, more colour and different perspectives on popular summer destinations. Just because the temperature gets a little colder and the sky becomes grey more often doesn’t mean we need to stay indoors everyday. Finding ways to get outside and into nature will do wonders for your physical and mental health! So get those layers on and make your way outdoors and to these easy, beautiful and accessible fall hikes.
We can’t wait to see you on the trails!
