Vancouver’s reputation as an outdoor playground is well earned. Wedged between the sparkling waters of the Pacific and the towering peaks of the North Shore Mountains, the city offers a rare blend of urban convenience and rugged wilderness. You can finish a morning coffee downtown and find yourself standing under a canopy of old-growth cedars within thirty minutes. It is this accessibility that makes hiking here not just a weekend hobby, but a way of life.
For visitors and new residents, the sheer volume of trail options can be overwhelming. From gentle seaside strolls to heart-pumping ascents with scrambling chains, there is a path for every fitness level and ambition. Understanding the geography helps: the North Shore is home to the famous "Three Peaks," while the Sea to Sky corridor offers breathtaking views that stretch for miles. Meanwhile, the city itself contains hidden pockets of forest that feel worlds away from the traffic.
Safety and preparation are paramount when exploring this region. The weather can change rapidly, shifting from sunny skies to dense fog or rain within an hour, especially at higher elevations. The terrain is often root-laced, muddy, and steep, requiring proper footwear rather than casual sneakers. Respecting the trails ensures not only your safety but also the preservation of the delicate temperate rainforest ecosystem that makes Vancouver so special.
This guide curates the twelve best hiking trails in the Vancouver area, focusing on a mix of iconic challenges and accessible local favorites. Whether you are seeking a quick nature fix during a lunch break or a full-day alpine adventure, this list provides the essential details you need to plan your outing. We have prioritized trails that offer distinct rewards, be it panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, or serene lakes.
Before lacing up your boots, it is wise to check current trail conditions. Snow can linger on the North Shore mountains well into July, and park closures occur due to wildlife activity or maintenance. Always tell someone where you are going, carry the "Ten Essentials," and remember that cell service is unreliable in the deep valleys and high peaks. Leaving no trace ensures these beautiful spaces remain pristine for the next hiker.
With that spirit of adventure in mind, let’s dive into the definitive list of trails that showcase the best of British Columbia’s natural beauty.
Burnt Bridge Creek Trail
| Address | 1617 N Devine Rd, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
The trail is pretty expansive and I haven't traveled the entire length yet but hope to be able to have experienced each section at some point.
The length I've ridden has always been on an electric longboard. The roadway is a mix of sections- mostly black pavement or concrete. I appreciate all the nature sprinkled along the trail with thick woodsy areas, streams, and vantage points. All in all a decent trail but some areas are a tad sketchy. The roots growing under the pavement is also a bummer in some sections that makes riding the trail pretty unsafe if you're not paying attention. I'd like to see those areas fixed, or at least fill in the potholes. Otherwise, the best longboard trail I've found in the area so far.
I have walked and biked a 2 to 4 mile section in the middle. I am amazed at how well this trail is nestled in the middle of the city. There are places where the sound of cars in the distance is the only indication that you aren't in the middle of a forest. It's the perfect getaway.
Update: I have ridden this trail, from end to end, more than 20 times now. It it my favorite place to ride my bike in Vancouver. I started riding it in the winter, when the foliage was tame. As the season moved into summer, nature has tried to take the path back. Trees hang low enough to take a swipe at you as you go by. The place is absolutely beautiful. A real escape from the city, hidden in the city.
Not a place to bring young children for sure. After you had is past the open space, you need to be very diligent and on the lookout for the homeless encampments. I counted 50 that I could see. The woods cover up most of them. The overhead Google map even the current line from 2024 is deceiving. You can’t really see the tents because they’re underneath all the trees.
The further on you go, the more dense encampments are. We ran onto several people that were either disoriented or inebriated with some thing. Screaming chanting maybe delusional I don’t know. I suspect these encampments are a little safer being away from residential housing. But that sad ran across a couple bicycle businesses that were in full swing. One gentleman seem to have at least 200 bicycles with some customers bargaining to get a good decent bike. Closer to the Andreson intersection. Electric bikes might be the way to go so you can zoom pass this area quickly.
Would not walk through here with children or the elderly. Suggestion is to bring a big long Walkingstick for safety. It’s starting to be a shame that we can’t utilize our walking areas and even some of the city parks like leverage park.
That’s another park that is being ignored by the city in even the ones nice covered area is dilapidated without any water or electricity. Not a safe place to rent. Actually, I don’t think you can rent that facility anymore. They just took that off the books. Sad but true.
It was off and on raining while I was here, but the tree coverage was so thick and full that I only felt a few raindrops! I could hear the sound of the rain, yet enjoy my hike dry. 😊
There are several hiking trails to explore, so definitely get off the main trail for a more adventurous experience.
There is a Gnome Trail here that is so cute! It looks like it is a community effort, which is super cool. 🤙🏼
Also, there is a prayer box at the 'Cedar Cathedral'. You can leave a prayer by slipping it into a slot on this locked box. 🙏🏼
I highly recommend this trail! It is a must go if you like to be surrounded by mature trees filled with wildlife! I was impressed 👍🏼
First time here. Could be nice. Paved trails are awesome! But…. It’s littered left and right. Poor swans are surrounded by trash. Homeless tents everywhere and it got worse the more I went in.. Didn’t feel very safe so I turned around after half a mile.. good lord, this makes me want to go to town council meetings and make sure this is cleaned up… our tax dollars deserve to be spent better.
Waterfront Renaissance Trail
| Address | 115 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Great waterfront path with access to the river beach...this is a rocky beach with plenty of room for a blanket if you want to enjoy the scenery. The actual paved path has areas that could use some maintenance and litter cleanup but it was still an enjoyable family Walk.
Excellent place to view the Columbia River & the calming effect of the water. Parked in one of the free small parking lots in the "older" part of park along the river. Then walked west to the new part of the park, which is in the downtown area. There's many places to dine. Ate at the 13 Coins.(yes, they opened one there) There's a pay for parking garage downtown which is close to everything. The waterfront park is spacious, lots of grassy areas to sit. Benches & yes a restroom area.
Any trail, park, or historic site along the Columbia River, in my opinion, is absolutely stunning year-round! There is seriously no bad time to go.
The Waterfront Renaissance Trail is off the north bank of the Columbia River and is truly picturesque! It is a 5 mile one way paved trail, so it is excellent for walking, jogging, biking, and so much more! You can vere off the main trail, like I always do, and hike along the sandy beaches of the river, which are lined with driftwood and colorful river rocks. As you walk this trail, you will come across several restaurants and shopping areas, too, because it is close proximity to downtown Vancouver. In fact, some of the most fascinating eateries in Vancouver can be found here. The options are endless.
Ducks and geese can be seen in abundance, as you will be able to see from my photos/videos. Planes fly overhead consistently; getting ready to land at Portland International Airport, so they will be flying both low and slow. There is also a train track across the street from the Renaissance Trail, so if you have young children, they will just love this!
And the sunsets...
The sunsets here are seriously a photographers dream! The sun setting over the river is a sight to behold! It's actually my favorite spot to watch the sun set. If that were not enough to peak your interests, on a clear day, you will get the most magnificent views of Mt. Hood!
I consider this area a slice of heaven, so I highly recommend checking it out for yourself. It is not crowded, so if you are in need of some serenity, you will find it here. There are benches throughout the trail that allow you to soak in the scenery. There truly is something for all ages. I would give more than 5 stars if I could.
Beautiful park with 5 miles of walking trails. Lots of shade, picnic benches & a playground for the kiddos. Very well maintained park. I love that it's right by the water too..the walkway is big enough for bikes also. Definitely recommend this beautiful park.
Discovered this trail by the Strava suggestions as I am new here. Lovely trail which for most parts runs along the Columbia River. If you are lucky you can spot ships crossing beneath the bridge. Some parts of the trail is near the road well shaded. Near the harbour loading area you cannot go near the river. It’s along the road then joins the Maritime Park. The trail is 4.5 miles and there is ample free parking. If you want to extend the run then take the road across the Marriott then join the newly developed Vancouver waterfront which is another beautiful place.
Beacon Rock State Park
| Address | 34841 WA-14, Stevenson, WA 98648 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (509) 427-8265 |
A great little hike. Relatively “easy”…lots of spots to take breaks and enjoy the view. If you go on a particularly sunny day, do make sure to use sunscreen and bring a hat— lots of direct sun exposure on a majority of the trail.
Don’t forget your Discover Pass!
This is a beautiful hike on a well-kept trail. Our local rangers do an excellent job maintaining the area. At the closest parking lot there are picnic tables and trash cans, and manicured grass to catch your breath on.
It’s a long way up but very manageable! The first half doesn’t have a lot of tree coverage so definitely pack a hat and some sun screen. The second half has much more tree coverage. The hike was very manageable for kids ranging in ahead from 6 - 15, with little complaints.
It was a quick hike and with exhilarating and breathtaking views. There are a few spots that are more photogenic than others but the entire hike took little over than an hour. That's including random stops for photos.
Good. Somewhat physically difficult. Not necessarily to go to the very top of Beacon Rock. This park consists of several parts. When you driving east from Portland, under the foot of Beacon Rock you will have a first unpaved parking on the right with roofed picnic table. Just a bit further (200m or 600 ft) on the same right side is a paved parking lot with parking meter that sells discovery pass equivalent. There's a trail going downhill from first parking, I didn't explore it. The main attraction is a trail that is going to the very top of Beacon rock. This trail starts in between first and second parkings (closer to second), first goes through the trees, then start climbing the rock with zigzag serpentine artificial trail. Don't underestimate it. You don't see the full trail and the full height of Beacon rock when you are at it's feet. It's high. The more you climb the better views you have. First you will see south west part of the valley below. After the halfway up the teail climbs on other side of the rock, so that you see south east direction. If you feel tired, you can stop there. The very first views to south east are the best! So, if you'd turn back here you won't loose a lot. The trail is going up, but the views are more obstructed by the trees. And very top view was truly disappointing, you won't see a lot because of the trees. If you are looking to spend extra time in the area, there is additional part of the park across the car road. There's an extra road to drive you car to the mountain, but in winter time there is a closing barrier very soon. Overall it was great experience and nice hike, but it was more difficult than I expected
Beware the switchbacks!!
A unique trail with great gorge views. The switchback bonanza is intimidating at first sight but isn't as bad as it looks.
The walk to the switchbacks takes you through coniferous forests with decently sized trees.
Good opportunities for wildlife sightings such as birds and river animals (we saw a sea lion on our ascent!)
Very windy at the top, hold onto hats. In my opinion, the west facing views of the switchbacks are more panoramic than the one at the summit.
Cougar Creek Trail
| Address | Cougar Creek Trail, Vancouver, WA 98685 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
I really enjoyed my time here today!! It is a blessing to live in such a beautiful place as the Pacific Northwest.
The Cougar Creek Trail is so peaceful, and so green! It veres into the Salmon Creek Trail, as I discovered the longer I kept hiking. This place is safe and serene. The sound of water all around me calms my soul. I highly recommend this trail, as well as all the trails that surround it. 👍🏼
the hike is only difficult at the beginning, you go down pretty far (medium steepness) to get to the main trail area (which is lots of uphill going back!). the trail itself is pretty flat and easy, and there's plenty of cool stuff you can see. you just have to be looking for it.
I LOVE this trail!
From 119th Street, the gravel path heads north for half a mile to connect with the paved Salmon Creek Trail at its midpoint.
Along the way, Cougar Creek is your constant companion and provides a nice respite from the summer heat. Most of the trail is also shaded thanks to the many tall trees.
Near the end of the trail, Cougar Creek flows through a deeply carved canyon and you can scramble down to check out its cute little waterfalls.
The creek has a decent year round flow but, during storms can become a torrent! Large logs and rocks are evidence for just how powerful this little stream can get.
A small clearing with a concrete picnic table marks the end of the trail where steps made out of old RR ties take you down to the Salmon Creek Trail.
I highly recommend this trail. Easy, mostly flat, and not crowded.
Kids will love it!
Visited in mid-October. Great, fairly quiet, scenic little connector trail to the larger Salmon Creek trail. You can park along the road on 119th.
Short little trail that leads down to larger salmon Creek Greenway trail system. Steep at times and can be slippery when muddy or icy. Cool rocks along the trail.
Moulton Falls Regional Park
| Address | 27781 NE Lucia Falls Rd, Yacolt, WA 98675 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful and peaceful! Trails and bridges were in good condition. Lowkey hiking, multiple waterfalls, places to get down to the water, spots to take breaks or have a picnic. Parking lot is right off the road and had a nice amount of parking. No fees. There was an actual bathroom as well.
Really beautiful! You can climb on the rocks and catch some rays or jump in one of the ice cold pools (I think). Has a restroom. Trails are rooty and up and down but not bad.
A beautiful place for hiking! The scenery is stunning, the trails are well-maintained, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy nature, get some exercise, and relax. Highly recommend visiting if you love the outdoors!
Beautiful hike! Loved it with the whole family. Can go as many miles as you want. It was a perfect day. Kids enjoyed the water too.
The parking lot is tiny and fills up quickly. If you don’t get a spot you’ll have to walk at least a mile to get back in.
This is a dangerous swimming area with Kids jumping off that tall bridge (despite all the warning signs) and making a ton of noise. Plus, Lots of marijuana in the air. The locals seem to know how to avoid the rocks and rapids but it’s treacherous for everyone else.
Columbia Springs
| Address | 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 882-0936 |
This is an incredibly fun place for families , field trips, Church groups or picnics. It features walking trails, the active Vancouver Trout Hatchery, and serves as an outdoor learning center that promotes nature awareness and environmental stewardship.
Amazing area! lots of small animals in the area and the fish are super fun to feed!! I highly recommend for a free super fun and relaxing adventure!
The walking trails are very well maintained and marked with lots of plaques, signs and viewing area that explains the natural habitat of the local plants. There's also a fish hatchery, large waterwheel, and a first mill. This is a place where schools bring kids on field trips so be aware that it might be busy during the week when school is in session.
Took the wooded trails and enjoyed the short hike. Visited the fish pools and walked the grounds near the office. If I'd had more time I'd have taken the trails by Biddle Lake also.
What a hidden gem! Came out not expecting too much and now I want to come back and finish all the trails. Beautiful space.
We came on a Saturday in June and very few other people, parking lot only had a few cars. Really didn't run into anyone while in the park. Also, the parking lot is in the middle of the park and well maintained, as are the streets leading up to the park.
The Heron trail has some construction going on, but there is a detour you can take. Not a difficult hike compared to what you can do around the Portland area, but still a little bit of a workout going up and down the incline. We didn't have time to do the other two trails so I can't report on those yet.
The hatchery is so cool. From the top platform looking down it looks like the tanks are just empty water until you get up close and see the massive number of tiny fish. The one pond where you can feed trout made me feel like an excited kid again.
Overall very happy with our visit and wish I had planned more time here!
Frenchmans Bar Hiking Trail Parking Area
| Address | Unnamed, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (564) 397-2285 |
Nice and very quiet park! A long walk along the lake through the well maintained trail where you can hear birds, frogs, bunnies etc. clean restrooms are next to the parking lot. Plenty of picnic tables
Frenchman's Bar is located along the Columbia River on the Washington side, and connects to Vancouver Lake. You will also find popular hiking areas nearby such as Burnt Bridge Creek Trail, and Salmon Creek Greenway Trail.
Volleyball, swimming, paddle boarding, and other water sports can be found in the sunny sandy areas. There is also a separate area for fishing.
There are plenty of grassy open shaded areas as well where you can enjoy BBQ's, picnics, and group gatherings like birthday parties or other family oriented activities. There are BBQ pits, picnic tables, and benches throughout.
The reason I went was to go hiking, but it is also good for running and biking too. You will find plentiful old growth densely wooded forest areas filled with an array of birds. The cotton along some parts of the trail is so abundant that it looks like snow in September! 😊
I felt safe here. The walks are suitable for adults and kids alike, and considering the beautiful weather, coupled with the fact that it was a Saturday afternoon, it was not crowded.
The length of the trail is roughly 5 miles, so you can get a good workout here if that is what you are looking to do.👍🏼
Mostly paved trail that leads to the Columbia River or Vancouver Lake in the other direction Once at the river there are beaches, bathrooms and unpaved trails. I used the trail for my long run. It was a clear day so I could see the mountains!
This is a nice place to walk your dog, have a picnic or barbecue on the bank of the Columbia River, watch the ships go by, walk, paddle, etc. However, it does smell like Marijuana smoke sometimes. Oh and watch out for naked people, and it's frequented by rowdy people on hot summer days, but mostly a nice place.
It is a nice hiking trail that leads to the Vancouver Regional Park. It has many ample parking lots nearby and the view here is outstanding. I enjoy coming here on sunny days
Cougar Trails Loop
| Address | 15419 NE 50th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98686 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Easy hiking for all ages, several different paths, could make it a shorter walk with younger kids, or walk it all easily in a couple hours (with older kids or adults.) We were able to see turtles, frogs, slugs, birds, etc... while hiking the trails.
I had a wonderful time here today! There are 6 miles of trails altogether, so you can definitely get a good workout. If you have not been here yet, I highly recommend going! You are seriously in for a treat! 👍🏼
You will be able to see from my photos/videos just how beautiful these trails are!There are trails that run along both sides of Mill Creek, which can look more like a river in some areas this time of year. Tall mature trees tower over you on some trails, while others are more like getting lost in an enchanted forest!
There are a couple of large open fields, as well as a meadow area. I saw signs of wildlife here, so do know that you may encounter deer, coyote, or other wildlife. I was hoping to come across a deer, but not today.
Cougar Trails is located on the WSU Vancouver campus. The trails are not well marked, but the main trails are loop trails so you won't get lost, even when it feels like you are lost in the woods! 😊
If you are in need of some serenity, this is your place! 🦋
Beautiful and easy trails around WSU.
Feels a lot more secluded even though you’re right in town.
Some trails take you down to Mill Creek and most of them are interconnected enabling different loop possibilities.
The trail was a light to medium hike. There are many forks that lead to different paths. Trail is about five hours long if you do the whole loop. Lots to see and explore.
Nice trail system with many loops and miles to be found.
Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway - Stewart Glen to Leverich Park
| Address | NW Lakeshore Ave, Vancouver, WA 98663 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 487-8311 |
Nice paved trail with views of Salmon Creek. We saw ducks, geese and a pair of swans. Along the way take a hike through the Gnome walk. The path is filled with like gnome displays. This was a very pleasant surprise.
Nice long trail mainly paved. Walk through trees sometimes you're by a creek. A few cute bridges. All in all a nice walk. We walked about 1 1/2 miles then turned around. We did find the Gnome trail which was really cute.
This path is paved but there are few gravel paths you can take along side the path. You will spot some gnomes with little statues along the path. There is also a prayer box that I found during my hike, thought that was different and unique. Great for biking, hiking, walking, dog friendly. Must check out if you still haven’t.
Gorgeous loop trail that anyone can use. It's paved so anyone with mobility issues should be able to use the trail just fine. Keeping your dogs leashed is not only a posted rule, but it's also a good idea since I've seen good sized coyotes on the trail, even during daylight hours. Usually isn't crowded, so you get to enjoy a beautiful nature walk. Mosquitos can be an issue, so bring bug spray.
LOVE THIS TRAIL. On a sunny day it’s covered with trees so it’s not too hot & same with rain you don’t get soaked like running in the open. Dog friendly and has a cute marshy view at the start and you pass horses depending on how far you go in the trail.
Whipple Creek Regional Park
| Address | 17202 NW 21st Ave, Ridgefield, WA 98642 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 397-2285 |
This park is absolutely beautiful! There are lots of different trails you can go on (including some unmarked trails) and there are several streams you pass by that are very pretty. There were lots of mosquitoes and slugs and some horse poop (mostly old) when I went, so be careful where you walk! I did see a lot of dead slugs on the trail.
The park wasn't very crowded when I went, though I did pass by a few families and runners on the trails. The parking lot was also about half full.
I graduated from the nearby high school 20 years ago and didn’t explore Whipple Creek until today. I set out to find Custer‘s chimney and was successful, but since it was my first time here, it took a full two hours. It can be challenging in places and dodging horse turds can be annoying, but the beauty is worth it. This was the perfect hike for midday summer because it’s almost entirely shrouded in trees.
We when out for a hike🚶, got lost a bit and saw some beautiful horses 🐎 along the way. The trails are a little difficult at times but moderate in the grand scheme. We enjoyed our time. We got there around 5 so the sun was hitting the hillside so beautifully. Would recommend anyone to take a look if your wanting some hiking fun. Beware of horses 🐎. Such large animals.
Very beautiful serene park.
It has lots up & downhill paths, gorgeous trees and fresh air. We hiked here at sunset, it did not disappoint 👏
I was checking out the grounds to mainly look at the castle gazebo... I figure it would have been a beautiful place to exchange vows really quick. I was not expecting it to be 45° angle hiking so I took my search elsewhere but regardless of that it's very cool! It smells good there's berries there's sightseeing and the trails are wide enough and taken care of
Salmon Creek Greenway Trail
| Address | 800 NE 117th St, Vancouver, WA 98685 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 397-2000 |
Wonderful place for a run, walk, and lately cross country skiing with the weather. Beautiful in the snow or in the sunshine. There’s a primarily asphalt trail with interwoven trails through the grass/wetlands. Various species of birds for birdwatchers. Neat agates, jaspers, and other rocks for rock hounds. The dogs loved running in the snow until the malamute accidentally plopped into a deep part of the creek and I had to lift him out. Great adventures
Wonderful, clean trail for bike rides, walks/runs. Plenty of room. Paved on most parts. There are some side quests if you choose to veer off. Great trail overall and lots of spot to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way!
Very easy scenic walk with lots of Little hidden trails, theres some trash here and there but overall very clean and the birds are beautiful!
This place is absolutely beautiful! It is a 3.1 mile one way trail overflowing with mature nature and abundant wildlife! It includes forests, creeks, meadows, and ponds. If you have not been here, you definitely want to check it out. Seriously, don't miss this Salmon Creek gem!
There is so much exploring to be done here. Do venture off the main paved trail if you are on foot. I saw turtles, ducks, an array of birds, rabbits and squirrels galore, and I even saw deer! That was like the cherry on top! It made my hike complete 😊
I had a really nice bike ride through here today. The landscape was beautiful. The bike path has some bumpy spots but it's mostly a smooth flat ride. I saw several Great blue heron and lots of ducks, including wood ducks. I sat down on a bench near the pond and a bunch of ducks came up on shore while I was eating my snack. This place is a treasure.
Cape Horn Falls
| Address | Evergreen Hwy, Washougal, WA 98671 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Went on a beautiful small hike to the falls lookout point here. On the way there we passed through tons and tons of blue flowers which was very nice. The view of the Columbia River is also amazing.
Beautiful, falling leaves everywhere, short hike to the falls, nice beautiful trail to the right before the falls, will take you to a gorgeous viewpoint of Oregon!
Viewpoint of waterfall and river. Shortest access is from gravel turnout on eastbound side of highway. Unmarked narrow dirt/mud trail starts at east end of lot at end barrier. At T intersection turn right, then left at end of fence. Easy walk in through forest. Can also access from longer trail.
This is a small, but long drop falls that drops a long ways, nearly into the Columbia River. There's a small overlook near the falls, but no easy access to the falls themselves. Easily accessed via the Cape Horn Trail, and only about five minutes from Highway 14.
Great hike with fantastic views! Trailhead is easy to find off the highway and has adequate parking. This hike should be done before April in early spring or after late July due to Osprey mating season. Ironically this is when the trail is probably it's most beautiful. Either way views of the Columbia River Gorge are fantastic!
Remember Pack it in, Pack it out.
Leave No Trace
Cheers!
Essential Tips for Hiking in Vancouver
Navigating Vancouver’s trails requires more than just a sense of direction; it requires an understanding of the local environment and a commitment to safety. The North Shore mountains are notoriously steep, and the weather systems coming off the Pacific can create microclimates that differ drastically from the city below. By preparing properly and respecting the terrain, you can ensure your outdoor experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Here are the key strategies to help you hike like a local and stay safe in the backcountry.
1. Invest in Proper Footwear
The days of hiking in running shoes should be left behind. Vancouver trails are famous for their "technical" terrain, which includes slippery tree roots, wet wooden boardwalks, and loose gravel. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or trail runners with deep lugs and ankle support is essential. Waterproofing is highly recommended, as mud is a constant companion on the North Shore even in the summer months.
2. Master the Art of Layering
Because you can gain significant elevation quickly, temperatures can drop dramatically from the trailhead to the summit. A sunny 20°C day at sea level can feel like 5°C with wind chill at the peak. Always pack a lightweight, packable rain jacket and a warm insulating layer, such as a fleece or puffy jacket. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and can lead to hypothermia if the weather turns.
3. Start Early to Beat the Crowds and the Clouds
Vancouver is a city of early risers, and popular trails like the Grouse Grind or Quarry Rock become incredibly congested by mid-morning. Starting your hike before 8:00 AM offers a quieter, more peaceful experience and guarantees a parking spot. Furthermore, the clearest skies often occur in the morning; clouds frequently roll in over the mountains by the afternoon, obscuring the panoramic views you worked so hard to see.
4. Respect the Terrain and Wildlife
The rugged terrain is part of the appeal, but it demands respect. Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile root systems of the rainforest and to avoid getting lost. You are sharing the forest with black bears, coyotes, and cougars. Make noise while you walk to avoid surprising animals, carry bear spray if you are venturing into the backcountry, and never feed the wildlife. Secure your food and pack out all garbage.
5. Check Live Conditions Before You Go
Do not rely on the weather in downtown Vancouver to predict the weather on the mountain. Check live webcams and trail reports for the specific park you are visiting. Websites like AllTrails often have recent reviews from hikers who have just completed the trail, giving you real-time information on snow levels, mud, or washouts. In the winter and early spring, microspikes or snowshoes are often mandatory for higher elevation hikes.
Exploring these trails offers a profound connection to the natural world that defines the Pacific Northwest. The physical effort of the climb is always rewarded, whether by the sight of a glacial lake, the sound of a rushing waterfall, or the simple peace of standing among ancient trees. Vancouver’s hiking culture is built on a foundation of appreciation for these wild spaces, and every step on the trail is a reminder of why this region is so coveted.
As you work your way through this list, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Take your time, breathe in the cedar-scented air, and pause to look back at the city sprawling below. The mountains are not going anywhere, so there is no rush. Build your skills on the easier trails first, and you will soon find yourself confidently conquering the higher peaks that make Vancouver a world-class hiking destination.
