Vancouver Hiking Trails in South Western British Columbia, Canada

Hiking during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

Vancouver has been experiencing warmer than usual winter weather which means there is less snow on the mountains and more trails are accessible to hikers. However, these conditions can also pose dangers to those not familiar with the terrain as trails can be muddier than normal, rivers overflowing their banks, and colder conditions combined with shorter daylight hours can land an unprepared hiker in trouble.

For those looking to enjoy a hike in Vancouver during the 2010 Winter Olympics, we have gathered a few tips below. It is difficult to predict the impact the increase in traffic, changed bus routes, and added security will have on the city but these general tips should be considered if you plan on hiking in the month of February 2010.

Avoid Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, and the entire Sea To Sky Corridor

Not only is the highway closed to non-Olympic traffic during the day north of Alice Lake but this should prove to be one of the busiest routes during the games as athletes and spectators are transported between Vancouver and Whistler. So, avoid all travel on Highway #99 the Sea To Sky unless you have tickets to an event in Whistler.

Avoid Cypress Mountain on the North Shore

Cypress Mountain will be hosting some of the freestyle skiing events and all trails on Cypress and near any of these events will be off limits to hikers. Also, the Grouse Grind is closed during the winter.

Fortunately, there should be some other trails that are accessible and open, although they may be busier than normal and getting too them may also prove to be challenging. A few trails that should be accessible include Lynn Loop, Rice Lake, Two Canyon Loop, and Quarry Rock in Deep Cove. If you are planning on taking a bus, check with Translink to ensure the routes have not been changed during the Olympics.

Head East to the Suburbs of Vancouver

While many of the nearby communities will be hosting Olympic related events and providing support and training facilities for the athletes, your best bet is to head east from Vancouver to communities like Port Moody, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, or Chilliwack. There are many hiking trails east of Vancouver, such as:

• Buntzen Lake and Sasamat Lake in Port Moody
• Minnekhada Regional Park near Port Coquitlam
• Pitt Wildlife Loop in Pitt Meadows
• Hayward Lake and Rolley Lake in Mission
• Teapot Hill in Chilliwack

Make sure to check the forecast before heading out and have a backup plan in case the trail is inaccessible or the roads are too congested from the increase in Olympics traffic. A little patience and planning could make for an enjoyable day away from the city during the games.