BEST FALL HIKES IN GREATER VANCOUVER

Autumn is a wonderful time to explore your own backyard, especially as schools reopen and the changing leaves paint the landscape in brilliant hues.  Below we have included a curated list of some of our favourite fall hikes courtesy of our resident hiking enthusiasts.  Some are on the path well trodden and others are a bit more rugged. So grab that pumpkin spiced latte, lace up your hiking boots and breath in the crisp air as you discover natural wonder again this fall. Happy trails!

Capilano Pacific Trail

Location: Ambleside, West Vancouver

Stats: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/walking-hiking/capilano-pacific-trail

What we love about this hike: no matter which direction you do it in, the trail starts and ends with breathtaking vistas. Along the trail you will enjoy changing scenery from the Capilano River Canyon and North Shore Mountains to Cleveland Dam and the Pacific Ocean. Begin the trail at Park Royal and you get to do some post-hike shopping therapy at Simons.

Jug Island Beach

Location: Belcarra, Port Moody

Stats: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/jug-island-beach

What we love about this hike: the trailhead is in beautiful and serene Belcarra Regional Park which has full restroom facilities and tables with ocean views for a post hike picnic.  The undulating trail goes through old growth forest and affords a good workout as it ascends up and down stairs.  The turnaround point of the hike is a rocky beach ideal for sitting and reflection.

Sawblade Falls

Location: Pinecone Burke Provincial Park, Coquitlam

Stats: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/woodland-walk-trail

What we love about this hike: Located in the lesser known Pinecone Burke Provincial Park, this family friendly trail has diverse terrain and lots of nature to capture your imagination.  Your adventure includes not one but three waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for miniature brown frogs near the creek and watch out for mountain bikers whom you share parts of the trail with. This hike is best done on week days when you will almost have the trail to yourself.

Brunswick Point

Location: Delta

Stats: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/brunswick-point

Why we love this hike: while this is more of a walk than a hike, we decided to include it because we like it so much.  The estuary trail is constantly changing season to season, so it is worth exploring throughout the year.  It is also unusually quiet, especially on a weekday and therefore, teaming with wildlife if you get there in the morning or when high tide sets in.  On recent visits we have seen bald eagles, a siege of great blue herons (yes that is what a group of them is called), rabbits and snakes. The picturesque trail also offers up the majestic scenery of Mt. Baker, the Fraser River, and the Straight of Georgia.