Brothers Creek - Crossover - Baden Powell Trail

Brothers Creek - Crossover - Baden Powell Trail in West Vancouver is a compact loop that still feels like a real mountain hike. At 3.7 km with about 254 m of gain, it’s classed as moderate, but the steady climb will get your legs and lungs working. Most people wrap it up in around an hour and a half, making it a solid after-work or weekend option when you want something short but not boring.

The loop climbs quickly through classic North Shore forest, with a good chunk of the route being honest uphill before easing off near the top. Once you hit the Baden Powell, go right for a few minutes to catch Brothers Creek Falls, which is the highlight for many. If you’re keen to stretch it out, continue on the Crossover past the Baden Powell to visit the massive old-growth Hollyburn Fir, then drop down via the Brewis Trail for a slightly longer and more interesting circuit.

Recent hikers report a steep 2 km grind up, a short mellow section, then about 2 km of downhill, so solid footwear matters, especially on the roots and mud. The trail can be hard to follow in spots, and it’s often muddy, with snow and ice lingering above about 600 m in the colder months; melt-freeze cycles make it slick, so microspikes are a smart call in shoulder season and winter. Expect mostly dry ground from late spring to fall, but always assume wet patches in this part of West Vancouver and plan extra time if you’re adding the falls or Hollyburn Fir side trips.