Vancouver Snowshoeing Recommendations

Date: December 30, 2010

With the upcoming weekend forecast calling for sunshine and cold conditions, the local mountains offer a great opportunity for snowshoeing.

Access to popular snowshoeing trails that are maintained by BC Parks are best done at Cypress or Seymour Mountains. Here are a few well marked trails that are great for beginners and intermediate snowshoers:

Dog Mountain – A relatively easy, well marked trail that starts from the Mount Seymour parking lot and takes you to a view overlooking Vancouver.

Mount Seymour – A more challenging snowshoe trail that takes you up over First and Second Pump offering numerous views along the route of the backcountry mountains, to the Fraser Valley.

Hollyburn Mountain – A solid, uphill workout that passes between the edge of the tree line and the cross-country ski area. The result is a breathtaking view of the city and backcountry mountain ranges.

Eagle Bluffs – The route to Eagle Bluffs starts from the Cypress Mountain downhill ski area and takes you up over Black Mountain before descending to a viewpoint along the Baden Powell.

For more information, read the Snowshoe Trails Near Vancouver article on Vancouver Trails.

Snowshoeing Safety

The snow conditions can be very dangerous and it is important to be prepared and obey all signage along the trails. Here are some tips:

  • Stay on the marked trails and do not venture outside into the backcountry. The avalanche risk is very high and by not staying on marked routes, you are putting your life in danger.
  • Bring the proper clothing and supplies. Make sure to dress warmly, bring food and water as the snow is not considered drinkable.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
  • Before leaving, do as much research on the area as you can so you are prepared Bring a map or GPS device.
  • Bring a cell phone. There are no guarantees that cell phones work in backcountry areas but it’s better to have one on these routes closer to the ski areas, just in case!

Properly planning and preparing will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable snowshoeing experience on the Vancouver local mountains.


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