Rice Lake and Lynn Canyon Loop

Rice Lake and Lynn Canyon Loop in North Vancouver is a go-to when you want an easy hike that still feels like you’ve actually done something. At about 6 km with 151 m of gain, it’s an approachable loop that most people finish in around an hour and a half. You get classic Lynn Canyon vibes without committing to a big mountain day, and it’s close enough to the city that you can squeeze it in before or after work.

The loop usually links the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge area, Twin Falls, 30 Foot Pool, and the Rice Lake trail, mixing cool forest, creek views, waterfalls, and a calm lakeside finish. Expect some stair sections near the canyon that feel moderate for a few minutes, then it mellows out into a mostly flat, wide, well-maintained path around Rice Lake with solid shade and quiet forest. The canyon side can be busy with tourists, but once you get away from the bridge area it thins out and feels more local, especially around the lake.

Right now, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is closed for maintenance until December 2025, so you’ll need to adjust the standard Rice Lake and Lynn Canyon Loop route. Most hikers are either turning around at Twin Falls or using the Baden-Powell Trail and Pipeline Bridge to cross the river instead. Trails are generally in great shape with only light mud in spots, but parking can be a headache later in the morning, so arrive early. Rice Lake is not dog friendly, so if you’re hiking with a pup you’ll need to skip that section. The loop works well year-round, shines on cloudy days when views don’t matter, and on hot days the shaded forest and swim options near 30 Foot Pool are a big bonus.