The Ultimate Guide To Kid Friendly Hikes Near Vancouver

Buntzen Lake Loop Trail

Last Updated on May 5, 2024

Kid Friendly Hikes Near Vancouver

I’m always searching for new family hiking trails near us to try out with the kids.  Also, we get a lot of questions about kid friendly hikes to get kids on the trails around Vancouver, and the best places to take them. So, I finally sat down to share our Ultimate Guide To Kid Friendly Hikes Near Vancouver. With this massive list, hopefully, you will not have to search “kid friendly hiking trails near me” again!

We have spent this last year close to home, really getting to know our hiking trails for kids. We have found some great easy hikes near us and have discovered many great family-friendly hiking trails near Vancouver. I also discovered that there are a ton of great waterfall hikes near us. Here we will define the Vancouver area within a couple of hours (plus a little) of Vancouver.

You’ll notice that our favorite trails usually consist of wild nature, so the majority of the trails below are best done without a stroller.  I actually prefer hiking without a stroller; it tires them out faster! Plus, a stroller defeats the purpose of a hike, doesn’t it? Baby carriers are a must for the wee little ones though.

Family hiking is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy your time together. These are kid friendly hiking trails near Vancouver that we have personally tried and can honestly tell you that they are worth the adventure. 

Even if you do not have kids and want to start hiking, these would be fabulous beginner trails for you.

Outside kids are happy kids, and happy kids make relaxed and happy parents!

There’s still plenty more to add and endless trails to explore. I will keep updating this ultimate guide as we continue our adventures, so keep checking back for new trail inspiration!

Family-friendly hikes near Vancouver
Lighthouse Park, Vancouver

Basic Hiking Tips With Kids

  1. Bring water and more than you think you will need. On some hikes, the kids will go through a ton of water. On other hikes, not as much. It is better to have extra. You could also bring a water purifier, and you will never run out of water!
  2. Snacks will be a lifesaver. For real food snacks, try for higher protein and carbs to keep their energy high. I also bring along sweets. It helps during meltdowns and keeps them motivated when they may feel like giving up.
  3. Do not let the kids take off. Keep them close by, within view. You are in animal territory. It is their home, not yours! Always be respectful and do not approach or bother animals.
  4. Ensure someone you trust knows where you are and what your plan for the day is. If you make any changes and are within data range, update them.
  5. Do not push too much. Know when your kids have had enough. You will have some great days hiking and some miserable days. Keep working at it, and you will have more positive hikes than frustrating ones!
  6. Keep kids away from slopes, drop-offs, and river edges. If you do not feel they will be safe, always trust your gut.
  7. I always bring bear spray and a pocket knife on trails with a chance of running into wildlife; better safe than sorry.
  8. If you ever feel unsafe, do not hesitate to get out of there!
  9. Click on over for more advice about hiking with kids at our post about Hiking With The Family: Babies, Toddlers, and Kids.
  10. Hiking with a baby, you will want a hiking backpack for the baby. Older kids should have a  hiking backpack for kids, to make the hiking more comfortable.
  11. Sturdy shoes are a must. We have seen far too many people try to hike in flip-flops. You may be okay on a short, easy walk, but we always recommend lacing up some shoes with a good grip.

Trail Etiquette

  1. Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in!
  2. Stay on marked trails, and do not pass any signs specifying a trail is closed.
  3. Move over to the side of the trail and give space to let faster hikers pass.
Gold Creek Falls, Golden Ears Provincial Park

Our Suggestions For Kid Friendly Hikes:

Kid Friendly Hikes In Surrey

Redwood Park (Fairy Forest)

Distance: 5.2km

Hike details:

In the forest at Redwood Park, you will find one of the best kid-friendly trails. There’s an enchanted fairy kingdom with hundreds of small, colorful fairy houses hanging from towering trees, or resting on fallen logs, or hiding among the foliage on the forest floor.

The grounds were originally owned by twin brothers, who were given 40 acres each from their father. They filled the park with 32 different species native to North America, Asia, and Europe. They lived in a treehouse and you can find a replica of it located right by the trails.

Today Redwood Park is home to the largest stand of Redwood trees north of the 49th parallel. There is over 5 kilometers of scenic nature trails.

Tynehead Regional Park

Distance: Varies depending on trail

Trail details:

There are several trails in Tynehead Park. We like to start our walks from the parking lot at the Tynehead Hatchery, heading along the Birch Grove Trail. While there are not any scenic views beyond the forest scenery, it is a great easy walk with the kids, and you can make your adventure your preferred distance, depending on the chosen trails.

If you would like an easy paved trail, the Tynehead Perimeter Trail takes you around a meadow and forested areas, for a 4.5 km route.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Delta

George C Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Distance: 7 km

Trail details:

The George C Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is one of 92 federal Migratory Bird Sanctuaries in Canada. It is a great place to get away from the hustle of life and enjoy nature and birdwatching. Amazing numbers of migratory birds use this sanctuary each year. The birds that you can expect to see vary by season. Follow the easy gravel path trails and boardwalks around as you try to spot as many as you can!

This sanctuary does charge a small fee per person ($5 adults, $3 Kids over 2 years old and Seniors, plus bird seed) and currently you must register online for a slot to visit. You can find out more on their website.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Langley

Campbell Valley Regional Park

Distance: Varies depending on trail

Hike details:

Campbell Valley Regional Park is a lovely place to wander the trails under the lush greenery, the canopy of trees, and scenic views.

The park is formed from 6 historical farm plots and has a total of 29km of trails. Some trails are multi-use trails and shared with horseback riders. It is a treat to see the horses pass by on a hike on the Shaggy Mane Trail. However, remember that those on horseback have right of way. The Shaggy Mane Trail stays near the outer perimeter of the park and is 10km.

One of the most popular routes is the Little River Loop Trail. At 2.3 kilometers, it is an easy loop with bridges and wildlife the kids will love. You can also do the Little River Extended Loop, for 7.2 kilometers.

We have always found a lot of Chickadees around Campbell Valley Regional Park that are quite friendly and curious. The kids love them! This is one of our favorite places for family-friendly hikes near Vancouver.

The historic old Langley Speedway is also hidden within the park!

Hoston Trail

Distance: 4.2 km

Located within Derby Reach Regional Park,  this trail makes its way through forested land along a gravel trail that sits above the boggy terrain and mud. The trail is completely forested for the entire route and is more of a rolling track than flat.

During fall, it is a wonderful trail to go fungi hunting as it turns into a magical mushroom wonderland.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Coquitlam

Minnekhada Regional Park

Distance: Varies depending on trail

Hike details:

There are five lookout points in the park. Of these, Low Knoll with its full view of the lower marsh, and High Knoll with its view of the Pitt River and Pitt Meadows beyond, are among the most popular. We enjoyed wandering the trails that have both rugged and flat areas to keep the kids fully entertained.

It is common to see bears in the area, but the closest we came to seeing a bear was some bear scat. Bring bear spray, make noise on the trail, and keep your distance from any wildlife you run into and you will be just fine.

However, we did have to watch our step in some areas with the little Western Toads hopping around. They were super cute and about the size of a dime. Every summer in different parts of BC, thousands of tiny toads migrate from the wetlands where they were born to the forests where they will spend the rest of their lives. We had somehow not seen this happen yet, so it was a really cool experience to have with the kids. This was a prime spot to see it happen!

Minnekhada Regional Park is a peaceful nature sanctuary located near the Pitt -Addington Marsh Wildlife Management Area, that is also included in this mega list of family-friendly hikes. If you like this one, you’ll enjoy that one too, and vice versa.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Richmond

Iona Beach Regional Park

Distance: 8 km (roundtrip)

Hike details: 

The Iona Jetty extends 4 km into the Strait of Georgia. There are two gravel trails atop and beside the large pipe that stretches the length of the jetty. During this easy walk, you are surrounded by the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

If you have airplane lovers in your family, this easy and completely flat gravel path would be a great adventure to take the kids on. You will get to experience the planes coming in for landing at Vancouver International Airport. The kids will love having the planes fly right over their heads!

The trail is completely exposed, so really ensure that you dress for the weather. On especially windy days, bring extra layers. In summer, do not forget a hat and sunscreen.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Port Moody

Sasamat Lake 

Distance: 3.2km

Trail details:

White Pine beach at Sasamat Lake in Belcarra Regional Park is one of our favorite places to go for a refreshing swim during the summer. Around that lake is one of the prettiest trails, especially on a blue-sky day. At the south end of the lake, there is a floating bridge to cross that is used for fishing or swimming in the summer months.

Check out our guide for hiking the Sasamat Lake Loop Trail.

This is another favorite of our family-friendly hikes near Vancouver.

Woodhaven Swamp

Distance: 1.25 km

Trail details:

This is a hike that you can add to the Sasamat Lake Loop in Belcarra Regional Park if you want a longer hike, or it can be done by itself. If you do it has the Woodhaven-Sasamat Trail, it becomes a 9km trail. The Woodhaven trail alone from the Woodhaven parking lot is a 1.25k loop.

There are some good uphill portions, but it is an easy trail.

Jug Island

Distance: 5.1 km

Trail details:

The Jug Island Trail is accessible from the picnic area at Belcarra Regional Park. It takes you through a gorgeous forest of cedar, fir, and hemlock. The trail ends at a small beach that is fantastic for finding starfish at low tide and has an up-close view of Jug Island.

The trail is 5.1 kilometers (out and back) and is rated as moderate, though my young kids have no problem with the trail.

This trail gets extremely busy on sunny days!

Check out our guide for hiking to Jug Island in Belcarra Regional Park.

Admiralty Point Trail  

Distance: 5.3km

Trail details:

The Admiralty Trail is another great option in Belcarra Regional Park. It is a 5.3km trail, with little elevation change, that offers gorgeous views of Deep Cove, Burnaby Mountain, and Mount Seymour, the Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet. The main viewpoint you will not want to miss is, of course, Admiralty Point. If the little legs are feeling up to it, the trail continues another 1km to Burns Point, with views of the Burrard Inlet and Barnet Marine Park.

You will also want to take the quick detour to Cod Rock and take a little break at Maple Beach on the way down.

Shoreline Trail 

Distance: 6km

Trail details:

The Shoreline Trail is a 6km loop along the easternmost section of Burrard Inlet. The trail starts from the pier at Rocky Point Park and ends at Old Orchard Park.

It is a gravel trail through the forest. There are also some boardwalks to cross the mudflats. Respect the signage and do not enter the mudflats, you would not want to get stuck and need to be rescued.

Buntzen Lake Trail

Distance: 10.5km

Trail details:

The Buntzen Lake Trail is a 10.5 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail. The trail takes you through scenic forests, offers several views of the lake, and crosses a suspension bridge. You will also come across several small waterfalls and rushing creeks. It is wonderful to hike to nature’s music!

Buntzen Lake is also a fantastic place to go for a swim during the summer. However, you will have to arrive early to get a spot as the parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Chilliwack

Teapot Hill

Distance: 5.5km

Trail details:

Teapot Hill in Chilliwack is found within Cultus Lake Provincial Park. It is a short 5.5km out and back trail. As you wander the trail, you will find dozens of teapots and teacups. We counted over 100 on our adventure! The trail takes around two hours.

It is an easy hike with a net elevation gain of around 250m, though at times you may feel a bit of the uphill. However, if you are enjoying searching for teapots, you should hardly notice.

Keep in mind that when you go you may not find as many teapots as we did. We were lucky! From time to time the teapots are cleaned up as they create a hazard and trash when they are smashed.

Check out our guide for hiking Teapot Hill in Chilliwack.

Bridal Veil Falls 

Distance: 0.8 km

Trail details:

We love kid-friendly waterfall hikes. Only a fifteen-minute walk from the parking lot, this is a great option to get little legs used to trails. The trail to the waterfall is uphill, but it is not too steep. The trail follows the river through the forest for a pretty wander. This is also a great option to take a break and stretch your legs when you’re traveling through the area.

Lindeman Lake

Lindeman Lake

Distance: 3.5 km

Trail details:

Lindeman Lake is a gorgeous hike to the blue-green, crystal-clear waters of the lake. Surrounded by dense forest and mountain peaks, the views are sure to take your breath away!

The trail is only 3.5km round-trip but has 350 meters of elevation gain within 2km, so it can make you work up a sweat.

During the summer months, this trail gets extremely busy. Parking can run far down the road, adding an extra hike to your trip. Get there as early as possible, especially on weekends!

Check out our guide for hiking Lindeman Lake.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Harrison Hot Springs

Spirit Trail

Distance: 1.1 km

Trail details:

Spirit Trail is a short walk nearby the Village of Harrison Hot Springs. Wandering the cedar forest, you’ll find beautiful masks among the trees. A local artist and resident created these masks, making a magical little trail. There are a lot of roots across the trail, but is an easy walk.

It is a great little trail to do while spending a day, or while on vacation in Harrison Hot springs.

This trail can be reached along McCoombs Drive. There are a few parking spaces on the side of the road near the trailhead.

Spirit and Bridle Trail

Distance: 5.5 km

If you would like to extend your Spirit Trail hike (mentioned above), the Spirit Trail intersects with a trailhead for the Bridle Trail, which would make your extended journey up to a 5.5km loop, depending on where you decide to turn around. A wooden boardwalk connects the Spirit Trail Loop to the longer Bridle Trail.

Miami Bridges Loop

Distance: 0.5km 

The Miami Bridges Loop is a quick 0.5km walk under moss-covered trees and 9 little bridges.

Many of the bridges also have stairs, so this is not a suitable trail for wheelchairs or strollers.

Starting from the back of the parking lot of the Harrison Hot Springs Hotel, this short and pretty trail seems to fly under the radar. The path shoots out near the lake and the Miami River Pump Station. You can continue from there on the gravel path (to the left) along the lake to see the building that houses the “source” of the hot springs.

Walk Harrison Lagoon

Distance: 1.4km

An easy and flat path around the lagoon is a pretty wander to enjoy the mountains and breathtaking scenery. It is an easy and relaxing walk around the lagoon and could be done with a stroller or wheelchair. The scenery will have you stopping time and time again to take it all in.

Sandpiper Resort Eagle Walk

Distance: Short, Unknown

The Eagle Walk is a short forest walk from the Sandpiper parking lot.  Follow the well-placed eagle directional and interpretive signage through the forest to the Eagle Viewing Gazebo. When eagle viewing at Sandpiper Resort, you are looking out on the Chehalis Flats, the resting grounds for the spawning salmon and migrating eagles. It is important to stay out of the flats from October through February, to not disturb the eagles and endanger salmon eggs.

Even if you are not visiting during the world’s largest winter bald eagle gathering, we still encourage you to stop by this trail for an easy and peaceful wander.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Hope

Othello Tunnels

Distance: 3.5 km

Trail details:

The Othello Tunnels trail is a short and easy flat gravel 3.5 km, round-trip route. The tunnels are a part of the historic Kettle Valley Railway. The Othello Tunnels were built in 1914. The railway was decommissioned in 1961. The tunnels are one of the most spectacular, man-made attractions in the Lower Mainland. The trail is made up of a series of five tunnels with bridges in between. The cliffs are granite and 300 feet tall!

Check out our guide for visiting the Othello Tunnels.

 

Flood Falls

Distance: 1  km

Trail details:

Flood Falls is an easy hike with a great reward and another kid-friendly waterfall hike. Hike through lush green forests of moss-covered trees. The stream flows right past the beginning of the trail, making it a peaceful trail with the music from the water.

It is about a 1km, or 15-20 minute walk to the waterfall.

Check out our guide for visiting Flood Falls.

Pair this adventure with exploring the historic Alexandra bridge.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Mission

Cascade Falls

Distance: 0.75 km

Trail details:

Cascade Falls is a short, 0.75km round-trip hike to a waterfall that can be viewed from a suspension bridge across the river. The short walk is uphill but is certainly worth the reward of this spectacular waterfall. This is one of our favorite waterfalls to visit with the kids. It is wonderful year-round, though a bit slippery in winter when covered in snow. It is magical to see Cascade Falls partially frozen and covered in snow!

Steelhead Falls

Distance: 2 km

Trail details:

Steelhead Falls is an impressive waterfall near Hayward Lake. It is a short and easy, low elevation 2km hike. The hike can also be done as a detour along the 8 km Reservoir Trail.

The waterfall has upper and lower viewing platforms.

Rolley Lake Loop

Distance: 5  km

Trail details:

The trail starts at the beach. Start the trail from the right or left as it is a 5km loop trail. You will cross a boardwalk along the marsh area, and wander through a second-growth forest with draping tree branches, and have glimpses of the lake from along the trail.

There is a wooden sign pointing to Rolley Falls part way through the trail. If you want to add some to your hike, the lower falls are worth a look (details below). When you are doing the Rolley Falls trail this way and are in doubt (it is not well-marked), keep left after you enter the trail.

 

Rolley Falls

Distance: 2 km

Trail details:

Rolley Falls is a moderate 2 km loop trail. It takes you to the lower falls that you can view from a bridge. The trail continues over the bridge for a short distance until you reach the upper falls. The lower falls have a better view. The upper falls are underwhelming, and the viewpoint is so overgrown that there is not much to see there. If you do not want to see the upper falls, you can also return the way you came.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Burnaby

Deer Lake Burnaby

Distance: 4.8 km

Trail details:

Deer Lake Trail is a 4.8-kilometer hike through a wide variety of flora and fauna.  It is mainly a gravel path, with a boardwalk at points that hugs the lake. At Deer Lake there are many scenic views of the lake and many places to sit and take it in if little legs need a rest.

Burnaby Lake

Distance: 10 km

Trail details:

Burnaby Lake Park Trail is a 10 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail, along with several smaller side trails. The trail is well-groomed, has plenty of space, and is an extremely easy walk. The kids love the bird dock near the nature center. Burnaby Lake is a wildlife sanctuary, so be prepared for signs warning you of the seasonal wildlife you could encounter, including bears.

Burnaby Mountain

Distance: Varies depending on route

Trail details:

Burnaby Mountain has a network of 26 multi-use trails covering 28 kilometers, with varying levels of difficulty. The trails crisscross the 576 hectares within the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area. Plan your route based on how long you want to be hiking. The Burnaby Mountain Park Full Loop is 11.1km.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Maple Ridge

Gold Creek Falls

Distance: 5.5  km

Trail details:

Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of our favorite places. It is incredibly beautiful, and the hikes are no different. One of the best hikes to do with kids is to hike to Gold Creek Falls. It is a wide and easy path through a typical dreamy west coast rainforest. It ends at a waterfall that will impress even the littlest kid, as well as grown adults. The Falls are especially impressive during Spring runoff from the surrounding mountains. The views along the trail are gorgeous too. It is 5.5 km round-trip.

Mike Lake Loop

Distance: 2 km 

Trail details:

Another great family-friendly hike in Golden Ears Provincial Park is the Mike Lake loop. At 2km round-trip, it is a great trail to help build up some hiking skills with little kids as the trail is a little more rugged, instead of just walking along a well-kept path. There are tons of tree routes, and unkept bridges (if you can even call most of them that), and possibly plenty of mud to work around. Our kids loved it.

You’ll turn off onto a gravel road and follow it all the way up until there is a dead end and a few parking spaces along the side. Walk around that yellow gate at the dead end. Follow that trail until you reach a sign that says “Lake Trail”. There will be some pretty lake views through the trees, and you’ll be wandering through a pretty forest.

Spirea Nature Trail

Distance: 5.5  km 

Trail details: 0.8km

The Spirea Nature Trail in Golden Ears Provincial Park is a pretty walk through moss-covered trees, where green also engulfs the ground around the gorgeous towering trees. If you are looking for a short and simple hike, at 0.8km and zero elevation change, this is a great leisurely stroll.

Kanaka Creek

Distance: 4 km

Trail details:

The Cliff Falls area of Kanaka Creek offers an easy set of hiking trails, with the main attraction being, of course, the Cliff Falls waterfall. You can reach the waterfall through a 4km hike.

The only downfall is that there really is no picture-perfect vantage point of the falls from the trail. The hike through the forest with a variety of trees, like Douglas fir, Sitka spruce, and moss-covered (our favorite!) maple and Western red cedar trees, will take your breath away.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Pitt Meadows

Katzie Marsh Loop

Distance: 6.6 km

Trail details:

The Katzie Marsh Loop is a 6.6km hike through the wetlands of the Pitt-Addington Marsh Wildlife Management Area. The scenery is breathtaking as you wander alongside the Pitt River and the marsh. It is a fantastic place to see wildlife, with over 200 species of birds and 29 mammal species currently being supported in the area.

The trail starts along a wide gravel path and eventually narrows for the last bit at the end, through a somewhat overgrown bush. With the narrow areas of the path, this is not a stroller-friendly trail. The hike is easy and flat for the entire trail.

There are also two lookout towers that give a wonderful view of the area.

However, be aware that you may actually see wildlife. We had a black bear appear behind us on our trail and had no problems following the bear encounter procedure. We also saw two other bears from a distance. PLEASE know what to do during a bear encounter and always carry bear spray with you when you hike (to be used as a last resort). There was no aggression and the bear just wanted to get to his water entry point to go for a bit of a clumsy swim. It was an incredible encounter!

 

Kid Friendly Hikes In Vancouver

Lighthouse Park 

Distance: Up to 6 km

Trail details:

Lighthouse Park is another of our favorite hikes. It is arguably one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Vancouver. Here you get to walk through acres of first-growth douglas firs. It is amazing to stand next to trees that are giants!

The trails are all easy. A few have a short hill to ascend or descend, but nothing difficult. Depending on the trails you choose, it is up to a 6km hike.

Before you begin your adventure, look at the park map at the trailhead. You will want to make sure you include viewing the lighthouse during your journey!

Take a look at our journey hiking at Vancouver’s historic Lighthouse Park.

Lynn Canyon

Distance: Varies depending on trail

Trail details:

One of the features at Lynn Canyon is the suspension bridge that was built back in 1912 when the park opened. It sways 50 meters above the canyon and is the starting point to many great hiking trails. Lynn Canyon Park has several trails that take you through the temperate rainforest, beside the creek, and over waterfalls. The park has grown from 12 acres to an incredible 617 acres today.

Part of the Baden Powell trail passes through Lynn Canyon Park, and it takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. The Twin Falls loop takes around 45 minutes. Thirty Foot Pool is a twenty-minute journey after crossing the suspension bridge.

Take a look at our time exploring Lynn Canyon Park and Suspension Bridge.

Vancouver Seawall

Distance: 10 km

Trail details:

The Vancouver Seawall is one of the highlights of Vancouver that you cannot miss. The 10-km seawall loop around Stanley Park is Vancouver’s most popular fresh-air attraction. The seawall will take you past some of Vancouver’s most popular spots and attractions. Bring a lunch and you will be overwhelmed with beautiful places to have a picnic.

Lost Lagoon Stanley Park

Distance: 1.8 km

Trail details:

Lost Lagoon is an easy 1.8 km trail around the lake. You will see ducks, geese, swans, herons, turtles, and frogs, in the water. There is a great backdrop of the city and the fountain in the center of the lagoon commemorates Vancouver’s golden jubilee.

Quarry Rock

Distance: 3.8 km

Trail details:

Quarry Rock is a great hike to do paired with a day trip to Deep Cove in North Vancouver. Part of the easternmost section of the Baden Powell Trail, the rocky outcrop that is Quarry Rock leads you to breathtaking views of Indian Arm and the mountains around Belcarra. The journey is 3.8km, roundtrip.

This trail gets extremely busy, and parking is limited in Deep Cove, so make sure you arrive early or you could find yourself in a battle for a parking spot.

Take a look at our favorite way to spend a summer day trip to Deep Cove, which includes a hike up to Quarry Rock!

P.S. – Do not forget to stop at Honey Doughnuts after the climb as your reward for the hard work.

Dog Mountain

Distance: 5 km

Trail details:

Dog Mountain is a popular hiking trail in both summer and winter. It is the most popular trail that starts at Seymour Provincial Park. The trail is not actually part of the Seymour Provincial Park trails and is part of the BC Parks system.

On a clear blue-sky day, you have phenomenal views of Mount Baker, the Fraser Valley, Lower Mainland, Stanley Park, and the Strait of Georgia.

Keep in mind that while you are snowshoeing Dog Mountain during the winter, the hike could go slower as you are making your way through the snow.

Yew Lake

Distance: 2.5km

Trail details:

From the Cypress Bowl parking lot in Cypress Provincial Park, follow the signs for the Yew Lake trail. The 2.5km loop leads you around a small mountain lake via a flat gravel path.  The trail also goes through a bog with insect-eating plants and an old-growth forest.

A third of the way into the hike, you will have the option to join a trail for the “Old Growth Loop”. Adding a .5km to your hike, you’ll wander through an Interpretive forest, where there are information boards about the ancient trees around you.

Yew Lake Portion & Bowen Lookout

Distance: 4.4 km

Trip Details:

This route first takes you through Yew Lake, which is a gorgeous and wheelchair-accessible gravel pathway. This Yew Lake trail is slightly different than the one we mentioned above and is a 1.4 km loop section of the lake.  It is a calm walk among serene scenery. You will wander the “Old Growth Loop,” where you will walk through an Interpretive Forest while you learn about the ancient trees. Some of those trees are absolutely massive and some are many centuries old. We suggest adding Yew Lake onto the Bowen Lookout trail to make the adventure a little longer.

The Bowen Lookout portion is short at around 3 km round-trip. All of the elevation gains happen during the steep climb of switchbacks in the last half towards the lookout. The Bowen Lookout is a spectacular viewpoint that overlooks Howe Sound, out towards Bowen Island. On a clear day, you can see sweeping views of Gambier Island to the right, Bowen Island to the left, and Vancouver Island straight ahead. The hard leg work is worth the views; our jaws dropped as the scenery came into view. It was hard to believe this view was so close to the city of Vancouver.

Black Mountain & Cabin Lake

Distance: 6 km

Trail details:

Winding through sub-alpine meadows, and skirting the edges of several mountain lakes, the 6km Black Mountain and Cabin Lake Loop in Cypress Provincial Park has a short but very steep ascent. You ascend along with a series of switchbacks, taking you higher and higher as the beautiful views appear of the Coast Mountains. The ascent was along a rough gravel path for a large amount of the hike.

Our hike took about 3.5 hours, with four kids seven and under. This also included a couple of side trips to lookouts at the top. Yew Lake was the lookout that we enjoyed the most and is a great place to stop for lunch and to enjoy the scenery.

Find out more about our experience on the Black Mountain & Cabin Lake trail.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Distance: Varies depending on trail

Trail details: 

At Pacific Spirit Regional Park, there is over 117 km of forest trails, offering many trails to explore. The Huckleberry, Hemlock, Salish, and Imperial Loop is 9.3km and a good one to do with kids. Top Trail to Nature Trail to Salish Trail to Sasamat Trail is another easy one, at 6.8km.

The best plan for Pacific Spirit Regional Park is to look at the map and plan your route. There’s a route for everyone within the park, some hillier and more strenuous than others.  These are also largely multi-use and possibly off-leash dog trails as well.

All trails are well marked. It is a great oasis of calm near the big city.

Maplewood Flats

Distance: 5km

Trail details: 

Maplewood Flats in North Vancouver is a 311-acre conservation area for wildlife and birds that are native to Vancouver. It is managed by the Wild Bird Trust of B.C. 5km of trails go through mudflats, marshes, and other diverse habitats. With really no elevation gain, it is more of an easy walk than a hike, but it is a great place to enjoy the wildlife. Maplewood Flats is fantastic for birding and nature photography. There are up to 250 different species of birds.

Stop frequently, listen, and look to fully enjoy the magic of nature.

Cleveland Dam

Distance: 3.5km

Trail details: 

The Cleveland Dam was built in 1954. There are a few trails in the area, we suggest the Cleveland Dam and Second Canyon Viewpoint Loop (3.5km). It travels around the Capilano Canyon while taking in many of the park’s popular lookouts.

Cypress Falls Park

Distance: 29.km Roundtrip

Trail details: 

Cypress Falls Park, a hidden gem nestled within West Vancouver, offers an exceptional forest experience. Strolling through its trails, visitors are surrounded by some of the North Shore’s most majestic trees. These towering giants, over 300 years old, stand in grandeur, matched only by the trees of the nearby Lighthouse Park.

Cypress Falls Park, situated at a lower elevation, offers a hike that is accessible throughout the year and welcomes families. It’s an ideal choice for a hike on an overcast or rainy day.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Squamish

Murrin Park Loop Trail

Distance:  1.8 km 

Trail details: 

When you are ready to get a little more adventurous, the Murrin Park Loop Trail will take you to the spectacular Quercus Viewpoint overlooking Howe Sound. Located just south of Squamish along the Sea To Sky Highway, this intermediate trail takes you up a rugged and steep path and by many of the rock climbing walls in the park. The kids loved seeing all of the rock climbers and had so many questions for them. It may seem short at 1.8km, but the steep climb will slow you down.

We continued onto the Jurassic Ridge Trail. Also an intermediate trail, this section is a lot more challenging. There are a couple of sections with ropes to assist your ascent/descent. We did the Jurassic Ridge trail when we had an extra pair of hands to help us. I wore baby Olivia, and the next youngest was Jacob was almost 4 years old. I wouldn’t recommend attempting to take any kids under age 4, with the exception of wearing a baby. I also would not take kids on this section on a wet day. The rocks in certain sections are very smooth and slippery. There are drop-offs, so you need to be fully focused on kids at all times. Adding Jurassic Ridge makes the trail 2.4 km.

Take a look at our guide to the Murrin Park and Jurassic Ridge trails.

Alice Lake Provincial Park – Four Lakes Trail

Distance: 6.1 km

Trail details:

This loop hike through Alice Lake Provincial Park takes you through a gorgeous coastal rain forest, along a well-marked trail, passing by four distinct mountain lakes:  Alice, Edith, Stump, and Fawn. The trail takes you through Douglas fir, western red cedar, and other coniferous and deciduous trees.  It is a relatively flat trail, though you will find a few short switchbacks that take you up a mild elevation. You will find some sections of transition between cycle and walking paths, so keep your eyes out for bikers. The cycling paths are also more challenging with big elevation changes.

There is also some very clear and glacial water between Edith and Fawn lakes. On a clear day, there are great views of mountains.

This trail is along the forest edge, and well frequented, so you should not be overly concerned about running into a bear. However, always be prepared and bring your bear spray. Sightings do occur.

 

Kid Friendly Hikes In Whistler

Brandywine Falls

Distance: 0.8km

Trail details:

Brandywine Falls is one of the must-do stops along the famous sea-to-sky highway, especially when you are en route to the adventure paradise of Whistler.

It is an easy 15–20-minute walk from the parking lot to view this 230-foot beautiful waterfall from the viewing platform.

Whistler Train Wreck

Distance: 2 km

Trail details:

This unique hike is a family favorite. It is an easy trail that crosses the Cheakamus River by a locomotive-themed suspension bridge. The train cars are from a train that derailed in 1956 when a freighter heading south from Lillooet came too fast into an area under track repair. The trains were dragged and rolled into the forest where they lay today. The trains have also turned into an open-air museum where artists cover the train cars with designs using spray paint.

Check out our guide about hiking the Whistler Train Wreck.

Parkhurt Ghost Town

Distance: 7.7 km

Trail details: 

If you love the Whistler Train Wreck, you will love hiking to the Parkhurst Ghost Town. Whistler has some unique trails, and this is another fun one. It is longer and a bit more work than the Train Wreck trail, as it is more on a moderate scale, but it is just as fun to explore a town that once was. You will find historical artifacts through the forest, imagine what it was like where buildings that once stood (that today are nothing more than a pile of rubble). Our favorite sights were an old truck, a cabin full of graffiti art, and an old vehicle. It is interesting to see it all being consumed by the all-powerful forest.

We specify all the details, finding the trailhead, our advice with what direction to start the trail, and more, at our guide to the Parkhurst Ghost Town Hike In Whistler.

Kid Friendly Hikes In Pemberton

One Mile Lake

Distance: 1.6 km

Trail details:

The trail around One Mile Lake is an easy walk.  Part of the trail passes over raised boardwalks, offering scenic views of the surrounding area, before entering the forest. The views across the lake of the mountains are breathtaking, as you can see from the above photo.

Another cool thing about this short family-friendly hike is the little signs along the trail, listing different exercises you can do as you walk around the lake. It will really get your bodies moving!

There were many side trails off this trail as well. One Mile Lake is also close to Nairn Falls and you can hike to Nairn Falls from here too. Nairn Falls extends along the Green River for about 1.5 km and its trail connects with One Mile Lake.

Nairn Falls

Distance: 3 km

Trail details:

Nairn Falls is located along the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway #99) between Whistler and Pemberton. Nairn Falls is just 20 minutes from Whistler. The hike is 3km round-trip to the falls. While the hike is nice, the waterfall was not very impressive with the lower flow during the summer when we visited. However, it is still worth the journey.

Parts of the trail have a drop-off into the fast-rushing waters below. Keep your kids close to you and on the inside of the trail.

Take a look at our guide to hiking Narin Falls.

 

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