The best walks and hikes in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area
4.8
(58)
1,124
hikers
29
hikes
Hiking in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area offers diverse landscapes centered around the Stave River hydroelectric project, featuring man-made reservoir lakes like Stave Lake and Hayward Lake. The region is characterized by extensive forests, notable waterfalls such as Steelhead Falls and Rolley Falls, and trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the Stave Lake area and mountains. The terrain varies from accessible lakeside paths to routes with significant elevation gain.
Best hiking trails in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area
- Theโฆ
Last updated: October 13, 2026
5.0
(4)
37
hikers
4.99km
01:28
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
18.6km
07:19
1,200m
1,200m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
1
hikers
1.57km
00:34
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
hikers
5.41km
03:13
520m
510m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
7
hikers
13.4km
04:20
560m
560m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Stave West Forest & Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
From here you get a good view of the 20-30 meter cascade that is Rolley Falls. It's not a super clear vantage point since it is still forested, but you can hear and see the falls well from this point and it is a good spot to stop and admire.
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These lower falls are easy to access, positioned right where the Rolley Falls Trail meets the river. They are worth stopping to admire or taking a rest at before continuing to the upper falls.
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This boardwalk on the west side of Rolley Lake crosses marshy wetlands as part of the loop trail around the lake. Rolley Lake itself is a calm, small lake where you can take in some tranquil scenery or canoe/kayak on the water. The lake is stocked, making it a popular fishing spot in the spring.
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The trailhead for Rolley Falls sits at the north end of the Rolley Lake Provincial Park campground. There is parking near the campground and beach picnic zones. From the trailhead, a moderately steep forest path leads up to viewpoints of both the lower and upper sections of Rolley Falls.
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Flowing between Alouette and Stave lakes in the New Westminster Mining Division, this river's geology includes stones dating back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The headwaters were mined for gold and other minerals in the 1930s.
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Mount Crickmer is part of the Garibaldi Ranges of the Coast Mountains and stands at 1,385 metres above sea level. After a tough climb, views from the summit give way to Alouette Lake, the Fraser Valley, and even Mount Baker on clear days. The top is exposed, with an alpine meadow at the highest point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area?
Stave West Forest & Recreation Area offers a diverse network of over 30 hiking trails. These routes vary in difficulty, from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring options for all skill levels.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on hikes in Stave West?
The terrain in Stave West is quite varied. You'll find easy, accessible paths along the shores of Hayward Lake, such as the Railway Trail, as well as more challenging routes with significant elevation gain, like the ascent to Mount Crickmer via K100. The area features forests, lakeside paths, and trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the Stave Lake area.
Are there any trails that lead to waterfalls in Stave West?
Yes, Stave West is home to beautiful waterfalls. Steelhead Falls is a notable natural attraction, reachable via a short hike. Rolley Falls, with both lower and upper sections, can be accessed via a moderately steep forest path from Rolley Lake Provincial Park. The Lakeside Trail & Rolley Falls Trail loop is a popular option to experience Rolley Falls.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area?
Absolutely. Many trails in Stave West are suitable for families. The Lakeside Trail & Rolley Falls Trail loop in Rolley Lake Provincial Park is an easy 5 km hike with views of the lake and falls, perfect for a family outing. The Stave Dam Forest Interpretation Trail is another easy 1.6 km loop that offers an educational experience.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see while hiking?
Hikers in Stave West can enjoy diverse natural features. You'll encounter the picturesque man-made reservoir lakes, Stave Lake and Hayward Lake, with trails offering scenic lakeside views. The area is rich in forests, and many trails lead to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Stave Lake area and the rugged mountains of Golden Ears Provincial Park.
Are there any good circular hiking routes in Stave West?
Yes, there are several circular routes. The Lakeside Trail & Rolley Falls Trail loop is a popular easy circular option. For a longer, more moderate experience, the Hayward Lake Loop is an 18.1 km hike featuring varied terrain and lakeside views. The Rolley Falls Trailhead loop from Rolley Lake Provincial Park is another moderate 13.4 km loop through forested areas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the opportunity to discover natural attractions like waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
Are there any easy, accessible trails for beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk?
Yes, Stave West offers 7 easy trails suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed experience. The Railway Trail along Hayward Lake is a relatively flat and wide path, about 6 kilometers long, offering scenic walks. The Stave Dam Forest Interpretation Trail is another easy 1.6 km loop with interpretive signs.
Can I combine different trails for a longer hiking experience?
Absolutely. The Railway Trail and Reservoir Trail along Hayward Lake can be hiked individually or combined for a longer loop around the lake. This allows for extended walks with continuous scenic views of the water.
Are there any trails that offer views of the hydroelectric project or dams?
Yes, the Stave West Forest & Recreation Area is centered around the Stave River hydroelectric project. Trails like the Stave Dam Forest Interpretation Trail offer viewpoints overlooking the Stave Lake area, which is bounded by the Stave Lake Dam. Hayward Lake is created by the Ruskin Dam, adding an industrial interest to the natural beauty.
What are some of the longer hiking options available in the area?
For those seeking longer hikes, the Hayward Lake Loop is a moderate 18.1 km trail. The Mount Crickmer via K100 route is a challenging 18.6 km path with significant elevation gain. Additionally, the Florence Lake Forest Service Road, while primarily for off-road vehicles, can be used for long-distance hiking alongside Stave Lake.
Most popular routes in Stave West Forest & Recreation Area
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