Seymour Valley Trailway
A 20km paved, car-free rainforest trailway perfect for cycling, jogging, and family adventures in North Vancouver.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Seymour Valley Trailway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 20km paved, car-free rainforest trailway perfect for cycling, jogging, and family adventures in North Vancouver.
"One of Metro Vancouver's best places for a bike ride, ideal for joggers and cyclists."
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Rice Lake Gate for a 20km round trip, or extend your ride from Lynn Canyon lots.
🚴♀️ Car-Free Cycling
Enjoy a safe, paved path perfect for bikes, joggers, and families. No cars allowed!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainforest Canopy Ride
Seymour Valley Trailway
Cycle or jog through a lush, car-free rainforest on a smooth, paved path. Enjoy the tranquility and abundant shade.
Seymour Dam Destination
End of the Trailway
The trail leads to the impressive Seymour Dam, offering scenic views and a rewarding turnaround point.
Wildlife Encounters
Along the Trailway
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, often spotted enjoying the peaceful forest surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Paved Path, Forest Views
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Rice Lake Gate for a 20km round trip, or extend your ride from Lynn Canyon lots.
🚴♀️ Car-Free Cycling
Enjoy a safe, paved path perfect for bikes, joggers, and families. No cars allowed!
🌳 Embrace the Shade
The dense forest provides excellent shade, making it comfortable even on warmer days.
🦌 Watch for Wildlife
You might encounter deer along the trail; admire them from a distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Rice Lake Gate for a 20km round trip, or extend your ride from Lynn Canyon lots.
🚴♀️ Car-Free Cycling
Enjoy a safe, paved path perfect for bikes, joggers, and families. No cars allowed!
🌳 Embrace the Shade
The dense forest provides excellent shade, making it comfortable even on warmer days.
🦌 Watch for Wildlife
You might encounter deer along the trail; admire them from a distance.
💧 Bring Water
There are no services along the trail, so pack plenty of water for your ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Seymour Valley Trailway's beautiful, shaded rainforest setting and its safe, paved, car-free path, making it perfect for cycling and family outings. Some note that reaching the trailhead by bike from certain areas might require navigating roads without dedicated lanes.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is the Rice Lake Gate parking lot. From there, the trail is paved and car-free. Some cyclists note challenges in reaching the trailhead via dedicated bike lanes from certain areas, suggesting careful route planning is needed.
Yes, parking is available at the Rice Lake Gate. For a longer ride, you can also park at various Lynn Canyon lots before the trail begins.
Reaching the trailhead from Central Lonsdale by bike might involve navigating some roads without designated bike lanes, according to some local maps. It's advisable to research safe cycling routes beforehand.
Public transport options to the immediate trailhead are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or cycle to the access points. Research TransLink routes for nearby options.
The trail is approximately 20km round trip to the Seymour Dam and back.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Seymour Valley Trailway is free. It's part of the Seymour Demonstration Forest and open to the public for recreational use.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to check local park advisories for any specific closures or seasonal restrictions.
There is no entrance fee to use the Seymour Valley Trailway.
While dogs are generally allowed in Metro Vancouver parks, it's always best to check specific regulations for the Seymour Demonstration Forest regarding leash laws and restrictions.
Yes, the paved surface and moderate elevation gain make it suitable for electric bikes.
🎫 🚴♀️ Onsite Experience
The trail is entirely paved and car-free, making it smooth and easy for cycling, jogging, and walking. There is a moderate elevation gain.
Restroom facilities are typically limited. It's advisable to use facilities at the parking areas before you begin your ride.
Yes, the trail is heavily shaded by the surrounding rainforest canopy, providing a cool and pleasant experience.
You might encounter deer, birds, and other forest creatures. It's important to observe wildlife from a safe distance and not feed them.
Absolutely! The paved, car-free path is very safe and enjoyable for families with children, whether they are biking, scootering, or walking.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush rainforest scenery, dappled sunlight through the trees, and potential wildlife sightings offer great photo opportunities. The Seymour Dam also provides a scenic backdrop.
Yes, the trail is excellent for nature photography, with opportunities to capture the diverse flora and fauna of the temperate rainforest.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light filtering through the trees. Cloudy days can also create a moody, atmospheric effect.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected forest areas and parks. It's essential to check with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks for current regulations before flying a drone.
While the entire trail is scenic, the area around the Seymour Dam and any clearings in the forest offer particularly good vantage points for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a small backpack for the kids to carry their own water bottle. The relatively gentle incline means even younger children can manage the ride to the Seymour Dam and back. Keep an eye out for wildlife – spotting a deer can be a highlight for many children!
🚴♀️ Cyclists & Joggers
Plan your route to the trailhead, as direct paved bike access from some areas can be a consideration. The ample shade is a major plus, especially during warmer months. Don't forget to bring your own hydration and any repair kits, as services are minimal along the trail.
🌳 Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the main trail, explore the network of hiking trails for a deeper immersion into the forest. The sounds of nature, the fresh air, and the stunning scenery make this a perfect spot for photography and quiet contemplation. Remember to tread lightly and respect the environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Seymour Valley Trailway
Cyclists can start from the Rice Lake Gate parking lot, or for a longer excursion, begin from parking areas within Lynn Canyon. The trail features a moderate elevation gain, offering a gentle workout without being overly strenuous. It's a popular spot for families, with children often seen enjoying the ride. Remember to bring your own water and snacks, as amenities are scarce along the route.
While the trail itself is well-maintained, some cyclists have noted that reaching the trailhead from certain urban areas, like Central Lonsdale, might involve navigating roads without dedicated bike lanes. This is something to consider when planning your route, especially if you're biking to the start.
Exploring the Seymour Demonstration Forest
Beyond the paved trailway, the forest offers numerous hiking trails that branch off, catering to those who wish to explore deeper into the wilderness. These trails can vary in difficulty, providing options for different fitness levels. The area is also a habitat for various wildlife species, including deer, which are frequently spotted by visitors. It's a reminder to be respectful of the natural environment and to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Visitors often describe the forest as tranquil and peaceful, a welcome respite from the urban bustle. The combination of well-maintained recreational facilities and the raw beauty of the natural landscape makes the Seymour Demonstration Forest a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit