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.

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.

This guide covers every trail in the Whistler area that is safe to snowshoe. I haven’t included the countless expert-only areas that are not marked and have significant avalanche danger.

I grew up in Vancouver and live in nearby Squamish, so I’ve been snowshoeing in Whistler for close to two decades. So I know the BEST places to snowshoe near Whistler.

This guide to snowshoeing in Whistler 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
• Snowshoe trails in Whistler: details for 10 trails
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing
• Where to rent snowshoes in Whistler – both at the trailheads and in the village
• Snowshoe tours in Whistler: options for going with a guide

If you’re looking for even more places to go snowshoeing or other things to do in Whistler in winter, don’t worry – I got you! Check out these other guides:

• 40+ Things to do in Whistler in Winter
• 40+ Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

Psst: Looking for a full list of Whistler activities? Check out my list of the best things to do in Whistler. It includes over 80 ideas!

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 Whistler Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from a busy ski area, 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 Avy Savvy beginner tutorial from Avalanche Canada. 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

Brandywine Falls Snowshoe

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.

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

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Permitted on leash.

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.

Snowshoeing at The Callaghan

The Trails: There are two separate cross country ski areas in the Callaghan Valley (Whistler Olympic Park and The Callaghan). They used to operate together, but in 2024/2025 they have separate tickets. The Callaghan has cross country and backcountry ski trails, but there are also 21 km of snowshoe trails ranging from super flat to more moderate. The highlight of the area is 43m high Alexander falls, which looks spectacular when frozen. You can snowshoe right to the base.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Most trails in the park are on flat or rolling terrain. However, some trails travel across steeper slopes that can be prone to avalanche. The park may close these trails if conditions are not safe. There are several backcountry access points in the park. Once you pass into the backcountry, there are no trail markings and you are in serious avalanche terrain. Some trails are shared with cross country skiers. Stay on the side of the trail and don’t walk in the set ski track.

Trail Map/Guide: Plan your route with this map.

Permits/Fees: Trail passes are $18 a day.

Dogs: The current website for the The Callaghan does not have any info about dogs. In the past dogs were allowed with the purchased of a day ticket . There were some on-leash on some trails. I’ll update this post after I get more info for the 204/25 season.

It costs $7 for a dog day pass. Dogs are allowed on leash on some trails and prohibited on others. There are also a few off-leash trails and a designated dog parking lot. (See this map for details on dog-friendly trails and parking).

Getting There: Follow signs to The Callaghan ski area along the Callaghan Valley Road. It is located just before the Whistler Olympic Park parking area.

Snowshoeing at Whistler Olympic Park

Distance: 18.5 km with various loops possible

Time Needed: 30 minutes to all day

Elevation Gain: Up to 300 m

Rating: Super Easy to Challenging

The Trails: There are two separate cross country ski areas in the Callaghan Valley (Whistler Olympic Park and The Callaghan). They used to operate together, but in 2024/2025 they have separate tickets. Whistler Olympic Park has cross country ski trails as well as a network of snowshoe trails.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Most trails in the park are on flat or rolling terrain. However, some trails travel across steeper slopes that can be prone to avalanche. The park may close these trails if conditions are not safe. There are several backcountry access points in the park. Once you pass into the backcountry, there are no trail markings and you are in serious avalanche terrain. Some trails are shared with cross country skiers. Stay on the side of the trail and don’t walk in the set ski track.

Trail Map/Guide: Plan your route with this map.

Permits/Fees: Trail passes are $20 a day.

Dogs: It costs $8 for a dog day pass. Dogs are allowed on leash on some trails and prohibited on others. There are also a few off-leash trails and a designated dog parking lot. Read through the Whistler Olympic Park dog info to see where dogs are allowed.

Getting There: Follow signs to the Whistler Olympic Park ski area along the Callaghan Valley Road. It is located just after The Callaghan parking area.

Snowshoeing to Whistler Train Wreck

The Trail: This short trail is one of the best hikes in Whistler, so in the winter it’s a great place to go snowshoeing. The trail descends gradually to a brand new suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River.

On the other side, there are 7 graffiti-covered box cars in the forest along with some old mountain bike jumps. The main 5 are right where you came up the hill. The other two are a little further along the trail to the left.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger. Be sure to follow the directions in the trail guide linked below. There are still some old trail guides online that use an old (an illegal!) way to access the train wreck. The old way involves trespassing on some train tracks.

Trail Map/Guide: My Whistler Train Wreck Trail guide has all the info.

Permits/Fees: None required.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: There is free parking at the trailhead in the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood of Whistler. You can get to within a 10 minute walk of the trail on public transit. From Whistler Village take bus 20 to Legacy Way, then walk 700m down Jane Lakes Road to the trailhead.

Snowshoeing the Cheakamus River Trails

The Trail: The Whistler Interpretive Forest in Whistler’s Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood is a great place to go snowshoeing in Whistler. You can make a loop by using the Riverside Trail on one side of the Cheakamus River and the Farside Trail on the other. Connect the two with a walk over a picturesque suspension bridge. The route has some short rolling hills, but its never very steep.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: This map shows all the trails. Use my Cheakamus River Snowshoe Trail guide.

Permits/Fees: None

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: Park in Whistler Interpretive Forest Parking lot on Cheakamus Lake Road just after you turn off the highway.

You can get to the trail on public transit. From Whistler Village take bus 20 to the first stop in Cheakamus Crossing.

READ NEXT: Cheakamus River Snowshoe Trail in Whistler

Cheakamus Lake Snowshoeing

The Trail: Cheakamus Lake is a popular short hike in the summer time. In winter it’s a much longer journey since the normal access road is closed. First you have to snowshoe 7.5 km along the closed road to the summer parking lot. From there it’s another 3km to Cheakamus Lake following the summer trail. Once you get to the lake you can continue along the shore for a further 4km.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The road portion of the trip has no hazards. Once you leave the summer parking lot for the Cheakamus Lake and start on the trail you will be crossing a large rock slide and a steep slope. This slope is an avalanche hazard. Use caution and cross one at a time. Be prepared to turn back if conditions aren’t right.

Trail Map/Guide: This map shows all the trails.

Permits/Fees: None

Dogs: Allowed on leash on the road portion and the Whistler Interpretive Trails. Dogs are not permitted in Garibaldi Park so you can’t bring your dog on the Cheakamus Lake Trail.

Getting There: Parking: Park in Whistler Interpretive Forest Parking lot on Cheakamus Lake Road just after you turn off the highway. You can walk down the road to the trailhead.

You can get to within a 5 minute walk of the trail on public transit. From Whistler Village take bus 20 to the first stop in Cheakamus Crossing, then walk 350m down Cheakamus Lake Road to the trailhead.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoeing to Rainbow Falls

The Trail: This short trail takes you to the base of pretty little Rainbow Falls near Alta Lake in Whistler. It looks particularly gorgeous when frozen. While the trail is short, it does gain over 100m in less than a kilometer so it’s not super easy.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche hazard. The trail to Rainbow Falls branches off right from the main trail to Rainbow Lake (which isn’t accessible in the winter due to a removed bridge). The turn off to the falls can be hard to spot, but my trail guide will help you find the way.

Trail Map/Guide: Use my Rainbow Falls Loop Trail guide.

Permits/Fees: None required.

Dogs: Allowed on-leash on the Rainbow Falls Loop Trail but not allowed on other trails in the area.

Getting There: There is a parking lot at the trailhead. You can also take a taxi from Whistler Village.

Snowshoeing at Lost Lake Park

The Trail: Lost Lake Park is mostly known for its cross country ski trails, but it also has a 15km network of snowshoe trails to explore. These rolling trails wind through the forest around Lost Lake, intersecting the ski trails occasionally. If you climb up some of the hillier trails, you’ll discover views of Lost Lake or Green Lake. If you want a break, there’s a day lodge with a cafe and a warming hut.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards:  No avalanche danger. The trails sometimes intersect cross country ski trails. Watch for on-coming skiers. Stay on the side of the trail and carefully step over the set ski track.

Trail Map/Guide: Read my Lost Lake snowshoe guide for step-by-step directions for my recommended route, a map, driving directions, and more.

Permits/Fees: Day passes are $13.50.

Dogs: Not permitted.

Getting There: The closest parking is in Lot 5 in Whistler Village. On public transit, take bus 5 to the corner of Blackcomb Way and Lorimer Road, then walk 5 minutes down Lorimer to the entrance to Lost Lake Park.

READ NEXT: Lost Lake Snowshoe Trails in Whistler

Snowshoeing the Ancient Cedars Trail

The Trail: In the summer, the Ancient Cedars Trail is an easy hike to a grove of huge old-growth cedars. But in the winter it turns into a much longer outings since the rough logging road to the trailhead (4 km in total) isn’t plowed, so you will have to walk that as well.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The first two kilometres of the road is in a tight valley with steep slopes above you that will expose you to avalanche hazard.

Trail Map/Guide: There is a good description of the summer route on Vancouver Trails. Keep in mind that you will need to snowshoe up the access road.

Permits/Fees: None

Dogs: Allowed

Getting There: From Whistler, head north on Highway 99. Just past the end of Green Lake, turn left onto Cougar Mountain Road. Drive up the road for a few minutes to the Superfly Ziplines base area. Park here as the road past this point is impassable in winter.

Snowshoeing to Parkhurst Ghost Town

The Trail: If you love abandoned buildings and are comfortable navigating unmarked trails, the free snowshoe trip to the former town of Parkhurst was made for you. The loop hike to the ghost town follows a network of mountain bike trails that can be a challenge to find in the winter.

Parkhurst Ghost Town is a former logging town settlement on the shores of Green Lake that was abandoned in the 1960s, before Whistler was a ski area. There are lots of collapsed buildings and vehicles to discover in the area. The highlight is the one surviving building, covered in graffiti.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger. Some of the trails and junctions are not well marked so it can be easy to get lost. The markers are not easy to see in the winter. I recommend using a GPS app that shows trails like Gaia, Alltrails or Trailforks. Bring a map and compass just in case.

Trail Map/Guide: Read my complete guide to the Parkhurst Ghost Town hike. The directions were written for summer travel and the trail network will be much more challenging to find in the winter.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed.

Getting There: Drive 10 minutes north of the village on highway 99 to the marked turn off for the Wedgemount Lake Trail. Turn right off the highway, then cross train tracks and a bridge. Park on the side of the road right after the bridge. There will usually be too much snow to drive all the way to the trailhead described in my trail guide. Walking the road will add 1km each way to your hike.

Snowshoeing to Nairn Falls

The Trail: This flat trail runs above the bank of the Green River before ending at the spectacular viewpoint for Nairn Falls. The falls are especially dramatic when they partially freeze up in the winter.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger. Use caution in slippery conditions as the trail is on a wide ledge above the river and the drop down to the river is pretty steep.

Trail Map/Guide: There is info on the Nairn Falls Provincial Park website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: Drive 30 minutes north of Whistler Village to Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Watch for the BC Parks signs so you don’t miss the turn. The campground portion of the park is gated in winter, but you can drive into the day use parking lot.

Snowshoeing to Joffre Lakes

The Trail: This popular trail winds past two alpine lakes before arriving at a third alpine lake with a great view of the surrounding glaciers. In the summer the turquoise blue lakes are the draw, but in the winter the whole area is blanketed in white.

The first lake is an easy 5 minute walk from the car (great for beginners), but the other lakes will take substantially longer to reach and are best left for experienced snowshoers. You have to pay if you want to camp overnight, but it’s totally free to snowshoe there on a day trip.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: This is serious backcountry terrain. You are far from help and there is no cell service. The trail crosses below some avalanche terrain, particularly in between the 2nd and 3rd lakes and at the far end of the 3rd lake. You should have avalanche gear and training if you plan to tackle this trail.

Trail Map/Guide: See my Joffre Lakes hiking guide for more details.

Permits/Fees: None in winter.

Dogs: Not allowed.

Getting There: Drive an hour north of Whistler, through Pemberton and Mount Currie to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. Although the entire drive is on the paved road of highway 99, this is a VERY steep mountain road with lots of switchbacks and it can be slippery and snowy in the winter. Bring tire chains just in case.

In the summer there is a large parking lot, but only a fraction of it is plowed in the winter. And sometimes it’s not plowed at all. Try to park where you won’t block the plow and bring a snow shovel in case you need to dig yourself a parking spot. Get there early to make sure you get a spot.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in Whistler

There are lots of summer hiking trails in Whistler that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, or are closed in winter.

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

• Blackcomb Ascent Trails: These trails are closed in winter because they go through the ski area.
• Blackcomb Alpine Trails: These trails are closed in winter because they go through the ski area.
• Singing Pass Trail to Russet Lake: This trail has significant avalanche hazard. As well, this trail is very long and is often used as a backcountry ski descent route. It is only suited for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training. And honestly, it’s not a very aesthetically pleasing route unless you are on your way to the Kees and Claire Hut at Russet Lake.
• Musical Bumps: This trail is closed in winter because it goes through the ski area.
• High Note Trail: This trail is closed in winter because it goes through the ski area.
• Rainbow Lake: This trail is closed in winter because a key bridge is removed to protect it from snow-loading.
• Skywalk Trail: This trail includes signifcant avalanche hazard. As well, once it leaves the trees wayfinding is very difficult. The trail is only suited for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training and off-trail travel skills.
• Wedgemount Lake: This trail has significant avalanche hazard, especially just before the lake. It is also very steep and can require an ice axe to navigate. The trail is only suited for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training.

Where to Rent Snowshoes in Whistler

If you want to try snowshoeing before you buy, lots of places in Whistler rent snowshoes. Sunny weekends and holidays can be really busy for rentals, so try to reserve a pair ahead of time if possible.

• Urban Alpine in Squamish
• Whistler Olympic Park
• Ski Callaghan
• Cross Country Connection at Lost Lake
• Spicy Sports in Whistler Village.
• Spud Valley Sporting Goods in Pemberton

Snowshoe Tours in Whistler

If it’s your first time snowshoeing, it can be helpful to go with a guide. They can help you get your snowshoes set up and provide tips for snowshoeing technique. Your guide will also have info about the plants, animals, and views you will see on your trip.

• Snowshoe the Medicine Trail: This snowshoe tour takes place on private land through beautiful forest, so you can only do it with a tour. The trip visits an old trapper’s cabin too!
• Private Snowshoeing Tour: Your guide will take you to the trail of your choice – you can pick from several destinations to suit your group.

Final Thoughts

Which of these Whistler snowshoe trails is your favourite? Have questions about snowshoeing in Whistler? Let me know in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Cheakamus River Snowshoe Trail in Whistler
• Lost Lake Snowshoe Trails in Whistler
• Brandywine Falls Provincial Park Hiking Guide
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Where to Go to Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver’s Fraser Valley
• Snowshoe at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC

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!)

More Whistler Ideas:

• The Best Things to do in Whistler (By a Local)
• 44 Things to do in Whistler in Winter
• 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
• Camping in Whistler, BC: The Best Campgrounds
• Hike to Parkhurst Ghost Town in Whistler
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

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

This post covers 10 snowshoe trails on Vancouver’s North Shore. That’s every single North Shore trail that is high enough for consistent snow AND is also safe to snowshoe. I haven’t included the countless expert-only areas that are not marked and have significant avalanche danger.

I’ve been snowshoeing in Vancouver for most of my life. I grew up here and my dad took me snowshoeing as a kid. I got my first pair of snowshoes over 20 years ago and have been snowshoeing near Vancouver every winter since then.

This guide to snowshoeing in Vancouver 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
• Snowshoeing at Grouse Mountain: details for three trails
• Snowshoeing at Mount Seymour: details for three trails
• Snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain: details for four trails
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing
• Vancouver snowshoeing FAQ: answers to all your questions!

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

• Where to go Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Where to go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Where to go Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley
• Where to go Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC

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

Vancouver Snowshoeing Quick Reference Guide

There are three main places to go snowshoeing in Vancouver: Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour and Cypress Provincial Park (which is where Cypress Mountain ski hill is.) These three locations are the only places in Vancouver at a high enough elevation to have consistent snow. 

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

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. There is a great FREE online Avy Savvy beginner tutorial from Avalanche Canada. 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 Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is one of the easiest places to go snowshoeing in Vancouver. You simply ride the gondola to the top, then head out on the trails. They have rentals too. There are three snowshoe trails at Grouse Mountain. Read on for details.

Permits/Fees: You need a Mountain Admission ticket to take the gondola to the top of Grouse Mountain. It’s $82 for a round trip. Once you get to the top, there are no extra charges for snowshoeing.

You can also access the top of Grouse Mountain for free if you hike up the very steep Grouse Grind or BCMC trails. However, these trails can close in the winter if conditions are bad. And even if they are open, you will need an ice axe and crampons.

Dogs: Not permitted on any trails.

Driving Directions: Drive 20 min from Vancouver to the base of the Grouse Mountain Skyride gondola, then buy a ticket and ride up. Click here for driving directions.

Parking: It costs $10/day to park in the lots at the base of Grouse.

Transit Access: Translink bus 236 from Lonsdale Quay will get you to the bottom of the gondola. Click here for transit directions.

Blue Grouse Loop Snowshoe Trail, Grouse Mountain

The Trail: This short loop trail meanders through the forest near the lodge and crosses a bridge over a small pond. Part of the route is lit up with Christmas lights as part of Grouse Mountain’s Lightwalk attraction. Expect to see tourists without snowshoes on the Lightwalk section.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: Trail descriptions and a map are available on the Grouse Mountain website.

Snowshoe Grind, Grouse Mountain

The Trail: A winter alternative to the Grouse Grind, the Snowshoe Grind isn’t nearly as steep as the regular grind, but it does go pretty steadily uphill. It finishes near the summit of Dam Mountain.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The first section of the trail is on the side of a very steep hill that can produce small avalanches. In general, stay on the trail: there is a lot steep and dangerous terrain if you leave the marked route. The final 50m to the summit is very steep and can be slippery. Do not go past the summit as the area is closed in winter since it is very dangerous terrain. Check the South Coast avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s more information and a map on the Grouse Mountain website.

Thunderbird Ridge Snowshoe Route, Grouse Mountain

The Trail: The first part of the trail to Thunderbird Ridge is shared with the Snowshoe Grind. After the Snowshoe Grind tops out, the Thunderbird Ridge trail meanders downhill on a mellow ridgeline with good views of the surrounding mountains. (Psst: In the summer, the Thunderbird Ridge trail is one of my picks for the best easy hikes near Vancouver.)

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The first section of the trail after you leave the ski resort is on an old road cut into the side of a very steep hill. The slopes above this hill can produce small avalanches. Use caution in this area and spread out your group. Stay on the trail: there is a lot of steep and dangerous terrain if you leave the marked route. Check the South Coast avalanche forecast before you go. 

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

Snowshoeing at Mount Seymour

There are two separate snowshoe areas here: one managed by the ski resort (paid), and one in Mount Seymour Provincial Park (free). I think Mount Seymour Provincial Park has the best free beginner-friendly terrain in Vancouver. Read on for the details.

Ski Resort Trails Tickets: If you snowshoe on the Mount Seymour Discovery Snowshoe Trails (part of the ski resort) snowshoe tickets cost $17 day and include free parking in the upper lots.

BC Parks Trails Day-Passes: If you want to snowshoe in Mount Seymour Provincial Park (Dog Mountain and Mount Seymour trails) it’s totally free. But you do need to get a day pass on weekends and holidays in order to park. You can get a pass online starting at 7am two days before your trip. On popular weekends, passes will run out so act quickly. See my guide to BC Parks day passes for more info.

Dogs: Permitted on leash on all trails.

Driving Directions: Drive 35 min from Vancouver to the downhill ski parking lot at Mount Seymour. Click here for driving directions.

Parking: Parking is free but depends on where you are snowshoeing. See the parking map here. If you are snowshoeing on the paid ski resort trails, you can park in the upper lots. If you snowshoeing on the free BC Parks trails, you need to park in the lower lots which are up to 1.5km walk to the trailhead.

Transit Access: The Mount Seymour Shuttle is $10-15. You don’t need a day pass if you take the shuttle.

Discovery Snowshoe Trails, Mount Seymour

The Trails: A network of short trails loops around several lakes just downhill from the bunny hill. Most of the trails are very easy. Keep in mind that you’ll always have to head uphill to get back to the parking lot. These trails are operated by the ski resort so you will need to buy a trail pass to snowshoe here.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: Trail descriptions and a map are available on the Mount Seymour website.

Dog Mountain Winter Snowshoe Route, Mount Seymour

The Trail: This rolling trail travels past a small lake on the way to the open summit of Dog Mountain. From there you can get a great view of the city. This trail is probably the most popular place to go snowshoeing in Vancouver. No permits or fees are required.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger. Be careful to use bridges around stream channels as the water may not be completely frozen over.

Trail Map/Guide: For a map, see the Metro Vancouver Parks website.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Mount Seymour First Peak Winter Backcountry Access Trail

The Trail: This steep route climbs to the first peak of Mount Seymour on a trail that starts out paralleling the ski runs. After passing over Brockton Point it traverses below the south face of Mount Seymour before climbing sharply up a ridge to the summit. The last kilometer of the route is very steep and can be slippery. Use caution. No permits or fees are required.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Avalanche.ca rates the first part of the trail as simple terrain and the final section to the summit as challenging. The trail crosses an avalanche path where it traverses below the south summit of Mount Seymour. The climb up the ridge to the peak is very steep and can be treacherous in icy conditions. Do not attempt the final climb from the junction with the Elsay Lake trail to the summit without crampons and an ice axe (and the skills to use them) if the trail is icy.

The summer routes to the 2nd and 3rd peaks and the trail to Elsay Lake are rated as complex by Avalanche.ca. They traverse steep slopes and narrow gullies with high avalanche risk. Do not continue past the summit of 1st peak without avalanche training and safety gear. Check the South Coast avalanche forecast before you go. 

Trail Map/Guide: You can find information about the winter route to Mount Seymour on the BC Parks website.

Snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain

There is actually no mountain called Cypress Mountain – that’s just the name of the ski hill. You can snowshoe at the nordic ski area trails on Hollyburn Mountain. You can also snowshoe on BC Parks trails on Hollyburn Mountain, Black Mountain, and Bowen Lookout.

Ski Resort Trails Tickets: If you snowshoe on the Hollyburn Nordic Self-Guided Snowshoe Trails (part of the ski resort) snowshoe tickets cost $22 day and include free parking in the nordic lots.

BC Parks Trails: If you want to snowshoe in Cypress Provincial Park (Hollyburn Mountain, Black Mountain, Bowen Lookout) it’s totally free. However, you do need to pick up a free liability waiver pass for Black Mountain and Bowen Lookout. Details on those below. (In previous years, you needed to get a free day pass for all BC Parks trails, but passes aren’t required for winter 2025/26.)

Dogs: Not permitted on the Hollyburn Nordic Area trails. Dogs are permitted on-leash on all other trails.

Driving Directions: Drive 30 min from Vancouver to Cypress Mountain. Click here for driving directions.

Parking: There is free parking in lots 1, 2, 3a, and 3b, and 4 (nordic area) but the lots closest to the trailheads fill up fast. There is a shuttle from the furthest lots. I’ve got recommended parking location info for each trail below.

Transit Access: The Cypress Coachlines shuttle is $35.

Hollyburn Nordic Area Self-Guided Snowshoe Trails, Cypress Mountain

The Trails: Cypress Mountain’s cross country ski area is also home to a maze of snowshoe trails that crisscross the ski trails. There are a few flat trails but most have hills. Two warming huts give you a place to take a break. These trails are inside the ski area so you need trail passes for $22 a day.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: None.

Trail Map/Guide: Trail descriptions and a map are available on the Cypress Mountain website.

Parking: Park in Lot 4 (Nordic ski area) or if that is full, in lot 3B.

Bowen Lookout Winter Snowshoe Route, Cypress Mountain

The Trail: This short but steep trail climbs the first section of the Howe Sound Crest Trail to a lookout with great views of Bowen Island. Bowen Lookout is my favourite place to go for a sunset snowshoe near Vancouver.

Passes: Due to the ski resorts liability policy, a free backcountry access pass is required to cross the ski hill to get to the start of the trail. You can pick one up at the old Black Mountain Lodge in the main downhill ski area parking lot.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: No avalanche danger. The steep switchbacks on the trail can get really icy. Use caution when descending. This trail extends along the Howe Sound Crest Trail to St. Mark’s Summit.

In the winter travelling any further than Bowen Lookout will take you into serious avalanche terrain with many dangerous gullies and sharp drop-offs. Two snowshoers died in the area in December 2016. If you snowshoe this trail, please don’t go any further than Bowen Lookout without avalanche training and safety equipment.

Trail Map/Guide: A trail description and trail map are available on the BC Parks website.

Parking: Park in Lot 1, 2, or 3A. If those are full, park in lot 3B and take the shuttle.

Black Mountain Winter Snowshoe Route, Cypress Mountain

The Trail: This steep trail climbs up beside the ski runs to the top of Black Mountain. Once at the top a loop trail travels past a few lakes.

Passes: Due to the ski resorts liability policy, a free backcountry access pass is required to cross the ski hill to get to the start of the trail. You can pick one up at the old Black Mountain Lodge in the main downhill ski area parking lot.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Avalanche.ca rates this as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. There is a very steep section of trail next to the ski run. Use caution and consider taking off your snowshoes when descending to avoid slipping. Check the South Coast avalanche forecast before you go. 

Trail Map/Guide: A trail description and trail map are available on the BC Parks website.

Parking: Park in Lot 1, 2, or 3A. If those are full, park in lot 3B and take the shuttle.

Hollyburn Mountain Winter Trail, Cypress Mountain

The Trail: The trail to the peak of Hollyburn Mountain climbs a few short hills and meanders beside the cross-country ski trails. In the last kilometer, it climbs steeply straight up to the summit.

Passes: No permits or fees are required as long as you stay out of the nordic ski area.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Avalanche.ca rates this as simple terrain which can be travelled with the normal amount of caution in most conditions. The final slope up to the summit is rated as challenging terrain. It very steep and can be treacherous in icy conditions. There is no significant avalanche danger if you stay on the trail, but the steep cliffs and gullies around the summit are prime avalanche territory. Check the South Coast avalanche forecast before you go. 

Trail Map/Guide: A trail description and trail map are available on the BC Parks website.

Parking: Park in Lot 4 (Nordic ski area) or if that is full, in lot 3B.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in Vancouver

There are lots of summer hiking trails in Vancouver 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 snow to be worthwhile for snowshoeing.

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

Elsay Lake Trail: This trail has significant avalanche hazard since it passes through and below avalanche chutes for almost its entire length.

Lynn Peak: There is usually not enough snow to make this a worthwhile snowshoeing trip – you will usually have to carry your snowshoes for about 90% of the ascent until you reach deep snow.

Hanes Valley: This route is officially closed and forbidden to hike in winter. It passes through significant avalanche terrain.

Coliseum Mountain: This route is officially closed and forbidden to hike in winter. It passes through significant avalanche terrain.

Crown Mountain: This route is officially closed and forbidden to hike in winter. It passes through significant avalanche terrain and has very dangerous steep slopes.

Goat Mountain and Goat Ridge: This route is officially closed and forbidden to hike in winter. It passes through significant avalanche terrain and has very dangerous steep slopes.

Mount Strachan: The route up the front (south) side of the peak is closed in winter since it is part of the ski hill. The route up Christmas Gully on the back (north) side of the peak has significant avalanche danger.

St. Mark’s Summit: The trail crosses several dangerous avalanche chutes and is difficult to follow when snow covered.

Vancouver Snowshoeing FAQ

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

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• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast, BC

More Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Advice

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• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

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

I spent a fun winter weekend with my sister embracing cozy cabin vibes, eating great food, going for short hikes, and soaking up the ambiance of this cute town. I also explored the surrounding area including Harrison Mills, Agassiz, and Bridal Falls.

If you didn’t already know, Harrison is the home of the Sasquatch – it’s part of local Sts’ailes First Nation culture – and the town has really gone all out on embracing the campy Sasquatch theme, which was super fun.

But the best part was something I didn’t expect: bald eagles. Harrison is home to literally hundreds of bald eagles each winter and they are such a joy to watch. I love their permanently grumpy faces so much!

In this post, I’ve got everything you need to know about visiting Harrison Hot Springs in winter. These tips work for spring and fall too.

This post includes:

• Why visit Harrison in winter? I explain why I love it.
• Map of Harrison that includes all the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in Harrison in the winter: eagle watching, hikes, boat tours, Sasquatch spotting, hot springs, skiing, and more
• Where to eat in Harrison: My picks for the best restaurants and cafes
• Where to stay in Harrison: My picks for the best hotels and cabins.
• Winter in Harrison basics: How to get there? How long to spend? What’s the weather like? 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 Tourism Harrison for hosting some of my experiences during my most recent trip. My previous trips were not hosted an 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

Why Visit Harrison Hot Springs in Winter?

Like many people who grew up in Vancouver, when I think of Harrison Hot Springs, I picture the big lake for swimming, boating, and beaches. So, mostly summer activities.

On my recent visit, I discovered that Harrison is also a great destination in winter. It’s the perfect time of year to have some cozy cabin time or soak in the hot springs.

The summer crowds aren’t around, so the town feels a little sleepy. Accommodation prices drop too, making it a great time to take a weekend getaway.

But one of the big reasons to come in the fall and winter is the incredible eagle watching. I live in Squamish, which bills itself as the eagle capital of the world. We regularly have dozens of eagles along the river each winter. As a proud Squamisher, it pains me to say this, but… the sheer number of eagles in Harrison absolutely dwarfs Squamish.

Each fall and early winter, hundreds of eagles hang out near the mouth of the Harrison River to feed on spawning salmon. On my late November visit, we counted over 200 at once with binoculars! And there were even more upstream.

Harrison calls this time of year Season of the Wild. Local businesses celebrate with salmon and eagle-themed menus and tours.

Map of Harrison Hot Springs

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Harrison Hot Springs for you. It includes every place I mention in this post.

Things to Do in Harrison Hot Springs in Winter

The pace moves a little slower in Harrison in the winter. Most businesses are open, but a few have shorter opening hours. In my list of recommendations below I’ve added notes and tips for winter visits.

Eagle Interpretive Trail

The easiest way to see the eagles is to walk the short Eagle Interpretive Trail at Sandpiper Resort a.k.a. Rowena’s in Harrison Mills.

From the parking area a 1-kilometre-long trail leads across the golf course and then through the forest next to Elbow Creek. There are interpretive signs along the way explaining the salmon lifecycle and the important ways that salmon and eagles contribute to the unique coastal rainforest ecosystem.

Be sure to look for spawning salmon working their way upstream in the creek. You might also spot salmon carcasses on the shore or along the paths. Eagles often pick up salmon and take them into the trees to feed, but sometimes they drop them!

The trail ends at an elevated viewing gazebo with a great view of Chehalis Flats, known as Lhá:lt in Halq’eméylem, the language of the local Sts’ailes First Nation. The Harrison River widens here into a series of shoals and sandy islands, perfect for salmon spawning. Eagles gather by the hundreds to feed.

You can spot tons of eagles from the viewing area both on the sand and in the surrounding trees. But bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to get close-up views. We stayed at the resort and ended up going to the eagle viewing platform three times in two days since it was so fascinating to watch the eagles.

The trail and viewing platform are on private property so please be respectful. Sandpiper Resort asks visitors to check in with the front desk before going eagle viewing. As well, stay on the trail and watch out for golfers where the trail crosses the course.

Eagle Viewing Boat Tour

If you want to see the eagles from a different perspective, sign up for an eagle viewing boat tour with Harrison Eco Tours. They will pick you up in their jetboat at the marina in Harrison Hot Springs, then cruise down the Harrison River towards Harrison Mills.

After spending the morning at the viewing gazebo at the Eagle Interpretive Trail I thought I had seen a lot of eagles. But taking the boat tour let us get quite close to lots of eagles – it was a great way to get lots of good photos.

Our guide knew all the best spots to see the eagles and we spent lots of time just watching these grumpy-looking birds eating salmon, squabbling with each other, and stomping around. I love the way their fluffy feathers make them look like they are wearing pants!

If you take the tour, bring warm and windproof clothing including gloves! It’s chilly on the water and my hands got really cold while taking photos.

Sasquatch Museum and Sasquatch Spotting

While many cultures have legends about a huge ape-like creature, the name “Sasquatch” originates in the oral history of the Sts’ailes First Nation who have lived in the Harrison area since time immemorial.

So it is fitting that there is a Sasquatch Museum at the Harrison Hot Springs Visitor Centre. I was expecting a light-hearted and campy take on the legend, and I wasn’t disappointed. There is a diorama with a life-sized Sasquatch family, casts of so-called Sasquatch footprints, and maps showing the locations of supposed Sasquatch sightings in the area.

But the museum also includes exhibits that help explain the Indigenous origins of the term Sasquatch and the creature’s place in Sts’ailes culture. Part of the museum is dressed to look like the inside of a long house.

Inside, a short video explains the oral history of the Sasquatch from the Sts’ailes perspective. I learned that the white settler Indian agent popularized the legend of the Sasquatch. While he included some details from Sts’ailes oral history, many of his stories were embellishments or straight-up lies. Also, the Indian Agent mispronounced the Sts’ailes word, leaving us to use “Sasquatch” today instead of the correct Halq’eméylem pronunciation.

Note: The museum is closed on Mondays in winter.

If you want to go on your own Sasquatch hunt in Harrison, it’s pretty easy… as long as you are content with spotting Sasquatch statues instead of the real thing. There are dozens of Sasquatch statues around town. See how many you can spot!

Stroll the Esplanade

The main street in Harrison Hot Springs is called Esplanade Avenue. It runs along the southern shore of the lake. The pedestrian path beside the beach is a great place to go for a stroll to enjoy the views of Harrison Lake, the lagoon, and the snowy mountains that line the lake.

Don’t miss stopping in to some of the shops along the inland side of the street. There are lots of shops selling souvenirs, especially ones featuring Sasquatches. Don’t miss Rocky Mtn Chocolate towards the east end of the street. They have delicious chocolates, including adorable ones that are shaped like Sasquatch footprints!

Lights By the Lake

If you are visiting between late November and mid-January, don’t miss the annual Lights by the Lake display. The entire two-kilometre-long path along the Esplanade and the lagoon is lit up with twinkling holiday lights.

Some of the lights are arranged to form animals, photo frames, and more. But this wouldn’t be Harrison if there weren’t a Sasquatch… or 5! There are giant Christmas light Sasquatches waving from across the lagoon, a Sasquatch roasting a marshmallow, and lots more.

The lights are on every evening from dusk until 11 pm. On weekends and over Christmas break you can also skate outdoors on the synthetic ice rink.

Spirit Trail

If you want to go for a short walk, head for the Spirit Trail on the east side of Harrison Hot Springs. The trail is about 1 km long and flat, but it does have lots of roots and uneven ground.

While the trail explores a beautiful mossy forest, the main reason most people visit is the masks. There are dozens of handmade masks mounted on the trees. If you feel like someone is watching you… it’s probably one of these masks.

The masks are the work of local artist Ernie Eaves who started making them in 2007. He started with just a few masks but now there are nearly 50. See if you can spot them all!

Walk along the Miami River

The Miami River cuts through the middle of the town of Harrison Hot Springs. I enjoyed was the Miami Bridges Trail, which has great views of the river.

It’s a 1 km loop that starts and ends behind the Harrison Hot Springs Hotel. The trail crosses the river, then meanders over nine wooden bridges through a gorgeous rainforest. My favourite part was the old streetlights covered in decades worth of moss.

Whippoorwill Point Trail

If you’re looking for a short hike in Harrison Hot Springs, check out the Whippoorwill Point Trail. It starts at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and continues along the lake shore to the source of the hot springs. From there it heads uphill and inland through the forest to viewpoints at Whippoorwill Point and Sandy Cove Beach.

I didn’t have time to hike much farther than the hot springs source on my visit. The whole trail is a 3.7 km loop with 150 m of elevation. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours on the hike.

Soak in the Hot Springs

The natural hot springs are the main reason the town of Harrison Hot Springs exists. There has been a hot springs resort here since 1886. (Psst: Did you know there are hot springs all over BC?)

Today you can book a stay or a spa treatment at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort, which is the only way to get access to their pools. Unfortunately, they don’t do day passes to their pools.

However, anyone can visit the Indoor Public Hot Springs Pool in the heart of the village at the corner of Hot Springs Road and Esplanade Avenue. It’s the same water as at the resort, just piped into a less luxurious indoor pool.

Kilby Historic Site

Visit the Kilby Historic Site to step back in time. It is located near the mouth of the Harrison River in Harrison Mills. The community-run historic site includes historic buildings that demonstrate what life was like here 100 years ago. The museum is open on weekends but is closed in January, February, and March.

If the museum is closed, you can still check out the buildings’ exteriors including the imposing two-story General Store. It’s also worth driving around the corner to Kilby Provincial Park on the banks of the river. This is another great spot to watch for bald eagles in the winter.

Visit Nearby Farms

The fertile soil along the Fraser River means that there are lots of small farms in the Harrison area.

Stop at Harrison Lavender to pick up all kinds of handmade lavender products from soap to honey, all of which are made from the lavender grown on-site. They are open on weekends in November and December, but closed in January and February.

I couldn’t resist picking up several handmade cheeses at Farmhouse Natural Cheeses. They have lots of great cow and goat cheeses made with milk from their own herds. They have cheeses you’ll recognize, like gouda and brie. But I was impressed to see that they had lots of less common European-style aged and mould-ripened cheese. They are open all winter but closed on Sundays.

Sasquatch Mountain Resort

Sasquatch Mountain is a small ski hill with a community feel that locals love. They have three lifts and 36 ski runs ranging from beginner to expert.

If you don’t ski, it’s worth visiting to check out their five snowshoe trails – it is one of my picks for the best places to go snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley. They have rentals too. Or you can buy a ticket for their tube park, which has 8 lanes and a magic carpet lift.

They open each year in late December once there is enough snow and typically stay open until March. The resort is 30 minutes from Harrison Mills via the Hemlock Valley Road. It’s worth noting that you must have tire chains to drive this road and there is no public transportation available.

Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park

I have unwittingly been driving right past this Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park for years. It is located just off Highway 1 near Bridal Falls. Recently, I heard it was a great place for birding so I had to check it out on my most recent visit.

We didn’t have time to explore all of the trails, but the floating boardwalk leading out to an island was really cool. I spotted several species of ducks, Canada geese, and some trumpeter swans!

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park is a great stop on Highway 1. The spectacular falls is 122 metres tall and spreads out across the rock face. It’s on my list of the best waterfall hikes near Vancouver.

In the winter, the park gate is closed so you will need to park outside and walk the road for about 5 minutes into the park. From there, it’s another 5 to 10 minutes on a trail to the base of the falls, which has a great view.

Be extra careful around the base of the falls. Heavy rains can wash rocks or trees over the falls. And if it’s icy, big chunks of ice can break off. There have been accidents and injuries here before, so stay far back.

Where to Eat in Harrison

The Harrison area has quite a few restaurants and cafes that are worth visiting. If you are visiting on a weekday in winter, check opening hours – some places are only open on weekends.

Muddy Waters Cafe

Muddy Waters Cafe is a cute cafe on the Esplanade in Harrison Hot Springs is a great place for lunch or a coffee. I had an amazing sandwich made with local duck breast. Their tomato soup was a great way to warm up on a chilly afternoon. They also have a yummy-looking brunch menu. They are open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week in winter.

River’s Edge Clubhouse Restaurant

I ate both breakfast and dinner at the River’s Edge Clubhouse Restaurant during my stay at the Sandpiper Resort. But you don’t have to be a guest to eat here – it’s worth stopping in for a meal if you’re here to visit the Eagle Interpretive Trail. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week in winter.

They have a great traditional breakfast menu that includes eggs benedict. I also loved their breakfast sandwich, which is served on a brioche bun. My favourite part of their breakfast was their incredible smashed rosemary potatoes – definitely an upgrade from hashbrowns!

The glassed-in patio has great views of the river. It’s heated too. We watched eagles flying overhead while eating breakfast!

On my visit, the dinner menu included a few salmon dishes to celebrate Season of the Wild. My sister ordered a really good pan-search salmon dish. Their stuffed yorkie dinner special is also amazing.

Black Forest Steak & Schnitzel House

If you want some old-school tourist vibes, Black Forest Steak & Schnitzel House has German food in a rustic faux-Bavarian setting that hasn’t changed much since it opened in 1975. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’ve heard good things and it looks adorable. They are only open for dinner in the winter.

Old Settler Pub

If you’re looking for somewhere laidback, I’ve heard that locals hang out at the Old Settler Pub, which is inside a log cabin. They have classic pub fare with lots of burgers, pizza, nachos, etc. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week in winter.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Sandpiper Resort

I spent two nights staying in the coziest cabin at the Sandpiper Resort a.k.a. Rowena’s in Harrison Mills. It’s right on the river so it has great views. The Eagle Interpretive Trail is here too – I walked it three times! They also have a pretty good restaurant, the River’s Edge Clubhouse, on-site. The resort has a golf course, which isn’t my thing. But maybe it’s yours?

Sandpiper has a few different types of accommodation options. I stayed in a classic rustic cabin which was adorable. It had serious log cabin vibes with a huge stone fireplace and great views of the river.

The resort also has a series of newer cabins with more modern finishes. Some of them even have Japanese-style ofuro soaking tubs on the patio. You can also stay in rooms at the historic Rowena’s Inn, which is also on the property. Check rates.

Bramblebank Cottages

If you want cozy cottage vibes but also want to stay in the heart of Harrison Hot Springs Village, book a stay at Bramblebank Cottages. They have several suites and cottages on the edge of the Miami River. Check rates.

The Lodge on Harrison Lake

For incredible views, stay at The Lodge on Harrison Lake. It’s a lakefront lodge a few minutes outside of the village of Harrison Hot Springs. They have suites as well as cabins, most of which have incredible views. You’ll also get access to their private beach, campfire pit, and barrel sauna. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa

If hot springs are your priority, stay at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa since only resort guests can access their hot springs pools. The resort has grown over the years and offers a variety of accommodations. The East Tower is the newest and has the nicest rooms. Check rates.

Winter in Harrison Basics

In this section, I’ve got practicalities for a winter visit to Harrison, including getting there, getting around, what to pack, and more.

How to Get to Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is located about 90 minutes east of Vancouver on the north side of the Fraser Valley. The easiest way to get there is to drive yourself.

There are two ways to drive there from Vancouver. The fastest way is to take Highway 1 to Bridal Falls, then Highway 9 across the Fraser River to Agassiz and then to Harrison Hot Springs. Here are Google Maps driving directions for that route.

A slower and more scenic option is to take Highway 7 (Lougheed Highway) through Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, and Mission. Here are Google Maps driving directions for that route. I usually take one route there and the other one on the way back.

It is also possible to get to Harrison Hot Springs by bus, but I don’t recommend it because it is VERY time-consuming. The most direct way from Vancouver is to take the Skytrain to Lougheed Stain. From there, take BC Transit bus 66 to Chilliwack and then transfer to Bus 71, which will take you to Harrison Hot Springs. Check the bus schedule carefully because there is limited service on evenings and weekends.

Getting Around Harrison Hot Springs

If you stay within the village of Harrison Hot Springs, it’s easy to walk everywhere – it’s a small place.

However, if you want to make the 20-minute trip to Harrison Mills to visit the Eagle Interpretive Trail or Kilby Historic Site, you will need a car. A car is also necessary for visits to the farms, Cheam Lake Wetlands, and the Bridal Veil Falls.

You will also need a car with chains if you want to go to Sasquatch Mountain Resort for skiing, snowshoeing, or tubing since it is a snowy mountain road.

There is no taxi service in Harrison, although taxis from Chilliwack (30 min away) will pick up and drop off in Harrison.

How Long to Spend in Harrison Hot Springs in Winter

In the winter, a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend in Harrison. That’s enough time to spend some time eagle viewing, walk some of the trails, and indulge in some cozy cabin relaxing.

Winter Weather in Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs has similar weather to the rest of the eastern Fraser Valley and Vancouver region. Winters are fairly mild and a bit wet.

The average temperature between November and March is between 0°C and 11°C (32 to 52 F°). Expect rain if you visit in winter – it rains between 13 and 17 days a month. However, while it can be very rainy some of the time, on most days, it rains for a few hours and is cloudy (or even sunny) for the rest of the day.

It’s worth noting that it can be quite windy along the lakefront in Harrison Hot Springs because the wind rushes down the lake. However, once you get away from the shore, the wind dies down.

What to Pack for Winter in Harrison in Winter

Harrison is a pretty laid-back place, so you don’t need to bring anything fancy. Even if you go out for a nice dinner, jeans and a sweater are fine.

Make sure you bring clothing for the weather. A rain jacket is key, along with warm layers to wear underneath like a fleece or lightweight puffy jacket. Bring a warm toque and some gloves, especially if you plan to take an eagle watching boat tour.

Waterproof hiking boots are great if you’re planning to hit the trails since they can be muddy in winter.

Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit and towel for the hot springs or your hotel hot tub.

Binoculars or a camera with a big zoom lens are essential for eagle watching.

If you plan to visit Sasquatch Mountain Resort, pack ski clothing and winter boots. You can rent skis, boots, poles, helmets, and snowshoes on-site or bring your own.

Indigenous Context in Harrison Hot Springs

The Harrison area is the traditional territory of the Sts’ailes First Nation. The Nation’s name comes from the Halq’eméylem word ‘Sts’a’íles’, which means “the beating heart”. Parts of the Harrison area are also the shared traditional territory of the Leq’á:mel, Samahquam, Skatin (SkookumChuck), Sq’ewá:lxw (Skawahlook), Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island), Sq’ewlets, Xa’xtsa (Douglas), and Xwchí:yò:m (Cheam) First Nations.

Before colonization, these Nations lived in a series of seasonal villages throughout their territory to facilitate hunting, fishing, gathering, and cultural practices. But like most Indigenous people in North America, their culture and way of life was severed by residential schools and racist colonial policies.

Today, the Nations still live in the Harrison area and continue to practice their traditions and culture. It is important to be respectful of Indigenous lands, culture, and traditions when you visit.

Final Thoughts

I really loved my winter visit to Harrison. It was lovely to stay in a cozy cabin and relax with some real hygge vibes at night. During the day, I was blown away by how many eagles there were and how fun it was to watch them feed and strut around. If you haven’t seen the eagles in Harrison yet, you’re missing out!

Do you need help planning a trip to Harrison Hot Springs in the winter? Ask your questions in the comments – I’m happy to help.

READ NEXT:

• 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• 60 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway
• 40+ Waterfall Hikes Near Vancouver
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley Near Vancouver
• How to Visit the Best Hot Springs in Canada

The post Visiting Harrison Hot Springs in Winter appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

As a little kid, I spent a few summers in Tofino with my extended family, building sand castles in Cox Bay. But as an adult, I’ve returned to Tofino over and over in the winter months. I think it’s the perfect cozy getaway for hikers, foodies, and people who love stunning coastal scenery.

There’s something special about curling up in a cabin, listening to the rain drum on the roof while the waves crash outside. I love going for a walk on the beach while the fog swirls around me or hiking through the cedar forests admiring the water droplets clinging to the moss and ferns.

In this post, I’ve got everything you need to know about visiting Tofino in the winter (and by extension the spring and fall too.)

This post includes:

• Why visit Tofino in winter? I explain why I love it.
• Map of Tofino that includes all the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in Tofino in the winter: rainforest hikes, surfing, kayaking, storm watching, and more
• Where to eat in Tofino: My picks for the best coffee shops, food trucks, and restaurants
• Where to stay in Tofino: My picks for the best hotels and resorts.
• Winter in Tofino basics: How to get there? How long to spend? What’s the weather like? 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 Tourism Tofino for hosting some of my experiences during my most recent trip to Tofino. My previous trips were not hosted and 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

Why Visit Tofino in Winter?

Tofino is one of the most popular tourist destinations on Vancouver Island. The tiny town of 3,000 residents hosts about 600,000 visitors each year. But… most of those people come in the summer between May and September.

If you come in the winter, or anytime between October and April, you’ll see the real Tofino that locals know, without the crowds. (If you look at my photos in this post, you’ll notice that there are hardly any people in them. That’s not because I did the travel blogger trick of trying to shoot around people. That’s because there was hardly anyone around!)

It’s quiet and cozy in Tofino when the temperature drops and the rains roll in, but it’s beautiful too. Tofino is part of the UNESCO Clayoquot Biosphere Region, which recognizes its unique ecosystem, fed by rains and powerful coastal weather.

And winter is the time to really appreciate that unique ecology. The rainforests seem to glow even brighter green as they suck up all that moisture. The power of storms crashing against the coast is an unforgettable sight. And when the sun does come out, it feels extra special.

Vising outside of the summer season helps contribute to sustainable tourism as well. You will be supporting the local economy and reducing the impacts of over-tourism. For example, in the summer Tofino often struggles with drinking water shortages, exacerbated by the huge influx of tourists. In the winter, the ample rainfall means that’s not a problem.

But one of the big reasons to visit in winter is a practical one – it’s much more affordable. Accommodation prices can be more than twice as much in the summer compared to the off-season. And while some businesses and tour operators close over the winter, most are still open each weekend, often with reduced winter pricing.

Map of Tofino

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

Things to Do in Tofino in Winter

You might be surprised to hear that you can do pretty much all of the same activities in winter in Tofino as you can in the summer. There are a few exceptions of course: You can’t go whale watching or bear watching since most of the whales have migrated elsewhere and the bears are asleep. And you might not want to spend time frolicking on the beach in your bathing suit!

But pretty much everything else is open and available. In my list of recommendations below I’ve added notes and tips for winter such as info on reduced hours.

Rainforest Hiking

One of the things that makes Tofino so unique is that it is one of the easiest places to access Vancouver Island’s incredible coastal rainforest.

The coastal rainforests of British Columbia are some of the wettest areas on Earth outside of the tropics. Winter rains bring the most moisture to the forests, so that’s the best time to visit since everything is at its most lush and green.

There are lots of short and easy trails where you can walk between giant trees covered in moss and ferns. (If you’re looking for a more challenging way to see the rainforest, you can hike the nearby West Coast Trail.)

The Rainforest Trail in Pacific Rim National Park is one of the best places to get a feel for this unique ecosystem. There are actually two short loop trails, both 1 km long, on either side of the Highway. Be sure to pay National Park entry fees in the parking lot.

Both are gorgeous, but Loop A on the north side of the Highway includes a huge cedar with signature Parks Canada red chairs to enjoy the view. While both of these trails are easy, they do include quite a few stairs. As well, both trails are almost entirely on wooden boardwalks, which can be slippery.

If you’re looking for more rainforest hikes, I also recommend Shorepine Bog Trail and Nuu-chah-nulth Trail, both of which are also in Pacific Rim National Park. The Big Tree Trail on Meares Island is another great option – more about that below.

Storm Watching

Since Tofino’s West Coast is open to the Pacific Ocean, they get huge waves when winter storms roll in. Most of the time if I travel somewhere and there is a huge storm, I grumble. But in Tofino, I love it because watching the storms hit the coast is so cool. Think gale-force winds, driving rain, and giant crashing waves.

Storm Watching Beaches

The easiest way to go storm watching is to go for a walk along one of Tofino’s beaches.

Chesterman Beach is my favourite because you can watch waves breaking across Frank Island in the centre of the beach or on the rocks at the north end.

Cox Bay Beach and Long Beach (especially near Incinerator Rock) are also great.

Wild Pacific Trail

It’s also worth heading south to Ucluelet to watch the waves from the Wild Pacific Trail. The Lighthouse Loop section is the most popular, but I like the quieter Artist Loops on the section of trail between Brown’s Beach and Rocky Bluffs.

I’ve got a full description of this trail including tips for the best viewpoints in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island.

Kwistitis Visitor Centre

The Kwisitis Visitor Centre on Wickaninnish Beach in Pacific Rim National Park is also great for storm watching. You can walk along the beach or take in the view from the outside deck.

One of the best dry places to storm watch is hidden inside the visitor centre – find it up the stairs from the exhibits. (The exhibits about local Indigenous languages are also awesome BTW.)

Storm Watching Restaurants

If you want to stay dry and cozy while storm watching, a few of the oceanside resorts provide prime viewing from their restaurants. The Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn on Chesterman Beach and The Great Room at Long Beach Lodge on Cox Bay let you dine in style while enjoying the storm.

Storm Watching Safety

If a storm hits while you are in Tofino, head to the coast to watch it. BUT keep safety in mind.

Check the tide table so you don’t get stranded by incoming water.

It’s tempting to stand on rocky outcrops to watch. But that’s where big waves hit unexpectedly. These waves are sometimes called ‘rogue waves’ or ‘sneaker waves’ – they can sweep people out to see.

Lastly, watch out for driftwood. If a big wave comes in all those beach logs turn into floating torpedos that can hurt you. Don’t stand near them!

Hot Springs Cove

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, head to Hot Springs Cove, known as Mux̣šiƛa in Nuu-chah-nulth. This is one of the most unique hot springs in Canada and have been on my bucket list for a long time.

The springs are in the traditional territory of the Ahousaht Nation (a member of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council) and today they are co-managed by BC Parks and the Nation.

The only way to Hot Springs Cove is via boat or seaplane, so you will need to go with a tour. I recommend Ahous Adventures, an Ahousaht-owned tour company.

Once you arrive, you’ll walk 2 km through the rainforest along a boardwalk to the springs. The water bubbles up through the rocks into small, natural pools before trickling into the ocean.

If you’re booking a hot springs tour in the winter, be prepared for the possibility of rough weather. Bring seasickness medication just in case.

And if the weather is too rough, the tour company will cancel your tour and refund you – that’s what happened to me on my most recent trip. A huge storm rolled through the day I was booked to go!

I recommend booking your Hot Springs Cove tour for the beginning of your trip – that way if it gets cancelled due to weather you may be able to rebook later in your stay.

Surfing

Tofino is considered the best place to surf in Canada. The waves roll in from the open Pacific Ocean, breaking on sandy beaches. In the winter, the waves are larger, making for exciting surfing.

If you want to watch surfers do tricks in the waves, winter is a great time to visit. Stroll along Cox Bay Beach or Chesterman Beach and admire the experienced surfers riding the break.

On my first few visits to Tofino, I watched the surfers with interest, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready to try surfing. But… on my most recent visit, I took a lesson with Pacific Surf Co. I was definitely nervous, but in the end, I had tons of fun!

With the cold temperatures, I was worried about being freezing, but they decked us out in thick wetsuits, gloves, booties, and neoprene hoods. I actually ended up taking my hood off since it was a bit too hot!

The big winter waves were also a concern. But our instructor took us to a spot with smaller waves and a long, shallow, sandy beach. I was never in water over my waist, but I still had lots of time to try to stand up on my board before I ran out of ocean. Our instructor told us that except for a few days a year with huge storms, they can always find a beginner-friendly place to surf.

While I didn’t manage to stand up on my surfboard, I got up to my knees quite a few times. My husband got all the way up, which was really exciting. The lesson was lots of fun, but also exhausting. And now I’m googling surf vacations… so I think maybe I’m hooked?

If you’re planning to surf in Tofino in the winter, I definitely recommend taking a lesson. I learned a lot and wouldn’t have known what to do without it. Since it was winter, we had a small group so we each got lots of attention from the instructor. Also, it is so much safer than going on your own.

Kayaking

While Tofino’s west coast has huge waves coming off the Pacific, the east coast in Tofino Harbour has calm and protected waters that are great for kayaking year-round.

On my most recent trip, I went on a kayak tour with Paddle West Kayaking. We paddled around the islands in Tofino’s harbour, watching for eagles, and spotting sea stars beneath the surface. When we started out it was a bit misty and cloudy, but by the time we returned, the sun had broken through. What a beautiful day on the water!

The tour I took was really beginner-friendly: they provided all the gear, gave us paddling tips, and kept us in calm water with minimal currents. I’m not a kayaking beginner (I’ve been kayaking lots of times and even did a multi-day kayaking trip in the Johnstone Strait on northern Vancouver Island), but I still had a great time.

If you want to go kayaking in the winter, keep in mind that there are fewer tours offered each week. On the day I went the water was calm, so I opted for a single kayak. But if you’re a real beginner or the water isn’t that calm, ask to go in a double kayak. They are more stable and you can share the load of paddling.

Big Tree Trail on Meares Island

If you want to see some of the oldest and biggest trees in the coastal rainforest near Tofino, head to the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island. The 3.5 km-long loop trail includes towering Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and western red cedar trees.

Since it’s on an island, you’ll need to take a boat to get there. Several local water taxi companies run trips over to the island a few times a day. That’s how I got to Meares the first time I went. But last time I was in Tofino, I took a kayak tour that also visited part of the Big Tree Trail.

Meares Island was slated for logging in the 1980s and 90s, but was saved thanks to protesters. Today, the trail is inside the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation’s Meares Island Tribal Park, also known as Wanachus-Hilthuuis. Part of your water taxi or kayak fees go to the Tribal Park.

The trail undulates through the rainforest on a series of hand-hewn boardwalks, which can be slippery and uneven. Stay on the boardwalk to avoid damaging the fragile root systems of the ancient trees, some of which are 2000 years old. You’ll pass several huge trees including the Cedar of Life and the Hanging Garden Tree.

I love visiting these stately giants. There is something very humbling about visiting trees that have witnessed so much. Read my full guide to the Big Trail Trail and visiting Meares Island.

Beach Walks

One of my favourite things to do in Tofino is to just go on a walk along the beach. It’s a really popular activity and you’ll see people out walking on the beaches every day of the year in almost any weather.

Most of the beaches are packed sand, which makes for easy walking and often have rocky outcrops to explore. With the tide and the waves, the beaches are always changing so there is something new to see each time I visit. Check the tide table to see if the tide is rising or falling so you don’t get stuck on offshore rocks!

If you’re going to walk on the beaches in winter, wear waterproof shoes. Don’t forget a rain jacket even if it looks nice – the clouds can blow in quickly.

To get to most of the beaches you park, and then walk down a marked access trail to the beach. In the summer parking can be super busy, but you won’t have trouble finding a spot in the winter. Just be sure to pay your parking fees!

You can’t go wrong with a walk on any of the beaches in Tofino. They each have their own charm. Mackenzie Beach is one of the smallest. Chesterman Beach is split in half by the tombolo out to Frank Island in the middle. Cox Bay Beach has the biggest waves. Long Beach is… long! And Wickaninnish Beach has some unique (and ecologically fragile) sand dunes.

Biking the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Trail

Pronounced ups-cheek ta-shee, the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii trail is a new multi-use trail that runs through Pacific Rim National Park and connects to multi-use paths in Tofino and Ucluelet on either end. The trail’s name means “going the right way on the path” in Nuu-chah-nulth.

If you’re into biking, riding the trail is a great way to get to the beaches and see a bit of the coastal rainforest.

We rented bikes from Tofino Bike Co. in the same complex as Tacofino. They are open a few days a week in fall and spring but close completely over the winter so check hours ahead of time.

We followed the path south from the bike rental shop. It runs beside the highway until it gets into the National Park, where it dips further into the forest.

I liked that section the best because it was more winding and I felt immersed in the rainforest. The landscape reminded me of the boggy coastal forests at Cape Scott… except instead of hiking through mud I was breezing through on a bike on a paved path!

We spotted some culturally modified trees (CMTs) along the trail. Many Indigenous groups in BC, including the Tla-o-qui-aht, sustainably harvest cedar bark in strips in a way that does not harm the tree. They process the bark, then weave it into hats, baskets, and other items. It’s cool to see this traditional practice continue today.

We ended up biking to Incinerator Rock on Long Beach and back, with a stop at Chesterman Beach for a quick walk break. (There are bike racks at all beach access points.)

The trail is open all winter but is not maintained so you can expect some fallen branches from wind storms. Also, be careful on the wooden bridges because they can be slippery.

Boutiques and Galleries

One of my favourite things to do in Tofino, especially on rainy days, is to browse the boutiques and galleries. Tofino doesn’t have any chain businesses, so each shop is so unique with lots of locally made goods. Most shops are downtown along Campbell Street, but there are a few others spread out elsewhere.

I always stop at Mermaid Tales Book Shop to browse for books about Vancouver Island’s history. They also have a great selection of plant guides and other natural history books along with lots of fiction and a good kids section.

Caravan Beach Shop is a beautifully curated boutique. They have beachy and West Coast-inspired home goods, clothing, accessories, and art.

If you’re looking for Indigenous art, you can’t miss the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery. It’s located in the huge long house-style building on Campbell Street. He is one of the most prominent Indigenous artists in Canada – you can find his distinctive prints all over BC. I have one hanging in my living room that I inherited from my Great Aunt who loved going to Tofino in the 1980s when the gallery was first opened.

Another place that I always stop, even though it isn’t downtown, is Chocolate Tofino. It’s in the Live to Surf plaza (near Tacofino.) They make beautiful handcrafted ethically sourced chocolates. You can buy bars or gift boxes, but I do their pay-by-weight option and get just the flavours I want.

Where to Eat in Tofino

For a small town, Tofino has a surprisingly good foodie scene. I always make time to eat out when I’m in town. Below I’ve got my picks for the best coffee shops, food trucks, and restaurants.

Coffee Shops

Part of the charm of cozy season in Tofino is getting a cup of coffee to go and taking it for a walk along the beach. I pack my YETI Rambler mug because it keeps my coffee warm for literally hours. Plus, it cuts down on wasteful disposable cups.

Rhino Coffee

In downtown Tofino, I like Rhino Coffee. If you’re hungry, they make great breakfast sandwiches. Their doughnuts are also great.

Tofitian Cafe

If you’re on the way to the beach, Tofitian Cafe in the Live to Surf plaza is also good. If you’re paying attention, you’ve seen their signature skull motif Tofitian stickers all over BC.

Food Trucks

For a casual lunch, a food truck is the way to go. Some have a bit of covered outdoor seating, but in the winter, bring a jacket in case it gets cold. Or be prepared to eat in your car.

Tacofino

By far the most famous food truck in Tofino is Tacofino, located at the back of the Live to Surf plaza. While today they have 12 locations across Vancouver and Vancouver Island, it all started in this humble, sticker-covered van.

In the summer there are long lines (up to an hour!) but in the winter you can breeze through quickly. Their fish tacos are incredible.

Wildside Grill

Recently, I finally tried Wildside Grill, also in the Live to Surf plaza. It’s more a food stand than a truck. They make classic fried things: burgers, fries, fish and chips, etc. But they also have great soups and tacos.

The best thing to order is anything with fish – I had a great fish taco and some amazing seafood chowder. They have a few covered tables if its raining.

Restaurants

If you’re a foodie, you’re spoiled for choice in Tofino. Many of my winter trips to Tofino have coincided with my wedding anniversary, so we usually go out for at least one special, splurge meal while we are there. Here are a few of my favourite spots.

Shelter

The first time we went to Tofino for our anniversary we had dinner at Shelter. It’s one of Tofino’s oldest and most beloved restaurants. After a devastating fire a few years ago, they reopened in a stunning new waterfront location.

The menu is mostly elevated takes on classic dishes like tempura lingcod fish and chips or seared wild sockeye salmon. The red Thai coconut curry I ordered had so many types of seafood!

Wolf in the Fog

For true foodies or a special occasion, I recommend Wolf in the Fog. The emphasis is on local cuisine, especially seafood. They have a great cocktail menu, including some great zero-proof options for non-drinkers like me.

Ombre

On my last trip, I ate at Ombre, which just opened this past summer and is owned by the same people as Wolf in the Fog. I was really impressed with their menu of shareable small plates. Both the duck leg and the octopus were so good!

Jeju

I also ate at Jeju recently. What a unique experience! This tiny restaurant is run by a mother and son. Their small menu includes Korean classics on mom’s side of the menu and innovative fusion take on Korean food on the son’s side of the menu. The upscale bulgogi with truffles and rib eye steak was insanely good.

The Bear Bierhouse

If you’re looking for something more casual, head to the Bear Bierhouse inside the Maq Hotel. It’s a sports bar with lots of German beers on tap.

But it also has one of the best burgers I’ve ever had in Canada. The chef explained that’s because they hand-chop their beef instead of grinding it, which allows them to serve their burgers medium instead of well-done. So juicy! The indoor/outdoor bear sculpture is also fantastic for photos.

Tofino Brewing

My husband loves craft beer, so we always stop at Tofino Brewing each time we are in town so he can try a flight of their latest brews. This time his favourite was the Kelp Stout, a strong and dark beer, perfect for winter.

Where to Stay in Tofino

There are tons of accommodation options in Tofino. Most are outside of town near the beaches, but there are a few options in town. Accommodation prices in the summer can be outrageous, but in the winter, even beachfront options get more affordable. Here are some places I recommend.

Mackenzie Beach Resort

On my last trip, we stayed in an adorable modern tiny house at the Mackenzie Beach Resort. The resort is right on Mackenzie Beach and they have a little cafe on site.

Our tiny house was small, but had a mini kitchenette and a great outdoor space including an outdoor shower (which helped get the sand off after my surf lesson). And the decor was really cute in a West Coast minimalist way.

They also have cabins and really cool renovated airstreams you can stay in. And if you have an RV, they have year-round RV campsites.

Compared to more upscale resorts, the prices here are really reasonable. Check rates.

Ocean Village Resort

The picturesque beehive-style cabins at Ocean Village Resort are also on Mackenzie Beach. They were built in 1976, so they have a fun retro vibe. But don’t worry, they’ve been modernized and the resort is committed to sustainability with a composting program and on-demand hot water. Check rates.

The cabins at Ocean Village are one of my picks for the best cabins near Vancouver.

Cox Bay Beach Resort

If you’re with a group, the two-bedroom suites at Cox Bay Beach Resort are great. A few years ago I spent a long weekend here with my sister and some friends. The suites sleep six and have full kitchens so you can make your own meals. Plus they are right on Cox Bay. Check rates.

Pacific Sands Beach Resort

If you want to splurge, book a suite at Pacific Sands Beach Resort. Most suites have incredible ocean views of Cox Bay Beach. My very first trip to Tofino in the 1980s was to Pacific Sands. Back then we stayed in a rustic cabin, but over the years the resort has been completely redone.

Now, the basic cabins are long gone and they have a variety of luxe suites, on-site saunas, a spa, firepits, a cafe, and lots more amenities. Check rates.

Guest Houses and Vacation Rentals

Tofino has a housing shortage and locals who need to live in town to work in the tourist sector often struggle with affordable housing and housing insecurity. For that reason, there aren’t that many guesthouses or vacation rentals compared to hotels.

I’ve stayed in a few great vacation rentals over the years, both in the town of Tofino and near the beaches. If you’re looking for a vacation rental on VRBO or Airbnb, be sure to read the listing to check for a business licence number. That ensures that you are renting from a legal business and are not contributing to the housing crisis.

Winter in Tofino Basics

In this section I’ve got practicalities for a winter visit to Tofino including getting there, getting around, what to pack, and more.

How to Get to Tofino

Tofino is located on the isolated west coast of Vancouver Island. The easiest way to get there is to drive yourself.

You can fly directly to Victoria or Nanaimo airports on Vancouver Island and then rent a car and drive from there. I use Discover Cars to book rental cars since it lets me compare prices across different companies.

If you’re coming from Vancouver, you’ll need to take BC Ferries. You have two options: The ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Departure Bay in Nanaimo is closer if you’re coming from downtown Vancouver. If you’re coming from the Vancouver airport, the ferry from Tsawassen to Duke Point in Nanaimo is more convenient.

It’s a 3-hour drive from Nanaimo via Highway 19 and Highway 4. From Victoria, it’s a 4.5-hour drive via Highways, 1, 19, and 4.

The drive is usually fairly straightforward (although the road is very curvy). However, it does go over two small passes on Highway 4 that get snow a handful of days each winter. Check road conditions on Drive BC before you go and make sure that your car has M+S or snow-rated tires, which are required by law between October and April.

Make time on your drive to stop at Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park to take a walk past the giant old-growth trees. Port Alberni also makes a good stop for lunch or a snack. I recommend the Wildflower Bakeshop & Cafe or the sushi at Sehmi.

Getting Around Tofino

If you’re visiting Tofino in the winter, having a car will make your trip a lot more enjoyable. Many of the hikes and beaches are spread out, so a car is handy.

If you are driving, keep in mind that many places have paid parking. You’ll need to pay to park at the beaches and in National Park parking lots. While you have to pay for street parking in downtown Tofino during the summer, it is free in the winter between November and April.

While there is a free shuttle bus in the summer, it only runs from late June to early September. The rest of the year you can take the local bus, West Coast Transit. It runs between Tofino and nearby Ucluelet. However, it doesn’t run very often and you’ll have to walk quite far from a stop to many beaches and hikes.

How Long to Spend in Tofino in Winter

In the winter, a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend in Tofino. That’s enough time to do a few activities like a surf lesson, a kayak tour, or a trip to Hot Springs Cove, but still leaves enough time for leisurely beach walks or chill rainforest hikes.

Winter Weather in Tofino

Tofino is on Vancouver Island’s west coast. The weather blows in from the Pacific Ocean, which means that rain and storms are common. However, that also means that is never very cold.

The average temperature between November and March is between 3°C and 10°C (37 to 50 F°). Expect rain if you visit in winter – it rains between 16 and 20 days a month. However, while it can be very rainy some of the time, on most days, it rains for a few hours and is cloudy (or even sunny) for the rest of the day.

What to Pack for Winter in Tofino

Tofino is a pretty laid-back place, so you don’t need to bring anything fancy. Even if you go out for a fine dining dinner, nice jeans and a sweater are fine.

Make sure you bring clothing for the weather. A rain jacket is key, along with warm layers to wear underneath like a fleece or lightweight puffy jacket.

Waterproof hiking boots are great if you’re planning to hit the trails. If you own a pair of rain boots, pack them. I bring my favourite ankle-height Xtratufs to wear for beach walks or on rainy walks around town.

Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit and towel for surfing, the hot springs, or your hotel hot tub.

Indigenous Context in Tofino

Tofino is the traditional territory of the Nuu-chah-Nulth peoples. Nuu-chah-nulth means “all along the mountains and the sea”. Today the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council is made up of 14 First Nations including the Tla-o-qui-aht whose territory is in what is now Tofino.

Before colonization, the Nuu-chah-nulth lived in a series of seasonal village sites along the coast. But like most Indigenous people in North America, their culture and way of life was severed by residential schools and racist colonial policies.

Tribal Park Allies Program

Today the Nuu-chah-nulth are working to regain management of their traditional territories. One of the ways to support that work is through the Tribal Park Allies program. Participating businesses in Tofino collect a 1% fee from their customers.

This money goes towards Nuu-chah-nulth community and environmental projects like removing waste from beaches, enhancing salmon-bearing streams, planting trees, and conserving vulnerable ecosystems.

Many of the businesses I highlight in this post are Tribal Park Allies: Rhino Coffee House, Paddle West Kayaking, Mermaid Tales Book Shop, and Tourism Tofino.

ʔiisaak Pledge

The best way to be respectful of Tla-o-qui-aht territory is to read and follow the ʔiisaak Pledge. Like many coastal Indigenous peoples in BC, the Tla-o-qui-aht have a long tradition of hosting visitors. However, guests must show respect for their land and traditions.

In the Tla-o-qui-aht language, the concept of ʔiisaak means to observe, appreciate, and act accordingly. The ʔiisaak pledge includes guidance on how to respect the natural world, Tla-o-qui-aht history, and the local community.

Final Thoughts

I love Tofino in the winter and if you haven’t been yet, I think you’re missing out on something special. Pack your rain gear, book a cozy cabin or oceanview suite and go! If the weather sucks, all the better because you’ll get some amazing storm watching.

If you have questions about planning a trip to Tofino in the winter, ask in the comments. I’d love to help.

READ NEXT:

• Hiking the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island
• Pacific Marine Circle Route Road Trip Guide
• Where to Experience Indigenous Tourism in Canada
• Things to do on Northern Vancouver Island

The post Visiting Tofino in Winter appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I definitely had all of these questions when I first started winter hiking and snowshoeing, and through years of trial and error (oh so many errors!), I’ve come up with a bunch of pretty good winter hiking outfits that work for a variety of cold temperatures.

So here it is – my guide for what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing. In includes:

• How to dress in layers: What is each layer called and what is it for?
• Base layers for winter hiking: recommendations for long underwear tops and bottoms
• Mid layers: When do you want a fleece jackets vs. an insulated down or synthetic puffy?
• Outer layer jackets: What to look for in a waterproof breathable jacket
• Outer layer pants: What kind of pants should you wear for winter hiking? (Ski pants, rain pants, soft shell pants, or winter tights?)
• Boots for winter hiking: Insulation and waterproofness are key!
• Socks: Warm, cozy, and blister-preventing
• Gaiters: Keep the snow out of your boots
• Snowshoes and microspikes: Add traction and flotation in snow and ice
• Accessories to keep you warm: hats, gloves, and neck gaiters (buffs)
• Winter hiking checklist: use this list of winter hiking clothing to plan your next trip

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

How Cold Will it Be?

The first thing to do is figure out how cold it will be. Don’t just look at the weather forecast for your city – the temperatures can be MUCH colder in the mountains. Use my picks for The Best Weather Apps for Hiking to get a better idea of the forecast on the trails.

In my hometown of Squamish, BC, our winters are typically not that cold: temperatures between +5°C and -10°C (41°F and 14°F) in the mountains are pretty typical.

In that climate, as long as you are moving and not taking long breaks, you won’t need any Everest expedition-level super warm clothing.

If you are heading out in colder temperatures, you will obviously need warmer clothing.

Dress in Layers

The secret to staying comfortable while winter hiking or snowshoeing is layering. You take off layers when you get too hot and add more when it cools down.

It’s also important to wear the RIGHT amount of layers. If you wear too many, you’ll overheat and sweat. Then when you stop, all that cold perspiration in your clothing will cool you down too quickly, or even worse, turn to ice.

My winter hiking and snowshoeing mantra is “Be bold, start cold”. I always wear less layers to start with since I know I’ll warm up as I move. I carry warm gear in my pack to put on when I stop.

The classic layering system consists of a base layer, mid layer and outer layers. Here’s what each layer does:

• Base layer: Wicks sweat and provides warmth.

• Mid-layer: Provides customizable warmth that you can add or subtract depending on the temperature and how hard you are working.

• Outer-layer: Provides protection from wind and rain.

I’ve got details on each of those layers below.

Base Layers to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

A good winter hiking outfit starts with a warm and wicking base layer (also known as long underwear). If you are starting from scratch, choose mid-weight base layer pants and a long sleeved mid-weight base layer top.

Polyester and merino wool are both great options for fabric that retains warmth even if you get wet. I mostly wear polyester since it’s cheaper and more durable, but merino wool can be great if you can afford it. (Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for more info.)

If you get cold easily, live in a very cold climate, or plan to go winter camping, consider getting heavy-weight base layers instead of mid-weight.

For synthetic base layers, I like Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight collection. It has a subtle grid-texture on the inside that traps warmth without adding bulk.

If you’re looking for merino wool base layers, I love the Smartwool Classic Thermal series. It provides the right amount of warmth for snowshoeing. Their base layer bottoms have a wide waistband that stays put. (And they come in fun patterns too).

Underwear

You’ll also need to wear quick-drying underwear underneath your base layer. (Skip the cotton – it will just get soggy with sweat!) Read my guide to hiking underwear to find out which ones are best.

Mid Layers to Wear Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

The next layer is the mid-layer. The main job of the mid-layer is to provide extra warmth. This is the most customizable layer – choose a warmer mid-layer for cold conditions and a lighter one for milder weather.

Your mid-layer is also the layer that you will take on and off the most as the temperature changes or your exertion level increases or decreases.

Mid-Layer Jackets: Fleece vs. Synthetic Insulated vs. Down

A lightweight insulated puffy jacket or a mid-weight high-loft fleece jacket is a good option to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing for extra warmth. Or just keep it in your bag to throw on while taking breaks.

There are two types of jackets to consider: fleeces and insulated jackets.

Fleece jackets provide a moderate amount of warmth and wick sweat, so they are great to wear when you are moving fast or in mild weather.

In colder weather you will want an insulated puffy jacket for extra warmth. I prefer to snowshoe and winter hike in a fleece jacket, then carry a lightweight down jacket to put on when I take breaks or if it’s extra cold.

For insulated puffy jackets you have a choice between down and synthetic insulation. Many people like the warmth and compressibility of a down jacket. A synthetic jacket can be a better choice in damp conditions such as humid coastal climates, temperatures close to freezing, or during sweaty activities.

Synthetic jackets dry faster than down and keep you warm even when wet. But they aren’t as light or compressible. Down jackets don’t provide any warmth once they are wet and take a long time to dry.

Fleece Jackets

I have a few fleece jackets but I love, but most of them are discontinued. In general, I look for fleeces that have a bit of stretch. I also like grid fleece since it breathes well but still provide lots of warmth.

One of my faves that is still available is the MEC Rockwall Fleece. It has a smooth water resistant outer face but is fleecy and soft on the inside. It’s also pretty stretchy.

Insulated Puffy Jackets

I have a ton of puffy jackets, so I find it hard to choose which one to bring on some trips. For a synthetic puffy, I reach for my Arc’teryx Proton most often. It’s really breathable, and the synthetic insulation keeps me warm even when its wet.

Sometimes I also pack my Arc’teryx Cerium down jacket if it is going to be really cold. It’s super warm and squishes down really small so it is great to have in my pack. Since it is down, I save it to wear when I’m taking a break since (like all down jackets) it doesn’t deal with sweat well.

Mid-Layer Bottoms: Fleece Pants

For midlayer bottoms some people like to wear lightweight fleece pants. I find fleece pants are too warm to wear when snowshoeing, especially if I’m wearing long johns or tights.  

Unless you are really a cold person or out in very cold temperatures, I’d go with either a baselayer or a midlayer on the bottom but not both. I have an older pair of MEC Trek pants that I wear for winter camping.

Outer Layers Jackets for Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

Even in nice weather, it’s important to have an outer layer for snowshoeing and winter hiking. Your outer layer protects you from wind, rain, and snow. I often winter hike in just my base layer under my outer layer (no mid-layer).

For hiking in any season, you need a rain jacket since it can rain or snow at any time of year in the mountains.

Make sure you choose a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable so you don’t sweat inside it.  That usually means a jacket with Gore-Tex or another waterproof breathable technology. (Check out my guide to why rain jackets wet out to learn more about waterproofing.)

There are lots of technologies out there and many brands use their own, but as long as the jacket is advertised as a waterproof breathable garment, you can be sure it is waterproof.  

If you spend more money for Gore-Tex or another branded technology you’ll often get more durability and a lot more breathability, but the waterproofness straight off the shelf will be comparable to the cheap jackets.

I like high quality waterproof breathable jackets to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing since the consequences of getting wet are so much higher when it’s cold out.

I just upgraded to the Outdoor Research Aspire Jacket. (The men’s version is called the Foray.) It’s a durable 3-layer waterproof breathable jacket with a bit of stretch so it’s comfortable to wear. I also love the huge pit zips which are great for venting heat when I’m working hard or giving me access to the pockets in my mid layer.

Outer Layer Pants for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

You have a few choices when it comes to picking a type of outer pants for snowshoeing or winter hiking. The type you choose will depend on your budget, how cold it is where you hike and what style of hiking you do.

Below I’ve got info on winter tights, soft shell pants, rain pants, insulated ski pants, and insulated skirts.

Winter Tights/Leggings

In mild-weather or when I plan to do a short hike where I’ll be working hard, I often wear winter tights for snowshoeing.

I have a pair of Athleta Altitude Leggings that I love so much I bought a second pair. They are made of stretchy and warm Polartec fleece. (These aren’t the crappy yoga tights with a fuzzy lining that you see on Amazon.) I wear them on their own without a base layer when it’s cold but not windy.

If it’s windy, I like leggings with a fleece lining and wind resistant outer fabric. I keep a pair of rain pants or an insulated skirt in my backpack to put on overtop in case it gets cold. (More on those below.)

I have an older pair of discontinued winter biking tights that I wear for snowshoeing and winter hiking. They have a cozy fleece lining and windproof panels on the front only, since they’re designed for biking.

Tights designed for cross-country skiing will also be great for snowshoeing since they have windproof panels. Craft, Swix, and Salomon all make great options.

READ NEXT: 18 Best Hiking Leggings

Soft Shell Pants

For most trips, I like to wear softshell pants for winter hiking and snowshoeing since they are wind resistant and water resistant.

Key point: they aren’t waterproof so they won’t hold up to constant rain, siting in the snow, or bum sliding.

They are also quite breathable so they are good for days when you are working hard or it’s not that cold.

There are a few softshell pants on the market designed for snowshoeing or winter hiking, but I’ve found that pants designed for ski touring also work really well for snowshoers. Many softshell pants designed for winter have a thin fleecy layer inside for extra warmth so on warmer days you can skip a baselayer.

I have an old pair version of the MEC Tobo soft shell pants. They breathe well but still block the wind. They also shed snow but won’t stand up to heavy rain.

Ski touring pants like the Outdoor Research Cirque pants are similar. They are built for ski touring and have a fleece lining.

Rain Pants

Many people (including me) like to wear waterproof breathable rain pants over their base layer for winter hiking and snowshoeing. They are windproof so they’ll retain body heat. This means you might get overheated in them, so get ones with zippered leg vents if you run hot.

They also tend to be light weight and packable so you can take them off on bluebird days and just go in your tights or long johns. And since they are totally waterproof they are the best option for days where it is sleeting, for sitting in the snow, or for bum-sliding.

The bonus is that you can use them as rain pants at other times of the year so you don’t have to buy a dedicated pair of winter pants.

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Pants. I love them since they have 3/4 length zips for easy on/off. I’ve worn them on countless summer backpacking trips and winter hikes. I also love that the fabric stretches a little so they are more comfortable.

Insulated Ski Pants

Another option for winter hiking and snowshoeing is to wear ski or snowboard pants.  Many people already have these in their closets. If you don’t, they are easy to find at used gear shops or on clearance at ski stores. 

Most of them have good waterproofness, although they often aren’t as waterproof as rain pants.  Most ski pants are insulated which can be too warm for hiking in, especially in warmer weather. It’s waaay too easy to overheat and start to sweat.

If you want to snowshoe or winter hike in ski pants, I recommend you buy a cheap pair. You don’t need to worry about durability the way you would with ski pants since you won’t be falling down on them. (Or I hope you won’t anyway!)

There are tons of budget options on Amazon, but insulated ski pants from Arctix get the best ratings.

If you want insulated pants from a more reputable brand, Columbia’s Bugaboo Omni-Heat Snow pants are value-price, but great quality.

Insulated Skirts

When I first heard about insulated skirts I thought they were silly and for people who cared about fashion. But I’ve since come around to the conclusion that they are so functional!

Often when you’re exercising in cold weather your butt and thighs get cold but the rest of your legs are warm. That’s where insulated skirts come in.

I got an insulated skirt a few years ago and have worn it a LOT the past three winters. I like to layer it over winter tights. If I get really warm, I take it off and stow it in my pack, then put it back on when I take a break or cool down. Some have a full side zip so they are easy to take on and off.

I have a Smartwool Smartloft Skirt. It has stretchy and warm side panels with insulation on the front and back. Since it’s from Smartwool, the waistband and inside lining are cozy merino wool.

READ NEXT: Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails

Boots for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

If you already own waterproof hiking boots, they will work great for winter hiking and snowshoeing. Just make sure they are really waterproof. If they’re not, the heat from your feet will melt any snow on the outside, which will leak inside and cause cold feet. Brrr!

If you snowshoe regularly, I recommend investing in a pair of insulated winter hiking boots. Read my guide to the best boots for snowshoeing to learn what features to look for in snowshoeing boots.

(Tip: Winter hiking can cause blisters since the slippery snow moves your foot around inside your boots. Get my tips for preventing blisters.)

I wear Salomon Vaya Powder insulated hiking boots for snowshoeing. They are warm, have ankle support, and are totally waterproof. Unfortunately, they are discontinued.

I recommend you check out the Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Waterproof Winter Boots. I’ve been wearing the summer version of these boots for years and love them.

Socks for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Comfortable hiking socks are one of the keys to happy winter hiking and snowshoeing. I wear thicker wool socks in the winter time to add warmth. Make sure your socks fit well and aren’t too thick for your shoes. Read my tips for preventing blisters.

My favourite socks for winter hiking are the Darn Tough Midweight Hiker Socks since they last forever.

If you get really cold feet, an easy way to add warmth when you snowshoe is heated socks. I haven’t tried them yet, but a friend with Reynaud’s disease (a circulatory disorder that causes cold hands and feet) swears by heated socks. The have a small battery pack and you can control the temperature with an app on your phone.

These heated socks from Amazon get good reviews are are pretty reasonably price. are a few different heated sock companies out there, but I’ve heard good things about Hotronic heated socks.

Gaiters for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Even if you have waterproof boots, you can’t really go out in the snow without a pair of gaiters. These bridge the gap between the top of your boots and the bottom of your pants and make sure you don’t get snowy socks.  Even really basic and cheap water resistant ones will be fine, but you can’t skip these.

I’ve had a pair of MEC Kokanee Gore Tex gaiters for years. They have been on countless snowshoe trips and I also love them for coastal hiking.

Any waterproof or water resistant gaiters will work for winter hiking and snowshoeing (the Gore Tex is for breathability for summer use in sand and mud).

Snowshoes and Microspikes for Winter Hiking

For deep snow, of course you will need snowshoes. (I’ve got a whole guide on how to choose snowshoes if you need help!)

I love my MSR Lighting Ascent snowshoes since they are lightweight but grip well on steep slopes.

When the snow is not very deep or the trails are icy you still need something to keep you from slipping. (Slip and fall cause the most common snowshoe and winter hiking injuries. Read my post about snowshoeing safety to learn how to prevent them.)

That’s where crampons or microspikes come in. They come along in my pack for every winter hike since I never know when I might need them. (Read my guide to crampons vs. microspikes vs. snowshoes to understand the difference between these traction devices and when to use them.)

For microspikes, I can’t say enough good things about my Kahtoola Microspikes. They are easy to put on but provide lots of grip.

Accessories to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

When you’re out freezing weather, your hands and head often feel cold first, so make sure you wear a warm hat and some gloves.  

Actually you’ll probably want two pairs of gloves: one pair of lightweight fleece gloves and one pair of insulated and waterproof or water resistant ski gloves or mitts.  It’s good to have both since your hands will be warmer while you are moving, but cold when you stop or when you are exposed to the wind.

Pretty much any basic fleece gloves will be great for winter hiking or snowshoeing. I like ones with touchscreen pads so I can still use my phone.

Make sure you bring waterproof insulated ski gloves too. I actually prefer mittens since they keep your fingers warmer.

Another accessory that I like to bring is a wool or fleece buff/neck gaiter.  You can wear it as a headband, as a hat,  around your neck or over your nose and mouth – I always bring one and always find a use for it. I always bring a merino wool buff (in fact I have three of them!)

Winter Hiking Checklist

Make sure you have everything you need before you head out on your next winter hike or snowshoeing trip. Here’s a winter hiking checklist that includes everything you need to wear for winter hiking and snowshoeing:

• Mid-weight or heavy-weight synthetic or merino wool base layer top
• Mid-weight or heavy-weight synthetic or merino wool base layer bottoms
• Quick-drying synthetic or merino wool underwear and sports bra
• Warm merino wool or synthetic hiking socks
• Mid-layer jacket: insulated down or synthetic jacket and/or fleece jacket
• Mid-layer fleece pants (optional – likely only for very cold weather)
• Waterproof breathable rain jacket
• Outer layer bottoms: rain pants, winter tights, soft shell pants, ski pants, or insulated skirt
• Warm wool or fleece beanie hat/toque
• Wool neck gaiter (buff)
• Fleece gloves
• Insulated ski gloves or mittens
• Waterproof hiking boots or insulated hiking boots
• Snowshoes
• Microspikes
• Waterproof or water-resistant gaiters

So that’s my run-down on what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing. I know that this layering system will  keep you warm and dry on your next winter hike. Just remember not to let yourself overheat and get sweaty! Do you have tips for winter hiking clothing? Leave them in the comments.

More Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Posts:

• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (25+ Ideas)
• Microspikes vs. Crampons vs. Snowshoes: What’s the Difference?

More Hiking Gear Posts:

• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

The post What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hiking is a year-round activity for me and I’ve been winter hiking for over a decade. (If there’s enough snow I’ll wear snowshoes, but really snowshoeing is mostly just hiking with weird things on your feet.)

Ensure your cold weather hikes are just as fun as your summer adventures with these tips for winter hiking:

• Check the weather forecast and trail conditions – know what to expect
• Be prepared – always pack the 10 essentials
• Be avalanche safe – check the avvy forecast and get training
• Bring the right gear – Bring snowshoes or microspikes to prepare for icy and snowy conditions
• Dress in layers – BUT, “Be bold, start cold”
• Stay hydrated – Avoid dehydration and keep your water from freezing
• Eat lots – And make sure your snacks don’t freeze
• Keep your electronics warm – batteries die in the cold
• Bring a big backpack – to carry all your gear

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

Check the Forecast and Trail Conditions

Before I leave, I pick a destination based on the weather forecast and conditions. Checking the weather is something I do all year long.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

But in the winter, I also check trail conditions since harsh weather can do a number on the trails.  I want to know if there is ice, how much snow there is, and if there are any washouts or other issues with the trail.

For trail conditions I like to check a local Facebook groups and Reddit threads, Instagram, All Trails and the website of the park I plan to visit.

For snow conditions I use the closest ski resort forecast to my destination from snow-forecast.com since it will provide conditions and forecasts for various elevations. But watch out for artificially inflated snowpack numbers from man-made snow!

Be Prepared

I always carry The Ten Essentials when hiking and it’s even more important to do so in the winter.

I supplement my regular first aid kit and emergency supplies with some chemical hand warmers and a bright headlamp with fresh batteries (in addition to the small emergency light I always carry).

I also add in sunscreen and SPF lipbalm because the snow reflects light and no one likes sunburns and chapped lips.

I use a Petzl Actik Core headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use without being too expensive. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power.

I also carry the super tiny Petzl E+Lite headlamp in my first aid kit as a backup emergency light. It’s tiny and has a battery that lasts up to 10 years. A couple years ago I met a family of tourists at dusk who had no lights. I was glad to have my E+Lite to lend to them for the walk down.

READ NEXT: The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

Be Avalanche Safe

Avalanches are no joke.  Read avalanche warnings and information about the area where you will be hiking: avalanche.ca (Canada) or avalanche.org (America).

If you plan to regularly travel on snow into avalanche terrain take an avalanche course. You can also check out this great article on recognizing avalanche terrain from Avalanche Canada.

I learned SO much when I took avalanche training and it changed the way I look at mountains.

Bring the Right Gear for the Conditions (And Know How to Use It)

If there is lots of deep snow I wear my snowshoes. But sometimes there isn’t that much snow or it’s so packed down that snowshoes aren’t necessary.  That’s why I always pack my lightweight mini-crampons, also known as microspikes. They are great for packed snow, icy trails or steeper slopes.

Most winter accidents involving hikers occur when someone slips and falls on a steep icy or snowy slope.  Snowshoes are great for providing flotation in deep snow, but they aren’t great at gripping steep slopes.  Microspikes can be much safer! (Read my guide to the differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.)

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

I wear MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes since they provide good grip on icy slopes. If you’re looking for something a little less expensive, any I recommend any MSR snowshoes. I used the budget-priced MSR Evos for years. They’re not as light, but they grip just as well.

READ NEXT: How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide

For mini-crampons I like the Kahtoola Microspikes. They are pointy enough to grip most moderate ice and the rubber straps stretch to fit both my trail runners and my bigger backpacking boots.

Dress in Layers, BUT “Be Bold, Start Cold”

A common winter hiking tip is to dress in layers. The trick is to avoid sweating since once you stop you’ll be wet and cold. 

A few years ago my avalanche course instructor taught me her winter mantra: “Be bold, start cold” and I’ve lived by it ever since. I wear as few layers as possible while hiking and save the warm layers for breaks.

The type of clothing I bring depends on the weather and how long I’m out for, but in general I consider the following items as must-haves in addition to regular three-season hiking clothing:

• long underwear,
• a puffy jacket that is compressible,
• two pairs of gloves (one warmer than the other),
• a warm hat,
• a buff or neck warmer,
• gaiters,
• warm socks

It’s also worth keeping in mind that if you take off any article of clothing that is wet from sweat, it will soon freeze and be virtually unwearable. That’s why I always bring extra gloves and often bring extra hats and hiking shirts.

READ NEXT: What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Stay Hydrated

When its cold out I find that I just don’t feel as thirsty and tend to drink less water.  The downside of this is that I’m often horribly dehydrated after winter hikes.  It’s important to keep drinking, but in temperatures below freezing, but it can be hard.

If the temperature is around freezing you can get away with using a hydration bladder. Follow these tips to keep the hose and mouthpiece from icing up:

• Fill it with warm water at home. 
• Keep as much of the hose inside your pack as possible. 
• Take small sips of water often to keep water moving through the hose and mouthpiece. 
• After each sip, blow air back into the hose to force the water back down into the reservoir. 

You can buy an insulated tube cover and put a chemical hand warmer pack next to your mouthpiece as well, but that strategy will only work for milder temperatures, not extreme cold.

For weather that is well below freezing you’ll need an insulated water bottle or a thermos.  You can also buy insulated water bottle covers or cozies (or just wrap your bottle inside an extra fleece in your pack). 

Fill your bottles at home with hot water, tea or hot chocolate.  You can also turn your water bottle upside down in your pack to ensure that the top doesn’t get frozen shut as the side facing up will freeze first.

For insulated bottles, I love my Hydro Flask. It keeps drinks warm for a reasonable amount of time and comes in lots of colours.

You can also wrap your water bottle in a cozy to keep it from freezing. There are also lots of water bottle cozies on Amazon.

Eat Lots

As well not being thirsty, I’m usually not that hungry when it’s really cold and sometimes it’s not that pleasant to stop for long breaks. 

I like to bring along high calorie snacks like gummy candies, energy chews, nuts, jerky and chocolate that I can keep in my jacket pocket and eat as I hike. 

Traditional hiking food like sandwiches tends to freeze into solid lumps in the winter – not appetizing! (Pro tip: keep your food in your pockets to keep it from freezing.)

Another great option is an insulated container full of warm soup. I bringing a warm meal in my Hydro Flask Food Jar.

If you have the time and can find a good place to stop out of the wind, bring along a backpacking stove and an easy to prepare warm meal (think just add boiling water).

Keep Your Electronics Warm

Cold weather kills batteries.  There is nothing more frustrating than arriving at a beautiful viewpoint only to find that your camera is too cold to function. 

If you are using a GPS for navigation or are carrying a mobile phone that could be used to call for help in an emergency, you’ll want to keep them operational as well.  Carry electronics in a jacket pocket to benefit from your body heat and bring spare batteries just in case.

Bring a Big Backpack

With all the extra stuff you’ll need to carry for winter hiking, you’ll need a bigger backpack.  In the summer I typically carry a smaller 20L daypack, but for winter trips I upgrade to a bigger pack – usually about 30L. 

When considering a pack for winter hiking you’ll want one that has lash points or compression straps that allow you to carry your snowshoes and trekking poles in case you don’t need them. I also like packs that don’t have a lot of mesh pockets on the outside since these can collect snow.

Right now I’m using a Deuter Freerider Backpack that has straps for my snowshoes and lots of interior pockets for organization.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: my top winter hiking tips. I’m sure they’ll keep you warm, dry, safe and most importantly, happy as you hike and snowshoe this winter.

Do you keep hiking even when the cold weather comes?  What are your favourite winter hiking tips? Leave them in the comments.

More winter hiking tips: 

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• Winter Camping For Beginners
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips
• 16 Things to do Before a Hike
• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails

More snowshoeing tips:

• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing

The post 9 Winter Hiking Tips (You Don’t Have to Freeze!) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Before my winter trip to Iceland I had zillions of questions about the ice caves and how to visit them. So I did a bucketload of research before I went to the ice caves in Iceland.  And now I’m passing all that info along to you. (Was that a thank-you I heard? You’re welcome!)

So if you’ve seen those gorgeous photos of ice caves in Iceland online and are thinking about visiting one, I present to you everything you ever needed to know about visiting ice caves. (Well hopefully everything. If I missed something, hit me up in the comments.)

Here’s what you will find in this guide to ice caves in Iceland:

• What are ice caves? How were they formed?
• When is the best time to visit ice caves in Iceland? Can you visit glacier ice caves in summer?
• Where in Iceland are the ice caves? How far from Reykjavik are the ice caves?
• How to get to the ice caves in Iceland? Renting a car vs. taking a tour.
• Can you do a day trip to the ice caves from Reykjavik? Or do you need to stay overnight?
• Do you need to be on a tour to see the ice caves? Or can you go on your own?
• Which ice cave tour should you choose? What are the different types of tours?
• How much does it cost to see the ice caves?
• How far in advance should you book an ice cave tour? Can you go last-minute?
• Do you have to be an experienced climber or hiker to visit the ice caves?
• What can you expect on an ice cave tour? What do you get to see?
• What should you wear to visit the ice caves? What do you need to bring?
• What else is there to do and see near the ice caves?
• Where should you stay near the ice caves? My picks for hotels and guesthouses.

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

What are ice caves? How are ice caves formed?

The ice caves in Iceland are also known as the Crystal Caves since the light shining through the blue ice makes them look like crystals. There are actually several ice caves in Iceland whose form and location change each year as the glacier advances in the winter and melts in the summer.

In the summertime the warmer weather causes the glacier to melt. The meltwater carves channels in the glacier ice and eventually drains down into the interior of the glacier where it forms rushing rivers of freezing cold water. These freezing cold rivers form tunnels through the glacier.

In the winter, the glacier stops melting so the meltwater rivers stop flowing. The river tunnels from the summer are left behind as brilliantly blue crystalline ice caves… and tourists can visit them.

(Side note: I studied a bit of glaciology in university because I’m a huge geography nerd. This stuff is fascinating to me and that’s why I was so pumped to visit the ice caves in Iceland.)

When is the best time to visit the glacier ice caves in Iceland? Can I visit the glacier ice caves in summer?

Sorry, no you can’t visit the glacier ice caves in the summer.

The only time you can visit the ice caves in Iceland is in the winter from approximately mid-November until about mid-March.

The rest of the year the temperature is warmer and the glacier is slowly melting. The melting glacier sends rivers of icy cold water through the caves. As well, part of the caves can crack and collapse when it is warmer.  It is impossible to safely go inside the caves until the cold winter temperatures return.

The exception to this is the man-made ice cave at Langjokull which you can visit year-round.

Where in Iceland are the ice caves?

The famous Crystal Cave ice caves are in Vatnajokull National Park in Southeast Iceland. It a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik. They are really close to Jokulsarlon, the glacier lagoon.

More recently, a few companies have started offering ice cave tours in the Mýrdalsjökull glacier near Vik (2.5 hours from Reykjavik) and at the Svínafellsjökull in Skaftafell National Park (4.5 hours from Reykjavik).

There is also a man-made ice cave at Langjokull closer about 1 hour from Reykjavik that you can visit, but I haven’t been there. From photos online it’s more of a rectangular ice hallway than a naturally sculpted ice cave.

How can I get to the ice caves in Iceland?

There are essentially two ways to get to the ice caves in the winter: rent a car and drive yourself or take a bus or mini-bus tour.

There are lots of bus tour and mini-bus tour companies running multi-day south coast tours of Iceland and some of these companies offer ice cave tours as part of their package. You can also book a Mýrdalsjökull glacier ice cave tour as a day trip from Reykjavik.

If you don’t want to take a tour you can rent a car and drive yourself. It’s easy to rent a car in Reykjavik or at the Keflavik airport. I use Discover Cars because it lets you compare prices from lots of different rental companies. That way I know I’m getting the best price.

If you choose this option, make sure you rent a 4 wheel drive car with studded tires and have some winter driving experience. (Check out this post for more Iceland winter driving tips.)

It’s also worth giving yourself tons of time to drive to your tour meeting point. If you are late for your tour due to weather, they will leave without you and you won’t be eligible for a refund.

Can I do a day trip to the ice caves from Reykjavik?

It depends on which ice caves you want to visit. If you want to visit the man-made Langjokull, or the Katla caves at Mýrdalsjökull you can do a day trip from Reykjavik.

But if you want to go to the famous ice caves at Vatnajokull on the south coast near Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, you can’t really do it in a day trip because it is too far. (And you won’t want to anyway since there is so much to see along the way.) The Vatnajokull ice caves are a 5 hour drive from Reykjavik.

In perfect conditions you’d spend 5 hours driving to the ice cave tour meeting point, 3 hours taking the tour and then 5 hours driving back. That’s 13 hours on the go and that doesn’t even give you time to stop at Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the black sand beach at Vik or any of the numerous waterfalls on the way.  

In the winter, driving conditions in Iceland can be horrendous and there isn’t very much daylight so it will take longer. Play it safe and plan to spend a night or two in the area. (See my recommendations for where to book a hotel at the bottom of this post.)

Do I have to go on a tour to see the ice caves in Iceland?

Yup, you have to be on an ice cave tour.

The man-made glacier cave at Langjokull, is privately owned.

The other ice caves in Iceland are inside National Parks. On the way to the caves your tour group will pass through a National Park checkpoint. The National Park requires everyone going into the caves to be on a tour since glaciers are beautiful but deadly: if you aren’t careful you could fall into a crevasse and never be found or wander off into the wilderness and freeze to death!

Check Ice Cave tour prices here.

Which ice cave tour should I choose?

From reviews I’ve read online, most of the ice cave tours offer a pretty similar experience for a basic ice cave tour. 

The most basic type of tour is one that just visits a small, easily accessible ice cave. These tours are the shortest and least expensive. They often have larger group sizes (up to about 30). This is the type of tour that most people take.

When I visited the ice caves, I took a basic ice cave tour at Vatnajokull. You can also book a basic ice cave tour of the Katla caves near Vik or the man-made glacier tunnel at Langjokull.

There are also photography focused tours that visit other, more remote ice caves. Photography tours usually last longer, have smaller group sizes and may include a longer walk to get to the cave. These tours often aren’t advertised – you will need to contact the tour operator and inquire.

If you’ve seen stunning ice cave photos online, you’ve probably seen photos taken by professional photographers on photography focused tours – sometimes with professional lighting as well.

How much does it cost to see the ice caves in Iceland?

These tours are not cheap. Prices vary depending on which area of Iceland you take the tour in.

Tours leaving from Skaftafell tend to be the least expensive. It’s a long drive from Reykjavik (4.5 hours) but not as well known as the Crystal Caves near Jokulsarlon, which keeps prices down. You can get a short tour for as little as $106USD/108Euro.

Tours at the famous caves of Vatnajokull near Jokulsarlon start at about $145USD/$148Euro. These are the most popular ice caves and have the most tour options.

Tours to Katla near Vik start at about $163 USD/166 Euro. They cost more since they are closer to Reykjavik.

The Langjokull tours are the most expensive, starting at $265 USD/270Euro but they also include a northern lights experience. It’s more of a day tour with a few stops than a simple ice cave tour.

Check the latest prices here.

How far in advance should I book an ice cave tour?

As far in advance as possible. The ice cave tours often sell out. For my January trip, I booked my tour 2 months in advance and got some of the last spots available for my chosen date. Click here to check available dates.

Do I have to be a hardcore ice climber or an experienced hiker to take an ice cave tour?

No! Most of the ice cave tours are super easy and usually require only a few minutes of walking on ice to get to the entrance to the cave. (Sometimes the caves end up being further from the parking lot, but it is usually no more than a 30 min walk.)

Once you are inside the cave the floor is uneven but you don’t have to climb anything or crawl around. As long as you have basic fitness to walk on uneven ground, you should be fine. If you have mobility or physical fitness issues, contact the tour company and ask about current conditions before you book.

What should I expect on an ice cave tour? What do I get to see on an ice cave tour?

How your ice cave tour is laid out depends on what type of tour you book. For all tours you will start at the tour meeting point. Each company has its own tour meeting point.

If you are with a tour company, your bus will drop you off at the tour meeting point. If you are doing a self-drive tour in a rental car, you’ll have to drive yourself to the meeting point.

There should be lots of info on the tour company website and in your email confirmation for your tour booking about how to find your meeting point. Give yourself extra time to find it so you aren’t late for your tour.

After you arrive at your tour meeting point and check in with your tour company, make sure you use the bathroom. There are no bathrooms near the ice caves so you really want to make sure you head out with an empty bladder.

When your tour starts you board super jeep mini buses that seat 12-20 people. Super jeeps are basically Icelandic monster trucks: off road vehicles with giant tires and rugged suspensions.

Depending on where you are taking your tour, you mini-bus may drive up to an hour to the glacier. Some part of the drive may be on dirt roads that are VERY bumpy. (Tip: If you are prone to car sickness ask to sit in the front.)

On the way down the road you will pass through the National Park checkpoint.

Once you get to the parking lot, the guide will outfit you with a helmet and some mini-crampons for your shoes. The helmets are adjustable and will fit over your winter hat.

The mini-crampons are spikes for your shoes so you don’t wipe out on the ice. They come in small, medium and large sizes and are stretchy to fit over your boots. Your guide can help you find the right size.

Before you leave the parking area your guide will give you a safety briefing. Mostly they just say to walk where you are told to walk otherwise you could fall into a crevasse . No one wants that!

Then you’ll start the walk to the ice cave. Depending on how the caves form each season, the walk will be between 5 and 30 minutes long for the basic ice cave tour and much longer than that for more adventurous tours.

Once you get to the ice cave your guide will give you free time inside to explore and take pictures.

The caves are fairly small – about 50-100m deep and maybe 20m wide at the widest.

On a basic tour you will have about 30-45 minutes inside the cave.

There will also be people from other tour groups inside the cave so expect it to be a bit crowded at times.

(Again, those gorgeous ice cave photo you’ve seen online were probably taken in more remote ice caves during private photography sessions. The photos I’ve shared in this post were all taken during a basic ice cave tour with many other tourists from several groups all in the cave at once.)

The caves that you can visit on other types of tours can vary a lot per season but will likely be much less crowded. Ask your tour company for more details about what to expect inside the cave on other types of tours.

After the tour, your guide will drive you back to your tour meeting point. In total a basic tour will last 2-4 hours. Other tours will last 5-8 hours depending on what type of tour you book.

What should I wear to visit the ice caves in Iceland?

Your tour organizer will provide all required safety gear: a helmet and mini-crampons (spikes for your shoes). If you take a late afternoon or early morning tour they will also give you a headlamp since it will be almost dark outside.

Most tour operators also rent hiking boots for a nominal fee (usually 1000ISK/$6.82USD/6.95Euro). You will bring your own winter clothing (although some tour providers do rent some clothing).

In general you’ll want to wear the same thing you’d wear winter hiking or skiing. Start with thermal long underwear made of wool or synthetic materials. (Here’s a great guide to the best thermals for Iceland.)

Add in a fleece jacket or puffy jacket. On the bottom wear insulated ski pants or rain pants. Wear a waterproof ski jacket on top.

Bring a warm wooly hat, warm gloves and warm wooly socks.

Wear hiking boots or sturdy winter boots. Avoid running shoes or any shoes that are low cut. (You want boots that cover the ankle that work better with the shoe spikes the guide will give you.)

Be sure to bring a camera and a small tripod if you have one. The best way to take good photos of the cave is to hold the camera very still. It’s easier to do this if you have a tripod. If you have a camera with manual functions, experiment with long exposures.

What else is there to do in the area near the ice caves in Iceland?

A visit to the ice caves makes a great highlight to a winter tour of South Iceland. There are numerous must-see attractions along the drive from Reykjavik to the glacier ice caves near Jokulsarlon.

These include the famous waterfalls at Seljalandfoss, Skogafoss and Svartifoss, the black sand beach at Vik, Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, the glaciers at Skaftafell and the glacier lagoon Jokulsarlon.

I recommend spending a few nights on the south coast in the winter. (You should plan to stay within easy driving distance of the ice caves the night before your tour.) For itinerary suggestions, check out my post about my winter week in Iceland.

Where should I book a hotel near the ice caves in Iceland?

If you are part of a tour, they will arrange your lodging. But if you choose to drive yourself, you’ll need to book a hotel within easy driving distance of the ice caves.

If you are going to the man-made ice cave at Langjokull it makes sense to stay in Reykjavik since tours leave from there.

If you are taking a tour to Katla cave on Mýrdalsjökull glacier near Vik you can stay in Reykjavik 2.5 hours away. But I recommend staying in Vik and spending some time on the south coast. On my trip we stayed at the Farmhouse Lodge – it’s a cozy semi-rural property.

For tours to Svínafellsjökull in Skaftafell National Park you can book a room at Hotel Skaftafell or the quirky Potato Storage, the only nearby accommodations. You can also look for hotels in Hof, which is about 20 minutes away.

If you are going to the famous Crystal Cave ice caves in Vatnajokull National Park in Southeast Iceland, plan to stay near the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. When searching, look for hotels and guesthouses near Jokulsarlon, Hof or Hofn. That way you’ll be no more than an hour’s drive or so from your tour meeting point.

I stayed at the brand new Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon which was in a great location in between Jokulsarlon and my tour’s meeting point. It’s pretty fancy, so for me it was a splurge. If you are looking for a budget option, check out Guesthouse Nypugardar in Hofn. I stayed there on a summer trip to Iceland back in 2015.

A visit to the ice caves in Iceland takes a bit of money and time to visit them. But for me it was a bucketlist item and totally worth doing. I hope I answered all your questions about the ice caves. If there is anything else you’d like to know, please ask in the comments and I’d be happy to answer.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Ice Caves in Iceland appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.