Baden-Powell Trail North Shore
A 48km trail through lush forests on Vancouver's North Shore, offering mountain views and water crossings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & capture golden hour
Baden-Powell Trail North Shore
Best Time
Beat the crowds & capture golden hour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 48km trail through lush forests on Vancouver's North Shore, offering mountain views and water crossings.
"We really enjoyed our walk on the Baden Powell Trail. The terrain was relatively flat. We took our time and enjoyed nature's display."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Close-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended due to slippery areas and varied terrain.
⏰ Go early to avoid crowds
Popular spots get packed; an early start ensures a more peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Quarry Rock Viewpoint
Deep Cove section
A rewarding panoramic view after a moderate hike, perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.
Water Crossings & Bridges
Various sections
Charming wooden bridges and gentle brook crossings add to the trail's natural beauty and offer picturesque photo opportunities.
Lush Forest Scenery
Throughout the trail
Immerse yourself in the dense, green forests of the North Shore, a truly tranquil escape from the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Length & Navigation
Timing & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Close-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended due to slippery areas and varied terrain.
⏰ Go early to avoid crowds
Popular spots get packed; an early start ensures a more peaceful experience.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service can be unreliable, so having offline maps is crucial for navigation.
🐻 Carry bear spray
Especially during certain times of the year, be prepared for wildlife encounters.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Close-toe shoes or hiking boots are recommended due to slippery areas and varied terrain.
⏰ Go early to avoid crowds
Popular spots get packed; an early start ensures a more peaceful experience.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service can be unreliable, so having offline maps is crucial for navigation.
🐻 Carry bear spray
Especially during certain times of the year, be prepared for wildlife encounters.
💧 Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes on the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Baden-Powell Trail for its beautiful natural scenery, including lush forests and picturesque water crossings, making it a great escape. While many find it enjoyable and not overly challenging, some note that popular sections can become very crowded, and recommend proper footwear due to slippery areas. The views are consistently highlighted as a major draw.
"We really enjoyed our walk on the Baden Powell Trail. The terrain was relatively flat. We took our time and enjoyed nature's display while many people were walking past us. We really loved the views and nature's artwork display. There's a brook later in the trail which we really enjoyed as well. Overall we really enjoyed ourselves and highly recommend the trail for anyone looking for an outdoor activity."
Discovering Destinations
"Very nice trail, it's not too challenging. I would recommend good pair of shoes or minimum close toe. There are couple of slippery areas. During certain times of the day the trail gets overly packed. With too much foot traffic it gets hard to navigate. The view at the end is breath taking beautiful."
Markpaul Chohan
"It was still a bit snowy when I went in the end of February so I recommend getting hiking shoes. I went super early at 6am and was the second one on the trail. It is a pretty easy hike if you have proper shoes and during the warmer seasons. I love the view and the little streams of water and bridges that you pass by during the hike. Definitely recommend going earlier to avoid the hoards of people and dogs."
Drewzy Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points are numerous along the North Shore. Popular starting points include Horseshoe Bay, Cypress Falls Park, and Deep Cove. Public transit options are available to reach some trailheads, but parking can be limited or closed due to weather concerns, requiring parking further away.
Parking availability varies greatly by trailhead and time of day. Some lots can fill up quickly, and occasionally, parking areas may be closed for maintenance or weather. It's advisable to check local advisories or consider public transport.
Yes, Deep Cove is a popular access point and endpoint for sections of the Baden-Powell Trail, notably leading to the Quarry Rock viewpoint.
Yes, several bus routes serve areas near trailheads on the North Shore, making it a viable option for those without a car. Check TransLink schedules for specific routes.
The 'best' way depends on your desired hike length and difficulty. Many opt for sections like the one to Quarry Rock from Deep Cove for a rewarding day hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Baden-Powell Trail is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or ticket for general access.
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking on the Baden-Powell Trail. However, always check for any temporary restrictions or advisories.
As an outdoor trail, it's generally accessible from dawn till dusk. However, specific park access points might have posted hours.
There is no admission fee to hike the Baden-Powell Trail. It's a free public amenity.
While not mandatory, guided tours may be available through local outdoor adventure companies. It's best to research local tour operators.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The full 48 km trail can take multiple days for thru-hikers. Day hikers can complete sections, with the hike to Quarry Rock taking around 1.5-2 hours round trip.
The trail offers varied difficulty. Some sections are relatively flat and easy, making them good for beginners, while others can be more challenging with elevation gains.
Dogs are generally allowed, but many sections require them to be on a leash due to wildlife and other hikers. Be mindful of off-leash dogs.
You can expect stunning mountain-peak views, lush forest scenery, and glimpses of water crossings. The Quarry Rock viewpoint is particularly famous for its vistas.
Yes, many sections are popular for trail running, offering a good challenge with varied terrain and elevation. 
📸 📸 Photography
The Quarry Rock viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic shots. Other great spots include the numerous wooden bridges, babbling brooks, and the dense, atmospheric forest sections.
Early mornings are ideal for soft, golden light and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture stunning landscape and nature shots.
For personal use, no special permit is typically required. However, commercial photography or large-scale shoots might need authorization.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive forest views. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures of water.
Look for moss-covered trees, intricate bridge designs, flowing water, and the diverse flora and fauna. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When hiking with children, it's crucial to choose shorter, well-maintained sections and go at their pace. Ensure everyone has sturdy footwear and plenty of snacks and water. Be mindful of potential hazards like slippery roots and rocks, and always supervise children closely. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
+1Runners should be prepared for technical sections and be aware of hikers. Carrying sufficient water and nutrition is essential, as is having appropriate trail running shoes for grip and support. Popular routes include the full traverse or specific loops that offer a good workout. Always check trail conditions, especially after inclement weather.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early morning light provides the best conditions for capturing the trail's natural beauty. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both grand landscapes and intricate details. Be prepared for varying light conditions within the dense forest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trail Running on the Baden-Powell
+1Runners often highlight the elevation gain as a significant factor, especially when connecting to other trails like the Howe Sound Crest Trail or BCMC. Popular routes include linking Porteau Cove to Deep Cove, a substantial undertaking that showcases the diverse landscapes of the region. It's crucial for runners to be well-prepared with adequate hydration, nutrition, and appropriate footwear, as conditions can change rapidly.
+1For those seeking shorter runs, sections like the one leading to Quarry Rock offer a good workout with a rewarding view. Many runners appreciate the accessibility of the trail from various points, allowing for flexible training plans. Always be aware of hikers and other trail users, and consider carrying bear spray for safety.
Navigating the Baden-Powell Trail
Navigation can be straightforward on well-marked sections, but it's wise to have a map, especially if venturing onto less-trafficked parts or connecting trails. Cell service can be intermittent, making offline map apps or a physical map indispensable. Redditors often discuss the varying distances reported for the trail, emphasizing the importance of reliable navigation tools.
Key landmarks and trail junctions are generally well-signed, but always pay attention to trail markers. For popular sections like the hike to Quarry Rock, the path is usually clear. However, for longer traverses or if exploring offshoots, a good understanding of the trail system and reliable navigation aids are highly recommended.
Wildlife and Safety on the Trail
Beyond bears, you might encounter deer, squirrels, and various bird species. It's important to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. Responsible trail use includes packing out all trash and staying on marked paths to minimize disturbance to the natural habitat.
Other safety considerations include being aware of slippery conditions, particularly after rain or during snowy periods, and wearing appropriate footwear. While many sections are well-maintained, unexpected hazards can arise. Informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time is always a good safety practice.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit