5 Easy Trails for Families

One question I receive a lot is, "I don't know if my kids will be able to hike. How do I find a trail that is suitable for them?" The answer will vary depending on a couple of things. How old are your children, how active are they, and how willing are you to let them experience being outside doing something new?

I have noticed in my day-to-day that adults are quick to help children solve problems or give them something to do when they are bored. While I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing, I recognize that children need to be outside, try new things, learn to solve their problems, and experience boredom.

Interactions with Nature

There are many benefits to being outside, the fresh air, the gross and fine motor skills, and the appreciation for where we live to name a few. Slow down when you're outside, enjoy your time there and try not to rush through your walk. Find animals to watch and discuss what they look like, what they might eat, or where their home may be. What do they do if you are too loud or if you sit very still? Touch some of the (safe) foliage you see and let your child/ren experience how different leaves or needles feel. Let your child splash in puddles and listen to them giggle! I recommend bringing a change of clothes and shoes to leave in your car (or carrying them in a backpack with you). I would also recommend a plastic bag to put wet items in. Life is messy, but it should be fun. A little water never hurt anybody.

Below I have listed 5 short and easy hikes in the Metro Vancouver area for families. I have done my best to provide the necessary information on these trails; however, I recommend looking them up on a platform such as AllTrails or Vancouver Trails for more details. These platforms are user and beginner friendly, they offer trail information as well as comments from recent users. Ultimately, you know your children best. Please use your best judgment when selecting one of these trails.

Exploring in Nature

Connecting with nature can help children stay physically active, as they explore, discover, and play outdoors. This can help them become healthier and more active as they grow, as well as help reduce anxiety and stress.

Bowen Lookout - The North Shore
This hike is best to visit between July and October, and the lookout offers views of Howe Sound and Bowen Island. It's a great trail for children who are a bit older, 8 years and older, but is doable for younger children. Located on Cypress Mountain, Bowen Lookout is considered an easy hike. However, it is short and steep. With 110m of elevation gain, this 4km hike should take about an hour and a half to complete. I recommend downloading a trail map for this one. While it is well-marked, there are several trails in the area.

Yew Lake is a beautiful place to walk by on your way up or down, and there is a picnic bench where you can rest. Dogs are allowed on Cypress Mountain and must be on a leash. Please respect the park and clean up after your dog. Also, please note that dogs are not allowed on the Yew Lake Trail.

Dog Mountain - The North Shore
Located at the top of Mount Seymour, this popular 5km hike provides a beautiful view of Vancouver when the weather is nice. There is minimal elevation and 2 hours is usually enough time to complete the trip. Plan for snow in the winter and spring months. Spikes will work well most of the time, but if there is fresh snow snowshoes may be a better option.

Please check the Mount Seymour website in the spring to confirm if this trail is open. After a large snowmelt and heavy rainfall this trail can close due to unsafe conditions.

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times while on Mount Seymour. Please clean up after your dog.

Gold Creek Falls - Maple Ridge
Nestled in Golden Ears Park is a beautiful waterfall! I recommend visiting after a rainfall since the river will be flowing. If you arrive in the heart of a summer heat dome, you may find a trickle of water and some disappointment. The 5.5km trail is well marked, with minimal elevation, and will take about 2 hours to complete.

The gate is locked at different hours depending on the time of year and the number of daylight hours; please check the sign to ensure you are not locked in. The drive from the gate to the West Canyon parking lot will take between 20 and 30 minutes. Park your vehicle at the end of the unpaved but well-maintained road and look for signs directing you toward Gold Creek Falls.

Sasamat Lake - Port Moody
This 3.2km, mostly flat trail will take you for a 1-hour walk around a beautiful lake in Belcarra Park. This area can become quite busy in the summer, so plan to get there early in the morning. However, in the shoulder and winter seasons the lake is typically quiet. Dogs are welcome on the trail and must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your dog. Dogs are not permitted near the swimming areas, including White Pine Beach.

Steelhead Falls - Fraser Valley
Located near Hayward Lake, this quiet trail in Mission is a 2km round trip, with 75m of elevation gain, and takes about 45 minutes to complete. This small parking lot is locked overnight and often in the winter due to snow. Arrive early or park on the shoulder of the road.

The trail is a well-marked out-and-back trail with some stairs. Please use caution on the stairs as they may be slippery when wet. There is a viewing platform below the waterfall with a bench; it's a great spot for a rest and a snack! When returning from the falls, take a left at the junction back to the parking lot. If you want to explore the Reservoir Trail, it can be up to a 10km walk.

Dogs are permitted on this trail, please clean up after your dog.

If you are unsure about what items you may want to bring with you and your family please see my 10 Essentials Page.