Where to Go Trail Running Around Vancouver
Vancouver is the ideal place to stay active while surrounded by nature, with scenic trail runs just minutes from downtown. From easy forest loops to challenging climbs, there’s a route for every runner.
Trail Running Tips
While Vancouver's trails are close to the city, you'll still be running in the wilderness so you need to be prepared.
- Vancouver's trails can be very rugged. Start with easier trails, then work your way up to longer and harder trail runs.
- AdventureSmart recommends bringing a small backpack or waist pack with essential safety and first aid gear on every run.
- Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for the conditions.
- Some trails do not have reliable cell phone service. Plan ahead by downloading offline maps or bringing paper maps.
- Leave a trip plan so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back.
Stanley Park
Did you know you can go trail running without leaving downtown Vancouver? The forested interior of Stanley Park is home to dozens of beautiful trails. Use the park map to plan your route.
A great 6-kilometre loop option for beginners is to start at Lost Lagoon and follow Tatlow Trail past several old-growth trees. Cross Park Drive and go north on Merilee's Trail to Prospect Point where you can enjoy views of the Lion's Gate Bridge and the North Shore Mountains. Finish the run by taking Bridle Path back down to your start point at Lost Lagoon.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
The west side of Vancouver near the University of British Columbia features over 55 kilometres of trails inside Pacific Spirit Regional Park. With dozens of trails, the park can be a bit of a maze so it is helpful to bring a copy of the park map.
The park centre on West 16th Avenue is a good place to start your run. Some of the most scenic trails include Swordfern, Iron Knee, Hemlock, Huckleberry, and Nature Trails. Combine a few trails to make a loop that suits your skill level.
Lynn Headwaters Regional Park
There are several options for trail runners in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in North Vancouver. The trails wind through beautiful coastal rainforest alongside the rushing waters of Lynn Creek. Use the park map to orient yourself.
For an easier flat run, follow the lower part of the Lynn Loop and the Cedar Mills Trail as it meanders beside Lynn Creek. You can do an 8km long out-and-back run on this route.
If you want something more challenging, continue along the Headwaters Trail to Norvan Falls (13 km round trip) or tackle the rugged terrain on the full Lynn Loop (5.2 km loop).
Capilano River Regional Park
Explore similar similar scenery to what you'll find at the Capilano Suspension Bridge just upstream at Capilano River Regional Park. The park has over 16 kilometres of trails that follow the canyon rim and wander through the forest.
You can explore the short (and sometimes steep) trails in the northern part of the park for great views of the Capilano River Canyon, Cleveland Dam, Capilano Lake above the dam, and the nearby Lions Mountains. Various loops are possible if you use the park map to plan your route.
If you are looking for a longer run, tackle the Capilano Pacific Trail which follows the Capilano River downstream for 5 kilometres.
Buntzen Lake
Buntzen Lake in Coquitlam is a popular spot for picnics and swimming, but it also has an extensive trail network that is great for trail running. The Buntzen Lake map is an excellent trip-planning resource.
Intermediate trail runners will love the Buntzen Lake Trail. The 8-kilometre-long loop circles the lake. Be sure to stop at hiking and running access-only North Beach for a snack or even a swim.
Experienced trail runners can take on the Diez Vista Trail. This trail climbs steeply on a ridge above the lake and has several beautiful viewpoints overlooking Indian Arm. It's a 15 km loop, so allow plenty of time to complete it.
Sign Up for a Trail Race
Vancouver's welcoming trail running community hosts several races throughout the spring, summer, and fall months. Popular races sell out quickly, so register well in advance.
Beginners and intermediate trail runners will like the 5 Peaks Trail Race Series. Each race includes several distances to allow all abilities to participate.
If you're looking to challenge yourself, check out the Coast Mountain Trail Running Races. Their races are known for longer distances in challenging but spectacular terrain and their signature race, the Squamish 50, attracts elite trail runners from around the world.