Other options? Head east and visit Golden Ears, Manning, the Stien or Skagit Provincial Parks for dozens and dozens of more trails. Imagine! This is only the beginning, your're not even warmed up yet.

Anyone entering the British Columbia backcountry should be very experience in the outdoors with a good knowledge of wilderness first aid and good route finding skills. In addition, you should always leave a detailed itinerary with someone responsible you know or sign out a safety registration with the parks service before you depart. The best months for hiking and backpacking are in mid-May to mid-October but snow can often be found in the high country into July. Some trails in the Coast and Mountains region require scrambling (or rope assisted sections) or even snowfield/glacier travel along with its inherent risk. Avalanches are another danger which should be considered. Weather conditions in these mountains can change in an instant along with visibility.

Backpacking Vancouver Coast and Mountains

Sunshine Coast Trail - The trail works its way down the Sunshine Coast across the Gwendoline Hills and Tin Hat Mountains from north of Lund at Sarah Point, passed Powell River to Saltery Bay. Rustic campsites are available along route. This is a an exceptional hike in a spectacular area and it's gaining a well deserved reputation. It's recommended to hike the trail from north to south. The trail head is just outside Powell River at Sarah Point which is only accessible by water. A water taxi will take you and your gear to the starting point for a fee. The southern section of the trail may have snow well into the hiking season so make a point of checking conditions before you book. Have a look at the trail's website for more information. From Vancouver take the Lion's Gate Bridge to West Vancouver and follow Tyler Way to the Upper Levels Highway and head towards Squamish. Exit at Horseshoe Bay to catch the ferry to Gibson's Landing on the Sunshine Coast. From Gibsons the 101 will take you up the coast to Earl's Cove where you catch a second ferry Saltry Bay. Continuing on the 101 north will take you to Powell River.

Sea to Sky Trail - This is a work in progress, and what a piece of work it is. Winding its way through some of the worlds most breathtaking scenery the trail is spectacular. With plans to go from south of Squamish, through Whistler, Pemberton and then on to D'Arcy it covers the best of the Sea to Sky area. The section from Squamish past Whistler is already open and the rest will be completed shortly. You can access this multiuse trail in several area for short hikes or you can attempt the whole 150kms. Note: Sections of the trail may see heavy mountain bike usage.

Garibaldi Provincial Park

There are 196 wilderness sites available, along with a number of huts. National Topographic Series Maps, Scale, 1:50,000, sheets 92J2, 3, 14, 15 and 16 cover the park

Black Tusk Area

From the Rubble Creek parking lot there are two trails which lead to designated campsites - the Garibaldi Lake trail and the Taylor Meadows Trial.

Taylor Meadows 7.5km, Intermediate The trial to Taylor Meadows begins 6km from the parking lot along the Garibaldi Lake Trail. To get to Taylor Lake, it will take you about 3 or 4 hours. The trail has an elevation change of just less than a 1000 meters.

The Garibaldi Lake Trail - 9km, Intermediate The trail is probably the most popular and the most beautiful. The trail moves through 800 meters of climbs and should take about 3 or 4 hours one way. From either campsite there are a number of other trails which can be hiked or joined together to extend your backpacking trip. There are pit toilets at the campsites. Regulations require the use of a cookstove in the camping area.

Diamond Head Area

Description: 22km return, Novice, Intermediate From the parking lot at the top of Mamqam Road, the trail climbs 600 meters over 11 km. The trail follows a ridge, allowing for some excellent overviews of the area. The Elfin Lake hut at the end of the trail will accommodate 34 people, there is a fee for over nighting. From Elfin lake you can take a day hike along the trail to the edge of Garibaldi Glacier. This is a great place to introduce a novice to backpacking since the hut lets you lighten the load a bit.

Sing Pass Area

There are two ways to reach the singing pass area from Whistler Mountain or from the parking along the access road from Whistler Village.

Musical Bumps - The acessed point is beside the Roundhouse Lodge at the top of the Village Gondola (you can forgo the gondola and hike up the 5000+ feet with all your equipment, if you really like to suffer). From here you reach the trail by following either the Harmony Meadows or Harmnony Lake trails. The trail continues up along Harmony Ridge, passed Symphony Bowl and Lake where it's intersected by Burnt Stew (which you can use on your return if you wish). The trail then follows along the boundary with spectacular Garibaldi before heading into the park and to Singing Pass. Russet Lake has campsites and a hut.

Singing Pass from the Access Road - 9.5km, intermediate/expert , 850m Follow the access road under the gondola at Whistler Village to the parking lot. From the parking lot the trail follows the Fitzsimmons and Melody Creeks to the pass where a series of switchbacks will take you to Russet Lake where you find campsites and a hut.

Hiking Vancouver Coast and Mountains

Sunshine Coast

From Vancouver take the Lion's Gate Bridge to West Vancouver and follow Tyler Way to the Upper Levels Highway and head towards Squamish. Exit at Horseshoe Bay to catch the ferry to Gibson's Landing on the Sunshine Coast.

• Blackwater Trail - Intermediate/Expert, 3hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Browne Creek - Easy, 3hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Conshee Trail - Easy/Intermediate, 3hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Mud Lake Trail - Intermediate, 4hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Sweetwater Trail - Intermediate/Expert, 3hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Suicide Creek - Intermediate, 4hrs, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Suicide Pass - Intermediate/Expert, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Willingdon Beach - Easy, 1hr, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Willingdon Creek - Easy, 1hr, Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Coast and Mountains

For more information on these hikes contact the Powell River Tourism office through thier website.

Cultus Lake Provincial Park

• Teapot Hill - 5km return, Moderate
• Seven Sisters - 3km Easy
• Edmeston Road/Road 918 2.5km Easy
• Giant Douglas Fir - As the name implies the trail leads to a old growth Douglas Fir / One and half hours return
• Maple Bay - Intepretive Nature Trail

Cypress Provincial Park

• Hollyburn Mountain Trail - 6km Strenuous Description: This trail begins from the Hollyburn Ridge parking lot and climbs to the Hollyburn Mountain peak at 1,325 meters. The trail has an elevation change of 440 meters and should take about 2 1/2 hours to complete.
• Black Mountain Loop Trail - 2.5km This trail takes you through sub-alpine meadows and around the edges of several mountain lakes. It is situated beside Black Mountain Plateau. This trail has a100 meter elevation change and should take about 1 3/4 hours to complete.
• Lodge Trails - This is actually a network of trails of varying lengths and difficulties linking to other trails from Hollyburn Lodge at First Lake.
• Yew Lake Trail - 1.5km, Easy This is a self-guided interpretive trail. It's an easy loop that goes through the forest, meadows and around small lakes, then returns to the base of the Black Chair lift. The trail should take about 45 min to complete.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

The following are a grouping of the hiking and backpacking opportunities in the park. Consult with the park staff about conditions, closures as well as the degree of difficulty of the trails.

• Allouette Mountain Hiking Trail - 10km, Difficult. This trail takes you to Alouette Mountain and has fantastic panoramic view of the area. This is a strenuous hike with elevation changes of 1000 meters and taking about 5 hours to complete one way. Golden Ears Provincial Park, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Mensies Trail - 9km, easy. This is a multi-use trail of horse/hike/bike. There is very little elevation change, making it an easy hike of about 3 to 5 hours.
  cover the park area.
• Lookout and Loop Trails - 2.5km, easy. This is an easy loop trail that should take about 1 hour to complete. It goes from Parkway to Look Out and back.
• Mike Lake Trail - 4.2 km, easy. This is a horse/hiking trail that takes you to Main Corral. It's an easy trail that should take you about 2hours and has an elevation change of about 100 meters.
• Viewpoint Trail - 3km, easy. There is a beautiful waterfall that flows down a cliff just beyond the Lake Viewpoint during the wet seasons. The trails elevation change is about 150 meters. The triail should take about 1 1/2 hour to complete.
• Incline Trail - 1.2km, moderate. The trail is a steep horse/hiking that takes you to Mike Lake. It should take about 1 hour and has an elevation change of 150 meters.
• West Canyon Trail - 5km, easy. From the west canyon parking lot the trail follows an old logging road before turning sharply uphill. There is a short trail to Lower Falls.
• Golden Ears Trail - 12km, very difficult. Head out on the West Canyon Trail until you reach Alder Flats. This trail climbs to Panoramic Ridge where you are rewarded with an incredible view of the area. From here you can ascend to the North Ear that takes you across a permanent snow field. In order to attempt this you must have the requisite equipment and skills. Designated campsites are available at Alder Flats and Panorama Ridge. The Panorama section has snowpack well into the summer. You can expect snow to fall in this area at any time of year. The trail should take about 7 hours one way and should only be attempted as an overnight backpacking trip. It has an and has an elevation change of 1500 meters.
• Lower Falls Trail - 2.7km, Easy. This is a hiking trail only that is an easy walk along Gold Creek to Lower Falls. You'll pass a beach along the way that has some of the best mountain views in the park. It should take about 1 hour to complete and has very little elevation change.

Manning Provincial Park

The following are a grouping of the hiking and backpacking opportunities in the park. Consult with the park staff about conditions, closures as well as the degree of difficulty of the trails.

• Lightning Lake Loop - 9 km return, moderate This is a 9 km loop trail that begins at Spruce Bay day use area that should take approximately 2 1/2 hours to complete.
• Lightning Lake Chain - 12km, Easy but very long, This trail offers many routes, passes a number of lakes and is an easy walk with no elevation change. To arrive at Thunder Lake from the Day use area should take about 4 to 4 1/2 hours.
• Castle Creek/Monument 78 Trail - 12km, Intermediate - long,This trail goes from the Monument 78 parking lot, along Castle Creek to the Monument. It wanders through meadows and can continue on to the Cascade Loop trail which is 54 km long, or joins the Pacific Crest trail to make a day loop taking approximately 3 1/2 hour to complete and has an elevation change of 200 meters.
• Strawberry Flats/Three Falls Trails - Level of Difficulty: Easy - Long Description: This trail makes a 2 1/2 to 3 hour loop including arriving at a downhill ski area and passing falls,lt then makes its descent to trail's end. The total elevation change is 125 meters.
• Heather Trail - 21km one way, Moderate - Very Long, This trail is a nice combination of fire road and trails through an old burn area then across gently rolling terrain.The trail brings you to a series of lakes, ridges and to the Hope Pass trail and ends up at Nicomen Ridge. The elevation change you can expect is 292 meters and the trail should take about 8 to 10 hours to complete.
• Windy Joe Mountain Trail - 15km, Difficult - Long At the summit of this trail is a 360 degree panoramic display of mountains. You travel along an old fire access road to the top of Windy Joe. There is an old fire tower there that affords this view. It should take about 4 to 5 hours to complete this trail and the elevation change is 525 meters.
• Pacific Crest Trail - This trail brings you to the beginning of the incredible PCT that is a 6 month 4,000 km trail along the Continental Divide. This 12 km, 4 hour trek returns by doubling back or via Castle Creek to Simikameen Trail to The Beaver Pond. The elevation gain to the beginning of the PCT is 450 meters.
• Monument 83 Trail - 16 km one way, Moderate This trail takes you to the circa 1953 U.S. Forest Service lookout tower by following a fire access road. The elevation change will be 850 meters and the trail should take you about 5 hours to complete.
• Poland Lake Trail - 8km one way, Moderate This trail begins at Strawberry Flats parking lot. Where you can fill your canteens with water at a small creek not far from the parking lot. The trail has an elevation change of 435 meters and should take approximately 3 hours to complete.
• Bonnevier Trail - 29km one way, Moderate - Very Long A vehicle shuttle is suggested for this hike that will take approximately 10 to 12 hours to complete. This trail descends for 22 km to McDiarmed Meadows after a 5 km stretch on a fire road. The elevation change is 950 meters.
• Grainger Creek Trail - 19.5 km one way, Difficult - Very Long, This trail follows an access fire road for 4 km then swings east and climbs steadily for 11 km to the western end of Nicomen Lake. You can camp at the northern end of the lake. This trail should take approximately 5 to 7 hours to complete and has an elevation change of 952 meters.
• Skagit Bluffs Trail - 5.6 km one way, Difficult You can start at either the west or east ends of this trail, east being the Cayuse Flats and the west being the Cascade Recreation Area Parking lot. The hike is along parts of the old Dewdney Trail which is parallels or joins today's Hope Princeton Highway. The trail should take about 2 to 2 1/2 hours to complete and has a 225 meter elevation change.
• Frosty Mountain Loop trail - 29.2 km round trip, Difficult, This trail takes you to the highest peak in the park. From the summit, there are spectacular views of the North Cascades. There is a gentler accent of 29.2 km from Lightning Lake Day Use Area or a 27.7 km loop starting at Beaver Pond. The trails take approximately 9 to 11 hours to compete and have an elevation change of 1,150 meters.
• Skyline I Trail - 20.4 km round trip, Difficult This trail is a beautiful ascent to Skyline ridge where you'll have amazing views. It starts at Spruce Bay, climbing to the ridge with the elevation change being 775 meters in all. The trail then descends back to Spruce Bay. This all takes approximately 7 to 9 hours to complete.
• Skyline II Trail - 12.5 km one way, Difficult This trail takes you to Mowich Camp in approximately 5 hours of hiking, at an elevation change of 469 meters. It drops into Despair Pass and goes past Snow Camp and Lone Goat Mountains. These are spectacular peaks and from mid July to mid August you will see and amazing display of wild flowers.

Use Topographic Series Maps, Scale, 1:50,000, sheets 92H/02 (Manning Park) and 92H/03 (Skagit River) ) and 92H/07 (Princeton). These will cover most of the park and recreation areas that you'll need to hike in this area.

Mount Seymour Provincial Park

The following are a grouping of the hiking and backpacking opportunities in the park. Consult with the park staff about conditions, closures as well as the degree of difficulty of the trails.

• Elsay Lake Trail - The trail is 7km long. This is a rugged trail that takes about 9 to 10 hours to complete and has an elevation change of 500 meters. A good hike for an experienced backpacker. The trail begins on the main Mount Seymour trail. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Mount Seymour Trail - 4 km with and elevation change of 450m. For a panoramic view of Vancouver take this 2 1/2 to 3 hour trail to First and Second Bump Peaks. On a clear day you might see all the way to the Gulf Islands and some say all the way to Vancouver Island. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Mystery Lake Trail - On a hot summer day this is a good trail to choose. It should take about 45 min to get to the lake with an elevation change of 180 meters along the way. At the end of the trail you'll find a nice spot to swim. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Old Buck Access Trail - 1km This is a short trail that should take you only about 30 min. to complete and has minimal elevation change. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Old Buck Logging Road - 2.3 km / 7.8 km, Moderate. Old Buck Logging Road takes you to Baden-Powell Trail Junction. You can stop there after about 45 minutes of hiking or if you're feeling ambitions go on to the Perimeter Trail Junction which will take you 2 hours to complete. Overall the elevation change is about 670 meters. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Old Cabin Trail - 430m, Easy. This is an easy 20 min. walk that has an elevation change of only 25 meters. This trail connects the Perimeter Trail junction and parking lot 1. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Perimeter Trail - 1.5 km, easy. This is a beautiful trail that begins at Deep Cove lookout and goes to the junction of The Goldie Lake Trail. It has an elevation change of 240 meters and should take approximately 45 min to complete. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• The Mushroom Parking Lot Trail - 750m, easy. The trail heads towards the skiing area from the Vancouver Lookout parking lot. Its an easy hike that has minimal elevation change. It should only take about 15 min to complete. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• First Lake Loop - Dog Mountain Trails -This is a series of loops from 1 to 3 km. You travel through dense sub-alpine old-growth forest heading to First Lake and the junction of the trails to Dog Mountain or Mount Seymour, either option affords spectacular views. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Flower Lake Loop Trail - 1.5km, easy. This is an easy 45 min. walk that has a 150 meter elevation change. This is a good trail for spotting a variety of birds as it passes through subalpine areas of bogs and ponds. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Goldie Lake Loop Trail - 2km, easy. This is a loop trail that takes approximately 2 hours to complete. It is a self guided interpretive trail and it ends up at Goldie Lake. It also takes you to the Flower Lake Trail and the Perimeter trail system from the top end. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Horse Trail - 2.5km, easy. This trail is an old logging road that forms a loop. An easy hike but the trail is multi-use, so watch out for mountain bikers. Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Lower Mainland, Vancouver Coast and Mountains

Skagit Valley Provincial Park

The following are a grouping of the hiking and backpacking opportunities in the park. Consult with the park staff about conditions, closures as well as the degree of difficulty of the trails.

• Skagit River Trail - 14.5km Intermediate, 6 hours one way.An extended hike which follows the Skagit River into Manning Provincial Park. You can connect to the Silver Daisy Trail.The trail head is accessible from 26 mile bridge south of the Silvertip Campground turnoff. The wilderness campsite is about 10.5km from the trailhead. The trail can be accessed from the Manning side from a trailhead off highway 3. Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Centennial Trial - The trail connects the Skagit River Trail and the Skyline II trail. It essentially runs parallel to the Silver/Skagit Road which is the parks main road. Access is available from 26 mile bridge, south of the Silvertip Campground turnoff, Shawatum Bar parking lot further south or the Skyline II parking lot to the north of the Ross Lake Reservoir. Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Silver Daisy Trail - Difficult. Starts in the park following along side Silver Daisy Creek it then branches to the summit of Silver Daisy Mountain for a one way trip of 10km. The trails other branch continues on into Manning Provincial Park. Access is easiest from the Manning side of the Skagit River Trail, from the trailhead on highway 3. See the Skagit River Trail description. Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Coast and Mountains
• Skyline ll Trail - 12.5km (one way), Difficult. This is considered by many to be the areas most beautiful trail. It's easily accessible from the parking lot trailhead just north of the Ross Lake Reservoir. A short distance in the trail connects to the Centennial Trail which you make take north into the park. If you continue on the Skyline you'll head into Manning Provincial Park where you'll find backcountry camping at Mowich. Skagit Valley Provincial Park, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Coast and Mountains

Whistler Mountain - Gondola Access

Paleface Trail - 1km, easy, loop, elevation gain 85m, The trail is a loop which starts just under the top station of the Whistler Village gondola and heads out to a view point.

Ridge Lookout - 1.2km, intermediate, linear, elevation gain 72m. This short linear trail starts just beside the Roundhouse Lodge and heads up to it's name sake, the Ridge Lookout which provides and excellent viewpoint.

Glacier Trail - 2.5km, easy, linear, elevation gain 85m The trail starts out following the along the Ridge Lookout trail than quickly branches off and continues on to hte edge of the Glacier. While the glacier is closed, the trail provides a good viewpoint for visually exploring it.

Harmony Loop - 3.5km, intermediate, linear trail and loop, elevation gain 113m The trail starts beside the Roundhouse Lodge and heads out to a small pond. While it's big enough for a dip - don't do it, it's completely freezing melt waters! The trail then follows out through the loop section which provides some impressive viewpoints before heading back to the pond where you retrace your path back to the start.

Harmony Meadowns - 2.6km, intermediate, loop (take the Harmony Lake Trail back), elevation gain 50m The trail starts out following the Harmony Lake Trail then branches off on it's own to allow you some good view points over Fitzsimmons Valley.

Musical Bumps - expert, linear, elevation gain 150m You can reach the trail by following either the Harmony Meadows or Harmnony Lake trails. The trail continues up along Harmony Ridge, passed Symphony Bowl and Lake where it's intersected by Burnt Stew (which you can use to create a return loop). The trail then follows along the boundary with spectacular Garibaldi Provincial Park before heading into the park to Singing Pass. If your backpacking you can continue into the park to Russet Lake where you'll find campsites and a hut - but you must be fully self sufficiant, with a full complement of backcountry skills and gear. Another option is to hire a qualified local guide and rent equipment.

Little Whistler Way - 3.8km, expert, linear, elevation gain 265m The trail starts beside the Roundhouse Lodge and follows around Whistler Glacier where it intersects the Burnt Stew Trail at Peak Road. The trail provides a nice view into Garibaldi Park.

Burnt Stew - 2.2km, expert, linear, elevation gain 100m The trail begins at the terminus of Little Whistler Trail anf follows above Garibaldi Park boundary to intersect with the Singing Pass Trail, which you can use as a return loop.

Peak Road - 0.9km, expert, linear, elevation gain 85m. To reach Peak Road you take Little Whistler Trail to its terminus. The trail continues around Whistler Glacier where it comes to an end. Provides some very nice views of the area. To return you have to retrace your steps.

Village Descent - Intermediate (Down), Expert (UP), 10km one way, elevation gain 915m, Meanders down the mountain, making use of the ski trails, some excellent views of the valley.

Chilliwack Forest District

• Sumas Mountain Trail - 12km, 700m elevation gain, joins Chadsey Lake Loop Trail, lookouts,
• Denham Trail - 6.2km, around Weaver Lake
• Harrison Lookout Trail - 2km, 350m elevation gain, difficult, lookouts
• Mount Outram Trail - 7.5km, 1760m elevation gain into the alpine, lookouts
• Eaton Lake Trail - 6.5km, 880m elevation gain, difficult
• Williams Peak - 5.5km, 1400m elevation gain, difficult
• Mount Cheam Trail - 3.8km to peak, elevation gain 632m, lookouts
• Elk Thurston Trail - 7.3km, 1010m elevation gain
• Centennial Trail - 14km along the Chilliwack River
• Vedder Mountain Trail - 5.7km, elevation gain 375m
• Devils Lake Trail - .3km to lake
• Rolley Falls Trail - 2km loop, elevation gain 130m, water falls
• Hoover Lake Trail - 3.8km to Hoover Lake, 300m elevation gain
• Ford Mountian Trail - 1.7km, 900m elevation gain, lookouts
• Campbell Lake Trail - 4.8km, 610 elevation gain, difficult
• Stave Falls Interpretation - 1.65km, 150m elevation gain, easy

Squamish Forest District

• Lions Trail (Binkert Trail) - 15km out and back, 1280m elevation gain, lookouts, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Deeks Lake Trail - 14km out and back, 1190 elevation gain, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Utopia Lake Trail - 20km out and back, 1390 elevation gain, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Petgill Lake Trail - 9.5km, 640m elevation gain, lookouts, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Brohm Lake Trail - 1.5km loops, easy, mountain biking, lookouts, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Brew Lake Trail - 13km out and back, 1200 elevation gain to alpine meadows, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Cal-Cheak/Brandywine Trial - 8km, easy, lookouts, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Brandywine Meadows Triails - 10km out and back, 670m elevation gain, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Rainbow Lake Trail - 18km, elevation gain 825m, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Gaint Cedars Trail - 4km out and back, 150m, mountain biking, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Tenquille Lake Trail #1 - 12km out and back, 450m, climbing, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Tenquille Lake Trail #2 - 19km, 1460m, difficult, climbing, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Owls Lake Trail - 7km, 140m elevation gain, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Mount Ronayne Trail - 34km out and back, 750km elevation gain, climbing, campsites, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Lizzie Creek Trail - 10km, 640m elevation rise, climbing, campsites, lookouts, Contact Squamish Forest District
• Gold Rush Trail - Contact Squamish Forest District

Even a day hike in a wilderness environment like Coast and Mountains region can put you at risk without the proper knowledge of safety in the backcountry. Snowpack may delay trail openings, there can be snowfall in the high country even in July. Always carry a watch along with a map and compass and know how to use them. Bring extra clothing, food and drink along with sunscreen and let someone responsible know your route and planned time of return. If you're planning to hike the trails at the top of the mountain ensure your route will get you back before the last trip down. Consult with local authorities about conditions, bear closures and weather and never hike alone.

Out-There's Backpacking and Hiking
Out-There's British Columbia
British Columbia - Official Site

Finally for those of you who can't help bringing a stop watch along on your hike there's the world famous Grouse Grind. This easily accessible 2.9km trail has an elevation gain of 853m (2,800ft) and takes about 1.5hrs to complete for most mortals. For those with piston pumps instead of hearts the men's record is under 30 minutes and the woman's is under 35. You can of course take the Gondola down after you've finished abusing yourself. For more information, opening and closing times as well as short term and seasonal closing see the Greater Vancouver Regional Development (GVRD) website.

Out-There's Backpacking and Hiking
Out-There's British Columbia
British Columbia - Official Site

 

Victoria, Pac-Rim & Vancouver Island

Backpackers have a world class destination waiting for them along the outer coast of the big island, the world renown West Coast Trail. This difficult multiday trip must be made end-to-end without any support. Ladder sections, river crossings and difficult weather add to the challenge. In return you'll be rewarded with exceptional scenery, beautiful beach campsites, excellent wildlife viewing and of course bragging rights for having completed the trail. Other great trails to do some backpacking on the island include the Juan du Fuca Trail, The Cowichan Footpath and The North Shore Trail. If you want to get up into the alpine head out to the trail network in Strathcona Island where you'll find glaciers and the islands highest peak.

Cowichan River Footpath - 20km, Easy/Moderate

Located in the park of the same name, the trail follows along beside the Cowichan River from Glenora to Skutz Falls. The park is located just south of Cowichan Lake and just to the west of Duncan in the south island. The river is now a designated Canadian Heritage River. To reach Skutz Falls at the west end of the park follow the 18 west, then head south on Skutz Falls Road to River Bottom Road. For the parks east end trailhead head west on Glenora Road, make a right on Vaux Road which will take you to Robertson Road where you'll find the Holtz Creek Trailhead at the very end. BC Parks

Trans Canada Trail - Victoria to Nanaimo (16,000km across Canada)

The trail on Vancouver Island starts (or finishes) in Beacon Hill Park in Victoria. The trail follows the Galloping Goose through Esquimanlt and Langford then out passed Sooke. The next section is a work in progress (read take the road) but starting in Shawnigan Lake you can follow the old railway line through Cowichan River Provincial Park to Cowichan Lake. The Kinsol Trestle along route was burned out and a work around route is used until they rebuild it. From Lake Cowichan you have to take Old Cowichan Lake Road to the Duncan section (the railtrail will replace this eventually). Quiet roads are used to take you north from here through Chemainus, Ladysmith and into the Nanaimo Lakes area and eventually the Nanaimo Parkway Trail which takes you to your ultimate goal Nanaimo. For updates on the trail have a look at their website at TC Trail. Trans Canada Trail, Galloping Goose Trail, BC Parks

Juan de Fuca Trail - 47km, Difficult, 4 Days

Much of the Juan de Fuca Trail is accessible as trail hikes from the parking lots and campgrounds on route. This includes from east to west, the China Beach day use area, Sombio Beach Trailhead, Parkinson Creek Trailhead and the Botanical Beach Trailhead. You can leave you're car in the parking lots and do an out and back along the trail. Consult with the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park authorities for more information at BC Parks

Meares Island Trail, Clayoquat Sound - 5km, Difficult

Hike up to the top of 720m Lone Cone one of two peaks on Meares Island off of Tofino in the Pacific Rim - Jamies Whaling Station offers water taxi service from Tofino.

Kludahk Trail - 36.5km one way, Difficult

San Juan Ridge Hiking and backcountry skiing, Access from Highway 14 just outside Port Renfrew, (Kludahk Trail Society)

Hesquiat Peninsula Trail - 32km, Extreme, Escalante Pointe - Boat Basin, Hesquiat Provincial Park

A fantastic trail with endless difficulties and rewards for those who think they are up to the challenge. The trail essentially wraps around the shoreline of Hesquiat Provincial Park which makes up the southern boundaries of the park in the northern part of Clayoqout Sound. The trail includes bushwacking sections and a dirth of campsites. For more information contact BC Parks.

Strathcona Provincial Park

Hiking

Bedwell Lake - Buttle Lake Area - 6 km. The trail provides some excellent vistas. You'll find the trailhead on Jim Mitchell Lake Road. Allow 3.5 hours and expect an elevation change of about 600 metres.

Crest Mountain Trail - Buttle Lake Area - 5km, Difficult This is a climb which presents excellent scenic views at the summit of the trail. The elevation change is approximatley 1,250 meters and it should take about 4 hours to complete.

Della Falls Trail - Forbidden Plateau Area - 16km, Difficult This trail follows along an old railway grade up the Drinkwater Valley almost to the base of the 440 meter Della Falls, one of the 10 highest waterfalls in the world. It should take about 7 hours to complete the trail one way. The elevation change is approximately 350 meters.

Elk River Trail - Buttle Lake Area - 11km, Difficult Following the river valley to Landslide Lake, the trail has an elevation change of about 600 meters and should take about 5 hours to complete.

Helen McKensie/Kwai Lake Croteau Lake Loop Trail - Forbidden Plateau Area - 14km A 14 km loop in the Forbidden Plateau Area that takes you up to overviews of beautiful alpine lakes and mountain vistas. It should take about 6 hours to complete and has an elevation change of approximately 250 meters.

Marble Meadows Trail - Buttle Lake Area - 6.6km, Difficult The trail starts at Buttle Lake and works its way to Marble Meadows, which has beautiful alpine meadows and limestone formations. The trail's elevation gain is about 1,250 meters and should take about 6 hours to compete. Access to the trail is by boat.

Mount Becher Summit Trail - Forbidden Plateau Area - 5km, Moderate-Difficult From the summit of this trail on Becher Ski Mountain you have excellent views of Comox Valley and the northern Strait of Georgia. With an elevation gain of about 650 meters allow about 5 hours for the trail.

Paradis Meadows loop Trail - Forbidden Plateau Area - 2.2km, Easy Located in the Forbidden Plateau Area, this is an easy walk through sub-alpine meadows on a well developed trail. It should take just 45 min. to compete.

Price Creek/Cream Lake Trail - Buttle Lake Area - 8.5km, Difficult Starting at the south end of Buttle Lake the trail follows a dirt road for about 3 km then continues with a strenuous climb on along a rugged section which takes you to Cream Lake. The trail should take about 7 hours and has an elevation change of approximately 1,200 meters.

Tennent Lake/Mount Myra Trail - Forbidden Plateau Area - 7km, Difficult This trail is a very steep, washed out road bed heading to Tennent Lake from the Westmin Resources visitors parking lot. It should take about 5 hours to complete and has a change in elevation of about 1,500 meters.

Upper Myra Falls - Buttle Lake Area - 3km, Moderate This trail starts out on a gravel road then turns onto a forested trail with old-growth and with a beautiful water fall on route. The elevation change is 600 meters and it should take about 2 hours to finish.

 

Backpacking

Cape Scott Provincial Park - Cape Scott Trail & North Coast Trail

Cowichan River Footpath - 20km, Moderate

Located in the park of the same name, the trail follows along beside the Cowichan River from Glenora to Skutz Falls. The park is located just south of Cowichan Lake and just to the west of Duncan in the southern regions of the island. The river is now a designated Canadian Heritage River. The trail can used as an out and back for backpackers by accessing it from the eastern trailhead off Robertson Road. Hiking along the river will take you to the Stolz Pool Campground first then to the Skutz Falls Campground where you can overnight before heading back. Consult with the park for information on parking and camping. For the park's east end trailhead, travel west on Glenora Road, make a right on Vaux Road, which will take you to Robertson Road. You'll find the Holtz Creek Trailhead at the very end of Robertson. The river is well known for it's tubing in the Summer. BC Parks

Juan de Fuca Trail - 47km, 4-5 days, Difficult

Streaching from the China Beach Trial head in the east to the Botanical Bay Trailhead in the west this is a exceptionally beautiful trail along the coastal forests and beaches of southwestern Vancouver Island. This is an excellent alternative or warm up for the West Coast Trail, which lies just across the Port San Juan inlet from Port Renfrew and the trails end. The trail requires the use of tide tables in order to navigate some sections as some areas are impassible at high tide (watch for orange balls which mark a beach exit in case of rising tides or storms and beware of rogue waves as you approach the water). There are several designated wilderness camping areas along the way where you can pitch you're tent on the beach or in the forest. Little Kuitsche Creek and Payzant Creek camping areas have bear caches, be prepared to rig your own cache at the other campsites. There are a lot of creek and river crossings along the trail and the trail can be muddy overall, particulary in the shoulder season, good rain gear is essential. Take advantage of water along route but all sources should be boiled or filtered. The trail can be done in its entirety, or in sections as day hikes or overnights, through the use of a shuttle. The trailheads at either end are China Beach and Botanical Beach, where you'll find parking. Access is also available from Parkinson (requires 4wd) and Sombrio Beach. From Victoria follow Highway 1 towards Nanaimo and take the Colwood exit to the 14 south. Follow the 14 passed Sooke and Jordan River. China Beach is just a few kilometres passed Jordan River and Botanical Beach is about 50km further on outside Renfrew. A fee is charged for each night's camping on the trail. Books: "Giant Cedars White Sands" D. Mills, "Juan de Fuca Trail" Matthew Payne. Consult with the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park authorities for more information at BC Parks West Coast Trail Express (shuttle service) Port Renfrew Sooke West Coast Trail

Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands have a wealth of hiking trails throughout the area. Many of the trials lead up to fabulous lookouts which provide spectacular views of the immediate region, Vancouver Island and the Vancouver Coast and Mountains on the mainland. Many of the trails are in the areas provincial and regional parks as well as the newly designated Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. The National Park has acquired a number of it's land holdings from the provincial park authorities, which also included a variety of trails. These trails will be further developed by the National Parks board and should provide a more coordinated network, hopefully with a backpacking trail added to the mix.

Salt Spring Island

Mount Maxwell Provincial Park - 10km+, Novice-Intermediate, Salt Spring Island

The park has exceptional viewpoints which overlook Fulford Valley and Sansum Narrows providing a broad view of the lower Gulf Islands as well as Vancouver Island. There are a number of connections to other area trails which lead down the back side of the mountain, many of which are not shown on the island maps, so take careful note of your route if you wander off to explore. To drive to the top take Fulford-Ganges Road from the Fulford ferry terminal and head towards Ganges. About 1.5km before Ganges (approximately 11km from Fulford) head west along Cranberry Road and then continue on along Maxwell Mountain Road to the parking lot. The parking area is about 9km from Fulford-Ganges Road and a part of this section is not paved and can be rough.If you would prefer to hike up (good one) then follow Fulford-Ganges Road from the Fulford ferry terminal and head towards Ganges and watch for Dukes road on you're left. Head up Dukes and turn left on Seymour Heights. At the junction you can take another left on Armand Way and park at the end of the road where you'll find the more difficult of the two routes to the peak. You're other option is to continue along Seymour Heights (go straight at the junction) then bear left at the next one, then watch for the trail marker on you're left a short distance further on. BC Provincial Parks

Mouat Regional Park - Novice, Salt Spring Island

The park is just up from the harbour and commercial centre in Ganges and offers an opportunity for some pleasant easy hiking in a beautiful natural setting. The trails criss-cross the park, intersecting at various points. One of trials follows a lovely stream which makes it's way out of the park and into the village. Unfortunately, the park no longer provides campsites but there is a nice private campground which butts up against the back of the park. If you're driving from Fulford Ganges road, head west on Jackson Avenue, at Artspring, where you can follow Seaveiw passed the back of the building to the parks' parking lot. The park also has one of the islands two disk golf courses so bring you're frisbee and have a go at it.

Ruckle Provincial Park - 15km+, Novice, Salt Spring Island

The park has over 15km of interconnected trails which will take you along the ocean shore, through wooded areas, wetlands and beside the heritage farm where you can take in the pastoral scenes of sheep grazing beside split rail fences. From the Fulford ferry terminal take Fulford Ganges Road a short distance to then turn right on Beaver Point Road (there are signs for the park) which will take you all the way into the park. Ruckle Provincial Park Park & Hiking Trails Map

Mount Erskine - Intermediate-Expert, Salt Spring Island

Mount Erskine has a network of trials which lead up to the summit where you'll get a great view of Samsun Narrows, Crofton on Vancouver Island and north to Kuper Island. All of the trails intersect at one point and the route can be a bit confusing so make careful note of landmarks at trail junctions. The two most popular access points are along Collins Road which you can reach from Ganges by following Rainbow Road almost to the end where you pick up Collins Road on the left. Follow Collins and watch for the trail markers on the left and a small parking area is on the right. Another option is to take Juniper Road which branches to the left off Rainbow Road about half way along it's distance. The third option is to follow Fullford Ganges road about 1.5km outside Ganges (approximately 11km from Fulford) then head west (to the right) along Cranberry Road and watch for Toynbee Road just passed Roberts Lake. On Toynbee watch carfully on you're right for the trail marker. Note: This hike is not suitable for children. Stay well back from the edge at the top. For a detailed description of the trails and other Gulf Island hikes pick up a copy of Hiking the Gulf Islands by Charles Kahn available from Harbour Publishing.

Reginald Hill - Intermediate, 200m elevation gain, Salt Spring Island

The hike up the hillside is steep in sections and good footware is recommended. The view over Fulford Harbour and surroundings is excellent and well worth the climb. As the trail opens up at the top you'll find a great place for a picnic on a sunny summers day. From the Fulford ferry exit turn right along Morningside Road and follow it to the end, where you'll find a small parking area on you're right. Head up towards the sub-division and watch for the trail marker on your left. Note: This hike is not suitable for children. Stay well back from the edge at the top. For a detailed description of the trail and other Gulf Island hikes pick up a copy of Hiking the Gulf Islands by Charles Kahn available from Harbour Publishing.

Duck Creek Park - Novice 3km+ return, Salt Spring Island

This is an easy trail which follows the gently flowing creek of the same name. Small spurs will take you out to a large clearing or provice alternate routes which eventually converge on the main trail. A very pleasant outing in a lovely natural setting; great for an after dinner walk on a warm summers evening. From Ganges follow Lower Ganges Road out of town and turn left on Vesuvius Bay Road, then take a right on Sunset Drive just before the ferry terminal. You'll see the trail sign on your right and a parking area on your left, just a short distance down sunset.

Southey Point Trail - 2km+ return, Novice, Salt Spring Island

The trail takes you to the beach near the north western tip of the island at Southey Point. It starts in a forested section and passes through a valley and along side a picturesque split rail fence. There are a few steep sections particularly as you descend to the beach at trails end. From Ganges follow Lower Ganges Road out of town and turn left on Vesuvius Bay Road then take a right on Sunset Drive just before the ferry terminal. Just as the road sweeps back east you'll see Southey Point Road on you're left. Watch for the trail marker and a small parking area on you're left with the trail entrance just across the street.

Location Map for Salt Spring Island Parks

Galiano Island

Mount Galiano - 2.8km one way, Intermediate, Galiano Island

There are several trails to the Mount Galiano Summit. Two trails can be accessed from Lord Road which will take up to the peak. You can also find a trail from just near the end of Active Pass Drive which provides a route from the other side of the Mountain. The summit provides excellent views of other the islands with Salt Spring Island forming a back drop. You'll find an area of Gary Oak at the top. From the ferry terminal follow Sturdies Bay Road to the split where you pick up Georgeson Bay Road. Watch for Morgan Road which will take you to Lord and the Lord Park trailhead or continue along to Highland and the Active Pass Drive trailhead. Inother the summer months watch for closures due to fire hazard by checking with the Galiano Volunteer Fire Department website.

Bodega Ridge (Bodega Provincial Park) 4km linear, elevation gain 22m, novice to intermediate (exposure), Galiano Island

The trail leads up to an exceptional viewing area over the Gulf Islands with Vancouver Island in the background. The hiking is not difficult but it does have some exposed sections along the ridge which you should be careful with. The area is know for its wealth of Manzanita, look to the skys for glimpses of Bald Eagles and Peregrines. From the ferry terminal follow Sturdies Bay road to Portlier Pass Road. Continue on well passed Montague Harbour two thirds to three quarters of the way along the island where you will see Cottage Way on your right. Follow cottage way to the end where you can pick up the trial head to the ridge. BC Parks

Location Map for Galiano Island Parks

Mayne Island

Mount Parke Regional Park - Intermediate, Mayne Island

The trail climbs up to a circular trail which winds through the woodlands and ultimately to the look out where you'll find excellent views of the islands before it loops back to the split where you can retrace your steps to the car. Watch for Bald Eagles, Raptors and Turkey Vultures along the cliffs. Mount Parke is the highest peak on Mayne Island at 185m. From the ferry terminal take Village Bay Road to Fernhill then take a right onto Montrose Road which will take you to the parking lot for the trailhead. The trails can also be accessed via Kim Road off Felix Jack Road. You'll find maps of the trails as well as a description of the park on the Capital Regional District website.

Mayne Island - The small area covered by the park on Mayne includes a short hiking trail. Gulf Islands National Park

Location Map for Mayne Island Parks

Penders

South Pender Island

Mount Norman (245 metres) - From the trailhead on Ainslie Road you hike along a gravel road then move into a more conventional trail as you make your way up to the summit. The views from the top of the surrounding islands are excellent. The trail continues down the other side of the mountain and exits on Canal Road. There is also a spur along the first section which gives you access to Beaumont Park and its network of trails and primitive campsites. which provides excellent views of the park and surrounding islands. From the ferry terminal turn right and head out on Otter Bay Road then right again on Bedwell Harbour Road which will take you to Canal Road and the single lane bridge which connects the north and south islands. Take an immediate right on Ainslie Point Road and watch for the trailhead on your left. Gulf Islands National Park

North Pender Island

Roe Lake has a trail which will take you around the lake and you can also follow the footbridge out to Roe Islet. Prior Centenenial has a trail network that you can hike while staying at the campgrounds. Mount Menzies (195m) has a trail network which is now a part of the park. Gulf Islands National Park

Saturna Island

Hiking trails can be found at Winter Cove, Narvaez Bay and you can hike up the winding road of Mount Warburton Pike (500 metres) where you'll find excellent views of the the surrounding region. Gulf Islands National Park

Portland Island Gulf Islands National Park 10km, easy

One of the parks best hikes with trails that cut across and encircle the island. There are no developed facilities on the island making it a great place to explore. Access is by water only. As of this writing this encludes private boat or kayak as there is currently no commercial service to the island. If you kayak to the island be aware you may be crossing some of the busiest ferry routes in the Gulf Islands.

Sidney Spit Gulf Islands National Park

The hiking trails are a mix of open field, forest and wonderful beach walking along the two arms of the islands sandy spit. Take advantage of the islands walk-in campground and stay for a weekend to allow you to explore the whole island.The island can be acessed via a commercial service from Sidney on Vancouver Island.

Isle-de-Lis

A mix of bluffs and forest greet the hiker on this small island's trails. The trail system takes you on a route that circles the whole island. Access is by water only. As of this writing this encludes private boat or kayak as there is currently no commercial service to the island. Gulf Islands National Park

Location Map for Gabriola Island Parks

For outdoor retailers, guides, outfitters and instructors in the Gulf Islands and the surrounding regions have a look at our Outdoor Resources section.

Salt Spring Trails and Nature Club - Box 203, Ganges, PO, V8K 2V9 See the Driftwood the last Wednesday of each month

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BC Rockies

Yoho National Park

Yoho has excellent backpacking with a wide variety of options. You can hike the trials to wilderness campsites or to one of the alpine huts (See the Alpine Club of Canada). Some of the trails interconnect with trails into the other national parks in the area, Banff, Jasper and Kooteney. Yoho Trail Map

If you are particularly interested in Lake O'Hara, you can purchase a detailed map of the area as well as "The Lake O'Hara Backcountry Guide" from the Friends of Yoho National Park. Your purchase will help support the park through the Friend's programs.

McArthur Creek Trail to Goodsir Pass - 23.9km, Intermediate, 900m elevation gain
The trailhead is 8.4km west of the park office in Field along the Trans-Canada highway. Their are two backcountry campsites (See the Wilderness Camping Section) on route, Float Creak 6.2km in then McArthur Creek at the 14.7km mark. The pass will bring you into Kootenay National Park where you can choose to continue to Floe Lake along the Rockwell Trail (See Kootenay National Park for more information.)
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summer thought

Cataract Brook - 12.8km one way, Intermediate, 400m elevation gain
The trail starts at the Lake O'Hara parking lot which is just off highway 1A very near to the eastern entrance of the park.
You'll hike in the shadow of Cathedral Mountain the whole way. This is a excellent trail which brings you to one of the park's highlights, Lake O'Hara. You have the choice of staying at the lodge or at the campsite. Make sure you have a reservation whatever your choice. From Lake O'Hara you can hike to McArthur Pass and then into the McArthur Creek wilderness campsite.
Note: The use of this trial is restricted (See - McArthur Creek Trial).

Little Yoho Valley - 9.3km one way, Intermediate, 520m elevation gain
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summerthought
Accessible by way of the Yoho Valley Trail which will take you to Laughing Falls, then take the junction north where you'll climb into the alpine. You can stay overnight at the Stanley Mitchel Hut or the Little Yoho campsite. Make reservations well in advance.

Twin Falls and the Whaleback Trail - 20.1km return, Intermediate/Expert, 820m+ elevation gain
From the end of Yoho Valley Road you follow the Yoho River to Laughing Falls (3.8km), then on to Twin Falls. Continuing on to the Whaleback trail, where you'll encounter some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. The hike to Twin Falls (7.6km) gets crowded so you might want to start out early. Inquire with the park about quotas. You can overnight at the Twin Falls campsite or the Twin Falls Chalet. Ensure you have made reservations well in advance.
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summerthought

Iceline - 17km Celeste Lake or 19.8km Little Yoho return, Intermediate, elevation gain 695m
The trail starts in Yoho Valley at the Hostel. You can choose to extend the loop by taking the trail back through Little Yoho Valley. This spectacular trail will take you through a wide mix of what the Rockies are all about, from beautiful forests, to avalanche shoots, up to overlooks that take in views of the glaciers, then past aqua colored pools fed by their icy waters.
You can camp at the Little Yoho campsite or stay at the Stanley Mitchel Hut. Reservations are required.
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summerthought

Waptu Highline - 18.5km Field or 19.0km linear, Intermediate, elevation gain 660m
The trail starts in Yoho Valley at the Hostel. Hike up to the Iceline trail and branch south to Yoho Pass then on to Emerald Lake. The other alternative is to cut over to Burgess Pass from Yoho and hike down to the highway at Field. You can camp at the Yoho Lake campsites.
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summerthought

McArthur Creek Valley Trail
This trail is closed every year from May 1 to August 15 to protect Grizzly habitat and avoid problems. When it is open there is a quota system for its use. This trail is not maintained and good route finding and wilderness skills are essential. For additional information contact the park or the Friends of Yoho National Park.
Details of the Trail are available in "The Canadian Rockies Trail Guide" by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson, Summerthought

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Horse Riding, Packing & Guest Ranches

• Chaunigan Lake Lodge - British Columbia
• Chillcotin Holidays - Cariboo, British Columbia
• Crystal Waters Guest Ranch - Crystal Lake, British Columbia
• Echo Valley Ranch & Spa - British Columbia
• Hills Health Ranch - British Columbia
• Moondance Guest Ranch - British Columbia
• Spruce Lake Wilderness Adventures - Approx. 3hr north of Whistler, Gold Bridge, Chilcotin
• Sundance Guest Ranch - British Columbia
• Tyslos Park Lodge - British Columbia

Huts

The hut system in Canada is extensive but not well know outside of climbing and ski mountaineering circles. There are huts throughout the Alberta and British Columbia mountain ranges. There are also less isolated systems of huts thoughout Quebec and Ontario. Many of the mountain huts are the work of the Alpine Club of Canada as well as other clubs such as the British Colunbia Mountaineering Club. Some are indepent, in the east many are run by the parks bodies. While facilities are usually minimal some huts are really quite appealing in their accomodations and many share one common traite; they are often located in some of Canada's finest backcountry. With few exceptions huts are not accessible by car and some have access which requires expert outdoor skills.

You must pack in your own gear with the exception of that provided. Some of the access routes require expert skills in either climbiing, scrambling, mountaineering and ski mountaineering. In the winter many appoaches are through avalanche areas. Some huts are only accessible in the summer or rarely used due to difficult acess in the winter.Consult with the various authorities regarding use, fees, gear and skills requirements before doing any planning.

• Burton Hut - Garibaldi, Garibaldi Lake / Capacity: Sleeps 10 Features: Utensils
• Diamond Head - Garibaldi, Elfin Lakes / Conditions: Fee Capacity: Sleeps 30 Features: Stove
• Flavelle Hut - East of Garibaldi, North of Anniversary Glacier / Contact Squamish Rockclimbing Club, Capacity: Sleeps 15-20
• Himmelsbach Hut - Garibaldi, Russet Lake / British Columbia Mountaineering Club / Capacity: Sleeps 12
• Lizzie Creek Cabin - East of Garibaldi, Lizzie Lake / Capacity: Sleeps 8
• Sentinel Glacier Huts- Garibaldi, Black Tusk Meadows / Contact: Department of the Environment, Glaciology Division, Capacity: Sleeps 4
• Elfin Lake
• Russet Lake
• Wedgemont Lake

  Canadian Avalanche Association
  Avalanche Safety
  

Out-There's Backpacking and Hiking
Out-There's British Columbia
British Columbia - Official Site

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These listings are to be used only as a reference and in no way constitute a guide to backcoutry travel in the areas described. Out-There is a clearing house for outdoor information not an information source. For more information contact the the local outdoor shops, clubs, associations, land managers and tourism offices for the area regarding routes, access and conditions.

Resources

Vancouver Coast and Mountains

• Accommodations and Lodging
• Dining, Restaurants and Bars

Whistler

• Accommodations and Lodging
• Dining, Restaurants and Bars

Out-There's Whistler
Out-There's British Columbia

Related Features

Cultus Lake Provincial Park
Cypress Provincial Park
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Golden Ears Provincial Park
Manning Provincial Park
Mount Seymour Provincial Park
Skagit Valley Provincial Park

 

Other Links of Interest

• Out-There's Hiking and Backpacking
• Trans Canada Trail

Out-There's Destinations

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