It did not disappoint! Grasslands National Park a quiet park in a remote part of southern Saskatchewan, which is why I loved it so much! With so few visitors, it was easy to get swallowed up in the wide open spaces.

The park is home to rolling grasslands (mostly in the West Block) and rugged badlands (mostly in the East Block). I found both gorgeous, especially in the soft light of sunset. Other highlights included hiking (of course), wildlife watching, looking for fossils, and learning about the unique native grassland ecosystem that has almost disappeared from the prairies.

If you’re planning a visit, I’ve put together a big Grasslands National Park travel guide for you. It includes:

• An interactive map of Grasslands National Park that includes all of the places I mention
• Best things to do in Grasslands National Park: Hikes, viewpoints, driving tours, wildlife watching, and more
• Camping in Grasslands National Park: where to camp and what to expect
• Hotels near Grasslands National Park: My picks for where to stay near the park
• Grasslands Travel Tips: How to get there? How long to spend? Where to buy groceries and gas? And lots more

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Parks Canada for hosting me in Grasslands National Park. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Grasslands National Park

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Grasslands National Park for you. It includes every single place I mention in this post.

Best Things to Do in Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park is separated into two parts: the West Block and the East Block. It takes about 2 hours to drive between the two blocks.

I’ve organized my list of the best things to do in Grasslands National Park into West Block and East Block sections below to make it easier for you to plan your trip. I’ve also got suggestions for things to do anywhere in the park at the bottom!

Things to do in the West Block

Town of Val Marie

The tiny town of Val Marie, Saskatchewan, is located at the entrance to the West Block of Grasslands National Park. It has a population of just 120 residents today, but it used to be home to over 450 people, so it feels a bit bigger.

It’s worth wandering through its wide streets and checking out the historic grain elevator, built in 1927. You should also visit Prairie Wind and Silver Sage. It’s a cute gift shop and art gallery run by Friends of Grasslands National Park.

The Grasslands National Park Visitor Centre is also in Val Marie. It’s the best place to start your journey into the park. They have a few small exhibits about the park. But the main reason I recommend stopping is ask about current conditions and to pick up maps. They also have some great pamphlets that will help you ID flowers and other plants.

Ecotour Scenic Drive

Driving the Ecotour Scenic Drive is the number one must-do thing to do in Grasslands National Park. It’s a 20 km drive (about 80 km round trip from Val Marie) and includes 7 stops. Allow at least two hours… but probably a lot longer if you want to walk around and take photos at each stop.

Here’s a brief rundown on each stop:

Ecotour Gateway

• A pull-off with a signboard welcoming you to Grasslands National Park and the official entrance to the park.

Top Dogtown

• Take an easy and flat 750 m loop trail through a prairie dog colony.
• Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a closer look – the prairie dogs hide in their burrows if you get too close. They are adorable!
• If you are going to spend an extended amount of time at just one stop, make it this one.

The Tabletop

• A short walk through the grass to some info boards where you can learn about native prairie grasses and the preservation of endangered grasslands ecoystems.

The Rubbing Stone

• Another short walk through the grass to two Indigenous cultural sites:
• The first is a bison rubbing stone, left over from the time when bison roamed the area by the millions. They used rocks like this to scratch themselves.
• There is also a tipi ring here, which is a ring of stones on the ground that marks the former location of a First Nations tipi.
• This is my pick for the best views on the Ecotour since it’s on a bluff overlooking the Frenchman Valley.

Frenchman River Valley

• View crumbling ranch corrals, left over from the days before this was a park.
• Take a short walk along grassy trails to visit info boards about how the ecosystem in the valley bottom is different than the plateau above.

The Ranch

• This stop has a few historic ranch buildings from the pre-National Park era.
• It’s also the starting point for the Larson Trail, an easy 1.5 km loop hike that has views of the Frenchman River.

Dogtown

• Another prairie dog colony. This one is even bigger – it stretches out on both sides of the road.
• I recommend pulling over and looking out your windows with binoculars.

Eagle Butte and 70 Mile Butte Trail

This was the first hike I did in Grasslands, and it was a fantastic introduction to the park. It’s two interconnected loops that go up and around Eagle Butte and 70 Mile Butte. If you don’t have much time, you could just do Eagle Butte, but I thought the views were way better from 70 Mile Butte.

We spotted lots of wildflowers along the trail, especially in the valley bottoms. From the top of the butte, there were great views of the nearby hills as well as the flatter Grasslands of the West Block.

This trail starts from a park entrance that is a few miles south of Val Marie along Highway 4. If you do both buttes, it’s a 5 km loop with 260 m of elevation gain and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. It is rated moderate to challenging. It can be really windy on top of the buttes, so hang on to your hats!

Broken Hills Trail

The Broken Hills Trail was the longest hike I did in Grasslands National Park. It’s a lollipop loop through grassy hills in the middle of the West Block. It starts near Frenchman Valley campground at the Belza Day Use Area. The first part follows an old vehicle track, but then it veers off on a narrow hiking trail that is rockier and climbs a few small hills.

This is a great hike if you want to experience prairie grasslands away from park roads. We didn’t see a single person on the entire hike. However, we did see lots of prairie dogs, a deer, lots of birds, and a burrowing owl!

The Broken Hills Trail is an 11 km loop with about 300 m of elevation gain. Plan to spend 3.5 to 4.5 hours on the hike. It is rated challenging. The entire hike has no shade, so bring lots of water and sun protection. On the day I hiked it, the temperature soared into the low 30s, which was unexpected for late May, and I definitely felt the sun exposure despite covering up and packing lots of water.

Wildlife Watching

If you want to see wildlife, the West Block is the best place to do it. We spotted deer darting through the underbrush near the Frenchman River and pronghorn hopping through fields just outside the park. You can also spot rattlesnakes, badgers, and coyotes, but we didn’t see any.

And thanks to our binoculars, we spotted about a dozen bison grazing on the hills around the Frenchman Valley. Parks Canada reintroduced bison to the park in 2005. They are an important keystone species for grasslands ecosystems since their heavy hooves till the soil as they walk, allowing grasses, wildflowers, and other plants to thrive.

Today, there are 400 to 500 bison in the park, kept contained inside a huge bison fence that encircles most of the West Block of Grasslands National Park.

They mostly hang out in the remote northeast corner of their enclosure, so apparently the best way to see lots of bison is to hike the Timbergulch Trail, a challenging 15 km loop that takes 5 to 6 hours. I didn’t have time to hike it, but it’s on my list for my next trip.

You can also see thousands of prairie dogs in the West Block. There are huge prairie dog colonies along the Ecotour Scenic Drive and on some of the hiking trails. I could spend hours watching these adorable little guys.

One of the other reasons I spent so much time watching the prairie dogs was to try to spot a burrowing owl. Burrowing owls are tiny and fat with long legs, giving them a somewhat comical appearance. They live in prairie dog and gopher burrow so prairie dog colonies are a great place to spot them. I was lucky to spot one at a small prairie dog colony on the Broken Hills Trail.

Other Things to do in the West Block

Even though I spent two days in the West Block, I didn’t have time to do everything. Here are a few more things I’d like to do on a return trip:

• Two Trees Trail and Riverwalk Trail: Two short and easy loop trails on the park’s western edge that explore the Frenchman River Valley.
• Timbergulch Trail: A rugged and challenging 15 km loop trail that meanders through coulee bottoms and has the best chance of spotting bison.
• Backcountry Loop Road: A rough dirt road through the Eastern part of the West Block that leads to some remote scenery.

Things to do in the East Block

Badlands Parkway

Just like the Ecotour Scenic Drive is the best thing to do in the West Block, Badlands Scenic Parkway is the best thing to do in the East Block of Grasslands National Park.

The 11-km-long road has six stops. Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Parkway. Unlike most of the park, the Badlands Parkways is paved. However, it is a single-lane road, so you’ll need to watch for oncoming traffic and use the pull-outs. It also has a low speed limit, which is fine since you’ll want to admire the scenery.

Here’s a brief overview of each of the stops:

Gateway to the Grasslands

• A great viewpoint over the Rock Creek Valley and campground. It has a pair of Parks Canada red chairs.

Crackerjack

• One of the first views of the badlands.
• The info board here explains the history of dinosaur fossil hunting in this area.

Zahursky Point

• A viewpoint over the badlands with an info board about the Zahursky family, who homesteaded here over 100 years ago.
• There are a pair of Parks Canada red chairs here too.

Kapesiwin

• Kapesiwin means campsite in the Cree language. The info board here teaches you about the history of Indigenous people in this area.

Mauvais Terres

• A short trail leads to the top of a bluff with a great view of the badlands.

Ta Sunka Watogla

• The best viewpoint of the badlands. It has a pair of Parks Canada red chairs and is especially gorgeous at sunset.
• The info board here tells the story of the Lakota who sought sanctuary in this area after the Battle of Little Bighorn.
• You can follow a faint trail down the hill into the badlands. Walking off-trail is allowed in Grasslands National Park – for decades, bison hooves tilled the land here, so human footsteps are encouraged.

Rock Creek Trail

This easy 1 km loop trail goes up and over a small hill near the campground. It has good views of the Rock Creek Valley. There is also a tipi near the trailhead, which is great for photo ops.

Valley of 1000 Devils

This 10 km round-trip hike is the centerpiece hike in the East Block and takes three to four hours. It goes through grassy prairie before winding through the badlands.

I was really looking forward to this hike, but unfortunately, there was a thunderstorm that afternoon, so we had to skip it. I’d love to go back and hike it, since it looks amazing.

Guided Fossil Hike: 70 Million Years in 60 Minutes

One of the best things I did in the East Block was a guided fossil hike with a Park Ranger called 70 Million Years in 60 Minutes. The hike runs on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and costs $16.50 per person. You can register at the East Block visitor centre.

On the hour-long guided hike, we followed a Park Ranger on an off-trail route down into the badlands. She taught us about the KPg boundary, which is a thin geologic layer that marks the dinosaur extinction.

We also got to see lots of dinosaur fossils and learn about the sometimes tawdry history of fossil hunting in this region – many of the dinosaur skeletons in museums around the world came from Grasslands National Park!

Things to Do Anywhere in Grasslands National Park

Enjoy the Sunset

Saskatchewan sunsets are spectacular, and they are even more special amongst the native prairie landscapes of Grasslands National Park. You can see the sunset anywhere that faces west in the park, but here are two spots I recommend:

Frenchman Valley Campground/Belza Day Use Area (West Block)

A trail runs between the Frenchman Valley Campground and the Belza Day Use Area. If you take a spur trail from the main trail, you’ll go up onto a small ridge that has a spectacular view of the Frenchman River Valley. There is a pair of Parks Canada red chairs here too, so it’s a great photo op.

We headed up here for sunset on both of the nights we spent in the West Block. The pinks and purples of the sunset were gorgeous. But we also spotted a flock of pelicans migrating overhead and deer bounding through thickets near the river.

Badlands Parkway (East Block)

All of the stops along the Badlands Parkway are great sunset spots since they face west. If you’re short on time, the Gateway to Grasslands Viewpoint is the closest. (It’s also an easy 1.5 km hike from the campground.) It has a pair of Parks Canada red chairs.

However, I think it’s worth driving to the end of the Parkway to get the best view from Ta Sunka Watogla viewpoint. It looks out over the badlands. The buttes are spectacular in the soft light of sunset. There are Parks Canada red chairs here too!

Stargazing

Grasslands National Park has been a recognized National Dark Sky Preserve since 2009, and often has clear weather during summer evenings, so it is a great place to go stargazing.

You can stargaze anywhere in the park. The easiest way to stargaze is to camp. I spent three nights camping in Grasslands and spent some time stargazing each evening after it got dark. I also got to do some unplanned stargazing on a few middle-of-the-night trips to the outhouse!

If you plan to stargaze, minimize your use of lights and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. Park your car at a pullout or day use area, set up a lawn chair, then settle in to watch the stars. Binoculars or a telescope are also a great idea.

I’m not a good astro photographer (and I didn’t have a tripod with me), so unfortunately I don’t have any good night photos to share.

Bird Watching

I got into bird watching a little bit during the pandemic. But then I went to Grasslands National Park with a friend who is even more into bird watching. We ended up taking turns driving so the other person could spot birds and then yell about finding a place to pull over so we could look at the birds through our binoculars!

Grasslands has great birdwatching opportunities. My favourite bird by far was the burrowing owl. It’s a squat little owl with a slightly derpy face that lives in prairie dog colonies. We heard about an owl nest in the East Block and drove over from the campground to watch it on several occasions.

We also spent lots of time watching songbirds and water birds near Frenchman River and Rock Creek. Another favourite were the grouse, partridge, and pheasant in the grasses beside the road. We hoped to spot the endangered Greater Sage grouse, but didn’t have any luck. (There are only about 50 of them left in the park so that wasn’t surprising.)

Be sure to look up too! We saw hawks soaring on thermals and even a flock of pelicans cruising past.

I’m not a great bird photographer, so unfortunately I don’t have any awesome close-up photos of birds to share.

Park Ranger Fireside Chats

If you want to learn more about the plants, animals, and geology in the park, head to a Park Ranger-led Fireside Chat. They are held on Friday evenings in both the Frenchman River and Rock Creek campgrounds.

At the one we attended, the ranger had free marshmallows to roast and shared all kinds of fun facts about prairie plants, buffalo, snakes, and so much more. I learned at ton!

Camping in Grasslands National Park

There are two campgrounds in Grasslands National Park, one in each block. If you can swing it, I highly recommend camping in the park. You’ll get to enjoy sunsets, sunrises, stargazing, and way more wildlife viewing. You also won’t have to commute into the park, which can take up to an hour!

The campsites all accommodate tents or RVs. If you have a big trailer, there are also a few pull-through spots at each campground. You can also book a spot in one of their glamping-style oTENTik tents.

Keep in mind that both campgrounds are 100% reserveable. Reservations open in late January or early February each year. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Both campgrounds can be very windy. Bring lots of rope and pegs to secure tents and awnings. There is also no shade and the sun can be relentless. We cooked in the day use/kitchen shelters a few times to avoid the wind and sun.

Frenchman Valley Campground (West Block)

I spent two nights at the Frenchman Valley Campground. It’s located in the middle of the West Block near the end of the Ecotour Scenic Drive.

Since this part of the park has free-roaming bison, the campground has a fence around it to keep the bison out. On the day we arrived, a bison hung out on the hill across from the campground for a few hours!

Just behind the campground is a small ridge that has great views of the Frenchman River Valley. We spent lots of time up there watching birds, bison, and deer and admiring the incredible sunset!

The campground has all the basics: drinking water taps, garbage cans, firepits, and pit toilets. There are 20 campsites and 4 oTENTik glamping tents you can rent. (More on those below.) All of the campsites and oTENTiks have power but no water.

Notably, the campground doesn’t have showers. The closest showers are at the Val Marie Campground – it’s $5 for non-registered guests. We toughed it out with wet wipes and then showered after we left the area, so I don’t have a review of the showers.

The Frenchman Valley Campground does have a great day-use shelter called the Coulee Centre. It’s a great place to get out of the sun and wind. There are picnic tables both inside and outside the building. It also has wifi, although it’s not very strong.

Rock Creek Campground (East Block)

The Rock Creek Campground is located near the entrance to the East Block of Grasslands National Park and the start of Badlands Parkway. It’s set into a small hill above Rock Creek.

There are 24 campsites and 8 oTENTiks, and they all have power but not water. Like the Frenchman Valley Campground, Rock Creek also has drinking water taps, garbage cans, firepits, and pit toilets. Rock Creek also does not have showers, and I don’t have any recommendations on the closest place to shower – sorry!

The kitchen shelter at Rock Creek is small and basic, with just a few tables and not much natural light. The outdoor tables do have a good view of Rock Creek, though.

Camping in oTENTiks in Grasslands National Park

Both campgrounds have oTENTik glamping-style tents you can rent. They are also 100% reservable and reservations open at the same as camping reservations, usually in late January or early February.

I stayed in an oTENTik at both Frenchman Valley and Rock Creek campgrounds. It was nice not to have to worry about setting up a tent and to have an indoor place to hang out, especially when it was windy.

The oTENTiks include mattresses for up to 6 people, but you have to supply your own sleeping bags/bedding. You aren’t allowed to cook inside, but there is a picnic table, BBQ, and fire pit outside. We also brought a camping stove and used it on the picnic table.

The oTENTiks do have power, which was nice for charging our phones. They have a simple overhead light and come with a small heater, although we didn’t need it.

There is no plumbing – you’ll have to collect water from the campground taps and use the pit toilets.

Hotels Near Grasslands National Park

As I said above, I really recommend camping in Grasslands National Park. And since you can stay in glamping-style oTENTik, it’s more accessible than most types of camping. However, I know camping isn’t for everyone, so I’ve got a list of hotels near the park.

When booking a hotel, keep in mind that the West and East Blocks of the Park are about 2 hours apart. Note that there is no accommodation inside the park – you’ll have to stay outside the park boundary. As well, there really aren’t that many hotels in this area. I’ve listed all the nearby ones below.

The Convent Inn: A basic B&B in the town of Val Marie near the entrance to the West Block, housed in an old brick convent.

The Sanctuary Inn: Vacation rental suites in the town of Val Marie near the entrance to the West Block inside an old church.

The Crossing at Grasslands: Remote vacation suites on a rural property a few minutes south of Val Marie near the entrance to the West Block.

Rockglen Motel: Basic motel in the town of Rockglen, 45 minutes east of the East Block. This is the closest hotel to the East Block.

Grasslands National Park Travel Tips

How to Get There

Grasslands National Park is located in southern Saskatchewan, not far from the American border. It’s in a remote and sparsely populated part of the province. The closest cities and large towns are Swift Current (1.25 hours away), Moose Jaw (2.5 hours), and Regina (3.25 hours).

There is no public transportation to Grasslands National Park, so you will need to drive yourself. If you’re flying to Saskatchewan, the nearest airport and car rentals are in Regina. I like to book with Discovercars since it lets me compare prices across different rental companies.

To get to the park from Highway 1, you’ll drive on small two-lane highways. They can be bumpy and narrow, but are fine if you go the speed limit or a little under. Use Google Maps directions and pay attention to road signs. Be careful because Google Maps may try to send you on some unmarked gravel road through farmlands. It’s faster to stick to the paved official highways.

Driving Between the West Block and East Block

It’s a 2-hour drive between the West Block and East Block of Grasslands National Park. The entire drive is on quiet 2-lane highways with signs at major junctions. There are a few tiny towns along the route, but most do not have groceries or gas. (More details on that in the restaurants, groceries, and gas section below.)

Getting Around the Park

There is no public transportation inside Grasslands National Park, so you will need to drive yourself.

The roads inside both the West Block and East Block are gravel. In general, they are in good shape and easy to drive as long as you go slow. They can be dusty, so you’ll want to drive with your windows up and air recirculation on.

However, after it rains, the park roads can be muddy. The remote roads in the West Block are rougher and can become impassable when they are wet.

National Park Passes

You must purchase a Parks Canada pass to enter Grasslands National Park. Buy one at the Visitor Centre in the town of Val Marie outside of the West Block or at the Visitor Centre at the Rock Creek Campground in the East Block.

You will need to display your park pass on the dash of your car whenever you are parked in the park.

Admission fees are quite reasonable: $7.25 for adults or $15 for a family/group in the same vehicle. You can also use a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gives you access to all National Parks and Historic Sites for one year.

Good news: The Canada Strong Pass applies in Grasslands National Park from June 19 to September 7, 2026. Park entry is free during that time period.

How Long to Spend

I think the ideal amount of time to spend in Grasslands National Park is two to three days. I recommend spending one or two nights in the West Block and one night in the East Block.

In general, there are more things to see and do in the West Block. Allow at least one full day for exploring the West Block. Add on an extra day if you want to do any of the hikes.

The East Block is also beautiful, but it doesn’t require as much time – you can get away with a half day here. If you want to do any of the longer hikes, add on an extra day or two.

I spent two nights in the West Block and one in the East Block. I wish I had a bit more time in the East Block to go for a longer hike.

Best Months to Visit

I visited in late May, and we had great weather and saw lots of wildflowers. It was warm but not incredibly hot.

In general, the best months to visit Grasslands National Park are May, June, and September. The park has no shade and can be brutally hot in July and August.

Weather

Summer weather in Grasslands National Park is generally warm to hot, with temperatures in the mid-20s °C to low-30s °C. It doesn’t rain often – you can expect intermittent afternoon thunderstorms in the summer, especially in June and July, but not a ton of actual rain. We had to cancel plans to hike one afternoon when a thunderstorm rolled in.

The park can also be quite windy, especially in the afternoon. If you are camping, bring a quality tent that can stand up to wind and stake it out really well.

The Canadian government produces weather forecasts for the West Block and East Block of Grasslands National Park.

What to Pack for Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park is a remote and rugged place, so pack for function over looks.

Bring clothing for the weather. You’ll want quick-drying clothing for hiking. I recommend wearing a long-sleeved sun hoodie so you don’t have to worry about sunscreen application as often. You’ll also want a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Ticks can be an issue in the park, so I recommend wearing lightweight long pants tucked into socks. Insect repellent with DEET can also help. (I actually didn’t spot any ticks in Grasslands, thankfully, but I did see them elsewhere in Saskatchewan.)

It can get colder at night or when it is windy, so a fleece jacket, lightweight puffy, or windbreaker is a good idea. I brought a toque and ended up wearing it at night.

The trails are maintained to a National Park standard, so they aren’t that rough. You can bring hiking boots, but I wore trail runners and found them sufficient.

The wildlife watching opportunities in the park are great, so bring binoculars. I have a pair of tiny Pentax binoculars that are light and compact enough to hike with.

You can get drinking water at the campgrounds and visitor centre. Parks Canada recommends you have 2 to 3 litres of water per person per day. I used my insulated Hydro Flask bottle to keep my water cold.

There is nowhere to buy food inside the park, so you’ll need to bring your own. See the restaurants, groceries, and gas section below for more info.

If you plan to camp, you’ll need standard camping gear: tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stove, cooler, etc. I’ve got more info about the campground facilities in the where to stay section above.

Cell Phone Service and Wifi

While there is good cell phone service in most of southern Saskatchewan, Grasslands National Park is the exception. Cell phone service is spotty or non-existent in most of the park.

You will get good 5G service in the town of Val Marie and at the West Block Visitor Centre. You’ll also get some LTE service on the western edge of the West Block and on the first part of the Ecotour Scenic Drive.

However, as you drive further into the park, you’ll hit a big dead zone. There is weak wifi at the Frenchman Valley Campground at the Coulee Centre. Otherwise, except no cell phone service further into the West Block of Grasslands National Park.

The East Block of Grasslands National Park does not have good cell phone service either. You may get some 4G service on the eastern edge of the park, but it drops off quickly as you drive into the park and along Badlands Parkway.

You will also drive through some dead zones with no cell service when you drive between the West Block and the East Block.

Thankfully, all of the roads are well-signed, and you can pick up good maps at the visitor centres, so you won’t get lost, even without cell service.

If you are going hiking, use a GPS app like AllTrails+ or Gaia GPS and download an offline map before you go. You will usually have no cell service on hiking trails. I recommend putting your phone in airplane mode while hiking. That will preserve the battery. If you leave it on, it just keeps looking for signal, which drains the battery.

Restaurants, Groceries, and Gas

Grasslands National Park is a VERY quiet part of Saskatchewan. The towns nearby are tiny and have few services. I recommend getting groceries in larger towns on the way to the park.

Gas stations are also fairly spread out here. Fill up before you head into the area and try to keep your tank fairly full in case your route doesn’t have many gas stations.

Here is a run-down on what you can expect in the area.

Near the West Block

Val Marie is by far the biggest town near the park. It is located near the entrance to the West Block and is home to the Visitor Centre.

It has a restaurant called the Val Marie Bar and Cafe that serves Chinese and Western food, but I didn’t eat there, so I can’t give it a review.

There is a tiny grocery store called VM Grocery and Liquor. It’s tiny, but it does have milk and other basics. It also has a small selection of souvenirs and sometimes serves to-go meals. It’s the closest place to buy ice near the park.

Val Marie also has a gas station. It is a cardlock, but it is open to the public as long as you have a credit card. Follow the printed instructions in the booth to use this old school, self-serve pump.

Near the East Block

There are no towns with services close to the East Block. The town of Rockglen is 45 minutes east of the park. It has a few restaurants, a small grocery store, and a self-serve cardlock gas station.

Between West Block and East Block

The drive between West Block and East Block passes through or near several tiny towns. Mankota and McCord have self-serve cardlock gas stations but no other services.

On the Way to the West Block

If you’re coming from Highway 1 to the West Block, it makes the most sense to get supplies in Swift Current, 1.5 hours away. It has gas stations, restaurants, and several large grocery stores.

Another option if you’re coming from the west is to turn off Highway 1 at Gull Lake and head to West Block via the town of Shauavon. It’s a big town with restaurants, gas stations, and a grocery store. On my trip, I stocked up on groceries and ice here.

On the Way to the East Block

If you’re driving from Highway 1 to the East Block, the best place to get supplies is the small city of Moose Jaw, about 2.5 hours away. Moose Jaw has lots of restaurants, gas stations and grocery stores.

There are a few gas stations along the route between Moose Jaw and the East Block of Grasslands National Park. You can find them in the towns of Mossbank, Assiniboia, and Limerick.

Assiniboia is the largest town and the best place to stop. It also has restaurants and a grocery store. We even found a small coffee shop here!

Indigenous Context

Grasslands National Park is the traditional Indigenous territory of the Metis, Nakoda (Assiniboine), Nehiyawak (Plains Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Dakota and Lakota (Sioux). Historically, these Nations followed the bison migration through the region.

Once the bison were hunted into extinction, Indigenous people moved elsewhere. The Wood Mountain Lakota First Nation Reserve near East Block is home to some of the remaining Indigenous people in the area.

You can still see lots of evidence of Indigenous culture in Grasslands National Park. The most obvious examples are over 20,000 tipi rings found throughout the park. These circles of rocks mark the locations where tipis were erected in summer and winter camps.

Final Thoughts

Canada is a huge place, and the Rocky Mountains and coastlines seem to dominate travel media. We tend to skip over the middle of the country… and that’s a real shame.

I loved my time in Saskatchewan, but Grasslands National Park was my favourite. It’s quietly beautiful in a way that invites you to slow down. I loved watching the grass blow in the breeze and the clouds drift past at sunset. I also loved how relaxed Grasslands was – no crowds, no drama!

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, I encourage you to plan a trip to Grasslands National Park and to Saskatchewan in general. If you have questions about planning your trip, ask in the comments!

READ NEXT:

• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post Grasslands National Park Travel Guide appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve lived in the Vancouver area my whole life and have been hiking here since I was a child. These days I’m a hiking guidebook author and a full-time outdoor writer so I know lots about Vancouver’s trails. I’m also a four-season and all-weather hiker so I get out on the trails regularly in the winter.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

8 Best Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver

This post has dozens of options for Vancouver area hikes that are snow-free all year. Many of the hikes are short and easy nature walks, but there are a few gems.

Here are my picks for the 8 best snow-free hikes in Vancouver:

• Lynn Loop/Cedar Mills Trail
• Whyte Lake
• Lighthouse Park
• Jug Island
• Buntzen Lake
• East and West Canyon Loop
• Steelhead Falls
• Mount Crumpit

Vancouver Winter Hiking Safety Tips

Winter hiking requires more preparation than summer hiking: the weather is cold, the trails are often in poor condition and there are less people on the trails to help you if you get into trouble.

• Make sure you leave a trip plan with a friend or family member before you go.
• Always bring the 10 essentials and check out my tips for winter hiking to make sure you keep warm and stay safe.
• Check the weather before you go and bring appropriate clothing and gear. Use my picks for the Best Weather Apps for Hiking.
• Some of these trails might get a dusting of snow a few times of year (especially if it snows down at sea level), but none of them will get enough snow to require snowshoes. They can still be icy though, so microspikes are a good idea. (Read my guide to the difference between microspikes and snowshoes.) Check trail conditions ahead of time so you know what to expect. 

Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is an urban park that has a beautiful forested interior with one of the best short and easy hikes in Vancouver. I recommend using the park map to plan a route. My personal highlights include Beaver Lake, the Siwash Rock Trail, and the big trees along Tatlow Walk.

Distance: 1 to 15 km

Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Pacific Spirit Park

Pacific Spirit Park is a great patch of wilderness almost right in the city with tons of trail options. I used to trail run here a lot when I lived closer. My favourite trails are Lily of the Valley and Sword Fern because they feel a bit more wild than the multi-use trails.

Distance: 1 to 20 km

Time: 30 minutes to 6 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Point Grey Foreshore Trail

This beautiful walk goes along the coast past several out-of-the-way beaches in Pacific Spirit Regional Park. You’ll need a low tide to complete this trail. Check the tide table before you go.

Note: This trail passes through Wreck Beach, a nudist beach. While there are far fewer nude sunbathers in the winter than the summer, be prepared to see naked people any day of the year.

Distance: Up to 12 km round-trip

Time: 3 to 4 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Hikes in North Vancouver

Quarry Rock

A short forest walk to a beautiful viewpoint on Quarry Rock over Deep Cove. This is a great hike to do in the winter. In the summer the trail is REALLY busy since Quarry Rock is pretty Instagram-famous.

Distance: 4 km round-trip

Time: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Rice Lake

The easy walk around tiny Rice Lake in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve is popular with families and fishers. I love it on a calm day since you get great reflections in the lake’s surface. Keep your eye out for side trails that take you to hidden viewpoints along the shoreline.

Distance: 3 km loop

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Fisherman’s Trail

The Fisherman’s Trail is easy walk on a gravel trail along the banks of the Seymour River. Start the hike from the Rice Lake parking lot. Watch for the hidden tunnel part way along.

Distance: 16 km round-trip

Time: 3 to 4 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Homestead/Twin Bridges Loop

The Homestead/Twin Bridges Loop is a short hike to the Seymour River from the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve parking lot near Rice Lake. Start downhill on the Twin Bridges Trail to the river and a suspension bridge, then turn left to follow Fisherman’s Trail upstream. Head back uphill to the parking lot on the Homestead Trail.

Distance: 4.7 km

Time: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Seymour and Lynn Canyons

The hike around the best parts of the Seymour and Lynn Canyons is one of my favourite winter hikes. It’s low enough to avoid snow but it has lots of waterfalls, bridges, rainforest, and canyon viewpoints. You can start from a few different places, but it’s easiest to get parking at the Rice Lake Parking Lot.

Distance: 8 km loop

Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Baden Powell Trail from Deep Cove To Lynn Valley

The Baden Powell Trail stretches across the width of the North Shore. In the winter, I think the section between Deep Cove and Lynn Valley makes a great hike. You can do it as an out-and-back or use the bus or an Uber to do it one way. Or extend it all the way to the base of Grouse Mountain (see below).

Distance: 12 km round-trip

Time: 4 to 5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Baden Powell from Lynn Valley to Grouse Mountain

I think the section of the Baden Powell between Deep Cove and Lynn Valley is a little nicer than the one between Lynn Valley and the base of Grouse Mountain. But it’s still worth doing if you want a snow-free winter hike in Vancouver.

The trail stays in the trees and has tons of small ups and downs. It also crosses countless mountain bike trails – watch for signs and use an app like AllTrails or Gaia GPS to stay on track. You can do it as an out-and back from either end. Or take the bus, a taxi, or an Uber to do it as a one-way.

Distance: 15.1 km round-trip

Time: 6 hours

Difficulty: Challenging

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and Twin Falls

The hike to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and Twin Falls is a tourist hot-spot in the summer (it’s one o the best easy hikes in Vancouver), but in the winter it’s much less crowded and usually snow-free. This short loop includes the suspension bridge, Twin Falls and Twin Falls bridge, and 30 foot pool – all the highlights in the area.

Distance: 2.3 km loop

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Lynn Loop

This short Lynn Loop in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park is usually snow-free in the winter. It heads through the forest and the loops back along Lynn Creek. You can also extend the hike along the Headwaters Trail towards Norvan Falls, but you will likely encounter snow as you head upstream.

Distance: 5.5 km

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Hikes in West Vancouver

Capilano Canyon Trails

The Capilano Canyon Trails are fun to explore in the winter since they don’t get snow. The huge network of trails leads to views from the top of the Cleveland Dam, bridges over the Capilano River, views of the canyon, and lots of rainforest.

Distance: 6 km (but you can add on more trails)

Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Mountain Path and Cypress Trestle Bridge

The Mountain Path and Cypress Trestle Bridge trail is a new trail on the lower slopes of Cypress Mountain. It starts at Cypress Village, which is a great viewpoint and has a coffee shop and pizza truck. (It’s actually a real estate sales office, but it’s worth a visit for the views.) From there, it heads uphill through the forest to a beautiful trestle bridge with great views of Vancouver.

Distance: 6.5 km round-trip

Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Cypress Falls

The short hike to Cypress Falls is perfect in the winter since the waterfalls really get flowing when it rains. But stay back from the edge – there have been accidents here! The trail heads uphill through the canyon to visit several waterfall viewpoints.

Distance: 3 km round-trip

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Whyte Lake

I’ve done the hike to Whyte Lake at least a dozen times. It’s beautiful in all seasons and it doesn’t have snow in the winter. It’s an easy hike uphill through the forest next to a beautiful little canyon. It ends at a picturesque lake that often has good reflections and is home to Vancouver’s nicest outhouse.

Distance: 5 km round-trip

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Lighthouse Park

The trails in Lighthouse Park are so scenic: rainforest, bluffs with ocean views, a tiny beach, and great views of Vancouver. It’s on my list of Vancouver best easy hikes.

With tons of trails, you can make your own route. However, the loop around the park’s perimeter takes you to all the best viewpoints.

Distance: 5.3 km loop

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Hikes in Burnaby

Velodrome Trail

There are lots of snow-free hiking options on Burnaby Mountain. One of my favourites is the Velodrome Trail, which climbs steeply up the north side. Some people call it the Burnaby Grind. You can extend your hike by incorporating some of the other trails on the west side of the mountain.

Distance: 3 km round-trip

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Burnaby Lake

Even though this trail is in the middle of an urban area, it feels wild enough to call it a hike. The Burnaby Lake Trail makes a big loop around Burnaby Lake through forests and along well-built trails through the bog. You can barely tell you are close to Metrotown!

Distance: 10.5 km loop

Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Richmond and Delta

Iona Beach

Most people heading to Iona Beach stick to the paved and gravel walkway on top of the Iona Jetty. It’s a nice walk, but I wouldn’t describe it as hike. Instead, head further along the road to Iona Beach. You can follow a trail behind the beach and then come back along the sand (as long as it is low tide). It has good views of the river and you might spot seals on the log booms.

Distance: 4.5 km loop

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Deas Island

The hike on Deas Island is another gem of a trail hidden in the middle of the city. The trail actually goes right over to top of the Highway 99 tunnel. But for most of the hike, you’ll just enjoy a sandy trail and views of the Fraser River.

Distance: 4.7 km loop

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Delta Watershed Park

The Delta Watershed Park has a maze of trails sandwiched between Highway 91 and residential neighbourhoods. Many of the trails are mountain bike trails, so expect to share the trail. It’s a fun place to explore, but it’s easy to get turned around. The best option is a loop around the perimeter.

Distance: 6.3 km loop

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Belcarra

Jug Island Beach

I love the quiet Jug Island Beach trail through the forest in təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park. Along the way it has some good views of Bedwell Bay It ends at tiny Jug Island Beach on Indian Arm.

Distance: 5.5 km round-trip

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Admiralty Point

The Admiralty Point trail is another great hike in təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park – it starts from the same parking lot as the Jug Island Beach Trail so you can do them back to back if you want more distance. The hike to Admiralty Point follows the coast to lots of little pocket beaches and viewpoints of Indian Arm.

Distance: 5.5 km

Time: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Sasamat Lake

In the summer Sasamat Lake is so popular that the parking lot is usually totally full, but you won’t have to fight crowds in the winter. It’s a short and easy walk around the lake, including walking over a floating bridge. If you want to extend your hike, you can add on a trip to Woodhaven Swamp or Sugar Mountain.

Distance: 3.2 km loop

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Buntzen Lake

The loop around Buntzen Lake is a Vancouver classic. It goes through rolling forest with lots of viewpoints of the lake. It has both a suspension bridge and a floating brige, which is why its one of my favourite snow-free hikes. You can add on some of the other trails in the area, but many of them will have snow in the winter.

Distance: 10 km

Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Hikes in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam

Coquitlam Crunch

The Coquitlam Crunch is Coquitlam’s answer to the Grouse Grind, this steep trail is great for a workout and stays snow-free all year. It heads steadily uphill under the powerlines with lots of stairs.

Distance: 5.8 km round-trip

Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Coquitlam River Trails

The Coquitlam River Trails are hidden behind houses in Coquitlam. The network of trails stretches along both sides of the river. In the fall, you can spot salmon in the river and the side channels. My sister lives nearby and this is one of her favourite winter hikes in Vancouver.

If you want to extend your hike, this trail is part of the 23.5 km Taboulay Poco Trail that makes a loop around Port Coquitlam.

Distance: 5.8 km loop

Time: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Minnekhada Regional Park

Minnekhada Regional Park has a wonderful network of trails that goes through forest and past marshes. The highlight is the climb up to a viewpoint over the Pitt River.

Distance: 6.8 km loop

Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Hikes in Maple Ridge

UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest

The UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest near Golden Ears Provincial Park has a huge network of trails in a working forest. The most popular option is an 8 km loop that includes a lookout and a little log cabin shelter.

Distance: 7.9 km

Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Lower Falls/Gold Creek Falls

The walk to Lower Falls (also called Gold Creek Falls) is probably the most popular hike in Golden Ears Provincial Park. Thankfully, it is at low elevation so it is usually snow-free all year. It’s an easy hike beside Gold Creek to a great waterfall viewpoint.

Distance: 5.3 km

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

East and West Canyon Loop

This loop heads up the east side of Gold Creek, crosses a bridge, then heads back down the west side. Parts of the trail are old logging roads, but you can barely tell since the mossy forest and grown so much over the decades.

These East and West Canyon Trails didn’t used to connect, but BC Parks built a bridge here about 10 years ago, making a loop possible. If you want to extend your hike, you can take a rough side trail to Upper Gold Creek Falls. (This trip is also in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.)

Distance: 10.3 km

Time: 3 to 3.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Kanaka Creek Cliff Falls

The highlight of the short hike to Kanaka Creek Cliff Falls is the waterfall. It cascades over a set of sandstone ledges that form curved pools. If possible, visit during cold and dry weather to see the pools at low water.

Distance: 2.3 km

Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Kanaka Creek/Cliff Falls: A short walk to a picturesque waterfall with curved pools.

Snow-Free Hikes in Langley

Campbell Valley Regional Park

There are lots of trails to explore in Campbell Valley Regional Park. The best ones are on boardwalks next to the tiny river. It’s a great spot for bird watching.

Distance: 7.6 km loop

Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Brae Island Regional Park

The Tavistock Trail at Brae Island Regional Park is a great short hike in Fort Langley. The trail heads through the forest alongside the Bedford Channel. There are a few side trails leading down to the water and a great view of the Fraser River at Tavistock Point.

Distance: 4.7 km

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Aldergrove Regional Park

Aldergrove Regional Park has a huge network of trails through wetlands beside Pepin Brook. There are also great views of Mount Baker.

Distance: 10.8 km loop

Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Mission and Harrison

Rolley Lake and Rolley Falls

There is a popular campground at Rolley Lake, but it’s closed in winter so you might have the area to yourself. (And you’ll have to walk an extra kilometre into the park from the gate. But your reward is a lovely easy hike around the lake along with a steeper hike to a waterfall.

Distance: 4.8 km loop

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Hayward Lake and Steelhead Falls

This trail follows the shoreline of Hayward Lake, which is actually a hydro power reservoir. You can continue along the entire eastern shoreline. But don’t miss the side trip to Steelhead Falls, just a one kilometre from the parking lot.

Distance: 9.7 km round-trip

Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Cascade Falls

The hike to Cascade Falls is very short, but the scenery is worth it. The steep trail leads to a suspension bridge in front of a spectacular waterfall.

Distance: 0.6 km round trip

Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Whippoorwill Point

The hike to Whippoorwill Point starts in Harrison Hot Springs and follows the shoreline of Harrison Lake. It then heads up over a ridge before descending to a tiny sandy beach.

Distance: 3.7 km round-trip

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Spirit Trail

If you’re in Harrison Hot Springs in winter, don’t miss the Spirit Trail. It’s a shot hike, but it features dozens of hand carved masks mounted on trees. It’s kinda creepy and kinda cool at the same time.

Distance: 1 km loop

Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Abbotsford

Abby Grind

The steep Abby Grind is also known as the Glen Ryder Trail. It climbs up to Taggart Peak and is a well-known alternative to the Grouse Grind.

Distance: 3.4 km round-trip

Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging

Downes Bowl

Downes Bowl in Abbotsford has a great trail system through a marsh with lots of boardwalks. It is a bit of a maze, but you can make a loop that uses most of the trails.

Distance: 4.3 km loop

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Chilliwack and Hope

Tea Pot Hill

The hike up Tea Pot Hill in Cultus Lake Provincial Park is one of the most unique hikes in Vancouver thanks to the literal teapots along the sides of the trail. Even though the trail goes up a small hill, it’s low enough to be snow-free most winters.

Distance: 4.8 km round-trip

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Seven Sisters Trail

The Seven Sisters Trail is another great short hike in Cultus Lake Provincial Park. It goes to a beautiful grove of old growth trees known as the Seven Sisters.

Distance: 3.2 km

Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Chilliwack Community Forest

The new volunteer-created trail network in the Chilliwack Community Forest includes several short loops through the forest. You can string a few of them together to make various loops.

Distance: 4 km loop

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Cheam Lake Wetlands

Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park is hidden in farm land in between Chilliwack and Hope. It’s a great place to go birding. The trails along the lake and through the marsh are my favourite – some of them feature floating walkways.

Distance: 4.5 km round-trip

Time: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Bridal Veil Falls

The gate to Bridal Veil Falls is closed in winter, but you can still hike it if you park outside the gate and walk a few minutes along the road. It’s a short hike, but the falls are incredible. Be sure to stay away from the base – in the past visitors have been seriously injured when rocks fell on them.

Distance: 1.3 km loop

Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Flood Falls

The hike to Flood Falls is a good leg-stretcher if you’re driving along Highway 1. The falls is really spectacular after heavy rains.

Distance: 1 km round-trip

Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Snow-Free Hikes in Squamish

Mount Crumpit

The hike to Mount Crumpit is one of my favourite local hikes in Squamish. It’s low enough to avoid snow but it’s high enough to have incredible views of the Stawamus Chief and downtown Squamish. The hike is steep in places!

Distance: 7.9 km round-trip

Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate.

Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake

As a Squamish local, the Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake Provincial Park is one of my go-to winter hikes. It’s relatively easy, but the forest is gorgeous and there are four lakes to check out along the way.

Distance: 6.3 km loop

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Brohm Lake

I love the trails at Brohm Lake. You can do the easy 4 km loop around the lake or add on a great viewpoint. I also love the off-the-beaten path trails in the southern part of park. My recommended loop takes in the best spots in the park.

Distance: 8 km loop

Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Starvation Lake on the Sea to Sky Trail

The Sea to Sky Trail stretches from Squamish to Whistler. Most of it is too snowy in the winter. But you can hike the short section from the end of Paradise Valley Road to Starvation Lake.

Distance: 6.4 km round-trip

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Snow-Free Backpacking Trips Near Vancouver

With snow in the mountains between November and June, you’ll have to look to low elevation trails to go backpacking in Vancouver in the off-season. See my list of the best spring backpacking trips in British Columbia for recommendations on where to for a snow-free backpacking trip in March, April, and May.

Final Thoughts

How many of these snow-free hikes in Vancouver have you done? Do you have even more to add to my list? Let me know in the comments?

MORE VANCOUVER HIKES:

• 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
• Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver
• Alternatives to the Grouse Grind: Steep Workout Hikes Near Vancouver
• 35+ Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit
• 40+ Waterfall Hikes Near Vancouver

WINTER TIPS:

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver

The post Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: 50+ Year-round Trails appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Since it includes only a few sections of moving water on rivers and lots of flatwater on lakes, the Bowron Lakes canoe trip is popular with less experienced canoeists. Before paddling Bowron, I had done a few short canoe trips on lakes but had no moving water experience. BUT I went with friends who had lots of experience – I don’t recommend you tackle this challenge if you’re a complete beginner.

I’ve put together a complete guide to the Bowron Lakes for you. It’s written for people like me who aren’t canoe trip veterans so it has lots of beginner-friendly tips.

This post includes:

• How to make reservations for the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit and how much it costs
• A section-by-section description of the trip including info on all lakes and portages
• What to bring on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit and where to rent equipment
• Beginner-friendly tips for paddling the Bowron Lakes

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit Quick Facts

Location: Northern British Columbia, about 2 hours east of Quesnel or 3 hours southeast of Prince George.

Distance: 116.4 kilometres including 10.8 kilometres of portages.

Duration: 6 to 10 days

Cost: $60 per person for the full circuit or $30 per person for the West Side only, plus an $18 reservation fee per boat and gear rental fees (if applicable).

Best Time to Go: The circuit is open between mid-May and the end of September. The best weather is in July and August. June and September can also be nice but a bit colder. Note that the bugs can be bad in June and July.

Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit Map

BC Parks produces a good overview map for the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit. You can download it from their website and they will also give you a printed version when you check in to start your trip. It’s very high level and doesn’t have very much detail, so it isn’t great for navigation.

If you’re old school, International Travel Maps and Books makes a waterproof 1:50,000 scale Bowron Lakes topographic map.

We used the Gaia GPS app for navigation. It was great to be able to know how far away from the next portage or campsite we were since the scale on the BC Parks map made it very difficult to tell. It was also helpful for locating campsites as some are tucked away in small bays and the map doesn’t show that.

Watch for signs along the circuit to mark campsites, routes through channels, and wood lots.

Full Circuit vs. West Side Only

While many paddlers choose to complete the entire 116.4 kilometre circuit, you can also do an out-and-back trip on the West Side of the circuit. It’s a good option for less experienced paddlers and those who have less time (typically 2-4 days).

The West Side includes Bowron, Swan, Spectacle, Skoi, Babcock, and Unna Lakes for a total distance of up to 30 kilometres one way. You can travel as far along the West Side as you want before doubling back to the start at Bowron Lake. Many people opt to go only as far as the end of Spectacle Lake to avoid the two kilometres of portages.

Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit Reservations

Reservations for 2026 open on December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m. PT.

Canoeing the Bowron Lake Chain is very popular, so there is a reservation system through BC Parks. Only 50 people (25 canoes) are allowed to start the circuit each day.

If you plan to go between late June and early September, make a reservation on the first day that reservations open. These dates are very popular and get booked up. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations.

There is an $18 reservation fee per boat. User fees are $60 per person for the full circuit or $30 per person for the West Side only. There is a limit of three people per boat.

A Note About Group Size

If your party is between 7 and 14 people, you will need to make a group reservation and follow special group rules. Only one group is allowed on the circuit at a time. You must camp in designated group sites with white markers and use a fixed 8 day/7 night itinerary.

Parties of 1-6 people can stay at any of the regular sites (with orange markers), can stay multiple nights at the same site, and can take up to 14 nights on the circuit.

Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit Description

Pre-Trip Orientation Session

To start the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit you must check in at the ranger station and go through a mandatory orientation. Orientations are offered each day between 8 am and 12 pm. You no longer need to book an orientation time when reserving your dates. You can just show up between 8 am and noon and a ranger will start your orientation.

The orientation involves watching a video about wilderness ethics and safety on the circuit. The ranger will also give you updates on paddling and portage current conditions, wildlife advisories, and updated locations of woodlots to collect firewood.

Pre-Trip Gear Weigh-In

At the orientation, you will also have to weigh your gear at a scale in the parking lot. Park rules allow you to carry a maximum of 60 lbs of gear inside your canoe when you use a canoe cart to portage. This is to make sure that the portage trails don’t get too damaged.

Organize your gear before the weigh-in and plan which items you want to put in the canoe and which bags you want to carry on portages. We used a simple luggage scale at home to plan before our trip.

The ranger will write down which of your bags are allowed to stay in the canoe during portages on a card that gets zip-tied to your canoe. If you encounter a ranger on a portage they make check your canoe to make sure it only has permitted items in it.

Keep in mind that there are a few things that DO NOT count in the 60 lb. weight limit: PFDs (life jackets), bailer, paddles, throw bag (rescue rope), first aid kit, axe, water bottles, and canoe cart. You also don’t have to weigh the canoe!

Registration Centre to Isaac Lake

This section includes the three of the longest portages on the entire circuit, made even more difficult by fully loaded canoes. From the registration centre you start with a 2.4 kilometre portage to Kibbee Lake. It’s a long, slow climb with a few flatter spots as you gain about 40 metres.

From the muddy put-in, you’ll paddle 2.4 kilometres across Kibbee Lake. There is one campsite on Kibbee Lake if you got a late start.

At the end of the lake hop out to portage again. This portage is 2 kilometres long. The first kilometre is uphill, gaining about 40 metres. The middle is rolling, and then the last section is downhill.

The paddle across Indianpoint Lake is 6.4 km long. There are several campsites on the north side of the lake, but the banks are steep so the campsites are tight against the hill.

Look for the orange channel markers at the marshy eastern end of Indianpoint Lake to wind through the grassy channel and a pond to a small, muddy take-out.

From here it’s a 1.6 kilometre portage to Isaac Lake. The hike has a small hill at the beginning, then the rest is all downhill. The last section is challenging thanks to several mud puddles and steep bridges over creeks.

Isaac Lake

Isaac Lake is by far the largest lake on the Bowron Lakes Circuit. It gets very windy with rough water in the afternoons. On my trip, we experienced a bit of this on our first day on Isaac Lake, but on the second day, we were treated to glass-smooth water all day.

Paddle near the north and east shores of the lake so you can get off the water quickly in bad weather.

From the put-in at the end of the portage, you’ll paddle 6.8 kilometres down the west arm of Isaac Lake.

There are two campsites along this stretch, but many paddlers prefer to stay at site 15 in Wolverine Bay where the west and main arms of the lake meet. This big site has space for 9 tents and a large covered cooking shelter with a wood stove.

The main arm of Isaac Lake is 31.2 kilometres long and has incredible views of the mountains and a few waterfalls. All of the campsites are located on the east side of the lake. Many of them only hold two tents, so plan well if your group has more.

There is a large campground at the end of Isaac Lake with a covered cooking shelter and woodstove. It’s a popular place to camp before running the Isaac and Cariboo Rivers and can get crowded.

Isaac River and Cariboo River to Lanezi Lake

This section is the most technical part of the Bowron Lake Chain canoe trip, and the part I was most nervous about. You’ll have to navigate several sections of moving water.

You can portage the worst rapid, but you still need to prepare for some bumpy water and sharp turns and be prepared to avoid rocks and logs.

At the end of Isaac Lake, you have a choice: you can run the first section of the Isaac River or portage around it. This first part of this section is known as ‘The Chute’ and involves a steep chute into standing waves with a hard right turn at the bottom.

Next is ‘The Rollercoaster’, a standing wave train. There are large rocks on the right that you will need to avoid. There is a mandatory portage at the end of ‘The Rollercoaster’.

You can also choose to portage 1.2km around The Chute and The Rollercoaster. (That’s what two of the three boats in my group did.)

The narrow portage trail is high above the Isaac River. It starts with a stiff climb, then rolls through flattish and downhill sections. It travels through a beautiful forest with views of the river. After you meet up with paddlers who chose to tackle The Chute and the Rollercoaster, you’ll portage another 0.5 kilometres.

Next, you must paddle a short 0.7 km section of the Isaac River, crossing from the east bank to the west.

At high water this section is non-technical, but at low water, there is a very large rock in the centre of the channel. On my trip, our first boat nearly capsized running this section, but thankfully was able to warn the other boats so we could prepare for it.

Make sure you get out at the marked portage trailhead. Otherwise, you’ll get swept downriver over Isaac Falls. There was a fatality there in early 2021. The 0.5 km portage is a tough one. The whole trail is narrow and bumpy. It starts with a very steep climb and finishes with a long, steep descent.

If you want to visit 11 m-high Isaac Falls, hike the trail through the back of campsite 30 at the end of the portage.

To continue along the circuit, put your canoe in the water and paddle 1.2 km across tiny McLeary Lake. There’s an older trapper cabin on the eastern shore that makes a nice lunch spot.

The next section is the 5.2-kilometre-long Cariboo River. This is one of the most difficult parts of the trip because the silty water and moving current make it hard to see and avoid submerged rocks, sand bars, deadheads, and sweepers.

We had very low water on my trip which made the trip challenging as there were a lot of underwater hazards. But thankfully the low water also made it easier to get out of the boat on gravel bars to scout obstacles ahead of time. Use caution through this section. Many people capsize here every year.

Lanezi Lake to Unna Lake

As the Cariboo River widens and slows, you’ll enter Lanezi Lake. Watch for sand bars at the entrance as they can ground your boat or cause waves on windy days. This lake is 14.8 km long and surrounded by beautiful mountains. They seem steeper and closer to the lake than the ones on Isaac Lake.

There are several campsites on the north shore of Lanezi Lake, but site 34 at Turner Creek is a popular place to camp since it has space for seven tents and has a covered picnic shelter with a woodstove. Many people use this camp as a place to dry off after dumping in the Cariboo River. On my trip, we took a rest day here to wait out a torrential rainstorm.

After Lanezi Lake, paddle 1.2 km along the Cariboo River. Unlike the earlier section of the river, this is more like a narrower part of the lake than a fast-moving river.

Next, you’ll cross Sandy Lake over 4.8 km. It’s a very shallow and warm lake with beautiful sandy beaches and great swimming. The campsites on the north shore were burned in forest fires in early 2021 so you will not be able to camp on this lake until the sites are rebuilt.

Leaving Sandy Lake you’ll be in the slow waters of the Cariboo River for four kilometres. At the 3.6 km mark, watch for a sign for the Babcock Creek portage on your right. If you want to continue on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit, take your canoe out here.

But if you want a worthwhile detour to a gorgeous campground and a waterfall hike, continue down the river for another 400m. Watch carefully for the left turn into Unna Lake. If you continue down the Cariboo River you will plunge over 24-metre-high Cariboo Falls!

Tiny Unna Lake is beautiful with a sandy beach and lots of camping at the north end of the lake.

Paddle across to the southern shore to hike 2.5km return to Cariboo Falls. It’s a thundering cascade in a deep canyon. I really recommend this side trip.

Unna Lake to Spectacle Lake

To return to the main circuit, paddle 400m back upstream on the Cariboo River, then take the signed left turn into Babcock Creek. The portage take-out is a few hundred meters up the creek. In late summer it can be very shallow so you may have to get out of your canoe to line it through the creek.

Next up is the easy 1.2-kilometre-long portage to Babcock Lake. Babcock Lake is a smaller lake at only 2.8 km. You are now out of the Cariboo River watershed and into the Bowron River watershed so you will notice that the water isn’t silty anymore.

The next portage is very short. The park map says it’s 400m long, but my GPS measured about 200m. The trail ends in a marshy channel. In 2021, beavers were very active here and the put-in was partially flooded.

Follow the channel markers out into Skoi Lake, which at 800m across, is the smallest lake on the Bowron Lake canoe trip.

On the other side, tackle the shortest portage on the trip. The official distance is 400m, but we measured it at about 150m. It’s a straight shot through the trees so you can stand at the midpoint and see both lakes at the same time.

Spectacle Lake to Bowron Lake

Once you put in at Spectacle Lake you will have finished all of the portages on the circuit! Spectacle and Swan Lakes kind of merge together into one 12.8km long lake with lots of small islands, bays, sand bars, and side channels.

The grassy shorelines are a good place to spot wildlife and birds. We startled two huge sandhill cranes here on our trip. They were migrating south from Alaska to their wintering grounds in the southern USA.

There are several campsites along Spectacle and Swan Lakes. One of the most popular is site 48 at Pat’s Point midway down. The prominent point has a large campground and a cooking shelter with a woodstove.

At the north end of Swan Lake, you’ll encounter Pavich Island. Later in the year at low water, you must go around the east (right) side of the island in a narrow and grassy channel.

At the end of Swan Lake, you’ll paddle the Bowron River for four kilometres. It’s a great place to spot wildlife, especially moose. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any on our trip. Watch for orange channel markers on the Bowron River to stay in the main channel and out of some of the side marshes.

Use caution at the entrance to 7.2-kilometre-long Bowron Lake. High winds and lots of sandbars can create big waves. Bowron Lake also has a reputation as one of the windiest, and therefore most dangerous lakes on the circuit. It’s wise to paddle down one of the shorelines.

If you rented from one of the outfitters, you can end your trip on their beach at the far west end of Bowron Lake or at the mouth of the Bowron River. If you are ending your journey at the provincial park, it’s located just north of the mouth of the Bowron River. There’s a long dock and a short trail back to the parking lot.

Bowron Lakes Itineraries

Most people take six to eight days to paddle the Bowron Lakes Chain. (The maximum allowed time is 14 days.) Our group took eight days which included one rest day. We were on the water for 3.5 to 7 hours each day.

Each day, we adjusted our itinerary on the fly to plan around the weather. (We used our Garmin inReach Mini to get a satellite weather forecast every day which was a HUGE help. We were able to be off the water and under cover in the worst weather since we knew when it was coming.)

My recommendation for a standard itinerary is below. It’s a great option for less experienced paddlers who don’t have the stamina for long days in a canoe. You could easily make this itinerary a day or two shorter or longer.

Standard 7 or 8 Day Bowron Lakes Itinerary

This is the itinerary that we used. I would use this itinerary again as it worked really well.

Day 1: Registration Centre to Indianpoint Lake

Day 2: Indianpoint Lake to Isaac Lake

Day 3: Isaac Lake

Day 4: Isaac Lake to Lanezi Lake

Day 5: Lanezi Lake to Unna Lake

Day 6: Unna Lake to Spectacle Lake

Day 7: Spectacle Lake to Bowron Lake

Rest Day: If you want a rest day, just add it to your itinerary. If you have nice weather, I recommend a rest day at Unna Lake to swim and see the waterfall. In bad weather, take a rest day at a campsite with a shelter and woodstove such as site 15 (Wolverine Bay), site 28 (south end of Isaac Lake), site 34 (Turner Creek), or site 48 (Pat’s Point).

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Camping on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

You must stay in one of the 56 designated campgrounds on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit. There are 10 sites reserved for groups and 46 regular sites.

Each regular site has room for 1-13 tents on dirt tent pads. Tent pads vary in size but will fit up to a 3 person tent. Some of them are poorly drained and can turn into a puddle during rain storms. Choose wisely!

The chart on the back of the park map shows how many tents can fit at each site.

All sites are first-come, first-served so you can change your itinerary as you go. In July and August when the circuit is busy, try to arrive at camp in the early to mid-afternoon as the campsites can get full.

If your group has more than two tents, plan your trip carefully as there are some long stretches where the campsites won’t have enough tent spots.

Each campground has bear caches, pit toilets, and fire rings. Some sites also have a covered cooking shelter with a woodstove or a historic cabin that can be used as a cooking shelter. See the Bowron Lake Provincial Park map for locations.

There is no firewood at the campsites. Instead, you’ll need to pick up firewood along the way at designated woodlots that have pre-cut wood.

The park ranger will mark these locations on your map when you start. We found the map markings a bit vague so be on the lookout for large “W” signs as you paddle as these mark the woodlots.

Bowron Lakes Weather

The Bowron Lakes Circuit is located in the mountains of northern British Columbia. In general, the weather is a bit chilly and often wet.

The warmest months are July and August when the average low temperature is 3°C and the average high is 18°C. In June and September temperatures are usually between 0°C and 16°C.

The area experiences a fair amount of rain, with June and July being the wettest months. August is a bit drier and September is the driest month that the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit is open (but not by much).

Even if you check the Bowron Lakes weather forecast before you go, on a week-long trip that forecast can change a lot. No matter what the forecast, pack for chilly and wet weather.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

We brought our Garmin inReach Mini satellite messenger and used the satellite weather forecast option every evening to plan the next day’s paddle. It was really helpful to know which day was supposed to have a lot of rain and which was supposed to be nice.

Thanks to knowing the forecast, we pushed ourselves through a long, tough day in a bit of drizzle to get to a campsite with a covered cooking shelter and woodstove. We spent the next day there as a rest day playing cards and napping during a torrential rainstorm. I’m glad we didn’t have to paddle in that!

What to Bring on the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

You will need to be fully self-sufficient on the Bowron Canoe Circuit and pack everything with you. For a full list of things you’ll need on a wilderness trip, see my backpacking gear checklist. Below I’ve listed some of the key items you will need to bring on the Bowron Lakes:

Canoe or Kayak: It’s easiest to rent these at one of the nearby outfitters (see below). If you have an odd number of people in your group, put the single person in a kayak. Otherwise, kayaks can be a challenge to pack and portage compared to canoes. However, they are much easier to paddle in the wind.

Canoe or kayak cart: Rent an expedition cart with large wheels. The portages can be very bumpy and muddy so small carts won’t work well.

Firestarter and axe: You will want to have a fire on chilly and wet evenings in camp. The firewood comes split into large half-rounds, but you’ll want a good lightweight axe to split them further into kindling. (Hatchets are too small.) The wood can also be wet and hard to start, so firestarter cubes are key.

Bug spray and headnet: The bugs can be bad in June, July, and early August. On my trip in early September, there were no bugs, but my friends said they wouldn’t do the trip without bug spray and a headnet at other times of year.

Tarp: Bring a lightweight tarp to cover your cooking area as the Bowron Lakes get a lot of rain. Some of the tent pads are also very poorly drained and can end up with pooling water. Stringing up a tarp over your tent can help redirect the water over the side so you don’t end up camping in a puddle.

Dry bags and portage backpack: You can rent huge waterproof portage backpacks from some of the outfitters (see below). You’ll also want to make sure the rest of your gear is protected from rain or water sloshing around in the bottom of your boat. We brought a our favourite big waterproof duffle bag and some dry bags.

Rain gear: It can be cold and rainy at any time of year. Bring a good quality waterproof breathable rain jacket and rain pants.

Water shoes or rubber boots: At most of the put-ins and take-outs you’ll end up with wet feet. On warm days bare feet or sandals will be fine, but your feet will freeze at other times. I brought a pair of neoprene paddling booties to wear in the canoe and wore trail runners on the portages and around camp. A friend brought a pair of rubber boots that she loved since her feet were never wet.

Phone leash: I used my phone for navigation and photos, so I wanted to keep it easy to access, but also didn’t want to dump it in a lake. I brought my Nite Ize phone leash so I could clip it to my jacket. I used the same leash on my Johnstone Strait kayaking trip and love it.

Lightweight chair: Each person in our group brought a lightweight camp chair. (Most people had the Helinox Chair One.) They are definitely a luxury, but they were SO nice to have so we didn’t have to sit on the ground to cook and eat. They were also nice around the campfire.

READ NEXT: How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

Canoe and Equipment Rentals

Most paddlers on the Bowron Lakes rent at least some of their equipment. There are four outfitters on Bowron Lake near the start of the circuit.

Becker’s Lodge: Rents canoes, kayaks, carts, portage bags, and camping gear. They have the largest fleet and rent high-end lightweight canoes that aren’t as heavy to portage as traditional canoes. Their location is a few minutes from the circuit start, but they will drive the canoes over there for you. You will finish your trip on their beach. We used Becker’s Lodge rentals on our trip and were happy with our lightweight boats.

Bowron Lake Lodge: Rents a limited selection of canoes and kayaks as well as carts, portage packs, and camping gear. Their location is a few minutes from the circuit start, but they will drive the canoes over there for you. You will finish your trip on their beach.

Bear River Mercantile: Rents a limited selection of traditional and heavy canoes and kayaks as well as carts. Their location is a few minutes from the circuit start, but they will drive the canoes over there for you. You will finish your trip on their beach on the Bowron River.

Bowron Lakes Canoe Rentals: Rents four types of canoes, carts, and tents. Their canoes are traditional and heavy but their prices are slightly cheaper. Conveniently located at the start and finish of the circuit in Bowron Lake Provincial Park.

Tips for the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

Before paddling the Bowron Lakes I had done a few short canoe trips on lakes and some ocean kayaking, but I had never paddled in moving water. However, everyone else on my trip had some moving water experience, including one friend who had whitewater canoeing experience.

In this section, I’ll give you my beginner-friendly tips for the Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit.

Paddling Tips

• This isn’t a trip for inexperienced paddlers. Make sure everyone in your group has some canoeing experience and knows the basic strokes. It’s best if at least one person in each canoe has experience with moving water.
• Try to get on the water early in the day and off the water by mid-afternoon when the wind picks up. This is especially helpful on the bigger lakes.
• Paddle close to the shoreline so you can get off the water quickly in high wind or bad weather.
• Keep a small dry bag close to each paddler with snacks, water, and rain gear so they are easy to grab without shifting around in the canoe.
• Be alert in moving water as you watch for hidden rocks, sandbars, and submerged driftwood known as deadheads (where the end sticks up from the bottom) or sweepers (where the fallen tree is blocking the route of travel). If possible, get out on shore to scout upcoming hazards.
• Use caribiners and pack buckles to attach all your gear to the canoe. That way it won’t float away if you capsize.

Portaging Tips

• Bring an expedition canoe cart with big wheels. It will make the portages MUCH easier.
• Take the time to center your canoe cart and do up the straps tightly before you start each portage. Having the weight balanced will make portaging easier. It can be easier to have two people lift the canoe while a third puts the cart into place.
• Expect portages to take a long time as you transition from paddling to hiking (changing footwear, reorganizing gear, strapping on the canoe cart, etc.).
• Weigh your gear at home and plan which gear will stay in the canoe and which you will carry while portaging. We brought a large waterproof duffle that we left in the canoe. We also had a big waterproof portage backpack and a small dry bag backpack that we wore on portages.
• The portages can be muddy and rocky so wear good footwear. Waterproof trail runners or hiking boots are a good idea since you will be carrying heavy backpacks and wrestling with a canoe on uneven terrain.
• Position one person at the front of the canoe pulling and one at the back pushing. Lean in to push with your legs, not your arms. Communicate to avoid bumps, rocks, tree roots, and puddles.
• Expect the canoe cart to bounce around on the bumpy trail. The canoe will inevitably smack you in the ribs.

Wildlife Tips

• The Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit is home to both black and grizzly bears but we didn’t see any bears or bear sign on our trip. Read my tips for hiking and camping in bear country.
• Carry bear spray in an easy to grab place on all portages.
• Use food lockers to store all food, garbage, cooking gear, and toiletries at campsites. If you need to leave gear unattended, there are also food lockers at each end of all portages.
• Avoid burning garbage in the fire as it may not burn off completely and can attract wildlife.
• You may also spot beaver, otter, mink, moose, porcupine, and many bird species on the Bowron Canoe Circuit. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to observe them and give them lots of space to continue their natural behaviour. This is especially true for moose who have charged canoes when protecting calves.

Trip Planning Tips

• If possible, try to try to travel in a group with 2 tents or less. This will give you a lot more options for where to camp.
• Try to plan out your day each morning by looking at the map and picking proposed lunch and snack locations as well as some backups. Some lakes have steep shorelines where the only place to easily get out of the canoe for a break or to go to the bathroom is at a campsite.
• Since you can carry a lot of gear in a canoe, it can be tempting to bring a ton. But try to pack light and compact to make the portages easier. We brought more clothing than we normally would on a backpacking trip and heavier food including some canned food. In total we had about 120lbs of combined gear for two people at the start compared to the 80ish lbs we would have on a week-long backpacking trip.

How to get to the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

The Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit is located about 2 hours east of the town of Quesnel in Northern British Columbia. There is no public transportation to the park, so the only practical way to get there is by car.

If you are flying, the Prince George airport is the most convenient (3 hours away). It also has car rentals. I use Discover Cars since it lets you compare prices from lots of different companies. That way you can be sure you are getting the best deal.

Driving Directions

From Highway 97 just north of Quesnel, go east on Highway 26 towards Barkerville for about 79 kilometres. Turn left onto the gravel Bowron Lake Park Road and follow it for about 26 kilometres. In the last kilometre you’ll pass by several private lodges before arriving at Bowron Lake Provincial Park and the canoe circuit check-in.

Where to Stay Near the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit

Since the Bowron Lakes are fairly remote, you likely will want to stay overnight in the area before or after your trip. There are a few options right near the canoe put-in, and lots more within a few hours’ drive.

Bowron Lake Provincial Park Campground: Located right next to the ranger station where you check-in to start the canoe circuit. The campground has 25 sites and costs $18/night. Advance reservations recommended.

Becker’s Lodge: This heritage lodge on Bowron Lake caters to canoeists with rentals on-site. Their log cabins are super-cute too. Check rates.

Mountain Thyme Getaway: Find this vacation rental in the town of Wells, five minutes from Barkerville and 40 minutes from Bowron Lakes. With three bedrooms, it’s a great option for small groups. Check rates.

Billy Barker Casino Hotel: We stayed at this Gold Rush-themed hotel in Quesnel before our Bowron Lakes canoe trip. It has fun period decor but still has all the modern conveniences. And the outside of the hotel is shaped like a paddle wheeler – fun! Check rates.

Bowron Lakes Rules

Dogs: Not permitted.

Campfires: Allowed in campsite fire rings and shelter woodstoves only. Bring a stove for cooking. Collect firewood from designated wood lots located around the circuit. (The park ranger will indicate locations on your map when you check-in.)

Weapons: Firearms, cross-bows, and bear bangers are not permitted.

Music: No portable stereos or external speakers allowed.

Drones: Drones are not allowed on the Bowron Canoe Circuit or in any BC Park without a specific permit, issued only to licenced drone pilots.

Commercially packaged beverages and glass containers: No glass bottles or jars, no beer or pop cans, no liquor bottles, no tetrapaks. This rule is in place to prevent litter and the hazard of broken glass. Canned food is permitted as long as you pack out the cans. Our group brought boxed wine using only the inner plastic bag and liquor in flasks.

Fishing: Permitted with BC freshwater fishing license. The lakes have bull trout, rainbow trout, lake trout, and kokanee. Apparently, June and September are the best months for fishing. (We didn’t fish on our trip.)

Grafitti and wood carvings: No graffiti or carvings allowed. However, you are encouraged to whittle driftwood into art and display it on wires outside the shelters.

Bowron Lakes History and Indigenous context

The Bowron Lakes area is the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh, Tŝilhqot’in Nen, Dakeł Keyoh, and Dënéndeh Nations. They have trapped, hunted, fished, and gathered in the region since time immemorial.

At the time of European contact, there was a Dakeł Keyoh village at the mouth of Kibbee Creek on Bowron Lake. Unfortunately, the smallpox epidemic of the 1860s and the pressures of the fur trade and the Gold Rush had a devastating impact on their population.

In 1961 Bowron Lake Provincial Park was created to provide further protection to the area, first classified as a Game Reserve in 1925. There is a long history of trapping and fishing in the area, dating back to the Gold Rush. Many of the lakes and mountains in the park are named for locals such as Betty and Joe Wendle, Frank Kibbee, and J.P. Babcock who were early advocates for preserving the wilderness in this special area.

Further resources

On my trip, I brought the book The Bowron Lakes: A Guide to Paddling British Columbia’s Wilderness Canoe Circuit by Jim Boyle, Chris Harris, and Dean Hull. It has a great overview of the circuit and wonderful information about the natural and cultural history of the area.

But the most valuable part is the detailed information on the hazardous moving water sections of the route. It has helpful diagrams about what part of the river to aim for and which strokes to use. The book is also designed to fit inside a Ziploc sandwich bag, which is such a thoughtful touch on a canoe trip.

The book is available from Amazon, MEC, and some local businesses.

BC Parks also has a helpful Pre-Trip Information Booklet, although some of the reservation information is out of date.

Final Thoughts

The Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit is an incredible canoe trip with such beautiful scenery. This post has all the info you need to have a memorable experience. Do you have questions about canoeing the Bowron Lakes? Ask me in the comments. I’d love to help.

READ NEXT:

• 2021 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know
• Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait: Everything You Need to Know
• Bear Safety for Hikers, Campers and Backpackers
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

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The post Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit: 2026 Paddling Guide appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

The most spectacular trips are often ones that are in popular or fragile places, so they often have reservation systems in place. And nothing sucks more than finding out a trip you want to do is booked up! Put these dates in your calendar! (Or if you’re like me, agonize over which trip to pick since they all sound amazing!)

I’ve got reservation dates for trips in British Columbia including Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Area, the BC Interior, and the Canadian Rockies (including some places that are technically in Alberta). Plus I’ve also got details on how to reserve and my top tips for getting those hard-to-get reservations.

Not sure how to make a reservation? I got you! Read my guide to Making Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC.

Didn’t get a reservation? No worries! Read my guide to Backpacking in BC Without Reservations. Or use an app like Campnab or Schnerp. Read my guide to camping cancellation apps to find out how they work and which one I recommend.

This post includes details on reservations for:

Vancouver Island backcountry reservations:

• West Coast Trail (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Keeha Beach (Pacific Rim National Park Reserve)
• Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve)

Sea to Sky backcountry reservations:

• Watersprite Lake (near Squamish)
• Garibaldi Provincial Park (Garibaldi Lake, Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake, Wedgemount Lake, and Russet Lake
• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (near Pemberton)
• Tenquille Lake (near Pemberton)

BC Interior backcountry reservations:

• E.C. Manning Provincial Park (Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds)
• Eva and Jade Lakes (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
• Hermit Meadows (Glacier National Park)
• Bowron Lake Circuit (Bowron Lakes Provincial Park)

Rocky Mountains backcountry reservations:

• Lake O’Hara (Yoho National Park)
• Yoho National Park (Iceline, Whaleback, Little Yoho, etc.)
• Rockwall Trail (Kootenay National Park)
• Banff National Park (Egypt Lake, Skoki Loop, etc.)
• Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
• Jasper National Park
• Berg Lake (Mount Robson Provincial Park)

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

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West Coast Trail Reservations for 2026

What: This 75km (46.5 mi) trail is full of beaches, coastal rainforest, ladders, and boardwalks. It is probably the most popular multi-day hike in Canada, which is why it is at the top of my list for 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates.

Want more info? I wrote a whole series of posts about the West Coast Trail. Start with my West Coast Trail Guide, then check out my section-by-section overview, itineraries, campground guide, packing list, transportation, and coastal hiking tips posts. The WCT is also featured in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 19, 2026 at 8 am PT Postponed to February 5 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $25.75. There is a $166.75 fee to hike the trail, plus two mandatory $28 ferry crossings and a National Parks entry fee ($11/person /day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia

Keeha Beach Reservations for 2026

What: This beautiful remote sandy beach is near the northern trailhead for the West Coast Trail in Pacific Rim National Park, but isn’t nearly as busy. The trail to get there is only 3.5 km long, but it’s really muddy so expect it to take longer than you think. You can also day hike to the Cape Beale Lighthouse. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Pacific Rim National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park entry fees ($10.50/person/day).

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. The trail is open from May to September and you must reserve.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. This is probably one of the easiest trips to get a reservation for.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

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Narvaez Bay (Saturna Island) Reservations for 2026

What: It’s a short 2 km hike to the waterfront backcountry campground at Narvaez Bay on Saturna Island in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. This is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. There are several short day hikes from the campground. Find details in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Gulf Islands National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from May to September. The rest of the year all camping is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

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Watersprite Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A gorgeous ice-blue lake nestled against rocky spires in the remote mountains east of Squamish. The lake became very popular thanks to social media, so starting in 2022 the campground requires reservations. For more info, check out the BCMC website or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip. The campground requires reservations between July 1 and Thanksgiving weekend each year.

Where to Reserve: Online on the BCMC’s Watersprite Lake campground page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Sites are $20/night and must be paid in full at the time of booking to reserve a site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

Garibaldi Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: South West BC’s premiere alpine backpacking destination with several trailheads and campgrounds to choose from. Reservations are required for all the campgrounds as well as the Elfin Lakes Shelter. For more info on trails and destinations, check out my guide to the Elfin Lakes trail, my guide to Russet Lake, or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites and $15 for the Elfin Lakes Shelter. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. Consider booking the slightly less popular Taylor Meadows or Helm Creek campgrounds, and then hiking over to Garibaldi Lake for the day. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

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A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
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Joffre Lakes Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in summer. However, if you have a backcountry camping reservation, you don’t need a day pass. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

What: This super-popular lake near Whistler has a backcountry campground next to a glacier lake. It’s a short 5.5km hike from the trailhead, so it’s one of the best easy backpacking destinations close to Vancouver. For more info on the trail, check out my Joffre Lakes hiking guide or my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Get my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia – it has all the info you need to backpack to Joffre Lakes

Tenquille Lake Reservations for 2026

What: A beautiful sub-alpine lake near Pemberton BC, surrounded by mountains. It’s a popular location for fishing as well as scrambling the nearby peaks, which are mostly non-technical. The lake has both a cabin and campsites that can be reserved.

When to Reserve: Starting at midnight 60 days before your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online on the Pemberton Wildlife Association’s Tenquille Lake booking page.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Camping reservations are $25/tent/night. You can fit up to two tents on each site. There is no extra reservation fee.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes from July 1 to October 31. Tenting outside of those dates is first-come, first-served.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip.

E.C. Manning Provincial Park Reservations for 2026

What: There are three campgrounds in Manning Park that require reservations: Buckhorn and Kicking Horse on the Heather Trail and Frosty Creek on the Frosty Mountain Trail. All other backcountry campgrounds in the park are first-come, first-serve.

The Heather Trail is a gorgeous alpine hike along a ridge through wildflower meadows high in the mountains of E.C. Manning Provincial Park. The hike to Buckhorn Camp is one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. The hike to Frosty Mountain (the highest peak in the park) heads through a stand of gorgeous larch trees.

For more info on these two trails, check out my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and my Frosty Mountain hiking guide.

When to Reserve: Starting at 7 am PT three months before the first day of your trip.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $5/person/night. If you book by phone there is an additional $5 surcharge.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available for Buckhorn, Kicking Horse, and Frosty Creek Campgrounds. (But all other backcountry campground in the park are first-come, first-served.)

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

Eva and Jade Lakes Reservations for 2026

What: This hike starts high on the slopes of Mount Revelstoke in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Walk through wildflower meadows and forest to the shores of Eva Lake, one of the best easy backpacking trips in BC. Jade Lake is a few extra kilometres away over a pass. Both lakes have backcountry campgrounds.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Mount Revelstoke National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from June 30 to July 27 and September 18 to October 9 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC

Hermit Meadows Reservations for 2026

What: This steep hike in Glacier National Park is fairly short but has incredible views and alpine meadows. The backcountry campground has an incredible setting.

When to Reserve: January 16, 2026 at 8am PT Postponed to January 29 at 8 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Glacier National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $12.75/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $10.50/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes from July 28 to September 17. There is first-come, first-served camping available from July 1 to July 27 and September 18 to October 1 (depending on snow levels), which requires a backcountry permit.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Lake O’Hara Reservations for 2026

What: Lake O’Hara is a truly spectacular spot set among alpine lakes and hanging valleys in the Rocky Mountains inside Yoho National Park. You can base yourself at the campground or hut and hike the spectacular Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit. You can take a shuttle bus on a private road right to your campsite! If you can’t get a camping reservation, you can also just take the shuttle bus up for the day. For more info and some drool-worthy photos, check out my Lake O’Hara Camping and Hiking Guide.

When to Reserve Camping: January 22, 2026 at 7 am PT Postponed to Feb 10, 2026 at 8 am MT

When to Reserve Day-Use Shuttle Bus: Reservations by lottery. In 2026 the lottery is open for applications between March 2 and 23.

When to Reserve the Hut: Summer hut reservations are by lottery. The summer 2026 lottery is open for applications between December 15, 2025 and January 30, 2026.

Where to Reserve: Reserve camping or enter the day-use shuttle bus lottery on the Parks Canada Reservation site. Submit a lottery application on the Alpine Club of Canada website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost:  Camping Reservations cost $11.50. You’ll also need to pay $12.50/person/night for camping and $17.14/person for the shuttle bus. Bus reservations cost $11.50/reservation for up to 6 people plus $17.14/person. Hut lottery entries cost $15.50 each. Nightly hut fees are $60 per person.

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred dates and a few alternates. For better odds, avoid August which is the busiest. If you want to stay in the hut, avoid popular weekends and consider submitting multiple lottery applications.

If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you. (It works for ACC huts too!)

READ NEXT: Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park Backcountry Reservations for 2026

What: Yoho National Park has a network of trails in the Yoho Valley that lead to four backcountry campgrounds. The most popular option is the Yoho Valley Loop that includes the Iceline and Whaleback Trails. The loop includes great views of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online or by phone. More info on the Yoho National Park website.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50/site/night. Camping fees are $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no first-come, first-served sites.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: You need an account on the Park’s website so create one ahead of time so you don’t get slowed down on reservation day. Be ready with your preferred start dates, start location and a few alternates. 

For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

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Rockwall Trail Reservations for 2026

What: The premier backpacking destination in Kootenay National Park is the Rockwall Trail.  It’s a 55km multi-day high alpine backpacking route through the Rocky Mountains. It passes by alpine lakes, incredible wildflower meadwos and the famous rockwall with cliffs up to 900m tall. For more information, read my Rockwall Trail Guide.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

READ NEXT: Rockwall Trail Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Banff National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Banff National Park backcountry. I recommend Egypt Lake and the Skoki Loop.

When to Reserve: January 26, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Mount Assiniboine Reservations for 2026

What: Nestled at the base of Mount Assiniboine in the Canadian Rockies is a cluster of small lakes, plus tons of hiking trails to gorgeous views. The core area of the park at Lake Magog has a popular BC Parks backcountry campground and rustic backcountry huts. To get there, choose from several different hiking trails or charter a helicopter. I’ve got tons of info in my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide. Note: The info below applies only to the BC Parks campground.

When to Reserve Camping: Up to three months before your trip starting at 7 am PT. (Reservations are required for trips between June 26 and September 30.)

When to Reserve Huts: January 13th, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. MST.

Where to Reserve: For camping, online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850. For huts, via Mount Assiniboine Lodge by phone: 403-678-2883.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: For camping, reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10 for campsites. For the huts, rates range from $150-$240 per night depending on the size of the cabin (they sleep 5-8 people)

Do You Need to Reserve? Yes. There are no stand-by or walk-up permits available.

Tips and Tricks for Getting a Reservation: Make your reservation as early as possible. For better chances avoid long weekends or pick a mid-week trip. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

Jasper National Park Reservations for 2026

What: Several dozen backcountry campgrounds on hundreds of kilometres throughout the Jasper National Park backcountry. One of the most popular options is the Skyline Trail.

When to Reserve: January 27, 2026 at 7 am PT

Where to Reserve: Online via the Parks Canada Reservations Service or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $11.50. Camping costs $13.50/person/night. You also need to pay National Park fees of $11/person/day.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: You have reserve each of your campsites on the trail so have a few different itinerary options prepared before you book.  For better odds, avoid July and August which are the busiest. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Berg Lake Reservations for 2026

NOTE: The Berg Lake Trail suffered severe flooding damage in July, 2021. The full trail reopened in 2025 and will be open for summer 2026.

What: The Berg Lake Trail is a 23km backcountry trail into a gorgeous glacier lake in Mount Robson Provincial Park on the BC side of the Rocky Mountains. It’s called Berg Lake since the glacier calves icebergs right into the lake. For more info check out my super detailed guide to hiking the Berg Lake Trail and the BC Parks website.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service

How Much Do Reservations Cost: Reservations cost $6/night per tent pad, up to a max reservation fee of $18. You will also have to pay a per person backcountry fee of $10/person/night. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers. There are 7 campgrounds on the trail and you need to book your whole itinerary in advance, so be sure to have a few options for first choice, second choice, etc.

Since this trail books up so far in advance, there are often cancellations as people change their minds. Keep checking back to see if spots open up or use Campnab or Schnerp to automatically scan for cancellations for you.

Psst! You can get to this hike without a car! It’s on my list of car-free backpacking trips in BC.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Berg Lake Trail

Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit Reservations for 2026

What: The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit connects numerous lakes and rivers through portages to make a roughly square-shaped 116km (72 mi) route. It takes about 6 to 10 days to complete. (Yes I know this is a canoe trip, but it’s a similar wilderness experience and the only canoe trip in BC that requires reservations, so it made the list of BC backpacking reservation dates.) To plan your trip, see my complete Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit paddling guide.

When to Reserve: December 2, 2025 at 7 a.m.

Where to Reserve: Online via BC Parks Reservation Service or via phone at 1 800 689-9025 or 1 519 826-6850.

How Much Do Reservations Cost: The reservation fee is $18.00 per vessel (plus tax) and there is also a $60 per person canoe circuit user fee. If you book via phone there is an extra $5 surcharge.

Do You Have to Reserve? Yes. There are no walk-up or stand-by permits available.

Tips and Tricks For Getting a Reservation: Book online as it is faster and you won’t have to wait on hold. Reserve as early as possible since this route is popular with international travellers.

Know how many canoes and people will be in your party before you make your reservation as only a set number of canoes and people may depart per day.

July and August are the busiest and if you opt for June or September you’ll have much better chances. If you don’t get a reservation, keep checking back for cancellations.

READ NEXT: Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit: Paddling in British Columbia

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 2026 BC backpacking reservation dates for lots of different trips. How many of these hikes have you done already? Tell me in the comments. I’ve done almost all of them.

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Get My Books

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover BC’s best backpacking trips

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• 35 backpacking trips and day hikes on Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos

Get the books

BC BACKPACKING TRIP GUIDES:

• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 30 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners

BACKPACKING TIPS AND ADVICE:

• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• The Best Camping Cancellation Apps: Campnab vs. Schnerp
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• Backpacking for Beginners: Tips for Getting Started
• My book: Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

The post 2026 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

• Easy drive from Greater Vancouver on a plowed and sanded highway.
• Usually low avalanche risk. 
• Better weather and fluffier snow than the coast. 
• No stupidly steep climbs. Gorgeous mountain views.
• TONS of trails ranging from super flat beginner routes to all-day epics in the backcountry that climb mountains.

I mean, what else do  you need? In this guide I’ll give you all the details you need to choose the right trail for snowshoeing in Manning Park, plus tips to keep you safe on the trail.

This guide to snowshoeing in Manning Park includes:

• Quick reference guide: An easy overview of the stats for all the trails
• Snowshoeing safety: key info to help get you prepared to snowshoe in Vancouver
• Where to rent snowshoes in Manning Park including which shops have the best price
• Snowshoe trails in Manning Park: details for 9 trails
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing

Psst! Looking for even more places to snowshoe in British Columbia? Check out these Vancouver-area snowshoe guides:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in Squamish

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Snowshoeing in Manning Park Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from busy ski areas, they access serious wilderness. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Use the great trip planning tools from Adventure Smart.
• Check the weather, trail conditions, and avalanche forecast: If the weather and trail conditions don’t look good, don’t go. Use my list of the best weather apps for hiking. Check the avalanche forecast. Unless you have taken an avalanche safety course, you probably shouldn’t go out unless the forecast is rated “Low”.
• Wear winter clothing and pack the essentials: Prepare for emergencies by packing the 10 essentials. Read my recommendations for what to wear snowshoeing and tips for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Use safe snowshoeing techniques: Snowshoes keep you from sinking into deep snow, but they aren’t great for walking sideways or downhill – it’s easy to slip and injure yourself. Read up on snowshoeing safety and check out my guide to choosing snowshoes.) They also have crampons and other traction aids underfoot to help grip icy snow.
• Take an avalanche safety course: If you plan to stray from flat terrain, you need avalanche safety training. great FREE online beginner tutorial on Avalanche.ca. You should also take a 2.5 day AST1 course with avalanche Canada.

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoeing on the Skagit River Trail at Sumallo Grove

Note: The bridge across the river at the beginning of the trail is washed out. The river doesn’t reliably freeze over, making this trail impassable until the bridge is fixed.

The Trail: The Skagit River trail runs 15km down the banks of the… you guessed it: Skagit River. In winter Delacey camp at the 4km mark makes a good place to turn around. Along the way you’ll pass through the large old growth trees of Sumallo Grove. Be sure to take the side trail around the 2km mark to visit an old abandoned mining truck.

Since the access road is gated in the winter you’ll add an extra 0.5km each way to walk in to the summer parking lot. 

Note that this trail is at a much lower elevation than the rest of the snowshoeing trails in Manning Park (only 650m) so it will not receive as much snow and may be snow-free in warmer weather.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Watch for open creeks and narrow snow-covered bridges along the trail. There is no immediate avalanche danger on the trail, but there are some substantial avalanche slopes up the hill from the trail. If the avalanche forecast is above low, it may not be smart to be down in this valley.

Trail Map/Guide: You can find info on the Manning Provincial Park website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Permitted on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 30 minutes to the Sumallo Grove picnic area turn off on your right. Click here for driving directions. The gate to the parking lot is locked in the winter so you’ll have to park on the shoulder of the highway and walk in. There is space for a few cars outside the gate. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing Mount Kelly

Distance: 7 km

Time Needed: 3.5-5 hours

Elevation Gain: 560 m

Rating: Challenging

The Trail: This trail has grown in popularity for snowshoeing in the last few years. The trail follows an old road in the lower sections and a trail up higher as it steadily gains elevation. The route is almost entirely through the forest. The summit doesn’t have a great view, but there are a few peek-a-boo views lower down on the trail. Experienced snowshoers can also explore off-trail along the ridge towards Nordheim Peak to the northwest for better views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The kilometre of the trail has some moderate avalanche exposure, but since it is in the trees, the risk is usually fairly low. Use caution and check the avalanche forecast before you go. There are a few steep sections of trail where you will need to watch your step – poles or an ice axe can help. After the trail leaves the logging road, it can be hard to find in fresh snow so you will need route-finding experience. If you choose to explore the ridge towards Nordheim, you must be experienced in off-trail route finding.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a good write-up on Best Hikes BC.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 45 minutes to Allison Pass Summit. Turn right through the gate into the Highway works yard. You are allowed to park here as long as you park off to the side away from any Highway works vehicles. Click here for driving directions. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing Cambie Creek Loop

The Trail: There are two interconnected cross country ski loop trails along the banks of the of the Similkameen River, collectively known as the Cambie Creek Loop. The trails are relatively flat and make a great snowshoe trip for beginners. The trails are un-groomed, but be prepared to share the trail with cross country skiers – don’t walk in their ski tracks.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: For many years one of the bridges on this trail was washed out and you couldn’t complete the loop. However, that is no longer a problem. The trail is down in the valley bottom and there are a few very steep slopes immediately uphill of the trail. Use caution and check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: Surprisingly there is very little information online about this trail. There is a good map posted at trailhead.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 45 minutes to the Cambie Creek Winter Group Campsite turn off on your left. Click here for driving directions. There is a large plowed parking area. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing the Fat Dog Trail

The Trail: This trail climbs up high into the alpine and on a clear day you can get some great views. Despite all the elevation gain, the trail is on an old road so it never gets too steep. The trail is also popular with backcountry skiers so be sure to walk outside their ski tracks. The Fat Dog Trail doesn’t have a definite end point – it peters out in the high alpine meadows so turn around when ever you’ve had enough of the views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The first few kilometres of the trail are down in the valley bottom and there are a few very steep slopes immediately uphill of the trail. Use caution and check the avalanche forecast before you go. The remainder of the trail is in much more mellow terrain. Be careful of cornices along the ridge at the top.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a map and a little bit of information on All Trails.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 45 minutes to the Cambie Creek Winter Group Campsite turn off on your left. Click here for driving directions. There is a large plowed parking area. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Lodge Area Snowshoe Trails

The Trail: Manning Park Resort maintains a small network of snowshoe trails right next to their cabins. If you stay there you can snowshoe right out your front door. The trails are flat and well marked.  Various loops are possible and there’s even a small lookout.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s info on Manning Park Resort’s website and they will also give you a map when you buy your trail pass.

Permits/Fees: You need a Manning Park Resort Snowshoe Trail pass for these trails. A day pass costs $10 and you can buy one at the Nordic Centre near the Lodge.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 50 minutes to the Manning Park Lodge turn off on your right. Click here for driving directions. There is a large plowed parking area at the Lodge. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoeing the Canyon Nature Trail

The Trail: This short nature trail follows the banks of the Similkameen River as it winds through a mini-canyon. You’ll walk up one side of the river to a bridge near the Coldspring Campground, cross it and come back down the other side of the river.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: In some areas the trail gets close to the river bank. Use caution. This trail doesn’t have winter markings so it could be difficult to follow if no one has walked there recently. However, the trail stays down in the canyon so it shouldn’t be too hard to stay on track.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail information and a map on the Manning Provincial Park website.

Permits/Fees: None. While this trail starts next to Manning Park Resort’s Nordic Ski Trails, which do require a paid trail pass, this trail is strictly within BC Park’s jurisdiction and is free to use.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 50 minutes to the Manning Park Lodge turn off on your right. Turn down Gibson Road and follow it for a couple minutes. Immediately after crossing a bridge you’ll see the trailhead on your right. Click here for driving directions. There is a small plowed pull out on the side of the road. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing to Windy Joe Mountain

The Trail: This trail climbs Windy Joe Mountain on an old road. Thankfully the grade is never too steep. At the top you can explore an old fire lookout tower, last used in the 1960s. Be sure to climb up into the loft where a sign helps you identify all the peaks you are looking at.

Distance: 16km round trip

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The trail traverses mostly mild terrain, but there it does cross a steep slope on the first switchback so use caution in this area and check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a good trail guide on the Manning Provincial Park website. There’s a map as well.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 50 minutes to the Manning Park Lodge turn off on your right. Turn down Gibson Road and follow it for a couple minutes. Immediately after crossing a bridge you’ll see the trailhead on your left. Click here for driving directions. There is a small plowed pull out on the side of the road. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing the Lightning Lakes Loop

The Trail: In the summer the Lightning Lakes trail is THE hike in Manning Park. So of course in winter this is THE place to go snowshoeing in Manning Park. The loop around Lightning Lake is a wonderful mellow trail, and if you want to make it even flatter, you can walk on the lake itself. The highlight is visiting the Rainbow Bridge when it’s all covered in snow.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: There is no major avalanche danger on the trail. If the lake is sufficiently frozen you can take a shortcut on the ice across the mouth of Lone Duck Bay. Be careful and don’t try this late or early in the season. If you can’t take the shortcut across the ice, you’ll have to go around the long way on the Lone Duck Trail. The Lone Duck trail is technically a cross country ski trail in the winter. Stay well to the side of the trail and don’t walk in the ski tracks.

Trail Map/Guide: You can find trail info and a map on the Manning Provincial Park website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope drive 50 minutes to the Manning Park Lodge turn off on your right. Turn down Gibson Road and follow it for 5 minutes. Take the signed turn off to the left for the Lightning Lakes Day Use Area. Click here for driving directions. There is a large plowed parking lot at the end of the road. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Snowshoeing to Poland Lake

The Trail: Poland Lake is one of the less visited areas in Manning Park in both summer and winter, despite the fact that it’s only a short drive from the lodge.

Manning Park used to offer a $10 lift ticket for snowshoers to get to the top of the lift but they cancelled that in March 2021.

The old winter route followed ski runs up to the ridge, but starting in 2022, Manning Park Resort has opened a snowshoe trail that avoids the ski runs but is much longer. You also must get a free trail ticket at Alpine Guest Services to use this route.

The trail starts at Strawberry Flats parking area and follows an old road on the north side of the Gibsons Pass Road. After about 1.5km, it leaves the road on a flagged route.

About 2.5km from the trailhead, the route crosses the Manning Park Ski area. You need to get a trail ticket at guest services here, then cross the ski area.

The next section is a big climb in the woods to the west of the Blue Chair, gaining about 300 m over the next 1.5 km. The flagged route ends on the top of the ridge about 4 km from the trailhead, where the route joins the Poland Lake Trail. Turn left and follow this trail, which is an old road, along the top of an undulating ridge all the way to pretty little Poland Lake.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The first part of the trail passes below avalanche slopes. Check the avalanche forecast before your trip. Use caution crossing the ski runs.

Trail Map/Guide: You can find info and a map of the winter route on the Manning Park Resort website.

Permits/Fees: Free

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the lift or in the ski area.

Driving Directions: Unfortunately, snowshoers are no longer allowed to park at the downhill ski area. Instead, you’ll need to park about 2.5 km earlier at Strawberry Flats. From Hope drive 50 minutes to the Manning Park Lodge turn off on your right. Turn down Gibson Road and follow it for 10 minutes to the Strawberry Flats parking area. Click here for driving directions. There is a large plowed parking lot at the end of the road. Winter tires or chains are required to drive Highway 3 in winter.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in Manning Park

There are a few summer hiking trails in Manning Park that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, are closed in winter, or just don’t have enough consistent snow for good snowshoeing.

• Heather Trail: The road to trailhead is actually groomed as a cross-country ski trail and snowshoeing is not allowed.
• Lightning Lakes Chain (Flash and Strike Lakes): Experienced snowshoers can continue past the end of Lightning Lake to Flash and Strike Lakes. However, there is significant overhead avalanche hazard and the trails are not well-marked.
• Frosty Mountain: This trail is very long (21 km round-trip) and it is not easy to find the trail in the winter, so only very experienced snowshoers should tackle this trail.
• Skyline II and II: These trails are difficult to find in the winter. As well, they have some very steep slopes where a slip could be fatal. The trails are also in prime avalanche start zones.

Final Thoughts

How many of these Manning Park trails have you snowshoed? Have questions about snowshoeing in Manning Park? Hit me up in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in Vancouver’s Fraser Valley

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Advice

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing in Manning Park, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

This guide covers seven snowshoe trails on in the Fraser Valley. They are all trails that are high enough for consistent snow AND are also safe to snowshoe.

This guide to snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley includes:

• Quick reference guide: An easy overview of the stats for all the trails
• Snowshoeing safety: key info to help get you prepared to snowshoe in Vancouver
• Where to rent snowshoes in the Fraser Valley including which shops have the best price
• Snowshoe trails in the Fraser Valley: details for 7 places to go snowshoeing
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing

If you’re looking for even more places to go snowshoeing in in the Vancouver area, don’t worry, I got you! Check out these other guides to snowshoeing trails near Vancouver:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from busy ski areas, they access serious wilderness. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Use the great trip planning tools from Adventure Smart.
• Check the weather, trail conditions, and avalanche forecast: If the weather and trail conditions don’t look good, don’t go. Use my list of the best weather apps for hiking. Check the avalanche forecast for the South Coast Inland zone. Unless you have taken an avalanche safety course, you probably shouldn’t go out unless the forecast is rated “Low”. 
• Wear winter clothing and pack the essentials: Prepare for emergencies by packing the 10 essentials. Read my recommendations for what to wear snowshoeing and tips for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Use safe snowshoeing techniques: Snowshoes keep you from sinking into deep snow, but they aren’t great for walking sideways or downhill – it’s easy to slip and injure yourself. Read up on snowshoeing safety and check out my guide to choosing snowshoes.) They also have crampons and other traction aids underfoot to help grip icy snow.
• Take an avalanche safety course: If you plan to stray from flat terrain, you need avalanche safety training. great FREE online beginner tutorial on Avalanche.ca. You should also take a 2.5 day AST1 course with avalanche Canada.

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoe Trails at Sasquatch Mountain

The Trail: Formerly called Hemlock Valley Resort, this ski resort near Harrison Hot Springs has a network of snowshoe trails. The short and flat Village Loop trail is great for beginners. More adventurous snowshoers can tackled the intermediat Ridge Run or Old Yeller Trails. For advanced snowshoeing, head to the peaks of Mount Klaudt or Mount Cartmel.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The Mount Klaudt and Mount Cartmel trails climb some steep slopes, but there is no significant avalanche danger or other hazards. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a trail map on the Sasquatch Mountain website.

Permits/Fees: Trail passes are $15/day.

Dogs: Not allowed

Getting There: It’s a 45min drive from Agassiz to Sasquatch Mountain Resort. The last 7km of the road are gravel, steep and winding but it is plowed and sanded regularly. Provincial law requires you to carry chains (and you’ll probably want them). 

Snowshoeing to Elk Mountain, Chilliwack

The Trail: This steep trail is sometimes referred to as Chilliwack’s version of the Grouse Grind. (Although it’s not quite as steep!) Once you break out of the trees on to the ridge it’s flatter you’ll get great views of Chilliwack and of the Chilliwack River Valley. If you want to extend your trip, you can continue along the ridge for another kilometer or so.

The Elk Mountain trail is by far the most popular place to go snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley, so the trail is often so packed down that you can get by with just microspikes and only use snowshoes once you are on the ridge. (Read my guide to differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.)

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The last section of the trail before you reach the ridge top can be very slippery. It may be worth bringing microspikes or crampons and poles for this section (especially going downhill). There are very steep slopes and drop offs once you reach the open ridge top. Stay in the center of the ridge and well back from steep drops and slopes. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a good trail guide on Vancouver Trails.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed.

Getting There: It’s a 25min drive from Chilliwack City Hall to the trailhead. The last 2km are on a gravel road that is not plowed and can be very icy. Bring chains or be prepared to walk the extra 2km on the road to the trailhead. There is a gravel pullout for parking at the trailhead.

Snowshoeing to Needle Peak on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The Coquihalla is a great destination for Fraser Valley snowshoers since the road reaches high into the mountains to access lots of fresh snow. This challenging trail climbs through the trees on to the ridge of Needle Peak. It isn’t safe to go all the way to the summit in the winter unless you have mountaineering skills and equipment, so turn around somewhere on the ridge and retrace your steps back to the car.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: This is a true backcountry trail and is only appropriate for experienced snowshoers. As long as you stay on the ridge you can avoid the worst of the avalanche terrain, but you’re never totally safe from avalanches on this trail.  Check the avalanche forecast before you go and don’t go unless the forecast is low. After the trail gets above the treeline, the trail gets harder to follow, but just stay in the center of the ridge.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: From Hope, it’s a 35 min drive on the Coquihalla. Take exit 217 to the Zopkios Rest Area on the south side of the highway. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Snowshoeing to Falls Lake on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The trail to Falls Lake is the only easy snowshoe trail on the Coquihalla. The first half of the trail follows a road. After reaching a summer parking lot, it heads into the trees before emerging on the shores of Falls Lake. This lake is surrounded by tall peaks and feels much more remote than the short 2km walk from the road.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Be prepared to share the initial road section of the trail with snowmobiles. There is no significant avalanche danger on this trail, but once you reach the lake stay away from the west bank as the steep slopes there can send avalanches down. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope, it’s a 40 min drive on the Coquihalla. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. Take exit 221 and follow the tunnel under the highway and turn left. You will immediately see a snowed-in road heading uphill. This is the trailhead. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoeing to Zoa Peak on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The trail to Zoa Peak starts at the same trailhead as the trail to Falls Lake. But unlike the snowshoe to Falls Lake, the trip to Zoa Peak is not easy. The trail climbs a steep hill on an access road, before turning left into the forest.

Soon you’ll reach the treeline and stroll along the ridge looking waaay down towards Falls Lake. While the summer trail goes all the way to the true summit, in winter it’s much safer to be content with the views from the sub-summit since there’s a steep gully between the two.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Be prepared to share the initial road section of the trail with snowmobiles. There is no significant avalanche danger on this trail, but once you reach the ridge stay away from edges, especially on the west side, as the steep slopes there can avalanche.  Check the avalanche forecast before you go. The trail can be hard to find, especially if it has snowed recently.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website. There’s also a good write up on Vancouver Trails.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope, it’s a 40 min drive on the Coquihalla. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. Take exit 221 and follow the tunnel under the highway and turn left. You will immediately see a snowed-in road heading uphill. This is the trailhead. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Snowshoeing to Artist Point at Mount Baker, Washington

The Trail: If have a passport, Washington’s Mount Baker makes a great cross-border trip for Fraser Valley snowshoers. In the summer Artist Point is a gorgeous viewpoint that you can drive right up to. In the winter meters of snow blanket the region and you have to park further down and hike up… which means it’s way less busy… and possibly way more beautiful.

After a moderate 300m of elevation gain, you’ll be treated to great views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan wearing their winter coats – in fact the Washington Trails Association calls it one of best viewpoints in the state!

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: This route crosses avalanche terrain in several areas. Check the avalanche forecast for the West Slopes North region before you go and don’t go if the hazard is above low unless you have avalanche training. The route is not marked but it is a popular trail so there should be tracks to follow. The slope is mostly un-treed so bring a map and compass in case the clouds roll in and make navigation difficult.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a great guide on the Washington Trails Association website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: From Abbotsford, drive 1.5 hours across the border to the Mount Baker Ski Area. Drive past the ski area to the very end of the plowed road. Don’t forget your passport for the border crossing and bring chains for your car. This is a very a high elevation mountain road. There is a designated and plowed parking area at the end of the road.

Snowshoeing at Manning Provincial Park

The Trails: In my opinion, Manning Park is the best place to snowshoe in Southwestern BC… and it’s not too far from the Fraser Valley. There are tons of trails to snowshoe in Manning Park… in fact there are so many that I had to put them all in a separate Snowshoeing in Manning Park post! There are flat easy strolls for beginners, more adventurous backcountry trails and lots in between.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Most trails are fairly free of avalanche danger and other hazards, but there is avalanche terrain in the park. Check the avalanche forecast before you go. Some trails are unmarked and require backcountry route finding.

Trail Map/Guide: The best source of info is my post all about Snowshoeing in Manning Park.

Permits/Fees: Most trails are free, but there are paid trails for $10/day.

Dogs: Allowed on leash on all trails except Poland Lake.

Getting There: Manning Park is roughly 50 minutes from Hope. Provincial law requires you to have winter tires or chains to drive highway 3 east of Hope. There are plowed parking areas at all trailheads in the park.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley

There are lots of summer hiking trails in the Fraser Valley that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, are closed in winter, or just don’t have enough consistent snow for good snowshoeing.

• Lindeman Lake: The trail is too low elevation to get much snow and the trail is steep so microspikes are a safer choice than snowshoes.
• Flora Peak: This trail has significant avalanche danger so it is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training.
• Radium Lake: This trail has significant avalanche danger so it is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training.
• Pierce Lake and Mount MacFarlane: This trail has significant avalanche danger and requires a lot of route finding in winter. It is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training and experience with off-trail navigation.
• Mount Slesse: The logging road to the trailhead is not plowed, making this trail inaccessible. It also has substantial avalanche danger.
• Golden Ears Provincial Park: The road into the park is closed when there is snow on the ground making all of the trails in the park inaccessible.
• Cheam Peak: The road to the trailhead is not plowed in winter, making this trail inaccessible.

Final Thoughts

Which of these trails is your favourite? Do you have more suggestions for snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Advice

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• Winter Camping For Beginners
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley Near Vancouver appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this guide to snowshoeing in Squamish, you’ll get info and directions for 9 different trails ranging from super flat beginner trails to all-day epics to deep backcountry wilderness. I’m a Squamish local, so I’ve got the inside scoop on the best places to snowshoe in Squamish.

This guide to snowshoeing in Squamish includes:

• Quick reference guide: An easy overview of the stats for all the trails
• Snowshoeing safety: key info to help get you prepared to snowshoe in Vancouver
• Where to rent snowshoes in Squamish including which shops have the best price
• Snowshoe tours in Squamish: options for going with a guide
• Snowshoe trails in Squamish: details for 10 trails
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing

Looking for other places to snowshoe in BC? Check out these posts about Vancouver-area snowshoe trails:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley
• Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Snowshoeing in Squamish Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from busy ski areas, they access serious wilderness. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Use the great trip planning tools from Adventure Smart.
• Check the weather, trail conditions, and avalanche forecast: If the weather and trail conditions don’t look good, don’t go. Use my list of the best weather apps for hiking. Check the avalanche forecast. Unless you have taken an avalanche safety course, you probably shouldn’t go out unless the forecast is rated “Low”. 
• Wear winter clothing and pack the essentials: Prepare for emergencies by packing the 10 essentials. Read my recommendations for what to wear snowshoeing and tips for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Use safe snowshoeing techniques: Snowshoes keep you from sinking into deep snow, but they aren’t great for walking sideways or downhill – it’s easy to slip and injure yourself. Read up on snowshoeing safety and check out my guide to choosing snowshoes.) They also have crampons and other traction aids underfoot to help grip icy snow.
• Take an avalanche safety course: If you plan to stray from flat terrain, you need avalanche safety training. Avvy Savvy is a great FREE online beginner tutorial on Avalanche.ca. You should also take a 2.5 day AST1 course with avalanche Canada.

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

Snowshoeing at the Sea to Sky Gondola

The easiest place to go snowshoeing in Squamish is at the Sea to Sky Gondola. They have lots of trails to choose from (beginner to expert), and you don’t have to worry about driving on unplowed mountain roads. The only downside is the cost.

Permits/Fees: Day tickets for the gondola are $72. Once you get to the top there are no additional charges for snowshoeing.

If you want to avoid paying for the gondola up, you can hike up the Sea to Summit Trail instead, carrying your snowshoes. (You can take the gondola down for only $19.)

However, in the winter the Sea to Summit Trail sometimes closes due to hazardous conditions and if it’s open, it can be icy and dangerous so you will need crampons and an ice axe. For more information on the Sea to Summit trail including trail closures and conditions, see the Sea to Sky Gondola website.

Dogs: Not permitted on the gondola and on most trails. You can hike up via the Sea to Summit Trail and then snowshoe with your dog on a leash on the Al’s Habrich Ridge, Sky Pilot Valley and Skyline Trail and they must be on leash.

Driving Directions: Drive 50 min from Vancouver to Sea to Sky Gondola parking lot. If you’re coming from Squamish, it’s a 10-minute drive south of downtown. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on highway 99 between October and April.

Transit Access: The Sea to Sky Gondola runs a shuttle service from Vancouver each day. It’s $112 for a combo shuttle and gondola pass, which isn’t a bad deal. Be sure to keep the shuttle schedule in mind when planning which trail to tackle.

Panorama Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This is the Sea to Sky Gondola’s signature trail in both summer and winter. It’s a loop through gently rolling terrain that leads to some great viewpoints. The best one by far is the Chief viewing platform where you can look down to the Chief, the town of Squamish, the Squamish River valley and Howe Sound. Choose a sunny day for this one to really soak up the views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Panorama trail and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Wonderland Lake Loop, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This short and easy loop provides a bit more of a wilderness experience (and sees far fewer tourists) than the Panorama trail. It loops around through rolling terrain and passes several viewpoints. Be sure to take the narrow side Wonder View Spur to the right (south) to get the views.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Wonderland Lake Loop and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Shannon Basin Loop, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail follows an old road on a meandering loop that descends to cross Shannon Creek on a bridge, then comes back up to the gondola on a portion of the Sea to Summit Trail. While it does gain over 400m, since it’s on an old roadbed, it’s never very steep. This is the lowest elevation trail at the Sea to Sky Gondola, so in mild weather it may not have enough snow to snowshoe.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the Shannon Basin Trail and about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Al’s Habrich Ridge, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This backcountry trail travels a few hundred meters on a road before heading off into the forest. It immediately crosses a creek (there is no bridge), then heads uphill through the trees. The trail emerges onto a ridge and follows the crest of the ridge past several great viewpoints. The official winter route stops at the far end of the ridge. Unlike the other snowshoeing trails at the Sea to Sky Gondola, this trail mostly avoids roads and tourist attractions so it feels like real wilderness.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The initial stream crossing can be a bit awkward: The creek doesn’t ice over but the rocks you need to use to hop across are icy. The far bank of the stream is also very steep. Take off your snowshoes to cross the stream and use poles for balance.

Watch carefully for diamond markers in the trees – it can be easy to lose the trail Once on the ridge, stay on the top of the ridge: there is a lot of steep and dangerous terrain if you leave the marked route.

The official winter route stops at the far end of the ridge. The summer trail continues past here and climbs steeply through the trees. It is very difficult to follow and is not well marked. Unless you are an expert in backcountry winter navigation, turn around at the far end of the ridge.

Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: My Al’s Habrich Trail guide has all the info you need. The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their map when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website.

Sky Pilot Valley Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail is primarily used by experienced backcountry skiers and mountaineers accessing challenging terrain. But it does follow an old road in a beautiful valley so it is accessible for snowshoers just looking for a winter walk with great views of the surrounding mountains.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Past the end of the marked trail the skiers/climbers route goes steeply uphill into avalanche terrain. The slopes above the road are steep enough to slide – use caution if the avalanche forecast is anything except low. Please be prepared to share the trail with skiers and step aside to let them pass, especially when they are coming downhill. Don’t walk in the ski tracks – leave them intact for the skiers to use. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy of their when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website. There’s also information on the summer hiking route on the Skyline Pilot Valley Trail. Keep in mind that the winter route only covers the first three-quarters of the trail before turning around.

Skyline Ridge Trail, Sea to Sky Gondola

The Trail: This trail follows an old (and sometimes overgrown) road through the valley before climbing on to the shoulder of Goat Ridge where there are some views. It’s a long way to go in a day, but it is a good option if you’re looking for a challenging trip from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola. Be sure to stop at the end of the marked trail since route-finding past there will be very difficult and potentially dangerous in the winter.

Trail Map/Guide: The Sea to Sky gondola has a trail app you can download or just pick up a copy when you buy your tickets. You can also find more info about the the Skyline Ridge Trail and snowshoeing at the gondola in general on their website

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Other Places to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

Red Heather/Elfin Lakes, Garibaldi Provincial Park

The Trail: The trail follows an old road for the first 5km to the Red Heather warming hut. Past there, the winter route is marked by reflective bamboo poles that lead another 6km along the undulations of Paul Ridge to the Elfin Lakes Hut. There are great views of the mountains from the ridge. Red Heather hut makes a great destination for shorter day trips.

Going all the way to Elfin Lakes and back is doable in a day but it is challenging. You can also snow camp overnight next to both Red Heather and Elfin Lakes huts, or you can reserve a bunk inside the Elfin Lakes Hut.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger or hazards below Red Heather hut.

After Red Heather hut the trail emerges above treeline on to the ridge. The winter route is placed to minimize avalanche exposure, but the trail does travel through avalanche terrain and on slopes that can slide.

Use caution in these areas and do not attempt this trail if the avalanche forecast is above moderate. Avalanche.ca rates this as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: My Elfin Lakes hiking guide has all the info you need.

Permits/Fees: No permits or fees are required for day trips on the trail in winter. If you want to camp or stay overnight in the Elfin Lakes hut you need to make a reservation and pay backcountry fees. Elfin Lakes Hut is $15/person/night + $6 reservation fee. Camping is $10/person/night + $6 reservation fee.

Dogs: Not permitted in Garibaldi Park.

Getting There: Drive 2 hours from Vancouver to the trailhead. If you’re coming from Squamish, it’s a 45-minute drive. After passing Quest University in Squamish the road turns to gravel and it is not plowed often.

You will need chains and possibly also 4-wheel drive (depending on the conditions) to get up this road in the winter. Cars without chains slip off the road every year and require very expensive tow trucks to get them out. 

The parking lot can fill up on winter weekends so carpool and be prepared to park in the pullouts further down the road and walk up. Don’t park on the shoulder as you will block the narrow road.

READ NEXT: Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

Garibaldi Lake/Taylor Meadows, Garibaldi Provincial Park

The Trail: This snowshoe route follows the usual summer trail up the switchbacks to Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadows. At the 6km the trail forks: left for Taylor Meadows, right for Garibaldi Lake. The trail can be icy lower down and covered in deep snow higher up so you may need to pack both microspikes and snowshoes. (Read my guide to the differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.) It’s a long hike to either destination so be sure to give yourself plenty of time and pack a headlamp in case you end up coming down in the dark.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The switchbacks up to the 6km junction are steep and can be icy. Bring microspikes just in case. Watch for open creek crossings and partially buried bridges. Later in the year Barrier Lake and Lesser Garibaldi Lake on the Garibaldi Lake route freeze over. You can take a shortcut by walking across the lakes. Use extreme caution if you decide to walk on the lakes. 

Avalanche.ca rates the trail as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. The terrain is rated challenging past Taylor Meadows. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

On your descent stay on trail and don’t follow skier descent trails into the Rubble Creek valley. The valley is prone to slides. A snowshoer drowned in Rubble Creek in 2008 after getting lost on the descent.

Trail Map/Guide: You can also find more information on the BC Parks website.

Permits/Fees: No permits or fees are required for day trips on the trail in winter. If you want to camp overnight you need to make a reservation and pay backcountry fees. Camping is $10/night + $6 reservation fee.

Dogs: Not permitted in Garibaldi Park.

Getting There: Drive 1.5 hours from Vancouver to the trailhead. If you are coming from Squamish it’s only 30 minutes. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on highway 99 between October and April.

The road to the trailhead and the parking lot is plowed sporadically. However, it is still a mountain road so winter tires and chains are recommended in case the plow has not been through recently.

Brandywine Falls

The Trail: The flat and easy trail to the Brandywine Falls viewing platform is a great option for snowshoeing near Whistler. If you want to extend your trip, you can snowshoe a portion of the Sea to Sky trail over to the Whistler Bungee Bridge. You can look down into the depths of the Cheakamus River canyon and maybe even watch people bungee jump.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The trail crosses train tracks: use caution. There is no maintained trail down to the base of Brandywine Falls: there is an illegal route that uses a scary old rope to descend a cliff but it travels over slippery rocks and is very icy and dangerous in the winter. No avalanche hazard.

Trail Map/Guide: My Brandywine Falls hiking guide has all the info you need.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Permitted on leash.

Driving Directions: Drive 1.5 hours from Vancouver. It’s only 30 minutes from Squamish. Note that BC law requires you to have winter tires to drive on Highway 99 between October and April.

Getting There: The park gate is locked in the winter and unfortunately you are not allowed to park on the side of Highway 99. (Your car will get towed.) Unless you get dropped off and picked up, unfortunately the only way to do this snowshoe trip currently is to park at Whistler Bungee on the Cal-Cheak Forest Service Road and walk in from that direction. Whistler Bungee does plow the road but it is rough.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in Squamish

There are lots of summer hiking trails in Squamish that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, are closed in winter, or just don’t have enough consistent snow for good snowshoeing.

Here’s my list of no-go trails for snowshoeing:

• Sea to Summit Trail: Only the last section of the Sea to Summit Trail is high enough to see consistent snow, and it’s steep enough to make microspikes or crampons a safer choice than snowshoes even if there is snow.
• Stawamus Chief: It snows on top of the Chief a few times a year, but it doesn’t usually stick for long since it is not at a high enough elevation. As well, it’s too steep for snowshoes – microspikes are better here.
• Watersprite Lake: The road to Watersprite Lake is not plowed so even with 4×4 and chains, you often have to walk a long distance just to get to the trailhead. The summer trail has significant avalanche hazard, so in winter, you have to use an unmarked route to get to the lake. Watersprite Lake is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training and experience with off-trail winter navigation.

Squamish Snowshoeing FAQ

Final Thoughts

How many of these snowshoe trails have you done? Which is your favourite? Have questions about snowshoeing in Squamish? Hit me up in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Manning Park Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing in Vancouver’s Fraser Valley

Advice for Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking:

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

More Squamish Posts:

• The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)
• 70+ Things to Do in Squamish
• Camping in Squamish, BC: 22 Places to Camp Near Squamish
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• 10 Best Hotels in Squamish

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I live just up the road from Whistler in Squamish so I’ve been going to Whistler for day trips and weekend getaways for decades… and I’m not a skier!

In this list of things to do in Whistler in winter for non-skiers I’ve got something for everyone:

• Non-skiing ways to have fun in the snow from snowshoeing to sledding and more
• Winter sightseeing and tours: gondola rides, walking tours, and a unique multi-media experience
• Things to do in Whistler Village: Shopping, spas, skating, and more
• Indoor things to do: Museums, indoor sports, and nightclubs
• Extreme winter sports: ziplining, bungee jumping, and bobsleigh rides
• Eating and drinking: Amazing food and craft beer
• Whistler FAQ: Let me answer all your questions about planning a trip to Whistler in winter: What is the weather like? When is the ski hill open? What to pack? What month is best to visit Whistler? And lots more.

Psst: Looking to save money? Check out my list of free and cheap things to do in Whistler.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Non-Skier Ways to Have Fun in the Snow

If you don’t ski, you can still have fun in the snow in Whistler in the winter. Here are my picks for non-skiing snow adventures. The best part: all of these options are beginner-friendly – no experience required.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is my go-to snow sport, and the reason I end up in Whistler a few times each winter. There are lots of great snowshoe trails in Whistler, ranging from beginner to expert, and most of them are free. You can even snowshoe to frozen waterfalls!

In my opinion, snowshoeing is the best outdoor activity to do in Whistler in winter for non-skiers since you can get out into the snow and don’t need any skills or experience to try easy trails.

Use my guide to Whistler snowshoe trails to plan your adventure or book a guided snowshoe tour.

Dogsledding

Let a team of adorable dogs pull you through the snowy landscape. Whistler is home to two different dog sledding companies: Blackcomb Dog Sled and Canadian Wilderness Adventures. Both offer tours through the wilderness outside of town.

Settle into the cozy sled and enjoy the ride, or step on to the runners and learn how to drive. This is definitely one of the most unique winter activities in Whistler.

Check dogsledding tour prices.

Snowmobiling

Drive yourself through a winter wonderland. If you’ve never driven a snowmobile before, there are scenic tour options for beginners and families. Experienced riders can opt for extreme backcountry tours into the mountains.

There are a few different snowmobile tour companies in Whistler. Book a Wilderness Snowmobile Tour or a Family Snowmobile Tour

Sledding and Snow Tubing

Nothing says winter quite like a day of sledding. Head to the bubly Tube Park at Whistler Blackcomb and rent a tube. You’ll slide down the curving lanes, then ride the conveyor belt back to the top. Buy tickets on-site.

For some low tech (and free) fun, bring your own sled to the gentle hill at Whistler Olympic Plaza in the village.

Play in the Snow

You don’t have to be a little kid to head outside and play in the snow. Build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight. Popular places to play in the snow in Whistler are Whistler Olympic Plaza in the village, Rebagliati Park near Blackcomb Base, or anywhere along the Valley Trail.

Sightseeing and Tours in Whistler in Winter

Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Even if you’re not a skier, it’s worth riding the gondola up into the mountains. The views from the top are spectacular. Your lift ticket includes the Peak 2 Peak Experience.

This spectacular gondola connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains with a cable that is 436 meters above the valley floor – a world record. Gaze out the windows at the gorgeous mountain views, or ride a special glass-bottomed gondola for an adrenaline-pumping bird’s-eye view.

The gondola is the easiest way for non-skiers to experience Whistler’s winter wonderland.

Check Peak 2 Peak Gondola winter prices.

Vallea Lumina

Vallea Lumina is multimedia and light experience that is truly unique. It’s a story-based journey where you walk through the snowy forest encountering lights, sound, and lasers that create a sense of magic in the landscape.

It’s such a unique and immersive experience. I really loved walking through the quiet forest and looking for all the clever details they’ve created with lights. Honesty, it is the kind of thing you can’t really understand unless you’ve experienced it.

Check Vallea Lumina experience ticket prices.

Flightseeing Tours

Fly high above Whistler’s glaciers and peaks on a helicopter or floatplane tour. There are lots of tours to choose from: glide over Whistler Peak, see Whistler village from above, or head into the backcountry to see mountain peaks and tumbling glaciers. Some tours even let you land on a glacier and explore an ice cave!

I did a flightseeing tour last year during the summer for my birthday as a splurge, special-occasion experience and it was so cool! I’d love to do one in winter to see the ice caves.

Book a Scenic Helicopter Flight or a Glacier Floatplane Tour

Ice Fishing

Walk out onto a frozen lake and fish for trout through a hole in the ice. It’s definitely a bucket list experience. In cold weather, you’ll sit inside a portable ice hut or beside a heater, but in milder temps, you can enjoy the scenery around you. Book an Ice Fishing Adventure

Sightseeing Tours

Take a guided tour to see all of Whistler’s highlights in one easy tour. It includes scenic viewpoints, a museum, local food, Olympic sites, and more. This small-group van tour hits all the sights and is led by a knowledgeable local guide. Book a Whistler Sightseeing Tour.

Self-Guided Walking Tours

With winding lanes and lots of nooks and crannies, I find something new to discover each time I visit Whistler. For example, I didn’t know how many old growth trees there were around Whistler Village until recently!

Tourism Whistler has a great app with over a dozen self-guided walking tours. Each one has its own theme: I discovered the giant trees on their Weird and Wonderful Trees tour.

Other tours focus on a diverse range of topics including the legacy of the 2010 Olympics, craft beer, Indigneous culture, and more.

Whistler Village Activities in Winter

You don’t need to leave the village to find lots of things to do in Whistler. You could easily spend a day or two exploring the winding pedestrian friendly streets. Just be sure to wear your winter boots and as it gets pretty snowy!

Wander through Whistler Village

Whistler’s core is a purpose-built pedestrian village. I think it looks a bit like alpine Disneyland. In the winter it’s covered in snow and charming twinkling lights. If I have downtime in Whistler, I love to take a walk through the village to people-watch.

Take a walk on the Village Stroll, a pedestrian-only street that winds past cafes, boutiques, and ski shops. It’s a great place to window-shop or just enjoy a walk. Use this map of Whistler Village to find your way.

Go Shopping

Since it is an international ski destination, Whistler has surprisingly good shopping for such a small town, and most of it is concentrated around the pedestrian-friendly Village Stroll. You can find your favourite chain stores like The Gap and Lululemon alongside fine jewelry and tons of outdoor and ski shops.

But the real gems are boutiques selling local goods. Check out 3 Singing Birds for locally designed and made clothing and home decor. Find local art at several galleries. Or pick up a local book at Armchair Books. (They carry my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, so I think they’re pretty awesome!)

Ice Skating

What could be more magical than ice skating outdoors? Each winter Whistler transforms part of the Whistler Olympic Plaza into an outdoor ice rink. It’s especially phenomenal at night when the nearby trees are lit up with twinkly lights. You can rent skates on-site or bring your own.

If you’d rather skate indoors, head to the rink at Meadow Park Sports Centre.

Scandinave Spa

I try to visit Scandinave Spa at least once every winter. The gorgeous facility has a mix of outdoor hot and cold pools, indoor steam rooms and saunas, and both indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. You’re encouraged to take in cycles of heat, cold, and rest in the Nordic spa tradition.

I also love that Scandinave has a silence and no-phones policy. At first I thought it was annoying but I found it was much easier to zone out and relax. You are allowed to bring a book or eReader, which is what I usually do. Although I often end napping in one of the solariums too.

You can book a massage and other treatments, but I usually just pay for access to the spa facilities. I can literally spend all day here!

I think winter is the best time to go to Scandinave since the snow makes the grounds even more beautiful. The contrast of the cold air temperature with the warmth of the hot pools and saunas is also great in cold weather. This is my number one pick for the best things to do in Whistler in winter for non-skiers.

Fire and Ice Show

Head to the Whistler Village base between the Whistler and Excalibur gondolas every Sunday night in winter to catch the free Fire and Ice Show. It combines fire spinners and fireworks with insane ski and snowboard flips, jumps, and tricks.

It’s one of the best things to do in Whistler in winter for both non-skiers and skiers. (Or really, anyone who likes watching other people do dangerous things.)

Best Indoor Activities in Whistler

Sometimes you just want to stay inside, out of the cold. Thankfully, there are lots of great things to do in Whistler like museums, indoor rock climbing, movies, and more. (Axe throwing anyone?)

Audain Art Museum

Opened in 2016, the Audain Art Museum houses a huge collection of British Columbia art in a beautiful and award-winning modern building. Honestly, I think the architecture itself makes it worth a visit. It includes art from the late 18th century to the present.

The museum is home to a large collection of Coastal First Nations masks as well as works by settler artists like Emily Carr, Jack Shadbolt, and E.J. Hughes. The gift shop is also one of the best places in Whistler to pick up beautiful and unique local souvenirs.

Buy Museum Tickets in Advance.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

The Squamish and Lil’wat Nations have lived in the Whistler valley since time immemorial. Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn about their history, culture, and art. Guides welcome you with drums and song, then take you on a tour of the exhibits including a hand-carved canoe. Visit the Thunderbird Cafe to try indigenous-inspired dishes made with local ingredients.

It’s one of the best Indigenous museums I have been to. If you are going to do just one indoor activity in Whistler in winter, I think it should be the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.

Whistler Museum

Learn about Whistler’s history at the community-run Whistler Museum. It has exhibits detailing Whistler’s history from wilderness to world-class ski resort including vintage ski gondolas, retro photos, the 50-year-long road to the 2010 Olympics, historical furniture and gear from the early days of the Rainbow Lake Lodge, and profiles of local people who shaped the town.

Don’t miss a photo op in the vintage gondola. I also love the geology section which explains how the local landscape was shaped by glaciers and volcanoes.

Admission is by donation, so this is a great cheap thing to do in Whistler in winter.

Escape! Whistler

Take on challenging puzzles to escape from themed rooms at Escape! Whistler. They have four different scenarios to choose from: Pirate Ship, Buried Cabin, Pinball Machine, or Rabbit Hole. These escape rooms are really fun with groups, but you can also get a private escape room for parties of two. (No sharing with strangers!)

Book an Escape Room session

Forged Axe Throwing

Let your inner lumber Jack or Jill out at Forged Axe Throwing. If you’ve never thrown an axe before, don’t worry: they’ll give you all the pointers you need to help you hit the bullseye. Most visitors go for a one-hour session, but if you’re super keen (and competitive) they also have a weekly league night.

Book a 1-hour Axe Throwing Session

Apres-Ski

The apres-ski culture is strong in Whistler. There are also tons of pubs around town, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes. You can’t go wrong with Dusty’s Bar and BBQ. It’s Whistler’s original apres spot, open since the 1970s.

For an upscale experience apres experience, try the Ketel One Ice Room at the Bearfoot Bistro, billed as the coldest vodka tasting room in the world at -32C (-25F). (Don’t worry – they’ll give you a parka to wear!)

And if you still have energy for dancing, Whistler has several nightclubs. I remember Garfinkel’s from my early 20s clubbing days, and they’re still going strong (even if I’m not!)

Extreme Winter Sports in Whistler

If you like to go fast, feel your heart beat through your chest, and get your adrenaline pumping, these extreme Whistler winter sports are for you. You also don’t need any experience to try these exciting (or scary) activities.

Ziplining

In Whistler, you can zipline all year-long. In the winter, you’ll enjoy winter wonderland views and snowflakes falling all around you.

Ziptrek Ecotours lets you soar like an eagle over Fitzsimmons Creek between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. I’ve done this tour in summer, and it’s gorgeous. I’d love to see it in the snow!

Superfly Ziplines is located 10 minutes north of the village on Cougar Mountain and has ziplines deep in the wilderness.

Bungee Jumping

3… 2… 1… Bungee! Jump off a bridge 50 metres (164 feet) above the Cheakamus River at Whistler Bungee just south of Whistler. In the winter, the river freezes, the surrounding cliffs are covered in ice and snow, and you’ll jump into a postcard-perfect winter landscape.

I’ve hiked and biked past the bridge plenty of times in summer, but I’ve never had the courage to jump.

Book bungee jumping.

Bobsleigh, Luge, and Skeleton

As host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is home to one the two bobsleigh tracks in Canada. Sign up for a one-day bobsleigh, luge, or skeleton lesson to try out the sport.

If you just want to go for a high-speed ride, they offer passenger bobsleigh rides too. You’ll go up to 125 km/hour!! You can also watch the action for free.

Book a Passenger Bobsleigh Ride.

Whistler Food and Drink

Whistler has an amazing restaurant scene. I end up here a few times a year simply to eat.

It’s home to upscale fine-dining at places like Alta Bistro, The Rimrock Cafe and Araxi Restaurant, but there are also lots of amazing casual places where you can show up in your sweaty ski clothes and no one cares.

We often grab beer and burgers at the High Mountain Brewing Co. Brewhouse or burritos at La Cantina Tacos. Don’t miss the amazing Aussie pies at Peaked Pies. Order it with mashed potatoes, mushy peas, and gravy on top!

For coffee, I highly recommend Mount Currie Coffee Co. And for a sweet treat purebread is to die for.

To sample the best food that Whistler has to offer, Book a Fine Dining Dinner Tour or a Hidden Gems Dinner Tour.

Whistler also has a strong craft beer scene. There are three craft breweries in town each with its own tasting room. High Mountain Brewing is located in the heart of Whistler Village, right next to the Olympic Plaza. It’s a huge space with tons of tables and a big food menu. We often end up here with friends.

Whistler Brewing and Coast Mountain Brewing are both located south of Whistler village in the industrial Function Junction neighbourhood. I love the pizza at Whistler Brewing.

Whistler in Winter FAQ

What is the the weather like in Whistler in winter?

While Whistler gets a ton of snow (about 10.8 metres/35.5 feet per year), it’s actually not that cold. In December, January, and February, the average low temperature is about -5°C/24°F and the average high is about 1°C/34°F.

The snowiest months are December and January, with about 40 inches/101 cm of snow per month. It snows about 25 inches/64 cm in February.

When is ski season in Whistler?

Whistler Blackcomb ski resort typically opens each year on American Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday in November). The mountain starts to close in mid-April and is fully closed by mid-May.
The best skiing is typically in January and February and Whistler is the busiest during those two months.

What should you pack for Whistler in winter?

Even if you aren’t going to ski, it’s a good idea to have a waterproof jacket for walking around the village or wearing for activities. For extra warmth, layer it over a puffy down or synthetic insulated jacket. Don’t forget a pair of warm gloves and and a toque. (That’s what Canadians call a beanie.)

Whistler is a pretty casual place so skip the high heels and opt for some insulated winter boots instead. The village can be icy, snowy, and slushy so you will appreciate the protection.

There is no dress code at Whistler restaurants or bars, so you don’t have to worry about packing a jacket and tie. You can turn up pretty much everywhere in casual clothes. However, if you plan to go a fine dining restaurant, you might be more comfortable in a nice pair of pants and a sweater or a simple dress.

Hot tubbing and visiting the spa are an important part of the Whistler experience. Don’t forget your bathing suit and a pair of sandals for navigating snowy poolsides.

What is the best month to visit Whistler in winter?

Late January and February are the best months for skiing since there is a good snow pack. However, look for crowds to spike around Family Day, a local holiday on the third Monday in February.

Late November and early to mid-December have variable skiing conditions so it can be a bit quieter than other times of the year. However, you might luck into some powder. It’s also a cheapest time to visit in winter.

The holiday season around Christmas and New Year’s brings good skiing conditions, and tons of events to Whistler. It’s a popular (and expensive) time to visit, and for good reason.

The late season of March and April can have great snow conditions, but they get more variable as the season goes on. It’s also a bit quieter and less expensive than other times of the year. However crowds do pick up around Easter.

How to Get to Whistler in Winter

There are several ways to get to Whistler in winter. The easiest and most economical option is to take one of the shuttle bus services: YVR Skylynx, Whistler Shuttle, or Epic Rides. They offer rides from Vancouver or Vancouver Airport to Whistler.

You can also book a private chauffered charter limo or van service.

If you want, you can also drive yourself. It’s a gorgeous road trip on the Sea to Sky Highway. However, keep in mind that you will likely face snowy and icy winter driving conditions. Snow tires are required between October 1 and March 31, so make sure your rental car has them.

I do not recommend driving yourself unless you are an experienced winter driver. As well, once you get to Whistler, it’s easy to get around the Village on foot or to take the bus or a taxi to other attractions.

Where to Stay in Whistler

There are literally hundreds of places to stay in Whistler, so it can be hard to choose. Here are my picks:

Budget – Pangea Pod Hotel: This unique Japanese style pod hotel is in the heart of the village. There on-site bar has a huge selection of board games you can play. Check prices.

Condo – Glacier’s Reach: I’ve stayed at these condos just north of the village on a lot of trips to Whistler. It’s sooo nice to have a kitchen but the best part is the private hot tubs! Check prices.

Boutique Hotel – Summit Lodge: We stayed at this centrally located hotel on our most recent trip to Whistler. It’s a boutique property with funky decor and a fun vibe. When we were there they had a pop-up bubble tea shop! Check prices.

Luxury Hotel – Westin Resort & Spa: My now-husband took me here when we were first dating. It was a luxe experience. My favourite part is the huge pool that both indoor and outdoor sections you can swim between. Check prices.

Final Thoughts

So that’s my big list of winter activities in Whistler for non-skiers. I’m sure you’ll find something to do in the Whistler in the winter that you’ll love. (Actually, I’m sure you’ll find a bunch of things.) What’s your favourite Whistler winter activity? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• Visiting Whistler, BC in Summer (By a Local)
• Cheap and Free Things to Do in Whistler
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

The post Visiting Whistler in Winter For Non-Skiers appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I planned my first visit to Newfoundland specifically to hike in the park. While the province has some spectacular hikes, my favourite trails are in Gros Morne.

But even though my priority is hiking, there are lots of other great things to do in Gros Morne National Park. It has beautiful scenery that is accessible without hiking, but it also has great food, cute towns, and fascinating geology.

Despite three visits to the area, I still haven’t been to a few places in the park. (Trust me, I have plans to fix that someday.) But I can recommend lots of gorgeous spots to visit.

My guide to Gros Morne National Park includes:

• Map of Gros Morne that includes all of the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in Gros Morne: Hikes, viewpoints, picturesque towns, boat tours, and more.
• Where to eat in Gros Morne: My picks for the best restaurants and cafes.
• Where to stay in Gros Morne from luxury hotels to campgrounds
• Gros Morne Travel Tips: How to get there? How long to spend? Best time to go?

Planning a trip to Newfoundland? I’ve got a big list of the best things to do Newfoundland plus lots of travel tips for the province.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Go Western Newfoundland for hosting me during my second and third trips to Gros Morne. All opinions are my own and my husband’s experiences were not hosted. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Gros Morne National Park

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Gros Morne National Park for you. It includes every single place I mention in this post.

Best Things To Do in Gros Morne

In this section, I’ve got suggestions for hikes, viewpoints, and boat tours in the park. There are also several of towns next to the park. While they aren’t technically in the national park, it makes the most sense to treat them as part of the greater Gros Morne region since you’ll visit them during your time in the park.

Since Bonne Bay splits the park in half and it takes about an hour to drive from one part of the park to the other, I’ve split this section into things to do in Southern Gros Morne to Northern Gros Morne.

Things to Do in Southern Gros Morne

Be sure to plan to spend part of your time in Southern Gros Morne along Highway 431 and in Woody Point. You can’t miss the starkly beautiful barrens of the Tablelands. Here are the best things to do in that area.

Gros Morne National Park Discovery Centre

The Gros Morne National Park Discovery Centre is located near Woody Point on the south side of Bonne Bay. Since the info centre is up on a hill, it has an incredible view of the bay and Gros Morne Mountain.

If you want to get a feel for the park, this is a great place to start. They have lots of exhibits about the park’s ecosystem and geology. They also have an info desk where you can ask questions and pick up park maps.

Woody Point

Woody Point is the main town on the southern side of Bonne Bay. This is where you’ll find most of the hotels and restaurants in the southern part of Gros Morne. (More on those in the Where to Eat and Where to Stay sections at the bottom of the post.) The Bonne Bay Water Shuttle also leaves from here.

It’s a cute historic town spread out along the waterfront. Most of the restaurants and businesses are down along Water Street. I recommend stopping at Galliott Studios for coffee and cute art. Molly Made Fibre Art on Main Road also has great handmade souvenirs along with sewing and knitting supplies.

Zodiac Tours in Bonne Bay

One of the best ways to get a feel for the vast landscapes in Gros Morne is to take a zodiac tour. That way you can zip around the waters of Bonne Bay and gaze up at the Tablelands from sea level. I didn’t appreciate how huge the Tablelands were until I saw them from the water.

I did the Tablelands Boat Tour with Wild Gros Morne. Our guide took us out into the bay to look up at the Tablelands while she explained their unique geology. It was a great prelude to our hike up to the top later the same day! She also took us along the coast to learn more about the history of small fishing villages.

Lookout Trail

This moderate hike has one of the best views in Gros Morne. It climbs up through the forest to the subalpine of the Lookout Hills. From the viewing platform, you can see Bonne Bay, the Tablelands, and Gros Morne Mountain.

Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours on this 5.8 km hike. While it gains 360 m, the trail is well groomed so it never feels that steep. Don’t miss this trail in late September or early October – it has incredible autumn colours and is one of my picks for the best things to do in fall in Gros Morne.

Tablelands Trail

If you’re interested in geology, you have to hike the Tablelands Trail. The rocks here look like the moon, but they are actually part of the Earth’s mantle. There are two ways to hike the Tablelands.

The first is a flat hike on an old road that follows the base of the mountain. It has great views of the rocks and is an easy walk. There are info plaques along the way to help you learn about the plants and geology.

The second option is to hike off-trail to the top of the Tablelands. It’s rocky and there are no markers, so you need to be comfortable with route finding. I went with guides from Wild Gros Morne who helped us find the best path to the top while also teaching us about the unique rocks and plants.

It was a strenuous hike, but it was definitely worth it – this is another of my picks for the best hikes in Newfoundland.

Green Gardens Trail

The trailhead for the Green Gardens Trail is just a few kilometres from the Tablelands, but the scenery couldn’t be more different. The trail starts in the open moonscape of the Tablelands and then descends through lush forest to the coast.

The volcanic soil, thick forest, and steep sea cliffs reminded me more of Hawaii than of Newfoundland. The hike is a 9 km round trip, so it’s a moderate half-day outing. But if you want to stay overnight, there is a backcountry campground at Old Man’s Cove.

Given the incredible ocean views, Green Gardens Trails is another of my favourite Newfoundland hikes.

Trout River

The tiny village of Trout River is at the southwestern edge of Gros Morne National Park. The sandy beach and wooden boardwalk are picturesque, but the town really glows at sunset. I spent a memorable evening on the beach watching the setting sun light up the sky. Don’t miss the Seaside Restaurant, right on the beach.

Things to Do in Northern Gros Morne

The Northern part of Gros Morne along Highway 430 includes the towns of Rocky Harbour and Norris Point. The towering Long Range Mountains provide an imposing backdrop. Here are my must-dos in this area:

Norris Point and Rocky Harbour

These two cute towns are 10 minutes apart on the north shore of Bonne Bay. If you take the Bonne Bay Water Shuttle from Woody Point you’ll arrive in Norris Point.

Both towns have lots of restaurants and hotels. (More on those in the Where to Eat and Where to Stay sections at the bottom of the post.) If you’re looking for souvenirs, Gros Morne Crafts in Rocky Harbour has lots of options.

In Norris Point, visit the aquarium at the Bonne Bay Marine Station. They have lots of tanks with local marine life, some of which you can pick up and touch. Students working at the research station can tell you all about the animals, many of which are unique to this area.

ATV Tours with Under the Stump

If you’re looking to explore Gros Morne’s backcountry, but you want an accessible way to do it without hiking, book an ATV Tour with Under the Stump. I did a 2-hour tour with Trina in her side-by-side ATV, and it was so much fun!

She drove us out into the Rocky Harbour Hills, a small pocket of wilderness that is surrounded by Gros Morne National Park, but not actually in the park. It has incredible views of Gros Morne Mountain from its less-seen Eastern side.

Trina also told us about the history of the area, including her Mi’kmaq heritage and taught us about how to forage for several types of local plants. She is a natural storyteller, and like many Newfoundlanders, loves to talk!

Gros Morne Mountain

If you’re up for a challenge, take on the hike to the top of Gros Morne Mountain. At 806 m, it’s the second tallest mountain in Newfoundland. (The Cabox near Bay of Islands beats it at 812 m.)

It’s a tough all-day hike but the views from the top are sublime since you can see for kilometres. Since the top of the trail is a loop, you also get a good view into Gros Morne National Park’s backcountry from the backside of the peak.

I’ve got more details on the trail in my guide to the best hikes in Newfoundland.

Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse

On my second trip, my husband explored the historic lighthouse at Lobster Cove Head while I was off hiking. He loved the exhibits inside including the historical photos and the opportunity to chat with park interpreters about what life was like for the lighthouse keepers.

He also recommends taking a stroll along easy trails around the lighthouse. They lead along the top of a bluff to lots of viewpoints overlooking Bonne Bay.

Green Point Geological Site

The short walk at Green Point Geological Site has incredible clifftop views of the ocean and a pair of iconic Parks Canada red chairs, perfect for photo ops.

But the real reason to visit lies down a set of stairs. Once you reach the beach, you’ll see the the cliffs above are made of rock layers tilted on their sides, exposing hundreds of thousands of years of geologic time. Geologists used the rock layers here to confirm their theory of plate tectonics.

Be sure to go at low tide when you can access the beach. You can explore the site on your own, but its better to go with a guide who can explain the unique geology and help you find fossils. Parks Canada runs guided tours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Or you can go with a guide from one of the local hiking tour companies – I went with Gros Morne Adventures.

Western Brook Pond

One of the easiest ways to experience the rugged interior of Gros Morne National Park is to take a boat tour on Western Brook Pond with Bon Tours. The “pond” is actually a former fjord with towering mountains on either side and lots of waterfalls.

To get to the boat dock you must walk a flat and easy 3 km trail from the parking lot. The trail has great views as well, so it’s a good option if you don’t have time for the boat tour. And if you want to do the tour but have mobility challenges, the tour company can transport you via golf cart.

The best views are from the top deck, which is outside, so be sure to dress for the weather. I recommend packing warm, waterproof, and windproof clothing just in case. The wind really picks up in the afternoon. (I’ve got more packing tips at the bottom of this post.)

Pro tip: Sit on the left side of the boat for a closer view of the scenery.

Long Range Traverse

While the Western Brook Pond boat tour is one of the easiest outdoor adventures in Gros Morne, the boat leads to the most extreme adventure in the park – the Long Range Traverse.

You disembark from the boat tour at the head of Western Brook Pond then navigate through the rugged Long Range Mountains off-trail for three to five days before finishing at the base of Gros Morne Mountains.

I planned my first trip to Newfoundland specifically to hike the Long Range Traverse and it’s by far the hardest trail on my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland. The five days I spent on the trail were incredible – we saw moose and bears, got lost in a bog, and made lots of incredible memories.

Broom Point

Another spot that my husband experienced without me (much to my chagrin) is Broom Point. It’s a viewpoint with easy trails. You can explore along the coast and get great views inland to Western Brook Pond and the Long Range Mountains. There is also a restored fishing premises here that makes for great photo ops.

Cow Head and Theatre Newfoundland

The town of Cow Head is near the northern boundary of Gros Morne National Park. The village has a long sandy beach and a picturesque lighthouse.

I haven’t spent any time in Cow Head, but my friend Vanessa from Turnipseed Travel was there recently and raved about Theatre Newfoundland.

She says “For twenty summers, the tiny community of Cow Head has hosted Neddy Norris Night, an intimate, acoustic show of traditional Newfoundland songs and stories. There are plenty of laughs but also several poignant moments as the musicians share songs alluding to hard bygone days. While the audience was packed with “CFAs” (that’s come-from-aways, i.e. visitors) this wasn’t a gimmicky show just for tourists. It’s a heartfelt creation of good cheer and authentic folklore that will stick with you long after the show ends.”

Where to Eat in Gros Morne

Restaurants in Southern Gros Morne

Galliott Studios and Cafe: This tiny coffee shop in Woody Point doubles as a pottery studio with drinks served in mugs thrown on site. Their sunny patio hangs over Bonne Bay and is lovely on a crisp fall day (but you’ll want to use one of their blankets). They also have a small selection of pottery and art for sale. I couldn’t resist the hand-drawn hiker stickers.

Seaside Restaurant: This iconic restaurant in Trout River is right on the beach. The same family has been cooking up seafood here since 1981. I had the best fried fish here.

Taste: Located inside the Gros Morne Inn near Woody Point, this fine-dining restaurant that focuses on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. I had a great lunch here with an incredible lobster bisque.

Merchant Warehouse: On one of my trips, we dropped into the Merchant Warehouse in Woody Point one afternoon for a coffee. The front of the restaurant is a full-on 50s soda shop, but they also have a full restaurant and patio overlooking the water. On my most recent trip, I had great fish and chips here.

Restaurants in Northern Gros Morne

Old Store Cafe: This little cafe in Norris Point is a great spot for coffee, baked goods, and lunch. Try their “Gull Shit muffins” – they are chocolate muffins topped with cream cheese. Delicious!

Cat Stop Pub: The Bonne Bay water shuttle docks right next to Cat Stop Pub in Norris Point, which has a huge waterfront patio. It’s a good place for a beer and casual pub food.

Chanterelle’s: I had an amazing meal of duck breast with local patridgeberries at Chaterelle’s in Norris Point, located inside the Sugar Hill Inn. It offers fine-dining and exceptional food without too much pretension. Trust me: get the seafood cakes.

Java Jack’s: On my first visit to Gros Morne we had a memorable dinner at Java Jack’s in Rocky Harbour. The restaurant is in a bright yellow house in the middle of the village. They serve upscale versions of traditional Newfoundland food. I had an elevated version of stroganoff with caribou instead of beef.

Buoy & Arrow: This Indigenous-owned restaurant in Rocky Harbour has lots of locally-sourced game meat and seafood on the menu. I had an amazing moose burger. Their menu gives the names for dishes in both English and Mi’kmaq.

Where to Stay in Gros Morne

Southern Gros Morne Hotels

Bonne Bay Inn: I loved my stay at this boutique 10-room hotel. It is perched on the hillside so I had a great view of the bay from my room.

Gros Morne Inn: When I ate lunch at Taste, I got a mini tour of this hotel. They have incredible private hot tub pods. Each one has a panoramic view of Bonne Bay. The hotel is also the base for Tour Gros Morne, so it’s easy to book hiking tours if you stay here. (I had a great guided hike on the Green Gardens Trail with them.)

Northern Gros Morne Hotels

Gros Morne Base Camp: I spent four nights at Gros Morne Base Camp’s Burnt Hill Cabins on my fall visit. These rustic but cute cabins felt like home with little kitchens and full living rooms. They are also an easy walk to the waterfront in Norris Point or the Old Store Cafe for a morning coffee. Check rates.

Sugar Hill Inn: I loved my time at this quaint inn in Norris Point. It had huge rooms and the wide front porch was great for enjoying the view.

Camping in Gros Morne

Gros Morne National Park has five well-equipped campgrounds with flush toilets, showers, and even wifi. I stayed at the largest Berry Hill Campground, on my first visit to the park. It has a great central location near Rocky Harbour.

Gros Morne Travel Tips

How to Get There

Unlike some parts of the province, it’s pretty easy to get to Gros Morne National Park. You can fly directly to Deer Lake airport from big Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Halifax. If you’re already in St. John’s, you can fly from there to Deer Lake – that’s what I did on my second trip to Newfoundland. From Deer Lake, it’s a 25-minute drive to the park.

If you are road-tripping across the province, you can drive to Gros Morne from St. John’s in about 7 hours. But of course, you’ll want to make lots of stops along the way to visit small towns like Trinity, Bonavista, Twillingate, and Fogo Island.

It’s also possible to get to the park by Marine Atlantic ferry. The ferry leaves from Nova Scotia and arrives at Port aux Basques in the southern part of Western Newfoundland. The sailing takes 7 hours and then it’s a 3 hour-drive from the ferry terminal.

The first time I went to Newfoundland we took an overnight ferry since we were living in Halifax at the time and it made the most sense to drive.

Getting Around

Gros Morne is a big park – it takes about 2 hours to drive from one side to the other. Driving is the easiest way to get around Gros Morne. The easiest place to rent a car is at the Deer Lake Airport. I use DiscoverCars since it lets me compare prices between car rental companies.

Another option is to book a tour. Several small tour companies specialize in multi-day tours in the Gros Morne area. On my trips, I did hikes with Gros Morne Adventures, Wild Gros Morne and Tour Gros Morne – they were all great.

The park is split into two parts by Bonne Bay. Use Highway 430 to access the northern part of the part and Highway 431 for the southern portion.

To get between the two sections, you can drive around Bonne Bay, which takes about an hour. Or, you can take the Bonne Bay Water Shuttle between Norris Point (north) and Woody Point (south).

I took a trip on the water shuttle on one of my visits and it was so beautiful to see the park from the water. Plus it was faster than driving! Some tour companies also have their own boats to take you across the bay.

National Park Passes

You must purchase a Parks Canada pass to stop anywhere in Gros Morne National Park. You can buy one at the entrance kiosk in Wiltondale or at either of the two park visitor centres. Some businesses in the towns near the park also sell park passes.

You will need to display your park pass on the dash of your car whenever you are parked in the park. If you are on a guided tour, your guide will take care of park passes for you.

How Long to Spend

How long you should spend in Gros Morne National Park depends on what you want to do. At a minimum, I would say that you want at least 3 or 4 days. But if you’re a serious hiker I think 7 days is ideal – the park contains most of my favourite hikes in Newfoundland.

Best Time to Go

I’ve heard that Gros Morne is gorgeous year-round and I’ve visited in June, August, and late September/early October. The winter photos look gorgeous and locals raved to me about skiing and snowshoeing. But most visitors will have the best experience between June and late-September. That’s when the weather is the nicest and when most tourist businesses are open.

If you’re looking for a different experience than most visitors get, consider visiting in fall. It’s perfect hiking weather, the colours are gorgeous, and you’ll have the place mostly to yourself. My guide to fall in Gros Morne has all the details.

Weather

Like the rest of Newfoundland, the western part of the province is never that warm. However, in June, July, and August the average high temperature in Rocky Harbour is 23°C – a bit higher than other parts of Newfoundland!

The Blow Me Down Mountains are just outside the park, which should give you a hint that it’s often windy here. As well, rain storms are common in every month. Bring warm clothing and a rain jacket, just in case.

Cell Service

In some parts of Gros Morne, cell service is spotty or non-existent. There is LTE service in the towns adjacent to the park. However, you will often lose service as soon as you leave a town.

If you are going hiking, use a GPS app like AllTrails+ and download an offline map before you go. You will usually have no cell service on the trail.

Final Thoughts

Gros Morne is one of my favourite Canadian National Parks. Honestly, it’s right up there with the Rocky Mountain Parks. That might be because the Long Range Traverse was one of my first long backpacking trips or because the trails are stunning but not crowded.

But I think it’s also because the community around the park is in so wonderful. In places like Banff, you spend your days hiking gorgeous trails and then head back to a touristy town at night where you eat at a generic restaurant staffed by seasonal workers. It’s different in Gros Morne. The old fishing towns outside the park are full of locals who love where they live and want to make sure you have a great time.

If you’ve got questions about Gros Morne, ask them in the comments. I’d love to help.

READ NEXT:

• Fall in Gros Morne and Western Newfoundland
• 20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland
• 16 Best Hikes in Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Corner Brook, Newfoundland
• 18 Best Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Bonavista, Newfoundland
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland
• Things to do on Fogo Island, Newfoundland

The post Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

To the people of Corner Brook… I apologize. I was wrong. In a lot of ways, Corner Brook reminded me of some of my favourite outdoorsy towns in BC like Revelstoke or Port McNeill. It’s a young town with a resource focus, but the reason locals love it so much because of the incredible access to nature just outside of town.

I’ve been to Corner Brook twice, and the first time I visited, I was constantly surprised at how beautiful it was. The Bay of Islands region in particular was stunning. On both trips I did lots of hiking (of course) but I also ate great food.

Since I haven’t seen everything the town has to offer, I also had my husband and some travel friends help me put together this guide to things to do in Corner Brook. It includes:

• A Map of Corner Brook that includes all of the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in Corner Brook: Viewpoints, hiking, history, extreme sports, and more.
• Where to eat in Corner Brook: My picks for the best restaurants and cafes.
• Where to stay in Corner Brook including my pick for the coolest hotel in Newfoundland.
• Corner Brook Basics: How to get there? How long to spend? Best time to go?

Planning a trip to Newfoundland? I’ve got a big list of the best things to do Newfoundland plus lots of travel tips for the province.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Go Western Newfoundland for hosting my friends and I during my two trip to Corner Brooks. All opinions are my own and my husband’s experiences were not hosted. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Corner Brook

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Corner Brook for you. It includes every single place I mention in this post.

Best Things to Do in Corner Brook

Corner Brook Stream Trail

On my first, I caught up with an old friend from university who has lived in Corner Brook for the last 15 years. She suggested we get coffee and go for a walk. I expected an urban stroll but instead, she led me through the Corner Brook Stream Trails around Glynmill Pond.

The easy forested paths lead around the pond and nearby stream. With its central location, it was really cool to experience nature in the middle of a city.

My second visit to Corner Brook was in the fall. I went on a hike with Robbie, one of the owners of Gros Morne Adventures, who is a lifelong Corner Brooker. He took us on a longer hike along the Corner Brook Stream Trail to see the fall colours.

We started near Crockers Road, then hiked down to a viewpoint above the gorge. From there, we continued downstream to Margaret Bowater Park and Glynmill Pond on the Pipeline Trail. The entire hike is about 6 km long and has incredible views. And if you visit in late September or early October, the autumn colours are spectacular.

Railway Society of Newfoundland Museum

On my first trip, my husband Greg spent some time in Corner Brook while I was off hiking. He discovered the Railway Society of Newfoundland Museum. It’s a collection of old locomotives and train cars. For a few dollars, you can go inside and look at the historic artifacts.

The railway played an important part in settling the province’s interior and my husband said it was pretty interesting. However, he might be a bit biased because he had just finished cycling most of the way across the province on the Newfoundland T’Railway, a trail that follows the path of the former railway.

Captain Cook Historic Site

The best view in Corner brook is Captain Cook Historic Site at the top of Crow Hill. From the viewing platform, you can gaze down on Corner Brook and across to the Bay of Islands and the Blomidon Mountains.

There are also lots of info boards and a statue of Captain James Cook. Cook spent five years mapping the western coast of Newfoundland and nearby Labrador.

The view is great year-round, but I really enjoyed the fall colours on my most recent visit.

Marble Zip Tours

Marble Mountain Resort is just 10 minutes east of Corner Brook. In the winter, it’s the largest ski resort in Atlantic Canada. But it’s worth visiting year-round to ride their ziplines. Marble Zip Tours has a huge zipline course with nine lines that zigzag across a gorge above and below Steady Brook Falls.

Honestly, these were some of the best ziplines I have done. They were fast, and scary (in a good way) since many of the lines are really far off the ground. The last few lines are also really long.

The fall colours here in early October were also insane. The whole Humber Valley has some of the best fall colours in Newfoundland.

If ziplining isn’t for you, it’s still possible to see some of this scenery. You can hike to Steady Brook Falls, which has viewing platforms. It’s an easy 1 km hike with about 100 m of elevation gain.

Man in the Mountain

Across the Humber Valley from Marble Mountain, you’ll find the Man in the Mountain. From the bottom, you can gaze up and spot the face in the rocks.

But if you follow the Humber Valley Trail to the top you’ll get an incredible view. It is one of Newfoundland’s best hikes. I hiked it with Glen from Everoutdoor and he explained that the trail is also part of the Trans Canada Trail and the International Appalachian Trail.

The trail is steep, but there are a few viewpoints on the way up. The best views are from Arne’s Lookout at the top. It looks down to the Humber Valley and Corner Brook, and had an incredible display of fall colours in early October.

ATVing

I was surprised to see ATVs rolling right through downtown Corner Brook past my hotel. Locals explained that the city is very ATV-friendly and there are several designated ATV routes through the heart of the city that connect with trails.

On my second visit to Corner Brook I went out on an ATV tour with Melissa and Craig from Rugged Edge. We drove past Corner Brook City Hall and the Corner Brook sign, then out of the city to some nearby trails. I even got to drive for a short stretch!

Bay of Islands

Until my most recent visit to Newfoundland, I hadn’t heard of the Bay of Islands. It’s a long inlet with Corner Brook at its head. And it lives up to its name – there are a sprinkling of islands at its mouth.

The region used to be dotted with isolated, water-access-only fishing villages. Today, roads connect villages in the southern and eastern parts of the bay and the villages on the islands are abandoned.

It’s a strikingly beautiful place. The green flanks of the Long Range Mountains, Lewis Hills, Blomidon Mountains, and Blow Me Down Mountains rise up out of the ocean and the rugged coastline is riddled with caves and rocky clefts.

The entire region is part of the aspiring Cabox UNESCO Global Geopark. Named for the highest peak on the island of Newfoundland, the proposed geopark will recognize and protect the exceptional geology of the area. This region is sometimes called the Galapagos of plate tectonics since the rocks here confirmed the theory of plate tectonics in the 1960s and 70s.

It’s worth driving Highway 450 from Corner Brook to Lark Harbour just to admire the views. You can also continue a few minutes further to the end of the pavement at the adorable tiny fishing village of Little Port. The trip takes about an hour. Be sure to stop at Lark Harbour Tilt for coffee and snacks.

The Saltbox

The Saltbox is a must-stop on any trip to the Bay of Islands. It’s a little restaurant with a great patio right on the bay in Benoit’s Cove. I had incredibly fresh mussels here as part of a boil-up dinner.

But there is another reason to visit – The Saltbox acts as a visitor info centre for the Cabox Geopark and the entire Bay of Islands region. The walls of the building are covered, inside and out, with maps, diagrams and photos about the local area.

I studied physical geography and geology as part of my undergraduate degree, so I loved looking at all the maps. In particular, the map showing how the Appalachian mountains of the eastern USA continue up into Newfoundland was particularly interesting.

Kayaking in the Bay of Islands

Before the roads were built, everyone travelled through the Bay of Islands by boat. Everoutdoor Adventures offers kayak rentals and tours out of their headquarters at The Saltbox in Benoit’s Cove.

On both of my trips to Corner Brook, I was too busy hiking, so I didn’t get to go out on the water. But I was travelling with my friend Mary Anne from the Let’s Take This Outside podcast on my first visit, and she opted to go on a kayaking tour.

She had a great time on her tour and said it “felt like a peaceful little escape… We kayaked along the southern shore up St. John’s Beach, soaking in the quiet nature. My guide Rob from Everoutdoor Adventures was incredibly knowledgeable on the history and wildlife.”

While I didn’t get to do a tour with Rob, I did chat with him that evening over dinner. Rob is one of the main drivers behind the Cabox Aspiring Geopark. His passion for his home ecosystem in Bay of Islands is contagious.

Cape Blow Me Down

On my fall trip to Corner Brook I hiked Cape Blow Me Down, and it cemented my love for the Bay of Islands area. It’s a steep trail that works its way up to the highest point on the peaks ringing the south side of the bay.

There are great views of the bay and coastline from multiple points on the ascent, but the views from the top are the best.

Be warned, the hike does live up to its name: It can be crazy windy on top. I had to brace myself against the wind to stay standing up! As a local told us later, it’s so windy it could blow the milk out of your tea!

Bottle Cove and the South Head Lighthouse Trail

If you are looking for a spectacular hike, check out the Bottle Cove and South Head Lighthouse Trails near Lark Harbour in the Bay of Islands. Both are on my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

If you just want a short walk, wander through the trails at Bottle Cove. The paths lead down to the beach and through the forest to a viewpoint on a windy headland.

But I recommend continuing through the forest and up the hills on the South Head Lighthouse Trail. At the top, there are incredible views of the islands at the mouth of Bay of Islands.

Volunteers from Outer Bay of Islands Enhancement Committee have built and maintained several trails in the area including the Bottle Cove and South Head Lighthouse Trails. I met two volunteers fixing a small bridge on my hike. Please consider making a donation if you hike here.

Stephenville and the Port au Port Peninsula

If you’re looking for a good day trip from Corner Brook, I recommend heading south to Stephenville and the Port au Port Peninsula. It’s an interesting (and gorgeous) area with a unique mix of French and Indigenous heritage along with more recent history as a WWII-era American military base.

In my opinion, the main reason to go the Port au Port area is for the scenery. The narrow and rocky isthmus connects the peninsula to the mainland and the roads follow the coastline.

One of the prettiest hikes I did in this area leaves right from the end of the isthmus. The flat and easy Danny’s Walking Trail at The Gravels follows the rocky coastline in and out of coves for a few kilometres.

Another spot I loved was Boutte du Cap Park at the end of the Port au Port Peninsula. It has towering sea cliffs and incredible views.

Other highlights in this area include Our Lady of Mercy Church, Newfoundland’s largest wooden structure, Secret Cove Brewing, and the Fossilized Tree Trail in Stephenville.

It takes about 1 hour to drive from Corner Brook to Stephenville and another hour to get from there to the end of the Port au Port Peninsula. Plan to spend a full day on this road trip.

Deer Lake

If you fly to Western Newfoundland, you’ll land at Deer Lake Regional Airport. The nearby town of Deer Lake is pretty small – it has about 5000 residents.

The town is named for the lake upon which it sits, which means it has a pretty good sandy beach. And while the water isn’t tropical, it’s much warmer than the Atlantic Ocean!

If it isn’t beach weather, there are a few other options for things to do in Deer Lake. I spent a pleasant hour walking along the flat and easy Humber River Trail near the airport.

If you want to stay indoors, the Newfoundland Insectarium lets you get up close to butterflies and lots of other insects.

Gros Morne National Park

The southern entrance to Gros Morne National Park is about 1 hour north of Corner Brook so I recommend visiting the park too. It’s huge with lots of hikes, historical sites, and viewpoints. For all of my recommendations, check out my guide to Gros Morne National Park.

Where to Eat in Corner Brook

Brewed Awakening: My friend took me to Brewed Awakening to pick up coffee and a snack to enjoy on our walk along the Corner Brook Stream Trails. She said it’s one of the best places to get coffee in town. She was right – my latte was great.

Hew and Draw Restaurant/Boomstick Brewing Co.: The Hew and Draw Restaurant and Boomstick Brewing share space at the Hew & Draw Hotel. It has a hip big-city vibe and a menu to match. I stayed at this hotel on both trips so I can vouch for their excellent breakfast. Their dinner menu is also great – try the lobster roll.

Park West: One of the most upscale restaurants in Corner Brook, but still unpretentious. Look for lots of locally-sourced ingredients. I had an incredible tuna tartare made with tuna that one of the restaurant owners caught!

Newfound Sushi: I didn’t expect to find high-end and innovative sushi in Corner Brook, but Newfound Sushi does it. Their menu calls out which items include locally caught fish. I had an incredible omakase sushi patter that featured smoked arctic char, local tuna, and Atlantic salmon. Their signature rolls are also great.

The Saltbox: Eat next to the water at The Saltbox in beautiful Benoit’s Cove in Bay of Islands. I had an incredible seafood boil-up here including mussels and moose tacos.

Harbour Grounds: This cute coffee shop has an incredible view of Corner Brook Harbour and serves up great panini sandwiches.

Sugar and Dice: On my first trip, My husband spent an afternoon working remotely at Sugar and Dice and said it had a great vibe. They serve breakfast, lunch, coffee, and treats. And they have a huge selection of board games you can play while you eat.

Where to Stay in Corner Brook

Hew and Draw Hotel: I’ve stayed here twice now, and it’s by far the coolest hotel I’ve stayed at anywhere in Newfoundland. It has a modern feel with high ceilings and lots of thoughtful touches like original art and wallpaper from local artists. Hikers will appreciate the free guest laundry station and the hot tubs. I also love that a big restaurant breakfast is included. Check rates.

Glynmill Inn: I walked past the Glynmill Inn on my stroll along the Corner Brook Stream Trails and it looked really cute. The historic Tudor-style building is a designed provincial heritage structure. Check rates.

Corner Brook Basics

How to Get There

Getting to Corner Brook is fairly easy. It’s a quick 40-minute drive from nearby Deer Lake, which has a regional airport. You can fly directly to Deer Lake from Montreal, Halifax, Toronto, and other Canadian cities. You can also fly to Deer Lake from St. John’s, which is what I did.

It’s also possible to get to Corner Brook by road. You can drive there from St. John’s in about 7 hours. But of course, I recommend turning it into a Newfoundland road trip and stopping at lots of cute towns like Trinity, Bonavista, Twillingate, and Fogo Island.

There is also a bus service from St. John’s that stops in Deer Lake and Corner Brook.

If you’re coming from Nova Scotia, you can take the Marine Atlantic ferry to Port aux Basques. The sailing takes about 7 hours. It’s 2.5 drive from Port aux Basques to Corner Brook. On my first trip to Newfoundland, I took the overnight ferry since I was living in Halifax at the time and had my car with me.

Getting Around

While there are a few things to see in the centre of Corner Brook, you’ll want a car to explore the surrounding area. Deer Lake Airport is the easiest place to rent a car. I use DiscoverCars since it lets me compare prices between car rental companies.

However, it is possible to get around Corner Brook on public transit or taxis. If you want to go hiking outside the city, I recommend booking a tour with Everoutdoor Adventures – they can get you to the trailhead.

How Long to Spend

I recommend spending at least one night in Corner Brook. That will give you enough time to see the main sights. But if you love the outdoors, you’ll want two or three days.

Best Time to Go

I’ve heard that Corner Brook is gorgeous year-round. The winter photos look gorgeous and locals raved to me about skiing and snowshoeing. But most visitors will have the best experience between late May and early-October. That’s when the weather is the nicest and when most tourist businesses are open.

If you want a different experience than most visitors get, consider visiting in fall. It’s perfect hiking weather and you’ll get most of the hikes and attractions to yourself. My guide to fall in Western Newfoundland has all the details.

Weather

Like the rest of Newfoundland, the western part of the province is never that warm. However, in June, July, and August the average high temperature in Corner Brook is 22°C – a bit higher than other parts of Newfoundland!

The Blow Me Down Mountains are just outside of Corner Brook, which should give you a hint that it’s often windy here. As well, rain storms are common in every month. Bring warm clothing and a rain jacket, just in case.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been to Newfoundland three times now and I feel kind of stupid to have skipped Corner Brook on my first visit. I really fell in love with the Bay of Islands and would love to go back there to do even more hiking. Even though it’s a long, off-trail trek, I want to summit The Cabox – the highest mountain on the island.

I know I haven’t seen everything in the Corner Brook area… yet. If you’ve been, give me some more suggestions for things to do in the comments. Because I’m sure I’ll be back.

READ NEXT:

• 20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Fall in Gros Morne and Western Newfoundland
• 16 Best Hikes in Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park
• 18 Best Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Bonavista, Newfoundland
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland
• Things to do on Fogo Island, Newfoundland

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