Caterpillar Connector and Mad Hatter

Caterpillar Connector and Mad Hatter is a short, easy loop tucked into the mountain bike network just outside Squamish, BC. At 2.9 km with about 106 m of gain and a high point around 515 m, it’s more of a mellow wander in the woods than a big summit push, which makes it a good leg-stretcher before or after bigger Squamish hikes or climbing days.

The loop starts via Ed’s access road, then ducks into the Caterpillar Connector trail before linking onto Mad Hatter. You’re in classic Squamish forest the whole way: packed dirt, roots, mossy rock, and filtered light through the trees, with the odd peek at surrounding hills but no big viewpoint moment. The route is popular with local mountain bikers and runners, so expect a bit of traffic even if it doesn’t feel crowded.

Right now, hikers report the Caterpillar Connector and Mad Hatter loop as easy going but very much a shared-use zone, so staying alert for bikes is key. The trail can get slick after rain, with roots and wood features holding moisture, so decent tread on your shoes helps even though the elevation gain is modest. It’s hikeable year-round most winters thanks to Squamish’s mild climate, but fall and spring bring mud, and after storms there can be small blowdowns or puddles on the access road, so plan for a slower pace than the short distance might suggest.