Hoover Lake Trail

Hoover Lake Trail in Mission is one of those hikes you do when you want a solid workout more than a postcard view. This 7.9 km out-and-back climbs about 356 m along an old forest service road before dropping to the lake, and most people wrap it up in around 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s rated moderate, but the steady uphill and sometimes messy conditions can make it feel a bit tougher on a bad weather day.

The first chunk of the Hoover Lake Trail is basically a grind up a logging road with limited scenery, though the surrounding forest and occasional openings keep it from feeling boring. The last kilometre is where it feels more like a real trail as you leave the road and head down toward Hoover Lake, with quiet shoreline, old logs to sit on, and calm water that’s more about relaxing than dramatic views. Some side paths down to the water shown on maps don’t really exist or are hard to follow, so stick to the main signed route.

Recent hikers report snow from the base in winter, with the parking lot plowed and snowshoes very useful all the way up, plus the odd possible bear track, so bring poles, traction, and bear spray. In wet weather the final trail to the lake gets soft, muddy, and slick, and wind and rain can make it feel pretty raw, so waterproof boots and layers are key. Hoover Lake Trail is open most of the year but can be subject to forestry closures, so always check Mission’s trail updates before you go and treat this as a fitness hike with a quiet lake finish rather than a highly scenic destination.