Vancouver's dramatic natural profile is breathtaking and great for hiking. Towering mountains just waiting to be explored soar thousands of vertical feet above the city at water's edge. The summits of The Lions, Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, Golden Ears, Cypress Mountain and Garibaldi Provincial Park are all accessible to healthy, relatively experienced hikers who can follow instructions from a hiking trail guide and are fit enough to carry a daypack containing the "ten essentials" of mountain safety, including a First Aid kit, matches/fire starters, extra food, map and compass, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, sunscreen and sunglasses, rain gear, army knife, and water.
Hiking The Lions
The Lions is Vancouver hiking at it's finest. A long, moderately-grueling hike up the prominent peaks dominating the northern skyline. It is a clearly marked trail that offers spectacular views of Howe Sound on one side and Vancouver on the other.
The Lions is quite a popular hike owing to it's easy accessibility and proximity to the city. It is just off Mountainview Rd. in the quaint village of Lions Bay, about 20 minutes from Vancouver. There is a small parking lot adjacent to the trail head, with overflow parking at a school just down the road. Bring plenty of water, and a big, rewarding lunch.
Hiking in Squamish
Want to know why British Columbia is so eco-active? Visit the Vertical Reality Sport Store in Squamish and find out. Stride or ride along the river bank of the estuary and through the lush surrounding forest. The winding mountain bike trail offers easy cycling, and the hiking trail through nearby wetlands offers an aural insight into the sounds and songs of all kinds of native fauna. Whatever form of transport you decide on, the fresh air and mountainous backdrop will make this an invigorating outing.
