The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Seymour Watershed
4.7
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2,236
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Family friendly hiking trails in Seymour Watershed are set within a diverse landscape featuring lush forests, the flowing Seymour River, and views of alpine peaks. The region is characterized by dense forests of red cedar and hemlock, with the Seymour River carving deep canyons. Accessible from Vancouver, the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve offers a network of trails through these natural settings.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Seymour Watershed
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Georgia Strait Lookout – Peak of Vancouver Lookout loop from Grouse Mountain, an easy 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete, offering scenic views from Grouse Mountain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge – Wonderland Pool loop from Stawamus Chief Protected Area, an easy 1.4 miles (2.3 km) path. This route leads through forested areas to the Wonderland Pool, providing a gentle walk.
- Local hikers also love the Georgia Strait Lookout – Goat Mountain Summit loop from Grouse Mountain, a 4.6 miles (7.3 km) trail leading through varied terrain with moderate elevation gain, often completed in about 2 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking in Seymour Watershed is defined by dense forests, river valleys, and mountain vistas. The network offers options for different ability levels, including paved pathways like the Seymour Valley Trailway suitable for strollers.
- The routes in Seymour Watershed are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Seymour Watershed's varied terrain.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
7.14km
02:58
450m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3
hikers
5.78km
01:51
230m
230m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(4)
76
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
69
hikers
5.08km
01:52
230m
240m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(8)
43
hikers
7.34km
02:51
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
A quieter summit in Mount Seymour Provincial Park, De Pencier Bluff delivers wide, rewarding views once you crest the top: Pump Peak, Mystery Peak, Indian Arm and, on clear days, even Mount Baker. The route up here crosses ski runs and is only accessible once the resort has closed for the season. Dogs are welcome, but keep them close: black bears are regularly seen here, especially in autumn.
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Short but punchy, the Perimeter Trail climbs 240 metres over 1.5 kilometres from the Deep Cove lookout to the Goldie Lake junction. Originally built as a route to guide lost hikers and skiers back towards the road or ski area, it now makes for a scenic climb.
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The Windfall Trail takes you swings you by the south shore of the lake, which is pretty and surrounded by young spruce trees. In the winter this can be a nice snowshoeing track from Mt. Seymour.
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The trail runs above the shoreline of the lake, and you have a chance to hop down to the thin gravel beach around its edge as you cross over the bridge at Percy Creek.
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You can walk down from the parking lot to a lookout point that peers between the treetops in the direction of Port Moody. The lookout is right along the road but separated from traffic by barricading.
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After the strenuous climb, the cable car station at Grouse Grind offers you the opportunity to take the gondola back down to the starting point of the hike. It is best to book a ticket in advance. The trip down costs $20 for adults and $10 for children up to the age of twelve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Seymour Watershed?
The Seymour Watershed area, particularly the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, offers a variety of trails suitable for families. This guide features 5 curated routes, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, ensuring there's something for every family's comfort level.
What are some easy, stroller-friendly options for families with young children?
For families with strollers or very young children, the Georgia Strait Lookout – Peak of Vancouver Lookout loop from Grouse Mountain is an excellent choice, offering an easy 3 km path. Additionally, the Seymour Valley Trailway within the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve is a 10 km paved pathway, perfect for strollers, cycling, and gentle walks through lush forests.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families in the Seymour Watershed?
Yes, several loop trails are great for families. The Georgia Strait Lookout – Peak of Vancouver Lookout loop from Grouse Mountain is an easy option. For a slightly longer adventure, consider the Georgia Strait Lookout – Goat Mountain Summit loop from Grouse Mountain, which is a moderate 7.3 km loop. The Forest Ecology Loop Trail near Rice Lake is also a short, easy loop perfect for a quick nature walk.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes?
Family hikes in the Seymour Watershed offer diverse natural beauty. You'll encounter lush forests of red cedar and hemlock, scenic views of the Seymour River, and potentially deep canyons. The area is also home to pristine waters, including the popular Rice Lake, which is great for fishing and paddling. Some trails offer panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Seymour Watershed?
The Seymour Watershed is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for family hiking. During these seasons, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is mild, making for comfortable outings. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Where can we find parking for family-friendly trails?
Parking is generally available at key access points for the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve and Mount Seymour Provincial Park. For trails starting from Grouse Mountain, parking facilities are available at the base. It's always advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as popular trailheads can fill up quickly.
Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks to look out for?
Absolutely! Many trails offer stunning viewpoints. The Georgia Strait Lookout – Peak of Vancouver Lookout loop provides fantastic vistas. Within the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, the Seymour River Suspension Bridge is a notable landmark, and Rice Lake is a popular spot for families. Mount Seymour Provincial Park also offers trails with panoramic views of Vancouver and Indian Arm.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Seymour Watershed?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Seymour Watershed, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning natural scenery, and the accessibility for all ages. Many highlight the peaceful forest environments and the joy of discovering hidden gems like Rice Lake or the various viewpoints.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the family-friendly trailheads?
While the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve itself is primarily wilderness, you'll find cafes and dining options in the nearby communities of North Vancouver, especially closer to the base of Grouse Mountain or along the main routes leading to the watershed. These are perfect for a post-hike treat or a quick bite.
Can we reach any of these family-friendly trails using public transport?
Yes, public transport options are available to access parts of the Seymour Watershed. TransLink provides bus services that can take you to the vicinity of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve and the base of Grouse Mountain, where several family-friendly trails begin. We recommend checking the TransLink website for the most current routes and schedules.
What is a good moderate family hike that offers a rewarding experience?
For families looking for a moderate challenge, the Georgia Strait Lookout – Goat Mountain Summit loop from Grouse Mountain is a great option. This 7.3 km loop offers a good workout with rewarding views, making it suitable for families with older children or those who hike regularly.
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