The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Cypress Provincial Park
4.6
(627)
9,875
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Cypress Provincial Park traverse a landscape shaped by glacial activity, featuring three prominent mountains: Mount Strachan, Hollyburn Mountain, and Black Mountain. The park is characterized by dense forests within the Coastal Western Hemlock and Subalpine Mountain Hemlock zones, including old-growth stands of western hemlock and Douglas-fir. Numerous wetlands and small lakes, such as Yew Lake and Cabin Lake, are scattered across the plateaus and mountain slopes, offering diverse natural features for exploration.
Best family friendly…
Last updated: November 8, 2026
2
hikers
8.18km
04:02
910m
910m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
3.85km
01:04
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3
hikers
7.02km
02:13
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(64)
1,039
hikers
11.4km
04:11
490m
490m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(24)
437
hikers
8.66km
03:18
420m
420m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
Located within Cypress Provincial Park, West Lake offers a scenic subalpine setting that warrants visiting throughout the year. During the warmer months, short, forested hiking trails lead you to the shoreline, providing a peaceful retreat away from the park's busier main lookouts. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy hub accessible via the Cypress Nordic cross-country ski network, making it a versatile year-round destination.
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First Lake is a peaceful mountain lake surrounded by forest and steeped in skiing history. The restored lodge, built here in 1926 as one of the North Shore's first commercial ski camps, still overlooks the lake. There are picnic benches here so it's a great place to stop.
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The views of the north shore from here are superb! You can hike here from the Cypress downhill ski area, or via the Baden Powell Trail from Horseshoe Bay. The former is easier and tends to have more parking available in the summer.
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Bowen Lookout offers sweeping views over Howe Sound and Bowen Island. The hike is short — about 4 kilometers round trip. From the lookout, you get classic coastal scenery: ocean, islands, and layered mountain ridges in the distance. It’s a popular spot to catch sunset.
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The Howe Sound Crest Trail runs high above Howe Sound. It follows the ridgeline between Cypress Mountain and Porteau Cove, with plenty of steep climbs and ups and downs along the way. You’ll move through rocky alpine terrain with big, open views of the ocean, islands, and surrounding peaks almost the entire time.
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The Sunset Trail begins just off the Sea-to-Sky Highway and stretches a little over 2 kilometers to connect with the Howe Sound Crest Trail. It’s well marked with orange diamond reflectors, making it easy to follow. Along the way, you’ll find sweeping views of Bowen Island — and as the name suggests, it’s a great spot to catch the sunset.
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Blue Gentian Lake is a year-round destination. The north end of the lake provides some nice views of the area and a picnic table to enjoy a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Cypress Provincial Park?
Cypress Provincial Park offers 12 family-friendly hiking trails. These routes range from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, ensuring there's something suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in Cypress Provincial Park?
Yes, the Yew Lake area is well-known for its flat and wheelchair-accessible trail, making it an excellent option for families with strollers. It winds through meadows and showcases ancient old-growth trees.
What are some easy family hikes with great views?
For an easy family hike with rewarding views, consider the Yew Lake – Bowen Lookout loop from Cypress Mountain. This moderate route offers beautiful scenery and leads to Bowen Lookout, providing panoramic vistas of Howe Sound and Bowen Island.
What can we see along the family-friendly hiking trails in Cypress Provincial Park?
Along the trails, families can discover diverse natural features. You might encounter the serene Yew Lake, impressive old-growth forests, and various viewpoints like Bowen Lookout and Eagle Bluffs Viewpoint. Keep an eye out for unique Alpine Flora, especially on higher plateaus.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! The Yew Lake – Bowen Lookout loop from Cypress Mountain is a popular circular route that offers a manageable distance and diverse scenery. Another option is the Cypress Creek Lodge – Cabin Lake loop from Cypress Mountain, which takes you past Cabin Lake.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with kids in Cypress Provincial Park?
The warmer months, typically late spring through early autumn, are ideal for family hiking in Cypress Provincial Park. The coastal British Columbia climate provides many pleasant days, making trails more accessible and enjoyable for children. Some trails, like those around Yew Lake, are accessible year-round, but conditions can vary significantly in winter.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Cypress Provincial Park generally welcomes dogs, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for individual trails or areas within the park before you go, as rules can sometimes vary.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Cypress Provincial Park?
The komoot community highly rates Cypress Provincial Park, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views of Vancouver, Howe Sound, and the surrounding mountains, as well as the well-maintained trails and the accessibility of such beautiful wilderness close to the city.
Are there any historical landmarks to see?
Yes, you can find the Olympic Rings, a historical landmark from the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, further up Cypress Bowl Road. This offers a unique point of interest for families to visit.
How long do family hikes typically take in Cypress Provincial Park?
Family hikes in Cypress Provincial Park vary in length and duration. Easier routes like the Yew Lake – Bowen Lookout loop can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, covering about 4.5 km. More moderate options, such as the Cypress Creek Lodge – Cabin Lake loop, might take 2.5 to 3 hours for 5.5 km, depending on your pace and stops.
Is public transport available to reach the family-friendly trails?
Yes, public transport options are available. During the winter season, a shuttle bus typically runs from Horseshoe Bay to Cypress Mountain. While direct public transport to all trailheads might be limited, checking local transit schedules for routes connecting to the park entrance or shuttle services is recommended.
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