The best walks and hikes in Inland Lake Provincial Park
4.6
(14)
165
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking in Inland Lake Provincial Park offers diverse trails set within a lush forest environment, centered around Inland Lake on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. The park's landscape is characterized by the rugged topography of the Coast Mountains, with Mount Mahony rising above the eastern shore of the lake. The underlying geology primarily consists of granodiorite, contributing to the varied terrain.
Best hiking trails in Inland Lake Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is Inland Lake loop — Inland Lake Provincial Park, an 8.2 miles (13.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This accessible loop features a crushed limestone path, boardwalks, and bridges.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tin Hat Mountain loop from Tin Hat Mountain, a moderate 2.9 miles (4.6 km) path. This route offers a wilderness experience with forested sections and elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Lewis Lake Campsite loop from Spring Lake, a 10.3 miles (16.6 km) trail leading through varied terrain with significant elevation changes, often completed in about 5 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Inland Lake Provincial Park is defined by serene lake environments, lush forest settings, and mountainous terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from accessible loops to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Inland Lake Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 90 hikers have used komoot to explore Inland Lake Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
4.6
(9)
53
hikers
13.2km
03:31
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
18.4km
06:32
1,070m
1,070m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.41km
02:10
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
4.63km
01:44
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.5
(2)
8
hikers
1.05km
00:19
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The very start of this trail seems innocent enough, heading into the woods on a dirt footpath — but it gets serious quickly. Although the trail isn't technical, it's steep enough that most people will be happy to have the occasional rope or handrail for support.
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It's a short, steep haul to the plentiful viewpoints atop Valentine Mountain. Here, you'll have unparalleled views looking out over Powell River and the Salish Sea.
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The uniquely named Tin Hat Mountain gets its name from the protective hats worn by early loggers who worked on its slopes. Today it's mostly known for its panoramic views and as the midway point of the Sunshine Coast Trail. The mountain also features a first come, first served wilderness hut for hikers.
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Tin Hat Hut sits at the halfway point of the Sunshine Coast Trail on the summit of Tin Hat Mountain, with 360-degree views of Powell Lake, the Coast Mountain range, the Strait of Georgia, and Vancouver Island to the west. The hut, built by volunteers in 2011, sleeps 10 and includes a pellet stove, an outhouse, picnic tables, and a fire pit. It’s free to stay on a first-come, first-served basis with no permits required, making it a great overnight destination whether you are doing a day hike or a longer section of the trail.
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This is the former site of the old Fiddlehead Farm, a remote rainforest retreat that people from around the world once visited before it was logged and demolished in 2002. The meadow and a still-functioning orchard are all that remain of this once-thriving community, and in the fall, you may even find some tasty apples on the trees if you beat the local bears to them. It’s a great place to take a break, walk through the meadow, and enjoy the surroundings before continuing on the trail.
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The Appleton Creek Recreation Site is home to hiking trails, backcountry huts, a well-known swimming hole, picnic tables, and access to multiple waterfalls nearby. The forest is comprised of towering trees, giving cool shade, and the sound of water from the creeks and rivers.
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This is the junction where the Sunshine Coast Trail splits off to a spur trail where, 518 meters away, sits the Appleton Creek Campsite. The campsite is simple and surrounded with old-growth Douglas firs, offering a handful of tenting spots, a picnic table, and a pit toilet.
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Rieveley Pond Hut is tucked on the southern edge of Rieveley Pond. The hut can fit about 10 people inside, and it has a fire pit, picnic table, and outhouse close by. In summer frogs are heard croaking during the evening, and it's a peaceful spot to spend the night.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Inland Lake Provincial Park?
The park offers a diverse range of terrain, from the relatively flat, crushed limestone path of the Inland Lake loop to the rugged, steep slopes of the Coast Mountains. You'll find lush forest settings, boardwalks, bridges, and old logging roads, with the underlying geology primarily consisting of granodiorite.
Are there accessible trails for all abilities in Inland Lake Provincial Park?
Yes, Inland Lake Provincial Park is renowned for its commitment to accessibility. The signature Inland Lake loop is notably wheelchair accessible, featuring a crushed limestone path, boardwalks, and bridges, making it suitable for families and individuals with accessibility needs.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
The central feature is Inland Lake itself, offering picturesque views. Dominating the eastern shore is Mount Mahony, which rises 1,087 meters (3,566 ft). Along the Inland Lake Trail, you can also observe local First Nations art and totem poles representing the Sliammon community.
How many hiking trails are available in Inland Lake Provincial Park?
There are 6 hiking routes documented in Inland Lake Provincial Park, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging adventure, the trail to the summit of Mount Mahony offers a secluded wilderness experience with rewarding panoramic views. Additionally, the Lewis Lake Campsite loop from Spring Lake is rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes over its 16.6 km (10.3 mi) length.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Inland Lake Provincial Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers often praise the serene lake environments, lush forest settings, and the park's diverse network of trails that cater to different abilities, especially the accessible Inland Lake loop.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the park?
Yes, the park features several circular routes. The most prominent is the Inland Lake loop, which encircles the lake. Other loop options include the Tin Hat Mountain loop from Tin Hat Mountain and the Powell Hill loop from Scout Mountain.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
As you explore the pristine forest settings, you might observe local wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and frogs. The park's natural environment provides a habitat for various small creatures.
Are there facilities like picnic areas or restrooms along the trails?
Yes, particularly along the Inland Lake Trail, you will find well-spaced pit toilets, numerous viewpoints, and handcrafted park benches and picnic tables strategically placed for rest and reflection.
What is the typical duration for completing the main Inland Lake loop?
The Inland Lake loop, which is 13.2 km (8.2 mi) long, typically takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete at a moderate walking pace.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
While the region is known for its natural beauty, the Bench With View of Kelly Falls loop from Mud Lake offers a route where you can enjoy views of Kelly Falls.
Most popular routes in Inland Lake Provincial Park
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