Fall Hikes in Vancouver for Foggy Days

Fall hikes in Vancouver are all about those PNW vibes: mist drifting through cedar branches, fog rolling in off the ocean, and forests cloaked in silence. Every nature walk feels like stepping into a postcard where lakes reflect the low clouds and the far shore disappears into the clouds. From coastal bluffs to rainforest canyons, the fog adds a touch of magic to every trail.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The stunning scenery at Capilano Suspension Bridge dazzles in any weather, but it is extra moody on foggy days. As you stroll across the swaying bridge, mist rises from the canyon below.. On the far side, wander through the canopy of towering old-growth trees on the Treetop Adventure while wisps of clouds cling to the mossy branches. Then, steel your nerves for the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered path that hovers above the churning waters of the Capilano River.

Grab a hot chocolate at The Cabin, its rich sweetness chasing away the nip in the air, while you continue to explore. Or tuck into casual West Coast fare at The Cliffhouse Restaurant, where rustic vibes and hearty plates make for the perfect post-trail reward.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has 1.8 kilometres of easy trails, boardwalks, and bridges that invite you to linger. Plan to spend 2 to 2.25 hours admiring the misty fall views.

Lighthouse Park

At Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver, the salty ocean air mixes with the earthy scent of coastal rainforest, creating a moody PNW cocktail. Trails twist through fog-draped evergreens and out to rugged granite headlands where the ocean crashes below.

For a short and easy 30 minute hike, make a beeline for the Lighthouse. If you have more time, the 6-kilometre loop hike around the park takes about 2.5 hours and includes all the main viewpoints. Or make your own mini-adventure using the park map. Wander to the tiny pocket beach at Starboat Cove or scramble out to Juniper Point to watch waves pound the rocks. Parking is limited, so get there early or let Translink Bus 250 whisk you there stress-free.

After your hike, explore nearby Horseshoe Bay. Watch as fog drifts over the harbour dotted with sailboats and BC Ferries, then treat yourself to a decadent cream-filled brioche donut at Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery or classic fish and chips at Troll’s Restaurant, a local comfort-food legend since 1946.

Whyte Lake

The short and easy hike to Whyte Lake takes just two hours, but it packs in a lot of PNW vibes. This nature walk winds upward into the coastal rainforest dripping with moss, ferns, and fog, then ambles along the rim of Nelson Creek canyon where massive cedars and ferns loom overhead. At the end, you’ll find tiny Whyte Lake, its glassy surface often shrouded in mist or mirroring the forest in serene stillness.

Make time after your hike to explore nearby Dundarave Village in West Vancouver. Browse boutiques, grab a sweet treat at Temper Chocolate and Pastry or meander along the oceanfront. Finish your day with a cozy meal at The Beach House Restaurant, where local seafood, ocean views, and a heritage building create a peak West Coast experience.

Quarry Rock

Quarry Rock is a quintessential Vancouver hike, but it takes on an extra layer of enchantment when the fog rolls in. The easy 4-kilometre round trip nature walk is a moody forest escape complete with damp boardwalks, trickling streams, and mist weaving through cedars and hemlocks. Your destination is Quarry Rock, a prominent bluff high above the tranquil waters of Deep Cove. Let the sea breeze whip through your hair as you gaze down on tiny forested islets in Indian Arm.

The hike takes about 1.5 hours, which allows plenty of time for exploring the Deep Cove neighbourhood afterward. Stroll along Gallant Avenue to browse at shops and galleries, and don’t miss the donuts at Honey’s Doughnuts - both locals and celebs like Kate Winslet and Harry Styles love them.

Parking in Deep Cove can be tight, so opt for transit: Translink Bus 211 from downtown drops you a few blocks from the trailhead.

Buntzen Lake

Just 45 minutes from downtown, Buntzen Lake feels like a hidden world. Fog often curls between the ridges framing the lake, while the surrounding rainforest is fragrant with the scent of cedar. In autumn, patches of bigleaf maples turn amber and crimson in a bold contrast to the evergreen forest. The 10-kilometre loop hike circles the lake in about 3.5 hours, leading you across both a suspension bridge and a floating bridge with misty mountain reflections all around.

When you’ve had your fill of moody lake views, head to Brewer’s Row in Port Moody. Five small-batch breweries cluster together along a short stretch of Murray Street. Rewind Beer Co has a retro 80s theme and famous deep-dish pizza. Yellow Dog Brewing Co. is the oldest brewery in the neighbourhood and has a huge tasting room and a dog-friendly patio.

Fall Hiking Tips