Beyond the Grouse Grind: 9 Epic Hikes & Campsites in BC That Are Worth the Trip

You’ve heard of the Grouse Grind.

Maybe you've even conquered it and posted the sweaty selfie at the top.

But if you're ready to ditch the crowds and go deeper into BC’s backcountry beauty, these hikes are worth the extra drive.

From alpine lakes to panoramic ridgelines, they’re some of the most rewarding trails in the province—just be prepared to earn the views (in most cases).

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Best hiking & camping in BC, Canada

In order of distance from Vancouver—from the nearest (top) to the furthest away (bottom).

1. Lynn Canyon Park

• Camping: No
• Distance from Vancouver: 13 km / ~25 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

A local gem that’s often called the budget-friendly Capilano. Lynn Canyon offers a free suspension bridge, scenic trails through temperate rainforest, and swimmable watering holes. It’s an easy escape into nature without leaving the city. Come early to beat the crowds and bring water shoes if you’re dipping in 30 Foot Pool.

2. Saint Marks Summit

• Camping: No
• Distance from Vancouver: 30 km / ~40 minutes
• Difficulty: Moderate

The ultimate after-work hike, Saint Marks Summit is where locals go to watch the sun set over Howe Sound. It’s about 11 km round trip, starting from Cypress Mountain, with a mellow 460m elevation gain. Forested switchbacks lead to cliffs with epic west-facing views that light up at golden hour. It’s not a hidden gem, but the proximity to Vancouver and unbeatable lookout make it a must-do. Camping’s not allowed, so head back down once you’ve caught the glow.

3. Cat Lake

• Camping: Yes
• Distance from Vancouver: 70 km / ~1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

Cat Lake is a no-fuss getaway near Squamish that’s ideal for casual camping and cooling off. There’s no real hike involved—just a short walk from the parking lot to shaded, lakeside campsites. Floating docks, calm water, and forested trails make it feel remote without the work. It’s popular with groups and first-timers, so weekends get busy. Spots are first-come, first-served, so arrive early to snag a site.

4. Watersprite Lake

• Camping: Yes
• Distance from Vancouver: 90 km / ~2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Watersprite Lake has quickly become a favourite among seasoned hikers for its vivid turquoise water and spectacular mountain backdrop. The trail is about 17 km round trip with 700m elevation gain, starting with forested logging roads before opening up to alpine meadows and rocky terrain. It’s not technically difficult, but the uneven terrain and loose rock in the final stretch require some care. At the lake, jagged peaks rise dramatically from the shoreline, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the Sea-to-Sky region. Camping is permitted in designated spots, but you’ll need to reserve in advance through the BCMC.

5. Panorama Ridge

• Camping: Yes
• Distance from Vancouver: 100 km / ~2 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

If you only hike one trail in BC, make it this one. Panorama Ridge offers jaw-dropping views over Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, and a sea of peaks. The route is long—about 30 km round trip with 1,500m of climbing—so most people camp along the way. Wildflower meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and alpine ridgelines keep things scenic the whole time. You'll need a backcountry permit to camp, and they sell out fast.

6. Mount Cheam

• Camping: No
• Distance from Vancouver: 130 km / ~2.5 hours (plus 4x4 road)
• Difficulty: Moderate

This is a ridgeline classic. Mount Cheam offers huge views over Chilliwack and the Fraser Valley without the grind of a long alpine approach. The trail is just under 10 km, but getting to the trailhead requires a 4x4. Once you're hiking, it's meadows, wildflowers, and a panoramic summit looking out to Mount Baker and beyond. No camping at the top, but perfect for a scenic, half-day mission.

7. Wedgemount Lake

• Camping: Yes
• Distance from Vancouver: 140 km / ~2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Hard

Wedgemount is a beast of a hike—but the payoff is pure alpine magic. You’ll climb over 1,200m in just 7 km to reach a brilliant turquoise lake flanked by jagged peaks and a glacier. The terrain is steep, often loose underfoot, and definitely not beginner-friendly. Still, if you’re up for the challenge, camping at the top feels like the edge of the world. Reserve through BC Parks before you go—this one’s legendary for a reason.

8. Joffre Lakes

• Camping: Yes
• Distance from Vancouver: 180 km / ~2.5–3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

This is the hike that launched a thousand Instagram posts. Joffre Lakes takes you past three surreal turquoise glacial lakes, each one more stunning than the last. It’s a 10 km round trip with a solid 400m elevation gain—expect switchbacks, rocks, and photo stops galore. Camping is permitted at Upper Joffre Lake, but you’ll need to book ahead through BC Parks. It’s busy for a reason: Matier Glacier and the alpine scenery are truly unforgettable.

9. Tin Hat Cabin (Sunshine Coast Trail)

• Camping: Yes (Hut + Campsites)
• Distance from Vancouver: Ferry + ~4–5 hours to Powell River
• Difficulty: Moderate–Hard

Part of the 180 km Sunshine Coast Trail, Tin Hat offers 360° alpine views from a backcountry hut perched above the trees. The hike in is a steady climb, but the reward is next-level. Rustic, remote, and free to use—bring your own gear and respect the space. Combine it with other SCT sections for a longer trip.

This 180 km trail is Canada’s longest free hut-to-hut hike—and you don’t need to do it all. Pick a section near Powell River for a multi-day or weekend trek, complete with sweeping coastal views, alpine lakes, and rainforest. You’ll find 14 public huts and lots of campsites, none of which require booking. It’s rustic and rugged, but the views and solitude are next level. Perfect for anyone chasing adventure on a budget.

Before You Go: A Few Backcountry Basics

BC’s trails are beautiful—but they’re also wild. That means bears, especially in the backcountry.

Make noise while hiking (some people tie bells to their backpacks), carry bear spray, and always store your food in a bear cache or hang it—never leave snacks in your tent (unless you want a very furry midnight visitor).

Bug spray is your best friend, especially in early summer when the mosquitos are out in full force.

And finally, pack out everything you bring in—leave the trail better than you found it.

Happy hiking!

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Please note: These images are for illustrative purposes only and do not belong to us. All rights remain with their respective owners.