Seymour Valley Trailway to Seymour Dam

Seymour Valley Trailway to Seymour Dam in North Vancouver is the classic “looks easy, feels harder than you think” kind of outing. This 22.9 km out-and-back is fully paved, rolls gently up and down with about 367 m of gain, and usually takes just over 5 hours on foot, less on a bike. It’s rated moderate, but the distance and steady hills add up, so plan it as a proper day out, not a casual stroll.

The trailway follows the Seymour River through forest in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, with long, quiet stretches and big valley views near the dam. You’ll share the route with road bikes, runners, families, and the odd heavily loaded bikepacker grinding the longer climbs. At the top, you get strong views over Seymour Dam and Seymour Lake, plus clear sightlines to the North Shore peaks, with picnic tables and a covered shelter for a break before turning around.

Recent visitors describe it as a hilly ride with some longer, tiring grades, especially for beginners or anyone hauling extra gear, but the smooth pavement and regular washrooms and water refill spots make it very manageable. Expect lots of cyclists, possible wildlife sightings like deer and the occasional black bear near Rice Lake, and note that dogs aren’t allowed because this is a drinking water supply area. The Seymour Valley Trailway to Seymour Dam is open year-round, great on a clear winter day or a cool summer morning, but check Metro Vancouver’s site for any seasonal road closures or construction notices, like bridge work near Rainbow Creek or limited hours at the nearby salmon hatchery.