Top 7 Squamish Summer Hiking Hotspots

Squamish BC is home to an extensive hiking trail network, making it nearly impossible to pick just 7 of our top hiking trails. We sent out our team to explore, sweat, play and hike around Squamish with the goal of narrowing it down to our top 5 places to hike in Squamish this summer. This list covers great hikes for beginners, classic hikes, some new ones and a local hidden gem. So enjoy explore and be sure to pick up a physical Squamish Hiking Map for more details on all these great hikes and more!

Best Beginner Trails

Four Lakes Trail

• Time: 2- 3 hours
• Distance: 1 – 6 km
• Elevation Gain: 198m

The Four Lakes trail is the perfect trail to enjoy a day out with the family. The official trail is 6km long and can be completed comfortably in two hours as you stroll past the four lakes, Stump, Fawn, Edith and Alice. Your furry friends are more than welcome to join you on the trail but they must be on a leash at all time. These lakes are not just for your hiking pleasure, you can try your luck at fishing (with a the proper licences) and take swim dip breaks along the way.

Cat Lake

• Time: 1- 2 hours
• Distance: 5.2 km
• Elevation Gain: 270m

Located just off of the highway is the Cat Lake recreation and camping area. The short loop takes you around the lake and through the forest. Try to schedule your hike for mid week to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility.  

Intermediate

Sea To Summit Trail

• Time: 4- 5 hrs one way
• Distance: 9 km
• Elevation gain: 949m

This hiking trail is similar to the chief, but longer and with less steep sections and crowds. Enjoy the breathtaking views along the way or Shannon Falls, the Howe Sound Fjord, the Chief and surrounding scenery. The best part about this hike, is the refreshments at the top and a gondola ride down to save those knees!

The Chief Hiking Trail

• Time: 2 – 4 hrs
• Distance: 7.2 km
• Elevation Gain: 550m

This infamous classic continues to make the list, due to the rewarding work our paired with stunning vistas. This is a mix of steep stairs, ladders and mossy west coast forest. This is a must do on your summer hiking list.

Elfin Lakes

• Time: 5 – 8 hrs
• Distance: 20.5 km
• Elevation Gain: 848m

Elfin Lakes is your picture postcard alpine hike, that is accessible for most ages and fitness levels. The hike is best combined with an overnight camping trip, to make the most of this hiking trail. 5 kilometers will bring you to the red heather warming hut, and once you pass this you will be rewarded with stunning views of mount garibaldi and Elfin Lakes. This world class hiking destination  has a fully equipped hut ( 15/night )or tent pads (10/night)

Advanced

Al’s Habrich Ridge Trail + Neverland Loop Trail

• Time: 3-6 hrs
• Distance: 11.2 km
• Elevation gain: 945m

 The sweeping panoramic views of Howe Sound, Sky Pilot Mountain, Mount Habirch and Mount Garibaldi are unparalleled on this hike. The trail weaves its way through old growth forest, ancient glacial formations, creeks and waterfalls. The recently completed Neverland Loop Trail commences before Neverland Lake on the ridge trail, and forms a loop that winds through ancient old growth forest to a pair of waterfalls called Neverland Falls. Be sure to pack your swimsuit as their are a few great swimming holes.

Be sure to check The Gondola opening operation hours & conditions before embarking on this full day hike.

Best Local Secret

Brohm Lake – Fire lookout + Paradise Valley Viewpoint

• Elevation Gain:
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2-3 hours (round trip)

A short hike in a pleasant mossy west coast forest offers arguably the most jaw dropping, panoramic view of the Tantalus range, Paradise Valley,The Chief, Shannon Falls and Howe Sound all from one easily accessed viewpoint!  The trail is accessed, either by the lower or main parking lots. Brohm lake is also a great spot to take a dip, on the hike, offering a post hike relaxing afternoon of swimming and sunshine.

Hiking is still one of the top things to do in Squamish as a group with friends, family, and colleagues. Be sure to pick up a physical copy of the Squamish hiking map from the following locations: Valhalla Pure, The Adventure Center and Climb On or order yours online by clicking here.