Comments

MJ from Vancouver writes:

I attempted this hike on October 24. The trail was snowy and icy from the day before. So I had to turn back just 45min past the Norvan Fall as I didn't have winter hiking gear.

Posted: October 30, 2020 05:23:32 PM PST

Emma from North Van writes:

Awesome hike. First 6km is super easy, last 5km is super hard. Tons of variety of terrain which at times is a little sketchy so take your time and be prepared to scramble on your hands and knees. Bit muddy when we did it and some questionable areas to traverse so hiking poles to assist with balance is a good idea. Did it with an overnight bag weighing about 35 lbs so it took us a while to make it to the top but it was well worth it. Gorgeous views from every angle and a lovely lake (albeit small) to take a very rewarding swim in. Can traverse further down to the larger Burwell lake if interested. Couple camping spots are available although you are technically not allowed to camp there so keep that in mind. If you do be prepared for the wind and the sun - being in the sub alpine means little to no shade and lots of exposure to the wind. This hike is no joke, be prepared and bring lots of water. After the main Norvan falls area there was only one other spot to get water which was a far climb down from the trail. All in all it was amazing and you will be rewarded with stunning views for your hard work. This is for experienced hikers and fit people only I would say.

Posted: September 6, 2020 09:13:38 PM PST

TW from Vancouver writes:

The park website states the trail is closed for fall and winter. As of October 27th, it was still open and had plenty of foot traffic.

Due to the terrain, it's fairly slow going from the turnoff. Ascent and descent took almost the same amount of time.

Posted: October 28, 2018 07:54:30 PM PST

Moose from Provost, AB writes:

This hike was fantastic. The first stretch is rather simple and easy but just after you pass the fork to Norvan Fall (which you should also check out) the trail becomes steep. This is where the real hike begins. As you follow the trail there is a small runoff going to the left where the Norvan creek is. Down at the creek there is a beautiful pool of water being fed into by a small water fall. It's a great place to chill and go for a swim.
Near the top of the hike there are some scramble sections but they are well marked and simply need to be taken at a maintainable speed. Be smart.
At the top there is also an obvious trail to the top of Mount Burwell. The view from up there is very rewarding. Highly recommend.
Overal advice, pack light but bring extra food and water. Better to be strong from carrying an extra sandwich than hungry from packing too light. Plus you can always dump water if you need to. Happy trails

Posted: August 29, 2018 01:02:47 PM PST

Debbie from Coquitlam writes:

After completing this hike a while back, my main takeaway from Coliseum is that you should pack as light/smart as possible in order to survive the entire day of hiking (I wore an overnight backpack instead of a day backpack and regretted it sorely). While the first 4 km of the hike is quite easy, the steep climb for the 6+ km to the summit was much more difficult. I remember the downhill descent being especially difficult as my backpack was much too heavy and full of water (which I dumped). Also, the terrain is tricky as the trail is not well maintained; specifically, there was plenty of loose soil and rocks to potentially trip over/slip on. As a result, I definitely would recommend trekking poles for support on the way down.

Another hiking group we encountered had to call search and rescue as one individual experienced a sprained ankle and was diabetic. Sadly, at the top, we were greeted by clouds and did not get rewarded with any views. Would definitely consider doing it again if the day was a clear one!

Posted: August 16, 2018 03:45:08 PM PST