Dewdney Grind

Dewdney Grind in Mission, BC is exactly what it sounds like: a serious leg-burner with a big payoff. This 9.3 km out-and-back gains about 1000 m and usually takes around 5 hours, so it’s more of a training mission than a casual stroll. If you like steep, quiet forest and a bit of route-finding, this is one of the better hard hikes in the Fraser Valley.

The trail starts steep right out of the gate, climbing through dense forest and crossing a few old and decommissioned forest service roads as you go. Most of Dewdney Grind is in the trees, with mossy green sections higher up that feel surprisingly remote, then opening into meadows with seasonal wildflowers and solid views when the fog cooperates. The small cabin near the top is a big highlight, a cool spot to rest or camp, and most hikers say anything beyond that isn’t really worth it due to logging impacts on the viewpoints.

Recent hikers report sections of the Dewdney Grind trail are overgrown, which adds to the wild feel but makes having the AllTrails map or screenshots pretty important, especially where the trail leaves the old roads. Expect a steep, technical descent that’s harder than the climb, so bring good footwear, take it slow on the way down, and consider poles. The access road currently has a closure ramp from a landslide, adding about 700 m of walking to the trailhead. Best season is roughly April to September, with the chance of lingering snow near the top in shoulder months and generally quiet, peaceful conditions year-round for those who don’t mind a grind.