A number of ski areas near Vancouver offer trails and guided tours for snowshoers. Trek on pristine trails at Cypress Mountain or explore the developed snowshoe parks at Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour.
All three resorts are a short drive from Vancouver and have snowshoe rentals available. For a special treat, book a guided evening snowshoe fondue tour. Trails weave through alpine forests, past frozen lakes, and to high points where snowshoers can enjoy a view of the city and the water. Snowshoe equipment rentals are available at many of the larger snowshoe areas; many outdoor stores also have rentals.
There are also snowshoeing trails in nearby Whistler and the surrounding Vancouver, Coast and Mountains region.
Snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain
Cypress Mountain offers 10km/6mi of snowshoe trails running through sub-alpine meadows and snow-laden forests. Take a guided excursion through Hollyburn Meadows, and stop at the 1926 Hollyburn Lodge for a fondue meal or a steaming mug of apple cider. Cypress is situated less than an hour from Vancouver, and offers breathtaking views of the city, as well as English Bay, Georgia Strait and Howe Sound.
Snowshoeing at Grouse Mountain
Known as the Peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain was the region's first developed ski area and is a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike. Access the top of Grouse via the Skyride, a 1.6km/1mi aerial tram ride, with breaktaking panoramic views of the city, surrounding mountains and ocean.
Snowshoeing at Grouse Mountain takes place over 10km/6mi of trails. The Munday Alpine Snowshoe Park offers four groomed and well marked trails ranging from 1km/0.6mi to 3.5km/2mi or get in shape for the infamous Grouse Grind hike on the Snowshoe Grind, a challenging 4.3km/2.67mi trek with an elevation gain of 215m/705ft.
Snowshoeing at Mount Seymour
Mount Seymour, just a short drive from downtown Vancouver, offers outstanding snowshoeing opportunities. Located on the east side of the North Shore Mountains, the mountain offers views of Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, Indian Arm and surrounding peaks.
There are more than 10km/6mi of well-marked and maintained trails at the Discovery Snowshoe Area. Snowshoe a network of trails leading through old growth forests and lakes and look for animal tracks and wildlife en route or join a variety of guided tours, such as the history-based Seymour Legends.
Practical Points
- Snowshoeing season can start as early as November and can last until April.
- Snowshoers exploring unmarked routes in provincial and national parks should have backcountry skills and experience.
- Some cross-country ski areas do not permit snowshoes on trails (snowshoe tracks can ruin the grooming for skiers). Check the trail info before heading out.
- Some snowshoe trails have user fees. Check with local Visitor Centres for trail maps and information.
- Tours and equipment rentals are available at many of the larger snowshoe areas; many outdoor stores also have rentals.
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