Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
Vast North Vancouver reserve with 65km+ of trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying rugged, serene nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast North Vancouver reserve with 65km+ of trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying rugged, serene nature.
"A true gem for nature enthusiasts, offering tranquility and diverse ecosystems."
Bike Options Galore
Road bikes for the paved trail, gravel/mountain bikes for single tracks. E-bikes are also a great option!
Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails, like Twin Bridges, are off-leash friendly for your furry friends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seymour Valley Trailway
Main paved trail
A smooth, flat 20km round-trip road perfect for cycling and jogging with scenic views.
Twin Bridges Trail
Various trailheads
A beautiful 4km loop offering stunning scenery and off-leash fun for dogs.
Seymour Dam
End of Seymour Valley Trailway
Reach this impressive dam via the paved trail or more challenging single tracks.
+1
Rice Lake Trail
Near Rice Lake
A peaceful, quiet 30-minute walk around the lake, ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Variety & Bike-Friendly
+1Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike Options Galore
Road bikes for the paved trail, gravel/mountain bikes for single tracks. E-bikes are also a great option!
Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails, like Twin Bridges, are off-leash friendly for your furry friends.
Pack Water & Snacks
While some restrooms exist, it's wise to bring your own provisions for longer rides/hikes.
Check Trail Conditions
Conditions can vary, especially after snow or rain. Always check local reports before heading out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike Options Galore
Road bikes for the paved trail, gravel/mountain bikes for single tracks. E-bikes are also a great option!
Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails, like Twin Bridges, are off-leash friendly for your furry friends.
Pack Water & Snacks
While some restrooms exist, it's wise to bring your own provisions for longer rides/hikes.
Check Trail Conditions
Conditions can vary, especially after snow or rain. Always check local reports before heading out.
Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve's extensive trail network, perfect for both cycling and hiking. The natural beauty, from towering trees to serene lakes, offers a peaceful escape. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly rewarding for outdoor enthusiasts.
"The Seymour Conservation Reserve has a variety of hiking and biking trails open to the public. I went on a foggy day and the trees and mountains were beautiful. The trail I went on led to the dam and it was incredibly smooth and flat given the neighboring mountains surrounding the area. There were restrooms at the beginning and dotted alongside the trail and there were many bikers and runners on the trail the day I was there."
Lucas Chang
"Great little bike trail. You can do most with a road bike about a 20km round trip. If you have a gravel or mountain bike, there's a single track to the dam. Round-trip is just over 24 km."
Warren MacLean
"Nice walking path around Rice Lake Trail. Very peaceful and quiet. We walked in under 30 minutes. Parking is limited so come early! Also the bathroom is good!"
Ryan Ayres
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Vancouver, you can drive via the Trans-Canada Highway and then follow signs for Mount Seymour Parkway. Public transport options are limited, but you can take a bus towards North Vancouver and then potentially connect to local routes or consider a bike rental.
Public transport to the reserve itself is not direct. You would typically need to take a bus to North Vancouver and then potentially arrange further transport or a long bike ride.
Parking is available at various trailheads, but it can be limited, especially during peak times and weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
While there aren't rental shops directly within the reserve, you can find bike rental services in North Vancouver or Vancouver city that can accommodate rides to the reserve.
Yes, electric bikes are permitted and are a popular choice for exploring the Seymour Valley Trailway and other trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. It is a public park managed by Metro Vancouver.
The reserve is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific gate access times may vary, so it's best to check the Metro Vancouver Parks website for the most current information.
No permits are required for general hiking and biking within the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve.
For general recreational use, there are usually no strict restrictions on small group sizes. However, for organized events or larger gatherings, permits may be required from Metro Vancouver Parks.
Yes, the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve is accessible year-round, though trail conditions can vary significantly with the seasons, especially in winter with snow.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular options include the smooth Seymour Valley Trailway for easy walks/rides, the Twin Bridges Trail for scenic loops, and the Rice Lake Trail for a peaceful stroll. More challenging single tracks are available for mountain bikers.
Absolutely! The Seymour Valley Trailway is a fantastic paved road for cycling, and there are numerous single tracks for mountain bikers.
Yes, dogs are allowed in many areas of the reserve, and some trails like Twin Bridges are off-leash friendly. Always check signage for specific leash regulations.
Expect lush forests with towering trees, serene lakes, rivers, and views of the surrounding mountains. The atmosphere can be quite mystical, especially on foggy days.
Yes, restrooms are available at the beginning of some trails and are dotted along certain routes, such as the Seymour Valley Trailway.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic viewpoints along the trails, the tranquil Rice Lake, the impressive Seymour Dam, and the dense, moss-covered forests. Foggy days can add a mystical quality to your shots.
The reserve is home to various wildlife, including deer and eagles, making it a potential spot for wildlife photography. Keep a respectful distance and be patient.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography. Foggy conditions can create dramatic and atmospheric shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in conservation areas to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's best to check Metro Vancouver Parks regulations regarding drone operation.
Focus on the towering old-growth trees, vibrant mosses and ferns, flowing rivers, and the unique textures of the forest floor. The Seymour Dam also offers a striking man-made element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Rice Lake Trail is a short, easy loop that's ideal for a family stroll, and the peaceful surroundings make it a relaxing outing. Many trails are also dog-friendly, allowing families to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.
While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment itself provides ample opportunities for exploration and discovery, from spotting small creatures to enjoying the vastness of the forest. Remember to pack snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out. 🚴 Cyclists (Road & Mountain)
It's also popular for e-bikes and those looking for a less strenuous ride. Mountain bikers will find a network of challenging single-track trails that weave through the forest, offering technical descents and climbs.
Trails like Fisherman's Trail are well-regarded. Summer bike camps are even held here, catering to various skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Be prepared for varied terrain and always check trail conditions before you go. 🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
The reserve's dense forests, serene lakes, and the possibility of encountering wildlife create a deeply peaceful and rejuvenating experience. Many visitors are struck by the tranquil beauty and the sense of serenity that pervades the reserve.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling Paradise: Trails for Every Rider
+1For those seeking more adventure, the reserve boasts an extensive system of single-track trails ideal for mountain bikers and gravel riders. These trails wind through denser forest, cross creeks via new bridges, and offer a more technical riding experience. Popular routes like the Fisherman's Trail are frequently mentioned by riders.
Summer bike camps are even offered here, indicating its suitability for learning and honing biking skills. When planning your ride, consider the 20km round-trip on the main trail or longer excursions on the single tracks. Remember to check trail conditions, especially after rain or snow, and be aware of other users, as the trails are shared by hikers and runners.
Hiking and Nature Immersion
The Rice Lake Trail provides a more relaxed experience, a peaceful 30-minute walk around the lake that's perfect for a quiet afternoon.
The diverse flora and fauna, including towering Douglas firs and various wildlife, add to the rich natural tapestry of the area. Interpretive signs along the trails offer insights into the local ecology and conservation efforts, enhancing the visitor's appreciation for this protected natural haven. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more invigorating hike, the reserve promises a profound connection with the natural world.
Conservation and Community
Community involvement plays a significant role in the reserve's accessibility and enjoyment. For instance, the Vancouver Whitewater Club has a long-standing agreement for access to a specific section of the Upper Seymour River, highlighting how different groups can collaborate with the reserve management for specific activities.
The presence of well-maintained trails, new bridges, and clear signage is a testament to ongoing efforts to balance public access with environmental stewardship. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit