The best walks and hikes around Maple Ridge
4.7
(76)
1,303
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking around Maple Ridge offers diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains to the extensive Fraser River. The region is characterized by dense forests, including significant cedar and Douglas fir trees, and features several provincial parks like Golden Ears and Kanaka Creek. Hikers can explore varied ecosystems, scenic riverfronts, and trails leading to waterfalls and viewpoints across the Fraser Valley.
Best hiking trails around Maple Ridge
- The most popular hiking route is Nature Trail, an easy 1.8 miles (2.9 km) path that takes about 45 minutes to complete. This loop features a scenic Fraser River viewpoint within Kanaka Creek Regional Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is West Canyon Trail Parking Lot loop from West Canyon parking lot, a moderate 5.0 miles (8.1 km) path. This route in Golden Ears Provincial Park winds through lush forests alongside Gold Creek, offering a glimpse into the park's natural beauty.
- Local hikers also love the Blue Mountain Trail loop, a 10.4 miles (16.7 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain and dense woodlands, often completed in about 5 hours 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Maple Ridge is defined by majestic mountains, dense forests, and scenic riverside paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Maple Ridge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 1200 hikers have used komoot to explore Maple Ridge's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
17
hikers
2.86km
00:44
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16.7km
05:35
750m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Sign up for free
881m
00:14
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
212
hikers
8.10km
02:15
140m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
122
hikers
11.4km
03:30
340m
350m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The trail here is almost entirely a flat, with a wooden boardwalk designed to protect the sensitive peat bog beneath. The most unique feature here is the sphagnum moss bog. This rare ecosystem acts like a giant sponge, filtering rainwater and supporting plants that you won't see on the higher mountain ridges.
0
0
While most park trails are steep and rugged, this one is remarkably flat and wide because it follows an old 1920s railway grade once used for logging.
0
0
Blue Mountain Forest Service Road is accessed through McNutt Road and is the gateway to dozens of trails in the Blue Mountain Recreation Site. It is also a great climb or descent on the way back, perfect for walking or biking side by side with a friend, as it's wide enough for two people.
0
0
Blue Mountain Recreation Site in Maple Ridge is a large, undeveloped area enjoyed by mountain bikers and hikers. Here, service roads and trails spiderweb across the forest. It is a black bear habitat, so be aware at all times.
0
0
From here, right at the base of the summit of Blue Mountain, there is a break in the trees and a flat clearing. The view from here extends southwest toward the Fraser River and the urban area below. There is a small log bench, the perfect spot to take photos or to enjoy a snack and a break.
0
0
**Kanaka Creek Regional Park protects a stretch of coastal rainforest and salmon-bearing stream in Maple Ridge, BC.** The park features easy trails, sandstone waterfalls, and year-round wildlife viewing, with highlights like Cliff Falls and the Bell-Irving Hatchery. Itโs a popular spot for walking, birding, and watching seasonal salmon runs in spring and fall.
0
0
The Fraser River is British Columbiaโs longest river, stretching over 1,300 kilometers from the Rockies to the Pacific. It flows through diverse landscapesโfrom alpine valleys to urban centersโand supports one of the largest salmon runs in North America. The river has shaped the regionโs ecology, economy, and history for thousands of years.
0
0
Kanaka Creek is a beautiful salmon-bearing stream that flows through Maple Ridge into the Fraser River. It runs through forested ravines and sandstone canyons, with seasonal salmon runs in spring and fall. The creek supports diverse wildlife and is essential to the parkโs hatchery and conservation efforts.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Maple Ridge?
Maple Ridge offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with over 19 routes documented on komoot. These trails cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging ascents, allowing you to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Maple Ridge?
Yes, Maple Ridge has several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Nature Trail in Kanaka Creek Regional Park is an easy 1.8-mile loop with a scenic Fraser River viewpoint. Rolley Lake Provincial Park also offers tranquil scenery and trails, including the Rolley Lake Boardwalk, which is great for a gentle walk.
Where can I find trails with waterfalls in Maple Ridge?
Maple Ridge is home to beautiful waterfalls. Kanaka Creek Regional Park features the scenic Cliff Falls, accessible via the Cliff Falls Trail. Rolley Lake Provincial Park also has trails leading to Rolley Falls, offering picturesque water features amidst marshy wetlands and forests.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the Blue Mountain Trail loop is a difficult 10.4-mile route through mountainous terrain and dense woodlands. In Golden Ears Provincial Park, the West Canyon Trail Parking Lot loop from Gold Creek Parking is another difficult option, winding through lush forests.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
Maple Ridge's trails offer a rich tapestry of natural features. You can explore dense rainforests, alpine meadows, and majestic mountain views in Golden Ears Provincial Park. Kanaka Creek Regional Park protects a vital stretch of coastal rainforest and salmon-bearing streams. The UBC Research Forest allows you to hike among some of the region's largest cedar and Douglas fir trees and enjoy expansive views of the Fraser Valley. Additionally, the extensive dyke system along the Fraser and Pitt Rivers provides scenic riverside tranquility.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Maple Ridge?
Yes, many trails in Maple Ridge are designed as loops. The Blue Mountain Trail loop is a notable example for a longer, more challenging circular hike. For a moderate option in Golden Ears Provincial Park, consider the West Canyon Trail Parking Lot loop from West Canyon parking lot, which winds through lush forests.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Maple Ridge?
The trails in Maple Ridge are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from majestic mountains and dense forests to scenic riverside paths, and appreciate the variety of options available for different ability levels.
Are there any specific permits required for hiking in Maple Ridge's parks?
While many trails are freely accessible, some areas, particularly within provincial parks like Golden Ears, may have specific regulations or require day-use passes during peak seasons to manage visitor numbers. It's always advisable to check the official BC Parks website for the latest information regarding permits or reservations for Golden Ears Provincial Park before your visit.
Can I access hiking trails in Maple Ridge using public transport?
Public transport options to some of the more remote trailheads, such as those in Golden Ears Provincial Park, can be limited. However, areas like Kanaka Creek Regional Park are generally more accessible within the Maple Ridge transit network. For specific routes, it's best to consult TransLink's official website for bus schedules and routes serving the Maple Ridge area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Maple Ridge?
Maple Ridge offers year-round hiking opportunities. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with salmon runs in Kanaka Creek in the fall. Summer is ideal for higher elevation trails and enjoying lakes, though some popular spots can be busy. Winter hiking is also possible on lower elevation trails and dyke systems, offering a different, often quieter, experience.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Fraser Valley?
Yes, several trails provide excellent views of the Fraser Valley. The UBC Research Forest, for example, has viewpoints that offer expansive vistas. Additionally, some of the more strenuous trails in Golden Ears Provincial Park, such as the Alouette Mountain Trail, are known for providing the best panoramic views from the West Canyon Trails region.
Are there any highlights or landmarks near the hiking areas?
Beyond the trails themselves, Maple Ridge is surrounded by interesting landmarks. You can find various bridges like the Tynehead Pedestrian Overpass or the impressive Golden Ears Bridge over the Fraser River. For natural highlights, explore the tranquil Rolley Lake Boardwalk or discover other lakes like Hoover Lake Trail and Widgeon Lake Trail.
Most popular routes around Maple Ridge
Most popular attractions around Maple Ridge
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
