Top 10 Hikes in BC
In addition to the breathtaking scenery and rich culture, British Columbia’s incredible hiking trails are a major contributor to its world-renowned tourism. Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike travel from all over to visit this beautiful region for both personal hiking challenges and leisurely strolls. Located on the coast of the north Pacific, British Columbia is home to both the beach and the mountains and has trails on each.
1. West Coast Trail
This particular trail brings in hikers from all over the world. Both challenging and picturesque, the West Coast Trail is internationally acclaimed. It is surrounded by breathtaking sights of the Pacific Coast Mountains that make any challenge worth enduring, and includes striking beach views as well as a coastal temperate rainforest.
2. Berg Lake Trail
Canadian countryside is known for its vibrant aqua silt-laden glacier lakes. Berg Lake Trail, located in Mt. Robson Provincial Park, is a trail around one such lake. Since the trail is tucked between two glaciers, hikers occasionally see snow mounds break off and cascade into the lake below.
3. Juan de Fuca Marine Trail
Located along the coastal Pacific Rim, the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail is known for wildlife sightings, rugged terrain, and the sounds of the rolling tide to keep you company. This trail is most enjoyable when stretched out over multiple days. It was created in 1994 to commemorate the Victoria Commonwealth Games.
4. Galloping Goose Trail
If you’re wanting to get a good feel for British Columbia overall, this is the trail for you. The Galloping Goose Trail is accessible for hikers and bikers alike, journeying through rural, urban, and wilderness settings as it treks through seven different towns.
5. Rainbow Range Trail
This trail is perfect for a simple day hike. The estimated time is between 2–3 hours and the views are said to be spectacular. It is the fastest route to the alpine and feeds into an alpine lake, and was listed in British Columbia’s 50th Anniversary Issue article, “50 Things To Do In BC Before You Die”.
6. Sunshine Coast Trail
Sunshine Coast Trail is littered with rivers, creeks, and coastal vantage points. This 180 km trail winds through old growth forests, down to beaches and up to mountain tops, all spreading along the Powell River’s countryside.
7. Lost Lake Trail
Here’s a trail the entire family can enjoy. Estimated at an hour and a half, the Lost Lake Trail is a 5 km jaunt that is both accessible and beautiful. Tucked behind a curtain of pine trees, the trail circles the lake after which it’s named.
8. Rockwall Trail
Located in Kootenay National Park, the Rockwall Trail is one of the most highly acclaimed multi-day hikes in the world. The trail gets its name from the massive limestone wall that climbers scale. Helmet Creek is tucked along the north end of the trail and spills into Helmet Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies.
9. Galena Trail
This trail is built atop an old rail bed and is set beneath towering pines that shade the wide trail. Galena’s 7.1 km trail is enjoyed by both hikers and bikers. The main feature is the cable car crossing over Carpenter Creek — one bike is permitted to cross at a time.
10. Silver King Basin Trail
This historic trail follows an old road that was once used by miners and feeds into an old mining camp. Set back in Babine Mountains Provincial Park, this trail is an easy grade through an alpine forest, overlooking a field of mountain wildflowers.
We can write about these trails all day, but you really need to see them for yourself. While you’re in the neighbourhood, stop in and see us at Triangle RV.