Try these moderate Vancouver hikes for great views and less exertion

Are you craving a beautiful mountaintop view for less exertion? While many spectacular views require steep and long hikes, these six trails offer similar spectacular views for a fraction of the effort. Keep in mind though, these trails are not easy.

1. BCMC Trail

The BCMC Trail is a quieter alternative to the Grouse Grind. Just east of the popular Grouse Grind trail, the BCMC Trail branches off onto Baden-Powell and up Grouse Mountain. At its peak, you can enjoy all the same views and amenities as the Grouse Grind, even taking the Grouse gondola back down. For a challenge, add the Crown Mountain trail to your trip. It starts where the BCMC trail ends.

2. Brandywine Meadows

South of Whistler, Brandywine Meadows takes you along a bright meadow and alpine creek where, at the right time of year, wildflowers fill the fields. The trail is most popular for winter snowmobilers, but in the summer months you may find it to be delightfully secluded and quiet. Though steep, with a 550-metre elevation gain, this hike can be completed in four hours.

3. Eagle Bluffs

A spectacular view awaits hikers of the Eagle Bluffs trail. At its peak in West Vancouver, Eagle Bluffs offers scenic views of the Howe Sound, Bowen Island, Eagle Harbour, Vancouver, Point Roberts, Mount Baker, and more. With eight kilometres of beautiful forested trail up Black Mountain, you can even take a dip in Cabin Lake. Access this moderate hike at the alpine skiing area in Cypress Mountain parking lot. For a greater challenge, access this hike from the Nelson Canyon Park parking lot.

4. The Chief

The Chief is a popular hike in Squamish that boasts some beautiful views that can be reached in two hours. The trail has three peaks that can all be climbed in a single day. For a lighter version of the hike, stick to the South Peak and you’ll still take advantage of that gorgeous scenery. For the seasoned hiker, Wedgemount Lake is up the Sea to Sky Highway. 

5. Lynn Peak

Lynn Peak is a challenging, but relatively short hike. The nine-kilometre trail can be completed in a four hour round trip. Conveniently located in North Vancouver, Lynn Peak can also be accessed by public transit. At its summit you’ll find views of the city and, on clear days, even the U.S. If you want a more difficult climb, many trail runners enjoy jogging this hike.