Enjoy the View in Vancouver

April 29, 2022
TE
By Taryn Eyton
4 min read

Epic views are just one of the things that make Vancouver extraordinary. Immerse yourself in adventure on a visit to one of these Vancouver viewpoints where you can soak up mountain and ocean scenery. #thisisvancouver

Hikes with Incredible Views

A sure-fire way to enjoy the view is to work for it… literally. Vancouver has dozens of hikes with incredible views. Tackle the steep granite peak of the Stawamus Chief or the mellow oceanside viewpoints of Lighthouse Park. Use our list of Vancouver hikes with epic views to discover more options.

Keep in mind that many of these hikes are for experienced hikers only and can be snowy between November and May. AdventureSmart recommends bringing a backpack with essential safety and first aid gear on every hike. Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for the weather. Leave a trip plan so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back.

Hikers on the top of the Stawamus Chief near Vancouver

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Photo: Destination BC/@entre2escales

Sea to Sky Gondola

Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola to a mountain-top viewing deck with panoramic views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. Grab a snack, then sit back to enjoy the scenery or brave the adrenaline rush-inducing Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.

Don’t miss a walk on the nearby hiking trails. The easy Spirit Trail and Panorama Trail both take you to viewing platforms that look down at Howe Sound and the Squamish River Valley. Experienced hikers can skip the gondola and hike up to the top via the challenging Sea to Summit Trail (best between May and October). It gains 918 meters in 6.5 kilometres and includes some rough terrain where you will use ropes to pull yourself up!

Summit lodge at the Sea to Sky Gondola near Vancouver

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Photo: Destination BC/@entre2escales

Grouse Mountain

There are two ways to arrive at Grouse Mountain‘s spectacular summit. The easy way is to ride the Skyride gondola and watch the beautiful landscape go by as you ascend. You can also challenge yourself by tackling the famous Grouse Grind Trail, which gains a daunting 853 metres over just 2.9 kilometres.

At the top enjoy the Lumberjack Show, or just relax on the patio. You can also get even better views by walking to one of the nearby lookouts or riding the Peak Chairlift to the true summit.

View from the Peak Chairlift at Grouse Mountain

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Photo: Destination BC/@entre2escales

Cypress Mountain Highview Lookout

Take a scenic drive up Cypress Bowl Road in West Vancouver to visit the Highview Lookout. You’ll find it at the second hairpin turn.

This elevated vista lets you gaze down on the Lions Gate Bridge, Stanley Park, and the west side of Vancouver. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Baker in Washington. Sunset is a particularly gorgeous time to visit.

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