West Lake via Hollyburn Trail

West Lake via Hollyburn Trail is one of the easiest hikes you can do in West Vancouver, starting from the Cypress Mountain area. It’s a short 4.2 km out-and-back with only about 101 m of elevation gain, usually wrapped up in just over an hour, so it feels more like a relaxed walk than a leg-burner. If you want a simple route with a clear path and a lake to cool off in at the end, this one does the job.

The trail basically follows the cross-country ski routes, so expect wide, groomed-style paths instead of rugged singletrack. You’ll pass Hollyburn Lodge and First Lake on your way to West Lake, with a few open viewpoints over the water and surrounding hills but not much in the way of deep forest. The payoff is at the lakes themselves, with West Lake and First Lake offering calm water, simple views, and a laid-back vibe that suits beginners, families, or anyone easing into hiking around West Vancouver.

Current reports are clear: this is a very simple hike and not the most exciting option if you like technical trails or dense forest. It’s great for an easy outing, a quick swim in West Lake in summer, or a low-commitment walk on Cypress, but if you can handle more distance and elevation, locals often recommend the Blue Gentian Lake – West Lake loop instead for a more interesting route. Check BC Parks for seasonal closures and winter conditions, as this area is heavily used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and expect mud or slush in shoulder seasons along the Hollyburn Trail.