Golden Ears Hike

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Features Fall Colors · Lake · Views

Being a popular route in Golden Ears Provincial Park and Metro Vancouver, this run offers some of the most spectacular views after some really challenging climbs. Lots of people run this in 10 to 12 hours (running might be a bit faster), which already makes it a long day run. However, if you'd prefer something even more special, e.g. catching up with a sunrise or sunset, another option would be camping at Alder Flat and make the trip overnight.

Golden Ears Provincial Park is open from 7 am to 11 pm and parking slots can fill up really quickly in summer weekends. So start early if you plan to finish in a day. And due to the high elevation, the peak might still have some snow patches even in the hottest summer days, so be prepared for cooler temperature and sunburns on top.

The trail to Golden Ears begins in the West Canyon parking lot. From there, follow the West Canyon Trail until it becomes Golden Ears Trail. You'll pass junctions for Menzie Trail and View Point Trail but don't take these turns, continue into the forest.

After some elevation gains on the steeper and rockier trail, you'll get to Gold Creek Lookout and Alder Flat Campground; that's where you'd stay if a two-day trip is planned. If not, keep pushing till it opens up after an hour or two, and you should have the panorama ridge of Golden Ears in sight.

Follow the trail onto the ridge and you are at the last section to summit Golden Ears. From the top and its breathtaking views, follow the same route back to the parking lot.