North Shore Pulse: Chasing Snow and Sky on Cypress Mountain
Olympic-grade runs, ridge-line hikes, and Vancouver’s best sunset perch—30 minutes from downtown.
Dawn slides in over the Salish Sea like a slow-breathing tide, and Cypress Bowl Road climbs to meet it. Hemlock and cedar lean toward the pavement as if to inspect who’s coming this time, their boughs feathered with rime. The skyline of Vancouver blinks awake far below; Howe Sound exhales a slate-blue plume to the west. Up here on Cypress Mountain, nature doesn’t just set the scene—it moves the story forward. Trees crowd the switchbacks, frost stitches the ditches, and wind hustles along the high ridges. The mountain is asking a simple question: Are you game?
Trail Wisdom
Time your ascent
Arrive early on weekends for parking and softer morning snow; in summer, early starts help beat heat on exposed ridges.
Know your route
Trails like Eagle Bluffs and HSCT have junctions—download offline maps and carry a paper backup.
Dress for coastal mood swings
Layer up—wet snow, wind, and sudden fog are common even on sunny forecasts.
Hydrate and refuel smart
There’s limited potable water on ridgelines; carry 2 liters per person and pack high-calorie snacks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short detour to the Black Mountain tarns in late summer for mirror-still reflections
- •Hollyburn Lodge at golden hour for warm light and quiet tables
Wildlife
Black-tailed deer, Ravens
Conservation Note
Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion in fragile subalpine zones, and pack out all waste—ridge environments recover slowly.
Cypress Mountain hosted the snowboard and freestyle skiing events during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, and Hollyburn Lodge has welcomed snow travelers since the 1920s.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Late-season snowshoeing, Shoulder-season hiking
Challenges: Variable snowpack, Icy morning trails
Spring bridges winter and summer—expect lingering snow on higher trails and slushy afternoons. Microspikes are often useful.
summer
Best for: Howe Sound Crest Trail, Alpine sunsets at the lookout
Challenges: Exposure on ridges, Weekend crowds at viewpoints
Trails dry out and ridges open wide. Start early, bring sun protection, and plan for hot temperatures on rock.
fall
Best for: Crisp hiking days, Photogenic cloud inversions
Challenges: Shorter daylight, First storms rolling in
Cool air and dramatic skies make for moody views; carry a headlamp and waterproofs.
winter
Best for: Downhill and Nordic skiing, Snowshoeing and tubing
Challenges: Storm cycles and low visibility, Icy roads—winter tires required
Snow transforms the mountain into Vancouver’s playground. Check the snow report and drive conditions before you go.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hardshell jacketEssential
Coastal snow is often wet and windy—staying dry keeps you warm and moving.
Microspikes or traction aidsEssential
Icy sections linger on shaded trails and early mornings well into spring.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Short daylight can catch you out on ridge hikes; a reliable beam is a safety net.
Insulated bottle or thermos
Hot drinks boost morale and keep you hydrated in cold weather.
Common Questions
How long does it take to drive to Cypress Mountain from downtown Vancouver?
Plan on 30–45 minutes in light traffic. In winter, allow extra time for road conditions and parking.
Are rentals available for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing?
Yes. The resort offers rentals for downhill, Nordic, and snowshoeing; book online during peak season to secure gear.
Do I need winter tires to drive up Cypress Bowl Road?
Yes. British Columbia requires winter tires on mountain highways during the colder months. Check advisories before departure.
Is the Howe Sound Crest Trail suitable for beginners?
The full HSCT is challenging with exposure and significant elevation. Beginners should try shorter segments or consider a guided overnight experience.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not allowed on groomed Nordic ski trails; leashed dogs may be permitted on some summer hiking routes. Always verify current regulations.
What are two good summer hikes for first-timers?
Whyte Lake (about 5 km return) for a mellow rainforest loop, and the Black Mountain–Eagle Bluffs loop (8–9 km) for big views with moderate effort.
What to Pack
Waterproof layers for fast-changing coastal weather; microspikes in shoulder seasons for icy, shaded sections; 2 liters of water and high-calorie snacks for ridge routes; a paper map or offline GPS for complex junctions on HSCT and Eagle Bluffs.
Did You Know
Cypress Mountain was the official venue for snowboard and freestyle skiing events during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, including snowboard cross and ski cross—the latter making its Olympic debut there.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy lift or trail passes online to skip lines on peak weekends; use the Cypress Shuttle in winter to avoid mountain parking; start hikes early to secure spots and beat afternoon haze; check avalanche and weather advisories for any off-piste or backcountry plans.
Local Flavor
Warm up at Hollyburn Lodge with a bowl of chili or a cinnamon bun after a Nordic loop; cap your day with tacos or fish and chips down in Horseshoe Bay while ferry lights blink across the water.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: Hwy 1 to Cypress Bowl Rd, 30–45 minutes from Vancouver. Winter driving: winter tires required; carry chains if conditions warrant. Passes: buy lift/Nordic/snowshoe tickets online. Facilities: rentals, lessons, dining at both Alpine and Nordic areas. Cell service: spotty on ridgelines—download maps.
Sustainability Note
Carpool or take the shuttle to reduce parking pressure and emissions. Stay on durable surfaces, respect wildlife closures, and leave no trace—alpine and subalpine habitats are slow to heal.