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We called your bluff on what you didn’t know about Tunnel Bluffs!

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We’re obsessed with Vancouver’s Tunnel Bluffs. Every time we hike up there, our excitement levels skyrocket, and we can’t stop taking photos of the stunning views. Honestly, we can’t get enough of it. 

But seriously, we know all the hidden spots and cool secrets of this amazing place and today, we’re here to share it with you!. 

Today, we’re going to share everything you need to know about Tunnel Bluffs. Get ready to uncover Vancouver’s best-kept secret!

Best Time to Go to Tunnel Bluffs

The best time to go to Tunnel Bluffs is April through October. For the best experience, hike at sunset to enjoy the incredible views.

Tunnel Bluffs is a popular hike, but in winter, it’s quieter with fewer hikers. Being one of the higher trails, expect some snow on the path.

Things to Know about Tunnel Bluffs

Hike Overview

The hike begins at the Sunset Drive trailhead, extending the hike to 12.5km. Parking at Sunset Drive is limited, so start early to secure a spot. 

Starting from the parking area, you’ll immediately join the Magnesia Creek trail, a wide, gravel road winding up the hillside. The path is rocky and steep, but manageable with a steady pace. 

You’ll pass a concrete structure on the right and a metal fence with Mount Harvey looming behind. The trail narrows as you climb, with a challenging gradient that will keep you breathless. The switchbacks feel endless, but persist. 

After 2km, you’ll reach a junction with signs on a tree. Continue left towards Brunswick Mountain and Tunnel Bluffs, even though Tunnel Bluffs isn’t mentioned on the signs.

The rest of the hike is a relatively easy walk through the forest. A few hundred meters past the junction, you’ll cross a small creek, then a larger one over Magnesia Creek via a log bridge with a stabilizing rope.

At around the 3km mark, the trail splits again. Go left down a small embankment towards Tunnel Bluffs. The next kilometer is a flat, wide gravel road, which can be muddy in spring or early summer. 

Around the 4km mark, the trail narrows again and crosses more creeks, including M Creek with a bridge similar to the one over Magnesia Creek. You’ll soon pass the junction where the Tunnel Bluffs trail from Tunnel Point joins your path. 

A few hundred meters further, you’ll see another trail split. Continue straight, and the trail becomes less obvious. Climb a short, rocky section and traverse a large boulder, which can be slick in winter.

In just a few hundred meters, you’ll reach Tunnel Bluffs with its stunning panoramic views of Howe Sound, Bowen Island, Gambier Island, Keats Island, Anvil Island, and the peaks in Tetrahedron Provincial Park. 

Behind you, you’ll see snow-covered Mount Harvey and Brunswick Mountain. When you’re ready, return the same way back to the trailhead.

Parking

Most parking in this area is managed through Flowbird, which can be busy during peak hours. A free alternative is to park at the elementary school overflow lot, just a 15-minute walk away.

Hiking Trail Statistics

Distance: 11 km round trip

Average Gradient: 8.00%

Elevation Gain: 450 m

Duration: 3.5-4.5 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Season: March to November

Toilets: At the trailhead

Dogs: Allowed off-leash

Season: Year-Round

Why is it called Tunnel Bluffs?

hikers-navigating-trails

Tunnel Bluffs offers breathtaking panoramic views of Howe Sound and its islands, making it a favorite spot for hikers. 

Its accessibility and stunning vistas are significant for tourists and locals alike, providing a rewarding outdoor experience and a peaceful retreat from city life.

The bluffs are named after Tunnel Point, located just below on Highway 99. This spot, which has a parking area and viewpoint, marks the starting point of the old trail to Tunnel Bluffs.

What is the elevation gain of the tunnel bluffs?

hikers-enjoying-picnic-at-tunnel-bluffs-viewpoint

Tunnel Bluffs is an 11.5 km round trip with an elevation gain of 470 meters. The hike takes about 4 hours to complete. It’s fairly flat, making it easy to enjoy a good conversation along the way.

How to Get to Tunnel Bluffs

To reach Tunnel Bluffs, drive north on the Sea to Sky Highway until you reach the Lions Bay Avenue exit. You’ll spot the Lions Bay General Store and Café on your right. 

Follow the road to the left, then turn left onto Bayview Road. Continue on Bayview Road, then take a left at Mountain Drive. The next left is Sunset Drive, where you’ll find the small parking lot. 

The Tunnel Bluffs trailhead begins at the Sunset Trailhead public pay parking in Lions Bay.

Where to Stay near Tunnel Bluffs

Horseshoe Bay Motel

Address: 6588 Royal Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2B6, Canada

Phone: +1 604-913-6588

Pricing: $$

Book Now

Horseshoe Bay Motel, right by the ocean, is a fantastic option for a stay in West Vancouver. They offer free WiFi and self-parking, which is a nice bonus. All 23 rooms are cozy, with fireplaces and free WiFi.

The rooms have a homey feel, and you can choose between a queen room or a double room. Just a heads-up: if you want dinner, order early because the nearby restaurants, which have a great selection, close around 8:30 or 9 pm.

Porteau Cove Olympic Legacy Cabins

Media credit: travelingcanucks

Address: Porteau Cove (British Columbia), BC V7G 1L3, Canada

Phone: +1 604-986-9371

Pricing: $$

Book Now

Inside Porteau Cove Provincial Park, these cabins feature a private oceanfront deck with artistic masterpieces with hand carvings. Each one-bedroom loft cabin features a fully equipped kitchenette, a deck with seating and BBQ, and a cozy common area. 

Each cabin accommodates up to four people (queen bed and double/single bunk bed). Parking is free, heating is available in winter, and both cabins have Wi-Fi.

North Vancouver Hotel

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Address: 1800 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B6, Canada

Phone: +1 604-987-4461

Pricing: $

Book Now

The North Vancouver Hotel features deluxe King or two Queen Select Comfort beds with cozy high-thread-count linens. They also have rooms with kitchenettes, one-bedroom suites, pet-friendly, and special needs accommodations.

Beyond the great location and affordable rooms, the hotel offers free continental breakfast, parking, and WiFi. So even with the drive to Tunnel Bluffs, your stay is hassle-free and comfortable.

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites

Address: 1748 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-337-8393

Pricing: $$

Book Now

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites on Capilano Road is an older but well-maintained hotel that’s great for saving on accommodation expenses. Highlights include free parking, breakfast, coffee, and a charming courtyard.

This hotel is ideal for a one or two-night stay. It’s quite basic but offers excellent value. There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, a hot tub, and complimentary passes for a nearby fitness center.

SureStay by Best Western

Address: 1634 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B4, Canada

Phone: +1 604-987-8185

Pricing: $

Book Now

SureStay by Best Western offers basic rooms, but its convenient location makes it a great choice for those planning to drive to downtown Vancouver or catch the Horseshoe Bay Ferries. 

You also enjoy the added perk of having their own door to the outside, and there’s a restaurant right on-site. Two convenience stores are within walking distance, along with several restaurants and pizza places.

Where to Eat near Tunnel Bluffs

Crazy Raven Bar and Grill

Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7V 3N9, Canada

Phone: +1 604-926-5612

Pricing: $$

Website

The Crazy Raven Bar is fully licensed and offers a wide selection of beers, including Granville Island, signature Crazy Raven Pale Ale, bottled beer, liquors, and local wines.

We recently tried the BC Burger with sweet potato fries and the beef chili bowls. The BC Burger was our favorite among all the burgers we’ve tried here.

The Good Karma Cafe

Address: 6750 Keith Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2V1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-926-5164

Pricing: $$

Website

Located in the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, The Good Karma Cafe offers organic pizzas, wraps, and teas, including gluten-free and vegan options. They also have delicious cinnamon rolls, baked muffins, and croissants.

The cinnamon roll is ooey-gooey, covered in cream cheese icing, and served warm. We believe they serve the best coffee in the Lower Mainland.

Olive & Anchor

Address: 6418 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2H1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-921-8848

Pricing: $$

Website

For a casual yet refined experience, Olive & Anchor offers a traditional tavern setting with pub fare and a wide selection of draft beers.

Our recommendation? Try the ‘Korean Hot Stone Bibimbap’. It’s packed with shaved ribeye (or tofu if you prefer), a variety of veggies, and a delicious Gochujang hot paste that gives the dish a spicy kick.

Troll’s Restaurant

Address: 6408 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2H1, Canada

Phone: +1 604-921-7755

Pricing: $$

Website

Troll’s Restaurant has a welcoming community vibe with TVs showing various sports and cozy indoor seating. Since the 1940s, it’s been a local favorite. 

Our favorite is their cod fish and chips, but the shrimp is also great. They even have a kids menu, which is perfect for families. Also, don’t miss out on other dishes like the ‘Famous Fisherman’s Breakfast’ or the classic ‘Eggs Benny’.

The Orchard Gleneagles Clubhouse

Address: 6190 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2S3, Canada

Phone: +1 604-926-4898

Pricing: $$

Website

The Orchard at Gleneagles Clubhouse is a hidden gem in West Van with a fantastic, well-thought-out menu. The food and drink options are excellent. 

We couldn’t get enough of the Buttermilk Crispy Chicken with Gochujang Sauce and Wild Mushroom Risotto, so we ordered more, along with the staff-recommended Margarita and Mai Tai!

What to Do in Tunnel Bluffs

Spot Mount Harvey along the Magnesia Creek Trail

Address: Tunnel Bluffs, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC, Canada

In the first few minutes of your hike, you’ll be on the Magnesia Creek Trail. After passing a concrete structure and a metal fence, glance to your left and you’ll see the impressive Mount Harvey towering over the landscape.

Standing at 1,652 meters, Mount Harvey is one of the peaks near the town of Lions Bay, along the renowned Howe Sound Crest. Don’t forget to snap a selfie here!

Cross the Log Bridge

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Address: Tunnel Bluffs, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC, Canada

During your hike, you’ll encounter a straightforward log bridge just a few meters past the junction. It might seem a bit precarious with just one rope for stabilization, but it’s safe to cross.

This bridge is a great photo spot, surrounded by towering trees and a small creek below. Just be sure to watch your footing, especially in winter when it can be covered in snow.

Bring Your Furry Friend

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Address: Tunnel Bluffs, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC, Canada

Tunnel Bluffs is a dog-friendly trail, and you’ll see plenty of dogs both on the path and at the lookout. It’s a fantastic hike to do with a group of dog parents and your pups.

Dogs can be off-leash (under control) on this hike. Just be aware that two log bridges on the trail might pose a challenge for some dogs.

Watch the Sunset

Media credit: nepalayachews

Address: Tunnel Bluffs, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC, Canada

Tunnel Bluffs offers a spectacular viewpoint above Howe Sound, making it a popular sunset spot as it faces west. Here, you can watch the sunset over the ocean and islands, making it an Instagram favorite thanks to the breathtaking views.

If you plan to stay for the sunset and hike back in the dark, be sure to bring a headlamp. The trail can be challenging in some parts, so it’s important to be prepared and take your time.

Admire the Views

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Address: Tunnel Bluffs, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC, Canada

The view from Tunnel Bluffs in Lions Bay is spectacular. The hike leads you to an open bluff with stunning views of Howe Sound. It’s one of the better moderately difficult hikes in the area, providing a fantastic viewpoint for a relatively modest effort.

Apps to Download for a Trip to Tunnel Bluffs

AllTrails: custom route planning app with fitness activity tracker and reviews from fellow hikers to help you plan your outdoor adventures.

iOs | Android

Gaia GPS: paid hiking navigation app, road trip planner, and backcountry navigator

iOs | Android

Relive.cc: a free tracking app that records a video of your route and waypoints, as well as showing the elevation profile and stats.

iOs | Android

Maps.me: detailed, offline maps with turn-by-turn navigation for driving, hiking, or biking to a selected location.

iOs | Android


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