Goat Ridge Trail

The hike to Goat Ridge near Chilliwack Lake provides incredible views of Lindeman Lake, Flora Peak, and Chilliwack Lake. This is a steep, tough hike in sections but the hard work will be reworded with great views on a sunny, clear day.

The trail begins from the side of Chilliwack Road about 200 meters west of the Lindeman Lake parking lot. There is a makeshift wooden sign that says "Goat Ridge" next to a trail that descends into the trees from the road. Follow the trail as you quickly make distance towards Post Creek before going left at a junction. A short distance further, go right at the next junction.

After going right at the second junction, the trail begins to climb steadily as you rapidly gain elevation. At one point, use a rope assist to help you up the steep, loose rock along the trail. The trail eventually reaches the first viewpoint where you can catch a glimpse of Lindeman Lake.

Continue upward to the next couple of view points as each view becomes better the higher you climb. The second viewpoint offers a great view of Lindeman Lake below as you can see across the lake to the rockslide on the far end.

Return to the trail and continue your hike uphill to a popular viewpoint known as Porcupine Rock. This location has become a picturesque spot for hikers to pose on the rock overlooking Lindeman Lake. Be careful to stay back from the cliff edges as you capture the photo of yourself on the rock.

Many people only hike to Porcupine Rock, however there are some really spectacular views from the top of the ridge if you're willing to endure almost 400 meters more of elevation gain.

Follow the trail as it continues up the steep hill, offering sections of occasional reprieve where you are able to cover distance quicker. The trail descends for awhile then it makes a final, steep ascent to the ridge, which includes using another rope assist to help you up the loose dirt. Just after the rope assist, you make your way onto the ridge line. At this elevation, Flora Peak sits right in front of you and you begin to see Chilliwack Lake over the treeline. Goat Ridge is a great place to stop for lunch and soak in the views of the coastal mountains.

The trail continues to the top of Goat Mountain, however it's a much longer and more difficult of a hike as it gains another 500 meters in elevation. The entire Goat Mountain trail should only be completed by experienced hikers and an early start in the day is a must to make sure you leave yourself enough time to return.

After enjoying Goat Ridge, head back downhill as you carefully make your way down the steep slopes and over loose dirt. Use the ropes carefully to help lower yourself through the very steep sections and follow the trail back toward Porcupine Rock. Continue descending until you reach the junctions and make your way back to the trailhead along Chilliwack Lake Road.