You can get to these overnight and multi-day hikes by public transit bus, shuttle bus, ferry, or water taxi. I’ve done the legwork of figuring out how to get to these fabulous destinations. All info about transportation was correct at the time of writing, but things change, so please let me know if anything is out of date so I can update it.

This guide to backpacking in BC without a car includes:

• A map of car-free places to go backpacking in BC
• Tips for backpacking in BC without a car
• Trips near Vancouver
• Trips on the Sunshine Coast
• Trips on Vancouver Island
• Trips in the Okanagan and Rockies

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

Map of Car-Free Places to Go Backpacking in BC

I made a custom Google Map for you that shows the location of each of the car-free backpacking trips I mention in this post. Click to zoom in.

Tips for Backpacking Without a Car in BC

I’m not going to lie – it’s a lot easier to get around in BC if you have a car. Bus service here is not frequent and it’s often not cheap.

But it is definitely possible to go backpacking in BC without a car. Here are a few tips:

• Leave a trip plan with a friend so someone knows where you are going and when you expect to be back. This is especially important when travelling by bus as you won’t be leaving a car at a trailhead, which otherwise would be a clue for search and rescue about where you went.
• Check schedules carefully. Bus schedules change and some buses don’t run very frequently.
• Book tickets in advance. Buses can fill up or they may not stop at some locations if they don’t know in advance that someone wants to be picked up there.
• Be flexible with dates and times when booking on-demand shuttle services. Many shuttle companies will try to pair you up with other groups to make the per-person cost of the shuttle cheaper.
• Be prepared for some extra kilometres. Without a car, you might have to walk a bit to get to the trailhead. I’ve included walking directions and distances for each backpacking trip on this list. The distance stat at the start of each trip includes any extra kilometres you will need to walk from the bus stop.
• If the bus schedules don’t work for your trip, consider using a carpooling app like Poparide.
• Look into renting a car. The cost split between three or more people can often work out cheaper than taking the bus. I use Discover Cars to search for car rentals since it compares prices across tons of different companies.
• Make camping reservations in advance. Many of the backpacking trips on this list require advance reservation and sell out quickly. See my guide to BC backpacking reservations for more info.
• Is this your first backpacking trip? Read my guide to Backpacking for Beginners. It includes a run-down on gear, trip planning, fitness, and key skills like navigation and bear safety.
• Not sure what to pack? I’ve got a super-detailed Backpacking Gear Checklist that explains it all.
• Worried about bears? If you are prepared and responsible, you don’t have to worry. Read my guide to Bear Safety for Backpackers.

Backpacking Trips Near Vancouver Without a Car

Howe Sound Crest Trail

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Very challenging

Distance: Up to 31.7 km one way

Elevation Gain: 660 m

Best Months: Mid-July to September

Fees and Reservations: Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Description: This tough backpacking trip in Cypress Provincial Park is best for experienced backpackers. The first part of the hike is on the well-worn trail to St. Mark’s Summit. But past there you will need route-finding and scrambling skills to stay on track as you follow the spine of the ridge over several summits. It is typically hiked as a one-way traverse from the Cypress Mountain ski hill to Porteau Cove, but you can bail out part-way on the trail to Lions Bay.

Getting There Without a Car: From downton Vancouver, take Translink bus 250 or 257 to Park Royal, then take the Cypress Mountain Shuttle to Cypress Mountain. (Note: The summer schedule is limited and some years it doesn’t run at all. If there is no shuttle, you can take a taxi from Park Royal.)

You can do and out-and-back trip from Cypress Mountain or do a one-way trip to Lions Bay or Porteau Cove. If you get off trail at Lions Bay, you can take bus Translink bus 262 to West Vancouver, and then bus 253 to to downtown Vancouver. To complete the whole route to Porteau Cove, you will need to arrange a taxi.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Elfin Lakes and Rampart Ponds

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 22 to 42 km

Elevation Gain: 610 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and fees are charged for both tent pads and the hut. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Description: This trip in Garibaldi Provincial Park takes you up into the subalpine to stroll along a ridge with incredible views. You can camp or stay in the hut at Elfin Lakes, which is a great place to base yourself for day hikes. Or continue further into the backcountry to say at Rampart Ponds campground. This hike is just a few minutes from my house in Squamish, so I’ve done it tons of times.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Squamish Connector buses to downtown Squamish or Garibaldi Estates. From there, Howe Sound Taxi can take you 30 minutes to the trailhead. (Call ahead to confirm that they will go up the gravel road to the trailhead – some dispatchers get confused as to where this is.)

You may also be able to get a ride with Shred Shuttle from downtown Squamish or Garibald Estates. It is a mountain bike shuttle service that stops about 0.5 km from the hikers trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my Elfin Lake hiking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees and reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: Elfin Lakes Hike in Squamish (By a Local)

Lake Lovely Water

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Distance: 11 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 1135 m

Best Months: Late June to early October

Fees and Reservations: Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served. The hut requires reservations and fees.

Trail Description: The trail to Lake Lovely Water begins on the other side of the Squamish River, so crossing it by boat is your first obstacle. The trail is incredibly steep and rugged as it grinds uphill through the forest. Your reward is a gorgeous alpine lake ringed with mountains. You can stay at the backcountry campground or book the rustic hut. From there, take day hikes to meadows or scramble to the tops of the peaks. I spent a memorable birthday here one year and it was so pretty!

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Squamish Connector buses to downtown Squamish. From there, Squamish Watersports can shuttle you to the trailhead via jetski. Alternatively, you can take a taxi for 15 minutes to the Squamish airport, then take a helicopter or floatplane directly to the lake.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For hut reservations, see the Alpine Club of Canada Vancouver section.

Cheakamus Lake

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 7 to 14 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 50 m

Best Months: May to early November

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and fees are charged for camping. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Description: This is one of the easiest trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park and one of the easiest places to go backpacking in BC without a car. The trail to the lake is flat and easy. The lake is an incredible turquoise colour. You can camp at the lake outlet or continue along the lakeshore to a second campground at Singing Creek.

Cheakamus Lake is one of my favourites since it has such a beautiful location but it’s an easy hike – it’s on my lists of the best spring backpacking trips in BC and the best beginner backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Epic Rides bus to Whistler. From there, you can take a taxi for 25 minutes to the trailhead.

If you are up for adding 8 km and 200 m of elevation gain each way, you can skip the taxi and take BC Transit bus 10 from Whistler Village to the stop on Cheakamus Lake Road just after to turnoff from the Highway. From there, take the Valley Trail south to the Cheakamus Lake FSR. For a nicer hike, use the Farside Trail instead of the road for the first 3km.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees and reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

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
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Helm Creek

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 17 km return (plus more for day hikes from camp)

Elevation Gain: 700 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and fees are charged for camping. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Description: The trail to Helm Creek provides a lesser-known backdoor route into the core of Garibaldi Provincial Park by leaving from the same trailhead as Cheakamus Lake. The trail switchbacks uphill through the forest to a subalpine campground. From there you can day hike to Panorama Ridge (14 km return), which has great views of Garibaldi Lake.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Epic Rides bus to Whistler. From there, you can take a taxi for 25 minutes to the trailhead. If you are up for adding 8 km and 200 m of elevation gain each way, you can skip the taxi and take BC Transit bus 10 from Whistler Village to the stop on Cheakamus Lake Road. From there, take the Valley Trail south to the Cheakamus Lake FSR. For a nicer hike, use the Farside Trail instead of the road for the first 3km.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees and reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Russet Lake

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 25 to 29 km

Elevation Gain: 305 to 1280 m

Best Months: Mid-July to September.

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and fees are charged for camping. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.) The hut also requires reservations and fees.

Trail Description: Tiny Russet Lake has a gorgeous backcountry campground and a beautiful new hut in the mountains above Whistler inside Garibaldi Provincial Park. There are two ways to get there: You can hike up the steep Singing Pass trail directly from Whistler Village. Or you can pay to take the Whistler Gondola, then hike along an undulating ridge on the High Note and Musical Bumps Trails. It’s also one of the easiest backpacking trips in BC to get to without a car.

This trip is one of my favourites since the views are so good – it’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Epic Rides bus to Whistler. Then walk through the village to the Singing Pass trailhead or the bottom of the Whistler gondola.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my Russet Lake hiking and backpacking guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. To make camping reservations, see Garibaldi Provincial Park. For hut reservations, see the Spearhead Huts Society.

Rainbow Pass and Hanging Lake

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 20.6 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 890 m

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Description: Hike up into the mountains on the west side of the Whistler Valley to gorgeous Rainbow Lake. From the lake, ascend to Rainbow Pass and find the campground at Hanging Lake on the other side. It’s a great spot to base yourself for day hikes up Rainbow Mountain or to nearby Ninja Lakes.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Epic Rides bus to Whistler. From there, you can take a taxi for 15 minutes to the trailhead.

If you are up for adding 3 km and 50 m of elevation gain each way, you can skip the taxi and take BC Transit bus 6 from Whistler Village to the stop on Crabapple Drive at Cedar Grove. From there, walk north then west on the Valley Trail to Rainbow Park. Then walk north on Alta Lake Road to the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Wedgemount Lake

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Distance: 13 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 1160 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and fees are charged for camping. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Description: This hike in Garibaldi Provincial Park is really steep, especially the final push to the top. But it’s worth it! The beautiful turquoise lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. And you can hike past the end of the lake right up to the toe of the glacier. See it while you can as the ice has retreated nearly half a kilometre in less than 30 years.

Wedgemount Lake is on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC thanks to the spectaclar scenery and the opportunity to hike to a glacier.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take the YVR Skylynx or Epic Rides bus to Whistler. From there, you can take a taxi for 15 minutes to the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. To make reservations, visit Garibaldi Provincial Park.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

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
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

Frosty Mountain

Duration: 2-3 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 29 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 1140 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are charged. Reservations are required between late July and late October.

Trail Description: This trail climbs up the slopes of Frosty Mountain, the highest peak in Manning Provincial Park. You can camp at Frosty Creek, partway up, then head to the summit with day packs. Try to time your visit for the fall to see the larches change colour.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take Mountain Man Mike’s shuttle to the Manning Park Lodge. From there, hike 3.5 km on the Little Muddy Trail to the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my Frosty Mountain trail guide and my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees see Manning Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: Frosty Mountain Larches Fall Hiking Guide

Lightning Lakes

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 20 km round trip

Elevation Gain: none

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Description: The easy trail along the shores of Lightning Lake is perfect for beginners or families. The flat trail has great views of the lakes. Leave the day hikers behind and camp at Strike Lake.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take Mountain Man Mike’s shuttle to the Manning Park Lodge. From there, hike 3.5 km on the Little Muddy Trail to the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees see Manning Provincial Park.

Skyline Trail (Manning Park)

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 42 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 520 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees are charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Description: The views from this trail are incredible. You start the hike along the shores of Lightning Lake, then ascend to a ridge top viewpoint. From there, the trail follows the top of the ridge through wildflower meadows and you can look waaay down below you to the Lightning Lakes chain. Stay the night at Mowich Camp, which is often visited by deer.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take Mountain Man Mike’s shuttle to the Manning Park Lodge. From there, hike 5.5 km on the Little Muddy Trail, then the Lightning Lakes trail over the Rainbow Bridge to the trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia. For info on camping fees see Manning Provincial Park.

Backpacking Trips on the Sunshine Coast Without a Car

Sunshine Coast Trail

Duration: 7 to 12 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 178 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1300 m

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping and staying in the huts is free and all campsites and huts are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The 178-km-long Sunshine Coast Trail is a great backpacking trip to do without a car. The hike includes 14 huts along the way, plus dozens of campgrounds so lots of itineraries are possible. The trail starts and finishes on the ocean, but the bulk of the hike is inland up and down mountains and alongside lakes. If the whole trail is too long for you, I also have some options for car-free backpacking trips on shorter sections of the Sunshine Coast Trail below.

The Sunshine Coast Trail is a bucket list hike thanks to the hut-to-hut experience. It’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: You can fly to Powell River from Vancouver or Victoria, then take the Sunshine Coast Shuttle bus to the north trailhead. You can also take BC Transit bus 12 from Powell River to the south trailhead.

If you don’t want to fly, take Translink bus 250 or 257 from Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a BC Ferry from there to Langdale where you catch the Sunshine Coast Connector bus to Earl’s Cove to get your final BC Ferry to Saltery Bay. From there you can start the trail or take the Sunshine Coast Shuttle Bus to the other trailhead.

If you want to save some money, you can also take BC Transit bus 12 from Saltery Bay to Powell River, then the Sunshine Coast Shuttle bus to the trailhead.

If you are coming from Vancouver Island, you can take a BC Ferry to Powell River from Comox.

More Info: Get all the details on the Sunshine Coast Trail website.

Fairview Bay/Saltery Bay Loop

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 12 km round trip or 18 km loop

Elevation Gain: 150 to 570 m

Best Months: April to November

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping and the huts are free and all campsites and huts are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The section of the Sunshine Coast Trail is easy to hike without a car since you start right at the ferry. You can hike along the ocean to Fairview Bay Hut. Or you can hike up to Rainy Day Lake, then back around via Fairview Bay to make a loop. If you want to go further, you can tack on the summit of Mount Troubridge for an extra 15 km round trip with 900 m of elevation gain. All three locations have campsites and huts.

I love the coastal views on the way to Fairview Bay – it’s on my lists of the best spring backpacking trips in BC and best easy backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take Translink bus 250 or 257 to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal, then take the BC Ferry to Langdale on the lower Sunshine Coast. From there, take the Sunshine Coast Connector Bus to Earl’s Cove ferry terminal. Take the BC Ferry to Saltery Bay. Once you get off the ferry, the trailhead is a few minutes walk away.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and on the Sunshine Coast Trail website.

Saltery Bay to Lang Bay

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 45.8 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1300 m

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping and the huts are free and all campsites and huts are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The southernmost section of the Sunshine Coast Trail offers a good mix of terrain. You’ll hike to the top of Mount Troubridge, the highest point on the Sunshine Coast Trail. The section also includes one of the longest coastal sections between gorgeous Fairview Bay and the trailhead at Saltery Bay.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver, take Translink bus 250 or 257 to Horseshoe Bay, then take the BC Ferry to Langdale on the lower Sunshine Coast. From there, take the Sunshine Coast Connector Bus to Earl’s Cove ferry terminal. Take the BC Ferry to Saltery Bay. Once you get off the ferry, the trailhead is a few minutes walk away.

To finish the trail, walk along Dixon Road to the Sunshine Coast Highway, then catch the BC Transit bus 12 from Lang Bay back to the ferry terminal.

More Info: Get all the details on the Sunshine Coast Trail website.

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Powell River to Lang Bay

Duration: 4 to 7 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 84.5 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1100 m

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping and the huts are free and all campsites and huts are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The middle section of the Sunshine Coast Trail includes some of the most spectacular views on the entire trail from the summits of Tin Hat Mountain and Walt Hill Hut. Since it is an 84 km stretch, it’s a great way to take in a big chunk of the SCT if you don’t have time to do the whole thing.

Getting There Without a Car: You can fly to Powell River from Vancouver or Victoria, then take a BC Transit bus 1 to the trailhead.

If you are coming from Vancouver Island, you can take a BC Ferry to Powell River from Comox.

You can also take Translink bus 250 or 257 from Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a BC Ferry from there to Langdale where you catch the Sunshine Coast Connector bus to Earl’s Cove to get your final BC Ferry to Saltery Bay. From there you can take BC Transit Bus 12, then Bus 1 to the trailhead in Powell River.

To finish the trail, walk out along Dixon Road to the Sunshine Coast Highway, then catch the BC Transit bus 12 from Lang Bay back to the ferry terminal or to Powell River.

More Info: Get all the details on the Sunshine Coast Trail website.

Sarah Point to Powell River

Duration: 3 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 50.2 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 370 m

Best Months: March to November

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping and the huts are free and all campsites and huts are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The low-elevation section at the north end of the Sunshine Coast Trail is a great car-free backpacking option for spring and fall. It has gorgeous views of the ocean from Manzanita Bluff and the campsite on Little Sliammon Lake is a great spot for a swim.

The hike to Manzanita Bluff was the first part of the SCT that I hiked and remains a favourite – it’s on my list of the best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: You can fly to Powell River from Vancouver or Victoria, then take the Sunshine Coast Shuttle bus to the Sarah Point Trailhead.

If you are coming from Vancouver Island, you can take a BC Ferry to Powell River from Comox.

You can also take Translink bus 250 or 257 from Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay, then a BC Ferry from there to Langdale where you catch the Sunshine Coast Connector bus to Earl’s Cove to get your final BC Ferry to Saltery Bay.

From there you can take the Sunshine Coast Shuttle to the Sarah Point Trailhead. Or if you want to save some money, you can take a BC Transit bus 12 to Powell River, then the Sunshine Coast Shuttle.

The trail finishes in Powell River near the stop for BC Transit bus 1 which you can use to get back to the ferry at Saltery Bay.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia and on the Sunshine Coast Trail website.

Backpacking Trips on Vancouver Island Without a Car

Narvaez Bay

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 18 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 140 m

Best Months: Year-round

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required in the summer and camping fees are charged. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: This oceanfront campground is located in Gulf Islands National Park on Saturna Island. It’s an easy hike along a quiet road and then a short trail to the campground. Unfortunately, there is no water here so you will have to bring your own.

Narvaez Bay is a gorgeous spot – it’s on my lists of the best spring backpacking trips in BC and best easy backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Vancouver take Translink bus 620 to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, then take the BC Ferry to Saturna Island.

From Victoria, take the BC Transit bus 70 to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, then take the BC Ferry to Saturna Island.

Once on the island, walk along East Point Road then Narvaez Bay Road to the park. If you want to save some time, bring a bike for the road section.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. See Gulf Islands National Park Reserve for camping reservations.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Juan de Fuca Trail

Heads up: The Juan de Fuca Trail is closed in summer 2025 due to significant storm damage. It is not possible to hike the entire trail, but you can visit and camp at Mystic Beach and East Sombrio Beach.

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 47 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 190 m

Best Months: Year-round

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: Often considered the sister trail to the famous West Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca Trail runs along the ocean at the southern end of Vancouver Island. It is a bit more rugged than the WCT with more inland sections and lots of hills. But it also has lots of beautiful beach campsites.

This trip is one of my favourites – I’ve done it twice! It’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Victoria, you can take the West Coast Trail Express shuttle bus to all of the trailheads.

More Info: Read my Juan de Fuca Trail guide and see my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island for full details. For info on camping fees, see Juan de Fuca Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: Juan De Fuca Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Kludahk Trail

Duration: 3 to 5 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 51.2 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1000 m

Best Months: June to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: This little-known trail follows the crest of the San Juan Ridge through gorgeous old-growth forest and unique sub-alpine bog. There are lots of viewpoints and tiny lakes along the way. The Kludahk Outdoors Club built the trail and has a series of huts along the trail, which are only open to club members. However, members of the public are welcome to use the trail and stay at the campsites near the huts.

Getting There Without a Car: It’s possible to get to and from the Kludahk Trail using the West Coast Express bus from Victoria.

The bus stops at the intersection of Highway 14 and Parkinson Creek Road, the western trailhead for the Kludahk Trail.

It also stops at the entrance to the China Beach day-use area, which is a 1 km (0.6 mi) walk along the highway from the start of North Main FSR. From there it’s a 10.2 km (6.3 mi) walk with 660 m (2165 ft) of elevation gain on logging roads to the eastern trailhead.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

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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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West Coast Trail

Duration: 5 to 8 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 75 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 225 m

Best Months: May to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, trail fees, and National Park entry fees required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: The West Coast Trail is a bucket list hike and is on lots of lists of the best trails in Canada. The tough trail follows the coast with lots of sections of beach walking and some inland old-growth forest. You will also challenge yourself on lots of ladders, bridges, and cable cars. The campsites are all on gorgeous beaches.

I love this trail – I’ve done it twice and it’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Victoria, you can take the West Coast Trail Express shuttle bus to all of the trailheads.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my West Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For info on reservations, trail fees, and National Park fees, see Pacific Rim National Park.

READ NEXT: West Coast Trail Hiking Guide

Keeha Beach

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 7 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 45 m

Best Months: May to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park entry fees required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: Remote Keeha Beach is located in Pacific Rim National Park just north of the West Coast Trail. It’s a gorgeous sandy beach with incredible views. The trail to get there is really rough, however, with tons of mud and slippery tree roots.

The beach here is so pretty – it’s on my list of the best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Victoria, you can take the West Coast Trail Express shuttle bus to the town of Bamfield. From there, you can take a taxi to the trailhead or walk 2 km on Bamfield Road and South Bamfield Road.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. For fees, and reservations, see Pacific Rim National Park.

Della Falls

Duration: 2 to 5 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 32 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 540 m

Best Months: Mid-May to September

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: Della Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada with a total height of 440 m. The trail heads up a picturesque river valley to the base of the falls. From there, you can take a side trail up to Love Lake for an even better view.

This trip is one of my favourites – it’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Tofino Bus to Port Alberni. From there you can take a taxi for 20 minutes to the Great Central Lake Marina to catch the Della Falls water taxi to the trailhead.

More Info: Get all the details in my Della Falls Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. Join the Della Falls Facebook group to get the latest trail conditions.

READ NEXT: Della Falls Trail Hiking Guide (Vancouver Island Backpacking)

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Wild Side Trail

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 22 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 30 m

Best Months: May to October

Fees and Reservations: Trail fees charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: This is one of my favourite trails on Vancouver Island. Almost the entire trail is on beautiful sandy beaches. The campsite at Cow Bay has a spectacular view. The Wild Side Trail is an easy hike so it’s great for kids or beginners.

I’ve done this hike twice and it’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, best easy backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Tofino Bus to Tofino, then catch a water taxi to the town of Ahousaht. The trail starts at the fuel dock in Ahousaht.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Wild Side Trail guide and in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.. For info on trail fees and camping fees, see the Wild Side Trail website.

READ NEXT: Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide

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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

Get the book

Forbidden Plateau Loop

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 8.3 to 15. 4 km loop

Elevation Gain: 190 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The easy trails starting at Paradise Meadows in Strathcona Provincial Park are a great option for a laidback backpacking trip. With two campgrounds (Lake Helen Mackenzie and Kwai Lake) you can choose to make a shorter or longer loop. There are also several great day hikes from the campgrounds.

I’ve hiked here four times since it’s so nice and it’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC and best easy backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Island Link bus to Courtenay/Comox. From there, take an Ambassador Transportation shuttle to the trailhead at the top of Mount Washington.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Circlet Lake and Mount Albert Edward

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Challenging

Distance: 31 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 980 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: Mount Albert Edward is one of the highest mountains on Vancouver Island and one of the few you can summit without mountaineering gear. The trip up the mountain begins with a hike through the Paradise Meadows area of Strathcona Provincial Park. Stay overnight at tiny Circlet Lake and day hike to the peak from there.

I’ve hiked here twice – it’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Island Link bus to Courtenay/Comox. From there, take an Ambassador Transportation shuttle to the trailhead at the top of Mount Washington.

More Info: Find details on this hike in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

North Coast Trail

Duration: 5 to 6 days

Difficulty: Very challenging

Distance: 43 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 245 m

Best Months: mid-April to October

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged between May and September. (Otherwise, it is free.) All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: I’ve hiked a lot of coastal trails and I think the North Coast Trail is the toughest. The trail is muddy, rooty, and sometimes near vertical as it ascends coastal cliffs. But the beaches and old-growth forests are spectacular.

I’ve hiked this trail twice – it’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Island Link Bus to Port Hardy. From there you can take Cape Scott Water Taxi to the eastern trailhead. To get back from the trail, take the North Coast Trail Shuttle bus (operated by Cape Scott Water Taxi) from the Cape Scott trailhead to Port Hardy.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my North Coast Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group for the latest trail conditions.

READ NEXT: North Coast Trail: Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Cape Scott

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 41.5 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 100 m

Best Months: Year-round

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged between May and September. (Otherwise, it is free.) All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: I love the hike to Cape Scott – I’ve done it 4 times. The trail heads through the wet and muddy rainforest before emerging on the coast. You can camp at several different sandy beaches. The highlight is the day hike to the lighthouse at Cape Scott, the northernmost point on Vancouver Island.

This is my favourite hike on Vancouver Island – it’s on my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Island Link bus to Port Hardy. From there you can take the North Coast Trail Shuttle bus (operated by Cape Scott Water Taxi) to the trailhead.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group the latest trail conditions. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island

San Josef Bay

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 5 km return

Elevation Gain: 45 m

Best Months: Year-round

Fees and Reservations: Camping fees charged between May and September. (Otherwise, it is free.) All campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: The flat trail to San Josef is so easy that you can pull a wagon on it – and many people do. The beautiful sandy beach is a great place to camp. Be sure to allow extra time to explore the sea stacks at low tide. It takes a long time to get here, but this is a great beginner backpacking trip in BC without a car.

I’ve hiked to this beautiful beach twice – it’s on my lists of the best spring backpacking trips in BC and best easy backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: From Nanaimo, take the Island Link bus to Port Hardy. From there you can take the North Coast Trail Shuttle bus (operated by Cape Scott Water Taxi) to the trailhead.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Cape Scott Trail guide and my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island. Join the Cape Scott Park Facebook group the latest trail conditions. For camping fees, see Cape Scott Provincial Park.

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

Get the book

Backpacking Trips in Eastern BC and the Rocky Mountains Without a Car

Heads up: Some of the trips in this section are technically in Alberta, but they are so close to the BC border that it seemed silly not to include them.

Okanagan High Rim Trail

Duration: 3 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 59 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 800 m

Best Months: May to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: This trail makes a traverse through the mountains above the Okanagan Valley between Vernon and Kelowna. It’s a newer route that is gaining in popularity thanks to the many little lakes and great views. Easy access makes it one of the best backpacking trips in BC without a car.

This trip made it onto my lists of the best backpacking trips in BC, and best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: Take Ebus to Vernon from Kelowna or Vancouver. From there, you can take a taxi for 15 minutes to the northern trailhead. You can also take BC Transit bus 1 to the stop on Kalamalka Road at Bonavista Drive, then walk 2.8 to the trailhead. To finish the trail, take a taxi for 30 minutes back to Kelowna from Highway 33 at Philpott Road.

More Info: Get the details from the Okanagan High Rim Trail Association.

Okanagan Mountain Park

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging

Distance: 22 to 40 km

Elevation Gain: 200 to 1100 m

Best Months: Mid-March to October

Fees and Reservations: None. Camping is free and all campsites are first-come, first-served.

Trail Info: There are tons of trail options in this huge park south of Kelowna. There are backcountry campgrounds near the peak of Okanagan Mountain at Divide Lake and Baker Lake. Or you can choose from several campgrounds on the shores of Okanagan Lake, accessed via the Wild Horse Canyon Trail. It’s also possible to combine the two to make a big loop.

This trip is also on my list of the best spring backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: Take Ebus to Kelowna from Vancouver or Calgary or points along the way. From Kelowna, take a taxi for 25 minutes to the trailhead on Lakeshore Road.

More Info: See Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park.

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Skoki Loop

Duration: 3 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 33.5 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 1,295 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park admission required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: This lollipop-shaped loop trip heads into the mountains east of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. The route weaves between tall peaks and picturesque alpine lakes.

Getting There Without a Car: Take the Rider Express bus to Lake Louise from Calgary, Kamloops, or Vancouver, then walk 3.5 km to the trailhead.

More Info: See my Skoki Loop trail guide.

Psst! This trail is on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Egypt Lake

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 24.6 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 1,135 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park admission required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: This trail climbs up through Healy Pass to Egypt Lake in Banff National Park. From there you can day hike to several stunning lakes. You can make your trip into a loop by taking the Sunshine Village gondola back to the trailhead.

Getting There Without a Car: Take the Rider Express bus to Banff from Calgary or Vancouver. From there take the Sunshine Village Shuttle to the trailhead at the base of the gondola.

More Info: See my Egypt Lake backpacking guide.

READ NEXT: Egypt Lake in Banff Hiking and Backpacking Guide

Mount Assiniboine

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 55 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 480 m

Best Months: Mid-July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations and fees are required to camp in the park through BC Parks and to camp on the access trails through Banff National Park. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: The whole Mount Assiniboine area is stunning. There are several day hikes from the base camp at Lake Magog which lead to incredible viewpoints. There are two ways to hike to the core area – via Mount Shark trailhead in Kananaskis or via Sunshine Village near Banff. Only the Sunshine Village option is possible to backpacking without a car.

This trip is one of my favourites – it’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC. It’s also on my list of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies.

Getting There Without a Car: Take the Rider Express to Banff from Vancouver or Calgary. From there take the Sunshine Village Shuttle to the trailhead at the base of the gondola. Ride the gondola up to the top to the trailhead.

More Info: See my huge Mount Assiniboine hiking guide for more info. Make reservations on the Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. Join the Mount Assiniboine Facebook group. See Banff National Park for reservations for camping on the approach trails.

READ NEXT: Mount Assiniboine Hiking Guide

Lake Minnewanka Shoreline Trail

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 15.6 to 57.8 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 300 m

Best Months: May to October

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park admission required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: The easy trail along the shore of Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park is a great option for spring or fall since it is in the valley bottom. There are six backcountry campgrounds along the route. Don’t miss the day hike to Alymer Pass, which has a spectacular view.

Getting There Without a Car: Take the Rider Express to Banff from Calgary or Vancouver. From there take Roam Transit bus 6 to Lake Minnewanka.

More Info: See Banff National Park.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Saturday Night Lake Loop

Duration: 2 to 3 days

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 24.6 km

Elevation Gain: 480 m

Best Months: May to October

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park admission required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: This easy trail starts right in the town of Jasper. The loop heads steadily but never steeply uphill, passing several lakes. There are two campgrounds along the trail both near picturesque lakes.

Getting There Without a Car: Take Sundog Tours bus from Edmonton or Ebus from Vancouver or Kamloops to Jasper. From there, walk 1.6 km to the trailhead.

More Info: See Jasper National Park.

Skyline Trail (Jasper National Park)

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 44.1 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1330 m

Best Months: Mid-July to mid-September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations, camping fees, and National Park admission required. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: The Skyline Trail is one of the most popular backpacking trips in Jasper National Park. The trail is mostly above the treeline, so it has incredible views as it goes over mountain passes. Most people choose to hike from south to north since it has less elevation gain.

Getting There Without a Car: Take Sundog Tours bus from Edmonton to Jasper or Ebus from Vancouver or Kamloops to Jasper. Then take the Maligne Valley Hiker’s shuttle to the trailhead.

More Info: See my Skyline Trail hiking guide.

READ NEXT: Hike the Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park

Berg Lake Trail

Heads up: The Berg Lake Trail suffered extensive damage due to flooding in late June and early July 2021. However, the full trail reopened in June 2025.

Duration: 2 to 4 days

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 42 km round trip

Elevation Gain: 800 m

Best Months: July to September

Fees and Reservations: Reservations are required and camping fees are charged. (See my guide to making backcountry camping reservations in BC for more info.)

Trail Info: Berg Lake is one of my favourite trails in the Rockies and a great place to go backpacking in BC without a car. It follows the Robson River uphill to the Berg Lake, named for the glaciers that send icebergs into the lake. Allow extra time for day hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

This trip is one of my favourites – it’s on my list of the best backpacking trips in BC.

Getting There Without a Car: Take Ebus from Edmonton, Vancouver or Kamloops to the Mount Robson Visitor Centre. Then walk 2.2 km to the trailhead.

More Info: Get details on this hike in my Berg Lake Trail guide. For reservation info, see Mount Robson Provincial Park.

READ NEXT: Berg Lake Trail Hiking Guide

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

Final Thoughts

With over 35 car-free backpacking trips in BC on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one that works for you. Do you have other suggestions for places to go backpacking in BC without a car? Leave them in the comments.

MORE BC BACKPACKING TRIP LISTS:

• 31 Best Backpacking Trips in BC
• 11 Best Backpacking Trips in the Canadian Rockies
• 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners
• 25 Spring Backpacking Trips in British Columbia

BC BACKPACKING RESOURCES:

• How to Make Backcountry Camping Reservations in BC
• 2023 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know
• How to Go Backpacking in BC Without Reservations
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies

The post 35+ Places to Go Backpacking in BC Without A Car appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

So here’s my big list of Vancouver hikes you can get to on transit. While I put over 35 hikes on the list, there are even more transit-accessible hikes near Vancouver. Grab a map and a transit schedule and see what you can find!

PSST! Want to go overnight or multi-day hiking? Check out my list of the best car-free backpacking trips in BC.

But first… Be prepared

Just because you can take a bus right to the trail doesn’t mean you aren’t going to the wilderness. Many of the hikes on this list are very snowy and dangerous in winter or can have other hazards the rest of the year. Make sure you research trail conditions before you go. 

Check the weather forecast too so that you know what to wear to keep you warm and dry. Bring a backpack that contains the 10 essentials – gear you should have on every hike. And leave a trip plan with a friend or family member so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back. Read more about the things you should do before every hike.

Lastly, these trails are located in sensitive wilderness areas. Learn how to Leave No Trace before you go so we can all keep the wilderness wild.

Taking Public Transit in Vancouver

Unfortunately, bus schedules change. I’ve done my best to include the most up-to-date transit info in this post, but please double check with Translink before you take transit to your hike.

Vancouver’s transit system uses a reloadable fare card called the Compass Card. You can buy one at a Skytrain station on online. Tap your card when you get on a bus. (You don’t have to tap out.) Tap in and out of the gates at Skytrain and Sea Bus stations.

If you don’t want to buy a Compass Card you can use a contactless (tap) credit cards or debit cards. You can also use mobile wallets (e.g. Apple Wallet, Samsung Pay. On the bus, you also have the option of paying with exact change.

Vancouver’s Skytrain and Sea Buses work on a zone system with fares increases the more zones you travel through. However, buses are all in the same zone. Look up info on your trip before you purchase your fare.

Bowen Island and Sunshine Coast Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Mount Gardner 

Mount Garner is the highest point on Bowen Island so it has great views. But since it’s only 719m tall, it’s rarely snowy and can be hiked almost all year. 

Trail Stats: 17km round trip, 719m elevation gain, 7 hours, moderate. Getting There: From downtown Vancouver, take bus 257 or 250 to Horseshoe Bay, then walk on to the Bowen Island ferry. Parking at the ferry is difficult and expensive so taking the bus is much easier. More Info: Vancouver Trails

Killarney Lake

The easy and flat hike around Killarney Lake makes a great day trip to Bowen Island. 

Trail Stats: 9km round trip, no elevation gain, 2 hours, easy. Getting There: From downtown Vancouver, take bus 257 or 250 to Horseshoe Bay, then walk on to the Bowen Island ferry. More Info: Crippen Regional Park

Langdale Falls

The hike to this waterfall passes through gorgeous mossy forest. It’s at a low elevation so you can hike it year-round. It’s one of the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.

Trails Stats: 8km round trip, 280m elevation gain, 3 hours, easy. Getting There: From downtown Vancouver, take bus 257 or 250 to Horseshoe Bay, then walk on to the Sunshine Coast ferry. More Info: My Langdale Falls trail guide.

Lions Bay Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Tunnel Bluffs

The hike to Tunnel Bluffs leads to an incredible view of Howe Sound. The first half of the hike is brutally steep, but the second half is easy. And of course, the view is worth it.

Trail stats: 11 km round trip, 450 m elevation gain, 3.5-4.5 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 262 to Lions Bay from Horseshoe Bay. In Lions Bay, walk up Bayview Drive, then Mountain Drive to the trailhead on Sunset Drive. More Info: My Tunnel Bluffs trail guide

The Lions

This is a tough trail, best left for experienced hikers. But it goes to a viewpoint near the summit of Vancouver’s iconic Lions – peaks that can dominate the city’s skyline. (The route to the summit is for mountaineers only.)

Trail Stats: 16 km round trip, 1280 m elevation gain, 8 hours, very challenging. Getting there: Take bus 262 to Lions Bay from Horseshoe Bay. In Lions Bay, walk up Bayview Drive, then Mountain Drive to the trailhead on Sunset Drive. More Info: Vancouver Trails

Brunswick Mountain

At 1788 m, Brunswick Mountain is the tallest mountain on Vancouver’s North Shore. The steep and challenging trail to the summit (for experienced hikers only) leads to an incredible view.

Trail stats: 14 km round trip, 1543 m elevation gain, 7-9 hours, very challenging. Getting there: Take bus 262 to Lions Bay from Horseshoe Bay. In Lions Bay, walk up Bayview Drive, then Mountain Drive to the trailhead on Sunset Drive. More Info: Outdoor Vancouver

West Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Cypress Falls

If you’re looking for a shorter hike on a cloudy day, Cypress Falls is a great choice. It’s an easy walk to lots of waterfalls. (It’s also one of the best waterfall hikes near Vancouver.)

Trail Stats: 3km round trip, 130m elevation gain, 1.5 hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 253 from Park Royal. Get off on Woodgreen Drive at Woodgreen Place, then walk 1 block down Woodgreen Place to the park. More Info: Vancouver Trails

Lighthouse Park

Even though it’s close to the city, the trails of Lighthouse Park are surprisingly wild. Explore the forested interior or head to the coast for great views of Howe Sound or Burrard Inlet.

Trail Stats: 6km loop, minimal elevation gain, 2 hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 250 from downtown Vancouver. Get off at the Beacon Lane stop on Marine Drive in West Vancouver, then walk down Beacon Lane into the park. The parking lot fills up on summer weekends, so take transit instead. More Info: My favourite route in the park.

Did you you know? Lighthouse Park is actually one of the best easy hikes in Vancouver AND one of the most Instagrammed hikes in Vancouver.

Brothers Creek

There are some great trails just above the mansions of the British Properties. The Brothers Creek trail follows the creek uphill past some waterfalls and old growth trees.

Trail Stats: 7km loop, 350m elevation gain, 4 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 254 from Park Royal to the stop at Eyremount Drive and Crestline Road. Walk up Crestline Road, then turn left on Henlow Road. Turn right on Millstream Road, then continue on Millstream for 100m. Turn left at the fork to reach the trailhead. Total walking distance from the bus stop: 500m. More Info: Vancouver Trails

Bonus: From the Brothers Creek trail you can detour to the Hollyburn Fir. It’s over 1000 years old and is on my list of Vancouver’s most unusual hikes.

Capilano Pacific Trail

Note: There is a significant washout on this trail but there is a signed detour.

Although this trail is never far from neighbourhoods, the rushing of the Capilano River makes it sound like you are out in the wilderness. The trail follows the river upstream from the ocean to Capilano Canyon below Cleveland Dam. 

Trail Stats: 15km return, 230m elevation gain, 4 hours, easy. Getting there: More Info: Capilano River Regional Park Getting there: Take bus 250 or 257 to Park Royal, then walk behind the mall to the trail near the mouth of the river. If you don’t feel up to walking back the way you came, take bus 232 then 246 to Vancouver or take bus 236 to the Seabus. More info: Capilano River Regional Park

North Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Capilano Canyon

There is lots to see on the trails around the Cleveland Dam in Capliano Canyon. Be sure to check out the dam spillway, fish hatchery, and deep canyon walls. Watch for whitewater kayakers too.

Trail stats: 2.5km loop, 100m elevation gain, 1 hour, easy. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus. Get off on Nancy Green Way at Prospect Avenue. More info: Capilano River Regional Park

Grouse Grind

“The Grind”, as locals call it, is a Vancouver workout classic. It climbs relentlessly uphill to the top of the Grouse Gondola. There are lots of stairs (and sweat) along the way, and no views until the top.

Trail Stats: 3km, 850m elevation gain, 2 hours, difficult. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. More info: Grouse Mountain Regional Park

DID YOU KNOW? The Grouse Grind is one of the Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver?

BCMC Trail

If the manicured stairs and personal-best-seeking runners aren’t your thing, skip the Grouse Grind and take the BCMC trail up to the top of Grouse instead. The BCMC is just east of the Grind and has a much wilder feel.

Trail stats: 3km, 850m elevation gain, 2 hours, difficult. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. More info: Grouse Mountain Regional Park

Thunderbird Ridge

This short hike ends at a spectacular viewpoint high above Lynn Creek. Even though you’re right next to Grouse Mountain Resort, you’ll cover some rugged terrain to get here. Of the trails on my best easy hikes in Vancouver list, Thunderbird Ridge definitely has the most wilderness feel.

Trail stats: 6km return, 190m elevation gain, 2.5 hours, easy/moderate. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. Take the Grouse Gondola up to the resort or hike up the Grouse Grind or BCMC. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Little Goat Mountain and Dam Mountain

This short loop hike behind Grouse Mountain takes you to the summit of two peaks along the top of a ridge. There are peek-a-boo views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains.

Trail stats: 5.5km loop, 250m elevation gain, 2 hours, easy/moderate. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. Take the Grouse Gondola up to the resort or hike up the Grouse Grind or BCMC. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Goat Mountain

If you’re looking for a hike at Grouse Mountain that is a bit more challenging without being too extreme, head to Goat Mountain. The final section up to the summit includes a short scramble on granite rocks.

Trail stats: 8km return, 300m elevation gain, 4 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. Take the Grouse Gondola up to the resort or hike up the Grouse Grind or BCMC. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Crown Mountain

Crown Mountain is the most difficult trail on the North Shore. It features a brutal descent into Crown Pass, then a slabby rock scramble to the summit. Use caution and don’t go in bad weather as hikers have fallen to their death here.

Trail Stats: 10km return, 385m elevation gain, 7 hours, difficult. Getting there: Take bus 236 from the Sea Bus to the base of Grouse Mountain. Or take bus 232 from Phibbs Exchange. Take the Grouse Gondola up to the resort or hike up the Grouse Grind or BCMC. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Mount Fromme

Next-door to Grouse Mountain is its forgotten sister, Mount Fromme. The route to the summit weaves together a patchwork of mountain bike and multi-use trails and is much quieter than its slightly taller sibling.

Trail info: 10km return, 880m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate. Getting there: From Lonsdale Quay take bus 230 to Braemar Road at St. George’s Avenue. Walk up St. George’s for 600m to the trailhead. More info: Vancouver Trails

Kennedy Falls and the Big Cedar

This rugged trail follows an old logging road bed to  a huge old cedar tree and beautiful Kennedy Falls.

Trail info: 10km return, 150m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 210 from downtown Vancouver to the top of Mountain Highway at Coleman Street. Walk 900m up Mountain highway to the trailhead and parking lot. The lot is always full and parking on the surrounding streets is very difficult, so transit is the best choice here. More info: My Kennedy Falls trail guide

Lynn Loop

This short forested trail is a great choice for a cloudy day since it stays in the trees along the banks of Lynn Creek.

Trail stats: 5km, 160m elevation gain, 2 hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 228 from Lonsdale Quay. Get off on Lynn Valley Road at Dempsey and follow Lynn Valley road or the Varley Trail into the park. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Norvan Falls

This waterfall hike is great in the spring when the snow is melting and the falls are gushing. It’s also nice in the summer when you can cool off under the chilly falls.

Trail stats: 14km return, 195m elevation gain, 6 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 228 from Lonsdale Quay. Get off on Lynn Valley Road at Dempsey and follow Lynn Valley road or the Varley Trail into the park. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Lynn Peak

The hike up to Lynn Peak is steep in places, but there’s a viewpoint at the top to make it worth the climb.

Trail stats: 9km return, 720m elevation gain, 4.5 hours, moderate/difficult. Getting there: Getting there: Take bus 228 from Lonsdale Quay. Get off on Lynn Valley Road at Dempsey and follow Lynn Valley road or the Varley Trail into the park. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

WANT MORE STEEP WORKOUT HIKES? Check out these Alternatives to the Grouse Grind

Coliseum Mountain

The hike to Coliseum Mountain is long and difficult, but few venture this far so you’ll escape the crowds. The views from the top are some of the best on the North Shore.

Trail stats: 22km return, 1245m elevation gain, 10+ hours, difficult. Getting there: Take bus 228 from Lonsdale Quay. Get off on Lynn Valley Road at Dempsey and follow Lynn Valley road or the Varley Trail into the park. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Hanes Valley

The difficult Hanes Valley trail is unique since it is usually done as a one-way hike. That makes it a great one to do via public transit. You start at Lynn Headwaters parking lot and finish at Grouse Mountain. Along the way you ascend the scree slopes of rugged Hanes Valley.

Trail Stats: 15km one way, 1320m elevation gain, 8.5 hours, difficult. Getting there: To start take bus 228 from Lonsdale Quay. Get off on Lynn Valley Road at Dempsey and follow Lynn Valley road or the Varley Trail into the park. To finish take the gondola down to the base of Grouse Mountain, then take bus 236 to the Sea Bus or bus 232 to Phibbs Exchange. More info: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

Lynn Canyon

The picturesque suspension bridge and trails in Lynn Canyon are popular with tourists and locals alike. The loop through the canyon to Twin Falls is a popular route.

Trail Stats: 1.5km loop, 65m elevation gain, 1 hour, easy. Getting there: Take bus 228 to Lynn Valley Road at Peters Road. Follow Peters road into the park. More info: Lynn Canyon Park

NEED AN EASY HIKE? Lynn Canyon is one of the best Easy Hikes in Vancouver for Beginners and Tourists

Baden Powell: Lynn Canyon to Grouse

The Baden Powell trail stretches all the way across the North Shore. This section traverses the lower slopes of Fromme and Grouse Mountain, intersecting lots of mountain bike trails.

Trail stats: 10km one way, 200m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate. Getting there: To start, take bus 228 to Lynn Valley Road at Peters Road. Follow Peters road into Lynn Canyon Park. To finish, take bus 236 to the Sea Bus or bus 232 to Phibbs Exchange from the base of Grouse Mountain. More info: Vancouver Trails

Quarry Rock

The hike to Quarry Rock is one of the most popular ones in Vancouver. (It’s one of Vancouver’s best easy hikes and it’s kind of a big deal on Instagram!) It’s not difficult, there’s a great viewpoint, and afterwards you can go to Honey’s Doughnuts in Deep Cove. 

Trail stats: 4km return, 100m elevation gain, 1.5 hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 212 from Phibbs Exchange or bus 211 from downtown Vancouver to Deep Cove. More info: Vancouver Trails

Baden Powell: Deep Cove to Lynn Canyon

This section of the Baden Powell goes through the trail network at the base of Mount Seymour. You’ll cross the Seymour River before finishing your hike at Lynn Canyon.

Trail stats: 12km one way, 420m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate. Getting there: To start, take bus 212 from Phibbs Exchange or bus 211 from downtown Vancouver to Deep Cove. To finish, walk out of the park on Peters road. Take bus 228 from Lynn Valley Road at Peters Road. More info: Vancouver Trails

Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Pacific Spirit Park

Although it’s right next to the city, Pacific Spirit Park has tons of forested trails. It’s easy to look at the park map and then put together your own loop route.

Trail Stats: Up to 15km loop, up to 100m elevation gain, up to 5 hours, easy. Getting there: There are numerous trailheads for the park and tons of options for getting there. Any UBC-bound bus will work. More info: Pacific Spirit Regional Park

Stanley Park

Although most people head to Stanley Park to walk the seawall, there are actually lots of beautiful forested trails in the interior of the park. You can string a bunch of them together to form a loop. I think it’s one of the best easy hikes in Vancouver for tourists.

Trail Stats: 6km+ loop, no elevation gain, 2+ hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 19 from downtown Vancouver. More info: Stanley Park map

Burnaby Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Burnaby Lake

The easy hike around Burnaby Lake is an oasis of nature in the middle of the urban jungle. Keep your eyes peeled to spot lots of birds and other wildlife.

Trail stats: 10km loop, no elevation gain, 2.5 hours, easy. Getting there: Take the Skytrain to the Sperling-Burnaby Lake station on the Millenium Line. Then take the pedestrian overpass over the railway tracks into the park. More info: Burnaby Lake Regional Park

Velodrome Trail

This short, steep trail is a great choice for a workout hike. It’s so steep that it’s been nicknamed the “Burnaby Grind”. (There are actually lots of other Grouse Grind-like hikes.) And while there’s no gondola, you can catch the bus at the top so you don’t have to hike back down!

Trail stats: 3km one way, 240m elevation gain, 1 hour, moderate. Getting there: To start take bus 160 from Kootenay Loop to the Velodrome stop on Barnett Highway. To finish take the Trans Canada Trail up to the SFU bus loop, then take the 135 back to Vancouver. More info: City of Burnaby Map

Coquitlam and Tri-Cities Hikes You Can Get to on Transit

Jug Island Beach

This short hike ends at a small beach on Indian Arm. Along the way it goes through mossy, green forest.

Trail stats: 5.5km return, 100m elevation gain, 2.5 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 182 from Port Moody Skytrain Station to the Belcarra Regional Park stop. More info: Belcarra Regional Park

Admiralty Point

This trail winds along the coast of Burrard Inlet, with detours to several scenic viewpoints. It ends at Admiralty Point across the water from Burnaby Mountain.

Trail stats: 5km return, no elevation gain, 1.5 hours, easy. Getting there:Take bus 182 from Port Moody Skytrain Station to the Belcarra Regional Park stop. More info: Belcarra Regional Park

Sasamat Lake

On a hot day, combine a trip the short hike around Sasamat Lake with a trip to the beach at the northern end of the lake. Note: Public transit only runs to Sasamat Lake in the summer and may only run on weekends. Check Translink schedules before you go.

Trail stats: 3km loop, no elevation gain, 1 hour, easy. Getting there: Take bus 150 from Coquitlam Skytrain Station to the White Pine Beach stop on Sasamat Lake. More info: Belcarra Regional Park

Buntzen Lake

The popular hike around Buntzen Lake has a few spots to drop down to lake level for a swim, including a great grassy picnic area at the north end. Note: Public transit only runs to Buntzen Lake in the summer and may only run on weekends. Check Translink schedules before you go.

Trail stats: 10km loop, 100m elevation gain, 3 hours, easy. Getting there: Take bus 179 from Coquitlam Skytrain Station or Inlet Skytrain Station to the Buntzen Lake stop. (Important: This bus only runs May to September.) More info: BC Hydro Buntzen Lake Trail Info

Diez Vistas

The Diez Vistas trail climbs a ridge between Buntzen Lake and Indian Arm for great views of Burrard Inlet and Indian Arm. Originally there were 10 views (“diez vistas” in Spanish), but a few of them have grown in. Note: Public transit only runs to Buntzen Lake in the summer and may only run on weekends. Check Translink schedules before you go.

Trail stats: 15km loop, 460m elevation gain, 7 hours, moderate. Getting there: Take bus 179 from Coquitlam Skytrain Station or Inlet Skytrain Station to the Buntzen Lake stop. (Important: This bus only runs May to September.) More info: BC Hydro Buntzen Lake Trail Info

Coquitlam Crunch

This steep trail climbs up underneath the powerlines in Coquitlam. Since it climbs relentlessly uphill, it’s a great workout hike. In fact, some people say it’s Coquitlam’s version of the Grouse Grind.

Trail stats: 4.5km round trip, 240m elevation gain, 1.5 hours, moderate. Getting there. From Moody Centre Skytrain station take bus 184 or 160 to Guilford Way at Falcon Drive. Walk up Falcon Drive to the elementary school. The trail starts behind the school. More info: Vancouver Trails

I hope this list has convinced you that you really don’t need a car to go hiking. There are so many Vancouver hikes you can get to on transit that you won’t even miss having a vehicle!

MORE VANCOUVER AREA HIKES:

• 30+ Places to Go Backpacking in BC Without A Car
• The Best Vancouver Hiking Books
• Waterfalls Near Vancouver You Can Hike To
• Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver (Updated for 2019)
• The Worst Hikes in Vancouver (And Where to Hike Instead)
• The 10 Best Hikes in Vancouver: A Local’s Guide
• 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round
• 6 Easy Hikes in Vancouver for Beginners and Tourists
• Coastal Hiking in Vancouver
• Alternatives to the Grouse Grind

The post 35+ Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.