Hayward Reservoir Trail

Hayward Reservoir Trail in Mission, BC is a long but mellow out-and-back along the edge of Hayward Lake, with just enough hills to keep your legs honest. At about 14 km with 339 m of gain, it’s rated easy and usually takes around 3.5 hours, but feels more like a steady walk than a grind. People come here for the mix of forest, water, and waterfalls rather than big summit views.

The trail winds through lush second-growth forest, with big trees, ferns, fungi, and plenty of shade almost the whole way. You’ll follow the lake for long stretches, with calm water views, creeks, and a standout stop at Steelhead Falls, which gets most of the camera time. The path is generally well-defined but can be rooty in spots, with a short muddy scramble section and some clay near the old slide area that turns slick after rain.

Right now, Hayward Reservoir Trail is partially restricted: repairs and a washed-out floating bridge mean you can usually get to the waterfall but not complete the full lakeside loop, and one end still stops at a washed-out bridge. Several wooden bridges along the route are in rough shape with broken planks and very slippery surfaces, so locals stick to the metal grid or even walk on the nail lines for better support. Bring more water than you think you’ll need, expect bugs in warmer months, and plan for wet, greasy clay and slick wood in fall and winter. The trail is open year-round, family-friendly for distance-tolerant kids, and quieter midweek with easy parking around 9 a.m.