BC residents are lucky to have ocean views, short winters, and plenty of mountains – it’s the perfect place for people who love to hike! Whether you are new to hiking or have been participating for years, our list below offers hikes of varying difficulty located all over British Columbia.
Diez Vistas and Lake Buntzen Loop
Difficult hike in Anmore.
Lake Buntzen is a 15km hike for adventurous folk. Users are directed to start at the South Beach on the Buntzen Lake Trail going East. Once hikers hit North Beach they should divert into the Diez Vista trail. Although, this is a tough hike with many steep sections, and the path can vary from tree roots to soil or gravel. It is a good idea to be prepared with hiking boots, poles, water, and a map for this difficult trail.
With snowshoes, you can hike this mountain in the winter. However, if you are planning to go in the summer get there early! The parking area can get busy quickly.
Millar Creek Trail Trainwreck
Easy hike in Whistler.
In the 1950s a train going through Whistler was derailed it has sat on this trail ever since. This 5.8km trail is a very popular hiking and running spot. It offers great views of the Cheakamus River, a suspension bridge, and a waterfall. On-leash dogs are permitted. There is another entry closer to the site of the train crash, making the walk to the wreck only 2.5km.
Parkhurst Ghost Town
Easy hike in Whistler
Located near Whistler, the Parkhurst Ghost Town Loop is a 7.7km moderate hike. The trail is on a former logging settlement on the shores of Green Lake. It was founded in the 1920s but it has been abandoned since the 1960s. So this hike is littered with interesting artifacts like old buildings, cars, and more!
Castle Towers
Difficult hike in Whistler.
Located near Whistler at Garibaldi Park, the Castle Towers hike is a 35 km multi-day hike for experienced hikers. Also, There are camp spots along the trail if you choose to stay, rocky areas, and plenty of breathtaking views that make the climb worth it.
Cheam Peak
Difficult hike in Popkum.
Bridal Veil Park is full of lovely hiking trails. The Cheam Peak trail is an 8.4km hike. However, it requires a good 4×4 vehicle with ground clearance to make the drive up. Also, on the way down you can add Lady Peak to the south, another trail with added difficulty and distance.
Kanaka Creek
Easy hike in Maple Ridge.
Kanaka Creek park is a great place to find some easy hikes! The Kanaka Creek Canyon Trail is 3.7km long and features stairs, a bridge, a creek, and a waterfall. There is access to the creek if you have a dog or children who would like to cool off. Because it is a popular trail so chances of spotting wildlife are very low. Also, on-leash dogs are allowed on this trail.
Helmcken Falls Rim Trail
Easy hike near Kamloops.
Located at Wells Grey Provincial Park, the Rim Trail is an 8km simple hike for hikers of any level. This hike takes you along Murtle River to Helmcken Falls, Canada’s fourth highest waterfall! There are also six other waterfalls upstream.
Helmcken Falls is accessed from the road off a short 1km walk. Also, the falls are beautiful in the winter, and this short path may be more appealing during the winter months.
