The Best 7 Snowy Winter Hikes Near Vancouver
Winters in Vancouver can often feel endless and if this year you want to try a new activity beyond skiing or snowboarding, check out these 7 winter hikes near Vancouver!
Although the main hiking season in Vancouver is summer, I think winter truly holds its own magic. In this article I list my favorite snowy winter hikes near Vancouver, but if you’re looking for more hiking trails, check out either Cypress, Grouse or Seymour mountains.
Winter Hiking Safety and What You Should Know
Hiking in winter requires more preparation than hiking in summer. In fact, winter hiking is also more difficult, as walking through snow requires significantly more energy. On top of this, you need to be avalanche aware and know the type of terrain you’re entering to avoid potential risks.
Factors such as high winds, heavy snow and ice can all influence the decision whether it’s safe to hike. So, in this article about the best winter hikes near Vancouver, I list the main things you should know before exploring the backcountry in winter.
Check the Weather Forecast
Firstly, check the weather forecast not just the day before but also in the morning before you leave for the hike. Winter weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains or remote areas, so it’s important to stay updated.
In case the weather forecast is not good, do not put yourself at risk and postpone the hike instead.
Dress in Layers
When it comes to what you should wear for winter hiking in Vancouver, dress in layers. Start with base layers made of merino wool (or synthetic materials) to keep you warm at all times. Then wear a fleece, a waterproof jacket and trousers, as well as a warm hat, neck warmer and gloves.
If you want to stay extra warm also pack a lightweight down jacket.
Wear Proper Footwear
One other item that is essential when hiking in winter are waterproof boots. I wear my boots both in summer and winter and although they’re quite heavy I wouldn’t change them at all.
I swear by la Scarpa and this model is a great investment for hiking year-round. It allows you to attach microspikes or crampons, as well as use them with snowshoes. In summer, they’re also perfect for any type of terrain, keeping your ankles firm and steady.
Plan The Route Carefully
Make sure you’re familiar with the trail. If it’s your first time hiking in winter, I would recommend choosing a trail you’ve already done in summer.
Choose a trail that matches your skill level and experience. If you’re hiking in areas with avalanche risk, always check the weather forecasts before heading out. The risk is especially high when temperatures begin to rise in spring.
Tell Someone Your Plan
It is always a good idea to inform a friend or family member of your hiking plans, including your route and expected duration. Also, don’t put yourself in dangerous situations. It’s always better to cut the hike short than risk getting stuck in hazardous conditions.
Pack the 10 Essentials on these Winter Hikes near Vancouver
The ten essentials are items you should carry anytime you step into the backcountry. Although you may not use all of them on a hiking trip, it’s when you may need them that they become essential.
- Navigation: map, compass, GPS or offline maps
- Headlamp: daylight is short in winter
- Sun protection: snow glare is strong in winter, so sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm are a must
- First aid kit: include blister care and personal medications
- Knife or multi-tool
- Fire: lighter, waterproof matches or fire starter
- Shelter: emergency bivy, tarp or space blanket
- Extra food: high-energy snacks beyond what you plan to eat
- Extra water: insulated bottle to prevent freezing
- Additional clothes: warm layers, socks, hat, gloves and rain shell
Also, I recommend packing microspikes or crampons when doing any winter hikes near Vancouver.
Best 7 Snowy Winter Hikes near Vancouver
1. Garibaldi Lake, Whistler
Many only hike to Garibaldi Lake in summer, but the trail in winter is breathtaking. From Vancouver, you’ll need to drive to Rubble Creek Trailhead, where there is a large parking lot.
The first section of the hike follows a series of switchbacks to Barrier Viewpoint. Beyond this point, the trail levels out, while you follow the forest trail to Garibaldi Lake.
In winter, no day pass reservation is required, but remember to book your pass if visiting in summer.
2. Hollyburn Peak, Cypress Provincial Park
The trailhead for winter access to Hollyburn Peak is located at the Cypress Mountain Nordic Area. The hike itself is moderately steep, with some more challenging sections near the summit.
Personally, I would not attempt this hike without at least microspikes or crampons. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Vancouver in the distance and the Cypress ski slopes in the background.
3. Big Cedar and Kennedy Falls, North Vancouver
If you’re doing the Big Cedar and Kennedy Falls hike after a snowfall, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland. While the hike isn’t overly difficult or technical, the snow adds a level of strain.
Most of the trail winds through an outgrown forest, leading to the enormous Cedar tree, which is believed to be over 600 years old. After carefully circling the tree, the trail continues uphill, finishing at Kennedy Falls.
As you follow the route, be sure to pay close attention to the trail markers, as the snow may cover some of them along the way.
4. Pump Peak, Mount Seymour Provincial Park
This is one of the most iconic snowy winter hikes near Vancouver, located on Seymour Mountain. Not only is the trailhead just a short drive from Vancouver but the hike itself is easy to follow and leads to a panoramic viewpoint at the end.
If you have snowshoes, you can continue all the way to the top of Mount Seymour.
5. Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver
If you are looking for an easy hike in one of the most beautiful parks in Vancouver, the Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver is a must!
While you can take the loop around the shores of the Lighthouse Park, there are shorter alternatives through the park as well. In fact, if you only want a short walk to the lighthouse, follow the wide trail from the parking lot for about 10 minutes. From here, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the lighthouse and the surrounding Vancouver area.
6. Joffre Lakes, Pemberton
Although this is one of the furthers away winter hikes from Vancouver, it’s worth the drive! Similar to Garibaldi Lake, Joffre Lakes hike is very popular, particularly in summer. Being one of the most beautiful hikes in BC year round, it attracts a lot of visitors and during the summer months you need to reserve a day-use pass in order to visit.
Also, compared to other more challenging alpine lake hikes in BC, Joffre Lakes hike is relatively easy and very well marked. While in summer you can admire the stunning turquoise colors of the lake, in winter you literally enter an enchanted forest surrounded by snowy peaks. This hike is perfect during any season but in winter it is less crowded and more relaxed.
7. Mount Fromme, North Vancouver
Mount Fromme is one of the closest winter hikes near Vancouver and was our first winter hike when we moved to Vancouver. The trailhead can be easily reached by public transportation and the out-and-back trail follows an enjoyable forest path to the top of the mountain.
This is one of the less travelled trails on the North Shore and although the views are blocked by trees throughout the entire hike, at the top you’ll enjoy the fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
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