Archie MontroseWe decided it was time to take on one of Vancouver’s most famous hikes: The Lions. We’d heard all about the stunning views and the challenging trails, but nothing prepared us for the adventure ahead.
Equipped with sturdy hiking boots and a sense of adventure, we set out to tackle these impressive peaks. For anyone eager to experience The Lions Hike, here’s an insider’s guide based on our memorable journey.
The Lions Hike Overview
Location: Lions Bay
Trailhead: Lions Binkert Trail
Distance: 15 km/ 9.1 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,606 m/ 5,400 ft
Day-Use Pass: Not required
Dogs: Not allowed on the trails
Toilets: There is a porta potty at the trailhead to the Lions.
Where is the Lions Hike?
The Lions Hike is located at Lions Bay, which is located between Vancouver and Squamish on the steep eastern shore of Howe Sound.
How to Get to the Lions Hike
To get to the Lions hike from Vancouver, take the ferry terminal ramp to Horseshoe Bay and merge onto Trans-Canada Hwy. Stay on the left lane and exit toward Lions Bay Avenue.
From there, continue driving into Oceanview Road and take a left onto Cross Creek. Then, turn right onto Centre Road, left onto Bayview Road and Mountain Drive. Finally, turn left onto Sunset Drive.
The hike conveniently begins at the Lion’s Head parking lot, which can be reached via the Lion’s Head / Signal Hill turn-off from Kloof Nek Road.
The Lions Route Information
The hike starts at Lions Bay on the Magnesia Creek Trail. The trail is mostly forested, and after two kilometers, you’ll reach a split for Brunswick Mountain and Tunnel Bluffs. Keep going straight until you see a junction for Mount Harvey.
Keep going until you find yourself on the Lions Binkert Trail. It’s gonna be about 4.5 kilometers, and you’ll easily notice that the trail becomes more rugged.
You’ll go down into the forest and get across Harvey Creek via a bridge, then proceed through a boulder field. The terrain becomes steeper, increasing nearly 500 meters over the next kilometer through dense forest.
This challenging section leads to the 1,300-meter mark, from which views of the West Lion and surrounding peaks are visible.
Then, you’ll reach the Howe Sound Crest Trail, where the views are just breathtaking in all directions. You’ll have plenty of photo opportunities here, so be sure to take your time and soak in the stunning scenery.
What to Do and See in the Lions Hike
Embark on the Lions Binkert Trail
Media credit: adrianasinke
Address: West Lion, Greater Vancouver A, BC, Canada
Starting at Lions Bay on the Magnesia Creek Trail is the entrance to the Lions Binkert Trail. Initially a gravel and old logging road, this trail covers the first third of your trek.
Winding through dense forests, the trail offers glimpses of towering landmarks like the West Lion, with James Peak and David Peak visible to the north at a certain point in your hike.
Returning follows the same path, making navigation simpler and the descent much smoother, as it’s all downhill back to the starting point.
Consider Starting from Cypress Lodge
Media credit: vlau33
Address: West Lion, Greater Vancouver A, BC, Canada
If the Lions Binkert Trail isn’t your thing but you still want to conquer the Lions, the Cypress Lodge is an option.
You’ve got more opportunities for exploration on this trail and it’s also quite easier in terms of steepness and elevation gain compared to the Lions Binkert.
The Cypress route adds a few extra kilometers and requires careful planning for parking and logistics, especially if you’re descending via Lions Bay on a one-way route.
Make a Stop at the Large Outcrop
Media credit: shanegallagher_
Address: West Lion, Greater Vancouver A, BC, Canada
At some point during your hike, we’ll say after a few 6 kilometers or so, you’ll reach a large outcrop where you can take a breather before continuing on your hike.
This outcrop is also a place where others pause and enjoy the 360-degree view of the Lions, Howe Sound, and, on clear days, even Vancouver in the distance.
Enjoy the Views
Media credit: hoba_s
Address: West Lion, Greater Vancouver A, BC, Canada
From the base of The Lions, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views in all directions. To the south, you can admire Mount Unnecessary, Vancouver, Mount Baker, and Washington. Looking west, you’ll see Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island.
To the north, the views extend towards Mount Brunswick, Mount Harvey, and Garibaldi Park. And to the east, you’ll gaze across the North Shore mountains towards Golden Ears. It’s a vista that truly captures the diverse beauty of the region.
Where to Eat and Drink near the Lions Hike
Lions Bay General Store and Cafe
Address: 350 Centre Rd, Lions Bay, BC V0N 2E0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-921-6344
Pricing: $$
The Lions Bay General Store and Cafe is a charming small cafe with a lovely view. True to its name, it combines a general (convenience) store and a cafe. Now, this is the only eatery within the Lions Bay area.
It’s a great spot for a coffee break. They roast their own espresso, which is full-bodied and flavorful, even with almond milk. The cafe also offers sandwiches, wraps, baked goods, and treats.
The Good Karma Cafe
Address: 6750 Keith Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2V1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-926-5164
Pricing: $$
Tucked away in the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, The Good Karma Cafe serves up organic pizzas, wraps, and teas. This delightful, food truck-style spot is perfect for grabbing a healthy bite before hitting the Lions.
We loved the flax muffins—they’re hearty, nutritious, and will definitely keep you energized for the journey ahead.
C-Lovers Fish & Chips
Address: 6640 Royal Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2B8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-913-0994
Pricing: $$
C-Lovers is the go-to spot for the tastiest fish and chips in town. They take pride in using hand-selected Alaskan halibut and locally grown Kennebec potatoes, ensuring freshness in every bite.
It’s a great place for deep-fried meals. While we prefer the fish and chips over the C-Lover Platter, the food is delicious overall.
Fresh Bay Pizza
Address: 6382 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2G9, Canada
Phone: +1 778-279-4360
Pricing: $$
We had the sweetest time at Fresh Bay Pizza. The matcha tea bubble tea was very good, and the pizza slice was perfect! The soft, fresh dough was clearly made with love.
They offer tons of vegetarian options to choose from. The topping choices are top tier, and for a large pizza, you can add three different toppings or kinds of meat at no extra charge. Absolute G.O.A.T.
Bay Sushi
Media credit: eatwithmegg
Address: 6371 Bruce St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2G5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-913-8973
Pricing: $
Bay Sushi is your go-to spot for top-notch sushi, sourcing high-quality ingredients both locally and internationally. Their Sushi Grade selections include Atlantic salmon, local BC options, unagi, and more.
We highly recommend trying their salmon avocado roll and spicy tuna roll—they’re absolute winners. And don’t miss out on their freshly brewed green tea; it’s a perfect 10/10 in terms of taste.
Where to Stay near the Lions Hike
Horseshoe Bay Motel
Address: 6588 Royal Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2B6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-913-6588
Pricing: $
The Horseshoe Bay Motel is a cozy and charming place to stay, just a 15-minute drive to the Lions. It’s a great value, offering comfortable rooms with beautiful village, mountain, and ocean views.
You’ll also enjoy free self-parking, and the location is fantastic—only minutes from restaurants, parks, galleries, and right next to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal.
SureStay by Best Western
Address: 1634 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-987-8185
Pricing: $
SureStay by Best Western may offer basic rooms, but it’s conveniently located for those planning to drive to the Lions. The attached De Dutch restaurant offers incredible and delicious crepes of all varieties.
Plus, guests enjoy the added perk of having their own door to the outside. There is a bus stop conveniently located on the front street, and the motel is very close to Highway 1, making it easy to get in and out.
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites
Address: 1748 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7P 3B4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-337-8393
Pricing: $
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites on Capilano Road is an older but well-maintained hotel, perfect if you’re looking to save on accommodation costs. It offers free parking, breakfast, and coffee, along with a charming courtyard.
The rooms are decent, and their convenient location puts you close to the Lions. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and passes for a nearby fitness centre.
Capilano River RV Park
Media credit: michaelcox_photo
Address: 295 Tomahawk Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7P 1C5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-987-4722
Pricing: $
Capilano River RV Park is in an excellent spot by the ocean and river, close to downtown, beaches, Stanley Park, and Eagle Bluffs. While it’s not a fancy hotel, it provides a unique camping experience amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
The park features 205 premium sites, including options for tenting. Each site is surrounded by well-landscaped lawns and comes with its own picnic table, offering a pleasant and convenient stay.
