West Lake via Baden Powell Trail

West Lake via Baden Powell Trail in West Vancouver is one of those routes that feels surprisingly wild for being so close to the city. At 9.3 km with around 576 m of gain and a high point near 908 m, it’s a solid half‑day outing that most hikers will find on the challenging side, especially on the steeper sections and in snow. The payoff is a quiet forest hike to a small, secluded lake that usually sees far fewer people than the bigger Cypress-area destinations.

The trail follows the Baden Powell Trail through classic North Shore forest, with long stretches of steady, consistent climbing rather than short, brutal grinds. You’ll get deep mossy woods, the sound of Brothers Creek, and, in wetter months, a strong waterfall show along the way. West Lake itself is calm and sheltered, great for a quiet break, fall colours, and a refreshing dip in late summer when the water warms up a bit.

Right now, the standard West Lake via Baden Powell Trail route cannot be completed as mapped because the Brothers Creek bridge on the Baden Powell is completely gone and the crossing is not safe; the closure is well signed and should be respected. Hikers are using alternate approaches from the Millstream Road trailhead, either linking Baden Powell after the Incline Railway Trail or heading up the Brothers Creek Fire Road, with the Incline option generally preferred. Expect lingering snow and soft sections near West Lake in winter and spring, when snowshoes or at least crampons are smart; June to November is usually the best window, and as always on the North Shore, check recent reports and be ready for fast-changing conditions.