Hydraulic Connector and Fisherman's Trail North Loop

Hydraulic Connector and Fisherman's Trail North Loop in North Vancouver is a long, easy grinder of a route that’s more about steady movement than big views. At roughly 15 km with only about 253 m of gain, it’s a solid option if you want a longer walk or ride without serious climbing, and it links the Fisherman’s Trail with the paved Seymour Trailway into one continuous loop.

Expect a mix of smooth gravel, some rougher drain dips on Fisherman’s, and then wide, hard pavement on the Seymour Trailway. The Seymour River is often in earshot but not always easy to access, and the scenery is fairly low-key aside from the Mid Valley / Hydraulic Connector lookout and the odd spur view. Many people hike out along Fisherman’s Trail for the river feel, then cruise back on the pavement to finish near Rice Lake, which is calm and a nice place to cool down.

Recent reports say parts of Fisherman’s Trail have closures and detours due to washouts and landslides, and signage can be confusing in spots, so download a map and avoid exploring sketchy side paths. The loop is very popular with cyclists; walkers need to stay alert, especially on the paved Seymour Trailway where bikes move fast. The route is open year-round and works well on sloppy days, but expect more mud on the gravel sections, no dogs allowed, and a bit of pushing on the steeper loose bits of the Hydraulic Connector if you’re on a bike or not used to uneven surfaces.