Trade the city skyline for a night on Vancouver’s horizon line. This guided two-day traverse camps between The Lions and follows the Howe Sound Crest Trail over granite spines and broad-view ridges—rugged, scenic, and fully supported.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Moss-dark forest swallows the noise of the city as you leave Cypress Mountain’s lodge behind, boards creaking under pack straps while creeks chatter over granite. The trail rises in cool switchbacks past old hemlock and cedar, then breaks free at St. Mark’s Summit where Howe Sound spreads below—emerald islands afloat on steel-blue water, ferries cutting pale wakes, the wind urging you higher along the crest. By afternoon the ridge turns combed and raw. Granite ribs lift into the sky and the trail threads them, daring you to trust your feet. The Two Lions—called Ch'ich'iyúy Elxwíkn by the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People—stand close enough to feel their stone hold the day’s warmth. Camp goes up in the saddle between them, stoves whispering while city lights flicker far away. Night is alpine-quiet. Stars shoulder into view. The ridge keeps watch.
Difficulty
difficult
Duration
2 days, 1 night
Fitness Level
Comfortable hiking 12–18 km per day with 900–1,200 m of gain while carrying an 8–12 kg pack.
Wildlife
History
The Lions are known to the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh as Ch'ich'iyúy Elxwíkn (Twin Sisters) and are culturally significant. Much of the ridge terrain was sculpted by Pleistocene ice, leaving today’s clean granite slabs and basins.
Conservation
You’ll travel through sensitive alpine in Cypress Provincial Park and beyond—stay on durable surfaces, pack out all waste, and note that campfires are prohibited. Group sizes are limited to reduce impact on fragile meadows and heather mats.
Reserve your spot on the ️ Howe Sound Crest Trail Overnight Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start before the crowds
Leave Cypress early to clear the popular St. Mark’s section and buy time for the slower, technical ridge later in the day.
Manage water smartly
Creeks can run thin by late summer—top up where guides suggest and carry 2–3 liters between sources.
Pack for exposure
Wind bites on the crest even in July; bring a windproof shell, warm mid-layer, gloves, and sun protection.
Poles help on steep descents
Trekking poles add stability on rooty drops toward Harvey Pass and the long descent to Porteau Cove.
Waterproof-breathable hiking boots
Sturdy traction and ankle support are key on wet roots, slabby granite, and loose descents.
Layering system (merino base, insulated mid, wind/rain shell)
Rapid weather shifts on the crest demand quick warmth and wind/rain protection.
spring
Trekking poles
Poles save knees on big descents and add balance on rocky traverses.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Shorter daylight and forested approaches make reliable lighting essential for camp and early starts.
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