ELLYHIKES

Rain or shine, this local provincial park has something for everyone, any time of year.

In the deepest, darkest part of Vancouver winter, when the sun hasn’t shone in months, a walk through the Golden Ears will help you remember just why you moved here in the first place. 

Golden Ears, although stunning all year round, is one of those places that takes on a magical, moody charm in the winter. Where the gentle, everlasting drizzle is not avoided, but welcomed, as you walk through a forest alive and coated in bright green moss. 

The drive out to the Provincial Park is just over an hour along the BC-17. The park is open for day hikers, to explore the array of trails and beaches, but also has amazing front country camping and backcountry camping opportunities- both still on my bucket list. 

If you are just visiting for the day, there are two must see trails in the park that will allow you to make the most of your time there. We chose to park farther away from the trails, and closer to the campsite. We followed the road on foot and over the single lane bridge. This presented a great view of the fog rolling through the mountains and was well worth the added 1 km to our hike.

Trail of Fallen Giants – linked here

This short trail is just under 1 kilometre and should not take you more than 15 minutes to complete; perfect for a warm-up before you hike the Lower Creek Falls. Along this trail you will discover massive trees and draping moss. The forest floor is coated in massive, green ferns and transports you to a rainforest that seems so far removed from the city you just left. If you find yourself visiting the park in the fall, this is one of the best places to see the leaves changing colour. 

Lower Gold Creek Falls Trails (to East Canyon Trail) – linked here

This trail is one of my favourites in the park. Constantly changing based on the season, the trail winds through the forest and spits you out at a beautiful waterfall. In the warmer months, you can wade into the pool at the end, and in the winter, you can admire the strength of the crushing water coming down from the mountains. 

Lower Creek Falls is a longer trail, coming in at just under 9 km round trip. The trail is mostly flat, and perfect to bring kids or dogs. You will pass by the rushing creek, pebble beaches, and under massive, old growth trees. There is not a better walk in Vancouver for a rainy Sunday.