Enchantment Peak

Enchantment Peak in West Vancouver is one of those hikes that looks reasonable on paper and then absolutely humbles you in real life. The stats read 22.4 km with 1,870 m of gain to about 1,575 m, but the rugged terrain makes this an extreme effort, not a casual big day. Most strong hikers treat it as a serious objective, and many people are now recommending a two-day trip instead of trying to crush it in one push.

The route follows the Howe Sound Crest Trail from the Cypress Lodge area, busy up to Saint Mark’s Summit and then quickly quiet once you commit past the crowds. Past Saint Mark’s and over Unnecessary Mountain, the trail turns rough, steep, and slow, with roots, rock steps, and rope sections that keep your hands busy and your pace low. About 300 metres past Thomas Peak, you leave the main trail and go off-route toward Enchantment Peak, so having a downloaded map and solid navigation skills is key, especially if clouds roll in.

Recent hikers say Enchantment Peak is “great as always,” but warn that the distance hides how punishing the elevation and technical terrain really are. Plan for a very long day or, better yet, an overnight with extra food, layers, and plenty of water since refill spots are limited along the ridge. Snow, mud, and lingering ice can hang around into early summer, and the area around Cypress often has seasonal closures, so check BC Parks updates and aim for a July to October window for the safest shot at clear travel and big Howe Sound views.