Hanes Valley Loop

Hanes Valley Loop in North Vancouver is one of those routes that separates “I like hiking” from “I live for this.” This 22.9 km loop with around 1,287 m of gain is a long, committing day that feels more like a mini-expedition than a casual walk in the woods. It links Lynn Headwaters Regional Park to Grouse Mountain and back, and once you’re in the valley, turning around is not always simple.

The hike starts on the familiar Lynn Headwaters approach, then quickly shifts into rough, remote terrain past Norvan Falls as you enter Hanes Valley proper. Expect river rock, boulder fields, and a steep grind up toward the Grouse Chalet area, with big views of the North Shore peaks and the valley behind you once you gain elevation. From Grouse, the route loops back down via Dreamweaver and the Baden Powell, dropping you back into the forest and eventually to your starting point.

Right now, the usual log crossing of the river after Norvan Falls is reported as impassable due to high water and shifted debris, which is a serious issue on this route. Check current conditions and seasonal closures for Lynn Headwaters and the Hanes Valley Trail before you go, as this area typically only opens safely from mid-summer to mid-fall and can change fast with rain or snow. No dogs are allowed, start early, bring a helmet if you’re wary of rockfall in the boulder field, and be ready for a long, demanding day rather than the oddly short “44 minutes” some stats suggest.