The best walks and hikes in Mount Gardner Recreation Site
4.6
(118)
879
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking in Mount Gardner Recreation Site offers diverse trails on Bowen Island, characterized by forested areas and significant elevation changes. The region features panoramic views of Burrard Inlet, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast from its peaks. Hikers traverse varied terrain, including sections with steep ascents, leading to expansive vistas.
Best hiking trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site
- The most popular hiking route is Killarney Lake – View of Killarney Lake loop from Bowen Island Municipality, a 2.5 miles…
Last updated: August 28, 2026
4.7
(10)
55
hikers
9.94km
04:33
660m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
57
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
48
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(6)
16
hikers
16.4km
05:52
730m
720m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
30
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Mount Gardner Recreation Site
Tips from the Community
Upper Skid Trail runs through dense coastal forest on the upper slopes of Mount Gardner, following an old logging route between the summit area and lower trail junctions. The path is rooty and uneven in places, with sustained elevation change that makes it one of the more physically demanding sections of the route. Views are mostly enclosed by trees, with a few breaks where you can get a peek at the surrounding terrain beyond the forest.
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The north summit of Mount Gardner offers one of the clearest viewpoints on the mountain, with open rock slabs overlooking Howe Sound and the surrounding islands. Compared to other viewpoints, it feels more exposed and elevated, with fewer trees blocking the view. The result is a wide, uninterrupted lookout with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and distant mainland mountains.
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From this scenic spot, you can soak in the view of Keats Island across Howe Sound, where the lush, forested island sits low in the water. This perspective is the perfect vantage point to see the layered inlets and smaller islets, creating a sense of depth rather than a wide panorama. On clear days, the contrast between the dark green shoreline and the sparkling water makes this one of the most impressive viewpoints on the mountain.
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Killarney Lake View Point has a boulderous beach and great views from he south end of the lake to the north end. Swimming is allowed here but not recommended as there have been reporting of leeches in the water.
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Killarney Lake can get a bit busy on the weekends, and for good reason, it's beautiful and accessible. Killarney Lake Loop Trail circles the entire lake, with plenty of viewpoints. Come early on the weekends in the summer for easier parking and less crowds.
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Peer through an opening in the trees to get a view of Killarney Lake. This area feels truly wild and is inhabited by both bears and cougars, so be aware while hiking.
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Not a real highlight, as it's in the middle of the forest and no view of Vancouver or the Pacific 😁
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The lake has a healthy population of leeches. Swimming or wading is not advised.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
Mount Gardner Recreation Site offers nearly 30 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging ascents with significant elevation gain.
What are the best times of year to hike in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
Mount Gardner is suitable for hiking for most of the year due to its relatively low elevation. Spring and fall are particularly recommended for milder conditions. In winter and early spring, microspikes might be needed at higher elevations due to snow and ice.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. For an easy and scenic walk, consider the Killarney Lake – View of Killarney Lake loop from Bowen Island Municipality, which is 4.1 km long and takes just over an hour to complete. This route offers beautiful views around Killarney Lake.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
Yes, the trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companions. Please ensure dogs are kept on a leash for their safety and the comfort of other hikers and wildlife.
What kind of views can I expect from the trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
From the peaks of Mount Gardner, especially the north peak, you can expect breathtaking panoramic views. These include expansive vistas of Burrard Inlet, Howe Sound, and West Vancouver to the south, and the Sunshine Coast, Keats, and Gambier Island to the north. On clear days, you might even see downtown Vancouver, UBC, and Mount Baker in Washington state.
How can I get to Mount Gardner Recreation Site using public transport?
Mount Gardner is easily accessible by public transit from downtown Vancouver. This involves taking a bus to Horseshoe Bay, followed by a 20-minute ferry ride to Snug Cove on Bowen Island. From the Snug Cove ferry terminal, you can either walk or take a local bus to reach the trailheads.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
Yes, many of the trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. An example is the moderate View of Keats Island – View of Howe Sound loop from Bowen Island Municipality, which is 10.3 km long and provides expansive views.
What is the general difficulty level of hiking in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
The trails in Mount Gardner Recreation Site cater primarily to intermediate levels, with options for both easier walks and more challenging ascents. Many routes involve significant elevation gain, and some sections can be steep, with certain parts even requiring rope assists for an added adventurous element.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Mount Gardner Recreation Site?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Mount Gardner Recreation Site, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 120 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the peaks, the diverse trail options, and the immersive experience of traversing the forested areas.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the View of Howe Sound – Killarney Lake beach loop from Evergreen Park is a difficult 16.5 km trail. This route leads through extensive forested areas and offers panoramic views, typically taking around 6 hours to complete.
Do I need a permit to hike Mount Gardner?
No, you do not need a permit to hike Mount Gardner Recreation Site. The trails are generally open for public access.
What natural features can I explore besides the main peaks?
Many trails connect with or pass near Killarney Lake, which is part of Crippen Regional Park. This offers additional scenic elements and facilities. The hikes largely traverse diverse forested areas, providing a rich natural environment to explore.
Most popular routes in Mount Gardner Recreation Site
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