Baden Powell Trail: Cleveland Dam to First Lake

Baden Powell Trail: Cleveland Dam to First Lake is one of those West Vancouver routes you do more for the challenge and continuity than for constant views. This 15 km out-and-back climbs about 862 m to roughly 956 m elevation and usually takes around 5.5 to 6 hours, so it’s a solid day out. Expect a mix of suburban approach, classic North Shore forest, and a quiet finish at First Lake near Hollyburn.

The start from Cleveland Dam is the weakest part: about 2.5 km of road, neighbourhood, and utility corridor that feels more like a commute than a hike. Once you’re past that, the Baden Powell settles into proper forest trail, with creek crossings, roots, and steady climbing toward Hollyburn Lodge and then First Lake. The lake itself is calm and pretty, but don’t expect big panoramic views; this section of the Baden Powell is more about being in the woods and linking up a key piece of the full Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove route.

Recent hikers report that Brothers Creek is crossable, but a bridge at the waterfall is still out, and stone-hopping is risky, especially in higher water; take signed detours when you see them. Around Millstream Fire Access Road and the Skyline junction, the Baden Powell markers can be faint or missing, so download a map and watch for flagging. Snow often lingers from around Hollyburn Lodge upward, especially outside late spring to fall, so bring traction in shoulder seasons, expect wet and muddy sections, and know that this section is best suited to hikers who already appreciate the longer Baden Powell Trail in West Vancouver rather than those chasing big payoff views.