Archie MontroseAs a parent, I always look for ways to get my kids off their screens and into the outdoors. It’s a constant struggle, but I’ve found that hiking is a fantastic way to combine exercise with fun.
It’s become a weekend tradition for our family, and we’ve discovered some incredible trails in Vancouver that are perfect for kids of all ages. Each Saturday, we lace up our boots and hit the trails, finding beautiful spots around Vancouver that the kids love.
If you’re looking for inspiration to get your family outside and active, stick around to discover the best hikes we’ve explored together!
1. Lighthouse Park
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Address: 4902 Beacon Ln, West Vancouver, BC V7W 1K5, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Lighthouse Park is a beautiful mix of ancient forest and stunning coastal views. It has some of the largest Douglas Fir trees I’ve ever seen. The park is home to a historic lighthouse built in 1912 that offers incredible views of the Salish Sea and mountains.
The park has a variety of trails suitable for all ages and abilities. The Beacon Lane Trail leads straight to the lighthouse and loops like the Salal Loop and Shore Pine Trail wind through lush forests and rocky shorelines.
There are tide pools to explore at low tide and stunning views of downtown Vancouver and beyond. It’s such a tranquil spot, perfect for a family picnic under the shade of those towering trees, surrounded by nature.
Pro tip:
Consider bringing a small kite! The open areas near the lighthouse provide just enough wind for kids to have a blast flying it.
2. Stanley Park Seawall
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Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 10 km
Difficulty level: Easy
The Stanley Park Seawall is a 9-kilometer path along the coastline with views of the Pacific Ocean, the North Shore Mountains, and the city skyline. It’s not just a pretty sight; it’s also perfect for outdoor activities.
It’s like a nature and adventure wonderland for families. With over 1,000 acres of lush greenery, it’s a total escape from city life. You can even spot seals and different bird species along the way.
The best part? It’s super family-friendly. The trail is mostly flat and easy to walk, so it’s great for kids. Along the way, there are cool attractions, like the Vancouver Aquarium and Second Beach, which has a playground and a sandy beach.
They have a Miniature Train for seasonal rides that kids love. It’s such a lively yet serene place for kids to explore. You can see families biking, skating, or just taking strolls. And watching the boats and seaplanes is always exciting.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on renting a kayak or paddleboard at Coal Harbour! It’s a fantastic way to see Stanley Park from a different perspective while having fun on the water—perfect for kids who want to splash around.
3. Lynn Canyon Park
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Address: 3690 Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7J 1Z1, Canada
Time to complete: 1-1.5 hours
Distance: 1.9 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Lynn Canyon Park is like stepping into a fairy tale forest. The park is huge, covering 617 acres of lush rainforest, and it’s been around since 1912, so you can imagine its rich history.
The standout feature for me was the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge—it’s 50 meters above the canyon, and the views are breathtaking. Walking across it was such a thrilling experience!
The Baden-Powell Trail connects to the suspension bridge, and from there, you can go on a leisurely hike to Twin Falls, where two stunning waterfalls greet you. The paths are perfect for families, with boardwalks and dirt trails that are accessible for kids.
And here’s the cool part—Lynn Canyon Park has been a filming location for shows like Stargate SG-1. The park’s Ecology Centre offers interactive exhibits that engage children’s curiosity about nature, so it’s educational, too.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to dip in the crystal-clear waters of the nearby swimming holes! They’re perfect for cooling off on a warm day and adding extra fun to your family outing at Lynn Canyon Park.
4. Gold Creek Falls
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Address: Lower Falls Trail, Fraser Valley F, BC V0M 1H0, Canada
Time to complete: 2-3 hours
Distance: 5.5 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Gold Creek Falls in Golden Ears Provincial Park is a hidden gem for families. The 5.8 km trail leads to this gorgeous waterfall, perfect for kids and adults. The way the water cascades against the green backdrop is like something out of a postcard.
The best part is that the trail is super family-friendly. It’s not too challenging, so it’s great for little ones. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by this enchanting old-growth forest, with moss-covered branches and colorful wildflowers creating a magical vibe.
And about 1.3 km in, there’s this adorable pebble beach where the kids can play in the water while you take in the peaceful surroundings. They’ll love hopping over rocks, playing near the water, and spotting birds flitting through the trees.
Pro tip:
For a bonus, consider extending your visit by exploring nearby North Beach, which offers picnic areas and additional trails that are equally kid-friendly. It’s a fantastic way to round out your day in nature.
5. Pacific Spirit Regional Park
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Address: 5495 Chancellor Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1E4, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 5.9 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Pacific Spirit Regional Park is like a hidden paradise right next to Vancouver. It’s huge, covering 860 hectares of beautiful rainforest and diverse ecosystems. The best part? It’s so close to the city, making it the perfect spot for a quick family escape.
Over 70 kilometers of trails are available to explore, offering everything from tall Douglas firs to peaceful wetlands and all sorts of wildlife, like black-tailed deer and different bird species.
The park has something for everyone when it comes to trails. The Huckleberry Trail is a hit with families, winding through lush forests and offering spots to find wild huckleberries in season.
Then there’s the Camosun Bog area with its 300-meter boardwalk, which lets you explore a special ecosystem while keeping its delicate plants safe. And don’t worry about getting lost—the trails are well-marked, so it’s easy for parents with little ones.
The kids will love the educational nature signs along the trails that teach them all about the local wildlife and plants. And to top it off, you can let your furry friends run around leash-free on many trails! How cool is that?
Pro tip:
After your hike, consider visiting the nearby Museum of Anthropology at UBC. It’s just a short drive away and offers fascinating exhibits on Indigenous cultures—perfect for rounding out your day of adventure with some educational fun!
6. Quarry Rock
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Address: Baden Powell Trail, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1V6, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 3.8 km
Difficulty level: Moderate
The Quarry Rock hike in Deep Cove has an elevation gain of 100 meters, so it’s doable for little ones. You’ll encounter all kinds of cool stuff, from wooden steps to paths through lush forests.
Even cute wooden bridges crossing little streams add to the magical vibe. The final destination, Quarry Rock, offers the most amazing panoramic views over the water and mountains.
It’s the perfect backdrop for some awesome family photos. The whole place is alive with nature’s sounds, and kids will love exploring the forest trails and spotting unique rock formations.
Remember, when snacking at the top, keep your food to yourself to avoid attracting curious wildlife!
Pro tip:
After your hike, take some time to explore Deep Cove. The village has charming shops and cafes where you can grab a treat or enjoy local ice cream.
7. George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary
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Address: 5191 Robertson Rd, Delta, BC V4K 3N2, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 2.1 km
Difficulty level: Easy
The George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, and it’s massive—like 740 acres! The sanctuary is so special that it’s considered a site of Hemispheric Importance for birds.
When you stroll through the sanctuary, you’ll find these awesome trails that wind through marshlands and ponds. The main trail is over five kilometers long and has lookout points with incredible views.
And get this—they’ve got bird blinds along the paths, so you can get up close and personal with the birds without bothering them. It’s perfect for families—the kids will have a blast spotting all the different bird species and wildlife.
The kids will love the sandhill cranes. They’re playful and curious, and these educational signs are perfect for sparking their curiosity about all the different species.
If you need a break, they have a little gift shop where you can grab souvenirs or snacks. It’s such a magical place; every season brings something new and exciting.
Pro tip:
Consider bringing a pair of binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience—this can turn your hike into an exciting bird-watching adventure!
8. Othello Tunnels
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Address: Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, Hope, BC V0X 1L1, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 3.5 km
Difficulty level: Easy
The Othello Tunnels were carved out in the early 1900s for the railway, and the whole experience is like stepping back in time. The tunnels are set in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park.
The best part is that it’s not a super strenuous hike – it’s about 3.5 kilometers round-trip, and the trail is pretty flat and well-maintained. So, it’s perfect for families with kids, and you can even bring a stroller.
These wooden bridges along the way give you the most breathtaking views of the canyon and the river below. But here’s the thing – you can’t forget to bring a flashlight because some parts of the tunnels are pretty dark.
It adds a sense of adventure as you walk through, and it’s just so cool to see the rocky walls up close. And get this: the tunnels still have remnants of their railway history, like old wooden supports and decorative concrete columns.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on a picnic! The area around the parking lot has picnic tables under shady trees, making it a perfect spot to relax after your hike.
9. Mystery Lake
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Address: Seymour mountain, Mystery Lake hike, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L3, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 3 km
Difficulty level: Easy
Mystery Lake in Mount Seymour Provincial Park is just a short hike from the parking lot, so it’s super accessible, especially if you’ve got little ones with you. The trail is about 3 kilometers round-trip with an elevation gain of 150 meters, so it’s not too difficult.
The best part about Mystery Lake is the water—it’s a stunning turquoise color that reflects the surrounding forest’s vibrant colors. Plus, from July to October, it’s the perfect spot for swimming and picnicking.
You start from the Mount Seymour parking lot and follow a well-marked trail that weaves through lush forests and patches of wild blueberries. The path ascends gently, crossing over wooden boardwalks and rocky terrain until you reach the lake’s edge.
Along the way, there are opportunities to explore small ponds and granite outcrops that are perfect resting spots. For the adventurous, jumping off the rocks into the lake adds an extra thrill to the experience.
It’s a great place for kids to splash in the cool water while parents relax on the shore or enjoy a picnic under the trees. There’s something magical about discovering nature’s wonders—spotting unique rocks or watching tiny fish dart.
Pro tip:
Consider bringing snacks to enjoy by the water’s edge or packing a frisbee or ball for lighthearted fun after your hike.
10. Teapot Hill
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Address: 22V8+2F, Cultus Lake, BC V2R 5A3, Canada
Time to complete: 1-2 hours
Distance: 5.5 km
Difficulty level: Easy
The story behind Teapot Hill is that in the 1940s, a logger found an old teapot in the woods. Since then, the trail has turned into a whimsical treasure hunt with over 90 hidden teapots and tea cups scattered throughout the forest.
The hike is about 5.5 to 6 kilometers roundtrip, with gentle inclines, so it’s perfect for families. The trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, which is great for little ones and even baby carriers.
Walking through the enchanting forest, you’ll spot teapots cleverly hidden in trees, on stumps, and even hanging from branches. It’s like a real-life treasure hunt; the kids love it.
The best part is the viewpoint at the trail’s end, which offers stunning views of Cultus Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Pro tip:
After exploring Teapot Hill, drive to the nearby Cultus Lake Waterpark! With water slides and pools suitable for all ages, this park creates an unforgettable day filled with adventure and fun.
