Crown Mountain hike Vancouver BC

Crown Mountian on Vancouver’s North Shore is one of the most difficult hikes near Vancouver.

It’s not exceptionally long at a distance of about 10 km from the Grouse Mountain lodge, but there’s a lot of steep climbing then steep down climbing followed by more steep uphill climbing and a short Crown Mountain scramble section to reach the Crown Mountain summit.

All that up and down can feel like a lot more effort than just going up!

Still, this hike near Vancouver offers beautiful views (when you get a clear day) and you can cut out some of the up and downhill by taking the Grouse Mountain gondola.

You can even celebrate with a drink at the lodge!

Crown Mountain hike, Vancouver

Crown Mountain lies behind Grouse Moutain.

You’ll see where it got the name from when you look at it from a distance; the jagged rocks at the peak do make it look like a crown!

On a clear day, you’ll be able to enjoy views of The Lions, Capilano Watershed, and downtown Vancouver in the distance, plus many of the other coastal mountain peaks.

As mentioned, the hike downhill before going back uphill makes this hike more difficult than you’d first think. You essentially have to hike the elevation change twice!

How to get to the Crown Mountain trailhead

When it comes to getting to the Crown Mountain trailhead you’ve got two options. You can either hike from the bottom of the Grouse Mountain gondola via the Grouse Grind, BCMC, or one of the other trails alongside them. Or, you can take the gondola up to the lodge and hike from there.

You can get to the bottom of the Grouse gondola via public transit too, making this a great hike in Vancouver accessible by public transport.

Since I have an annual pass for the gondola I took the easy route and met some friends at the Grouse Lodge.

From the Grouse Lodge, you’ll want to take the Alpine Trail.

You’ll find this by following the grizzly bear feet on the floor towards the bear den (say hi to Grinder and Coola!) and continuing past them with them on your left towards the ski run.

Left of the ski run you’ll see a gravel road that takes you into the backcountry behind Grouse. This is the beginning of the Crown Mountain trail!

Crown Mountain hike stats

• Distance: 10 km
• Duration: 6-8 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Total Elevation Gain: 800
• Crown Mountain AllTrails map

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

Crown Mountain hike guide

Continue on the gravel road as you walk with steep rocks on your right and mountain views to your left. This road is wide and nice and flat so make the most of it!

As soon as the trail comes to an end you’ll start making your way uphill and through the forest.

The trail narrows and you’ll pass over and under a few pipes.

Keep your eyes open for the trail markers and small wooden signs. You may also hear some screaming from the ziplines nearby too!

The signs you’re looking for are the ones pointing you to the Alpine Trail, the first one says Ridge Trail, the second one has the Alpine Trail and you’ll come out to a zip line platform.

Continue on the Alpine Trail climbing up and going past a few junctions which would take you to Thunderbird Ridge, Dam Mountain, and Little Goat Mountain.

After the last junction to Little Goat, you’ll start descending and should take a path down to your left marked for Crown Mountain.

If it’s a clear day (not like when I hiked it!), you should be able to see your destination!

One of the trickiest parts of the hike starts now as you walk, or slide in some mud, downhill towards Crown Pass.

It’s often pretty slippery down here and there are some chains bolted into the rocks to help you navigate the rocks and mud.

Take your time and once you’ve managed that section there’s a small boulder field to cross.

Then you head back into the forest and the junction of Crown Pass with the Hanes Valley Trail.

Head uphill to the left and climb steeply over large roots and rocks. It’s steep here until you come out to another boulder field, a bit larger than the last one.

Follow the yellow spray-painted markers on the rocks to make sure you stick to the trail. If you don’t see them, just make sure you’re headed to the gap in the forest across the boulder field.

There’s more climbing to go yet as you come out to another boulder field!

This boulder field offers views towards the Capilano Watershed area.

Continue along the trail and up over some rocks until you see a large spray-painted dot on the side of the rock.

This is your final climb!

Either climb up onto the peak by the big dot or follow a small trail to the left and climb up onto the rock around the side.

Make sure you’re super careful here as slipping and falling could end very badly.

If you’ve hiked to Crown Mountain on a clear day, spend some time up here enjoying the view of Vancouver, Hanes Valley, and the mountains as far as Squamish!

Head back the way you came before taking the gondola or the BCMC down the mountain to the parking lot.

What to know before you go

• Best time for Crown Mountain: Late July – mid/late September. Lynn Headwaters backcountry (where this trail goes) is closed in winter.
• Be adventure smart: Remember to respect the terrain, environment, and other users while you are enjoying the trails. Follow the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials AdventureSmart is a great resource to help you get informed before heading outdoors
• Pack your 10 essentials.
• Take bear spray, you’re hiking in bear country! And remember your bear safety tips.
• Remember to leave no trace.

What to pack for Crown Mountain BC

Here are the top 5 items I recommend packing for your Crown Mountain hike. You should also take a look at my complete day hike packing list which includes more information on exactly what I use.

• Hiking Boots: Preferably waterproof, offering ankle support to navigate Crown Mountain’s rugged terrains.
• Moisture-Wicking Socks: These help prevent blisters and provide comfort during long hikes.
• GPS Device or Smartphone: A device equipped with reliable hiking apps and offline maps ensures you stay on course and can be a lifesaver in case of deviations.
• Garmin InReach: You likely won’t get cell signal, so this is super useful in case of difficulties.
• Layered Clothing: Pack breathable base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer suitable for unpredictable weather changes.
• Rain Gear: A lightweight, packable, and breathable rain jacket and pants, crucial given Vancouver’s rain-prone climate.
• Hat & Gloves: Protective gear against the sun, cold, or both, depending on the season and forecast.
• Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder: Ensure hydration by carrying at least 2 liters of water for the hike.
• High-Energy Snacks: Portable sources of energy like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruits to keep stamina up.
• Packable Lunch: I like a sandwich with my snacks!
• First Aid Kit: A hiking-specific kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and any personal medication.
• Bear Spray: An essential precaution given the possibility of wildlife encounters in this area.
• Headlamp: For added safety, especially if the hike extends into the evening or starts before dawn.

Final thoughts on hiking Crown Mountain Vancouver

The Crown Mountain hike behind the iconic Grouse Mountain in Vancouver British Columbia, is an adventure that is challenging but offers some incredible views.

From its crown-like jagged peak to the breathtaking views of The Lions, Capilano Watershed, and the distant skyline of downtown Vancouver, you’re definitely rewarded for your efforts

If you’re looking for more hard hikes near Vancouver, be sure to check out the Brunswick Mountain trail; the North Shore’s highest Peak, of the Three Peaks of Mount Seymour. Mount Harvey near Lions Bay is also another great challenging hike to do.

For hikes near Vancouver in spring I’ve got a huge list of snow-free trails, and I’ve got more ideas for hikes in fall in Vancouver including some lower elevation trails that are perfect for rainy day activities in Vancouver.

There’s also this guide to the best winter hikes in Vancouver too.

Last Updated on December 29, 2023 by Hannah