Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail
Table of contents
Route Description for Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail
The Sea to Sky Trail is a beautiful hike through Lynn Canyon that is fairly easy in terms of terrain, but there are some technical areas with roots and slippery sections of boardwalk that will require careful footing, so be sure to wear proper hiking footwear in order to traverse these portions of the trail. While the majority of the route should be peaceful and relaxing, the area around the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge is highly trafficked. Be patient as you make your way along this busy stretch of the trail and stay safe around the edges of the canyon, as there are steep drop-offs into the rushing waters of Lynn Creek below.
This hike is a great day trip aimed at hikers looking for a bit of the outdoors within the confines of the city limits. The trail stretches north along Lynn Creek, over a gentle incline and easily navigable terrain. As you make your way up the canyon, you will be greeted with sights of the Twin Falls and the opportunity to cross the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge. From here, you can cool off with a quick dip in the 30 Foot Pool along Lynn Creek and check out Pipeline Bridge, before heading back along the same trail. This route is a fun way to see the many highlights that can be found within Lynn Canyon Park.
Setting off from the trailhead at Harbourview Park, follow the trail north, passing under the rail bridge to reach Lynnmouth Park. From here, head left along the sidewalk to cross the bridge over Lynn Creek. Make your way across the street at Brooksbank Avenue, where you will find the continuation of the Sea to Sky Trail behind the MEC store.
After picking up the trail, follow it north as it skirts the bank of the creek, keeping right to avoid any junctions that lead back into the city. In 900 m, you will pass beneath Keith Road, hitting a junction in the trail. Follow this to the right, crossing over Keith Creek and making your way under the highway bridge.
As you walk into the forest, you will also be entering Lynn Canyon Park. Follow the trail for a few hundred meters until you reach a junction with a rusty bridge over Lynn Creek to your right. Cross over the bridge, making your way to the eastern bank of the creek and turn left to continue on the Sea to Sky Trail past the Inter-River Park.
This stretch of the trail after you re-enter the forest is likely the most difficult along this easy route, due to some root-covered portions of trail and slippery boardwalks. Watch your footing as you continue to make your way through the trees, keeping Lynn Creek on your left-hand side for the next 1.4 km, where you will reach a junction with the Baden Powell Trail.
Follow the Baden Powell Trail to the left for 800m and descend the stairs that lead down to the Twin Falls. Take a few moments to watch the rushing waters of Lynn Creek crash over the rocks, but do not cross over the bridge. Instead, take the stairs to the right and work your way up the canyon, along the winding path to the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge.
Within this part of the Lynn Canyon Park there will be a higher volume of foot traffic, as many people will be in the area for the sole purpose of seeing the many highlights, such as the Twin Falls, the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge, and the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre.
After spending some time on the swaying suspension bridge, make your way back to the trail on the east side of Lynn Creek and take the trail to the left, following along the canyon as you make your way to the 30 Foot Pool. On a hot day, this area will likely be crowded with people taking a quick dip in the pool to cool off or sitting out around the serene waters for a picnic lunch.
After taking in the beauty of the pool, continue north along the trail for 100m until you reach a junction in the trail. Follow this to the left, walking through the heavy tree cover for another 200 m, where you will approach the end of the trail with Pipeline Bridge a few meters to your left.
Feel free to cross over the bridge, looking down to catch a glimpse of the streaming water of Lynn Creek passing through the canyon below. After you’ve had your fill of the sights, head down through the canyon along the same route, making your way back to the trailhead at Harbourview Park having completed the Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail.
Hiking Route Highlights
30 Foot Pool
A quiet location in the winter months, activity around 30 Foot Pool increases in the summer when the water level drops to reveal a pebble beach that is great for relaxing by the water. Arrive early to beat the crowds and get a spot along the creek’s edge, or take a dip in the cool water for a refreshing swim.
Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge
Operational since 1912, the Lynn Canyon Park has been a popular outdoor area since its inception. The suspension bridge is the area’s main highlight and spans 48 m across and 50 m above the Lynn Canyon. Crossing the bridge is free, giving you access to the entire network of trails that wind through the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge?
The Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge spans 48 m across Lynn Canyon.
Can you swim at Lynn Canyon?
Yes, you can swim at Lynn Canyon. Make your way to the 30 Foot Pool for a refreshing swim in its cool waters.
Insider Hints for Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail
- Arrive early to avoid large volumes of foot traffic when you reach the Lynn Canyon Park area
- Bring swimwear for a dip in 30 Foot Pool.
- Add a few minutes to your hike by spending some time at the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Getting to the Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail Trailhead
To get to the Sea to Sky trailhead at Harbourview Park from Vancouver, head north on Trans Canada Highway/BC-1 W, passing over Ironworkers Memorial Bridge. Take exit 23A and follow the ramp down onto Main Street. In 984ft, turn left onto Mountain Highway before turning right onto Dominion Street. In 525ft, turn right onto Harbour Avenue and follow it for 1148ft, where you will reach the parking lot.Route Information
When to do:
Year-Round
Backcountry Campsites:
N
Pets allowed:
Yes
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Lynn Canyon Sea to Sky Trail Elevation Graph
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