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A full-day guided ascent onto Vancouver’s iconic twin peaks, this hike trades crowds for raw alpine exposure, old-growth forest climbs, and sweeping coastal views. Expect steep trail, exposed scrambles, and panoramic rewards after a demanding day on the ridgeline.
A full-day guided ascent onto Vancouver’s iconic twin peaks, this hike trades crowds for raw alpine exposure, old-growth forest climbs, and sweeping coastal views. Expect steep trail, exposed scrambles, and panoramic rewards after a demanding day on the ridgeline.
You step out of private transport into a wash of cedar and Douglas fir; the trail immediately pitches up, cool air sliding down from the ridgelines as the peaks loom like carved stone guardians. Early bird calls and the chatter of creeks escort the climb, and the forest thins until alpine rock and wind-swept slabs open views back toward Vancouver and Bowen Island.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Vincent · Lions Bay, British Columbia
You step out of private transport into a wash of cedar and Douglas fir; the trail immediately pitches up, cool air sliding down from the ridgelines as the peaks loom like carved stone guardians. Early bird calls and the chatter of creeks escort the climb, and the forest thins until alpine rock and wind-swept slabs open views back toward Vancouver and Bowen Island.
The Lions—two volcanic remnants on the North Shore—have long been a visual landmark for the city below and a cultural reference for local First Nations. Geologically the peaks are part of the Coast Mountains’ rugged spine: hard, exposed rock, steep ridgelines and ledges carved by glaciation and weather. Expect mossy boulders in the lower forest, then a transition to scree, lichened rock and fragile alpine flora as you gain elevation.
On a guided day, pacing, route-finding and safety on exposed sections are priorities. The itinerary typically includes a steady forest ascent, a ridge approach to the Lions’ saddle, and top-of-the-world lunch slabs with views stretching to Mount Baker and Garibaldi. An optional, exposed scramble to West Lion is possible for experienced climbers but is not recommended for novices.
Practical guidance: this is a full-day, strenuous outing—plan for 8 hours, bring 1.5–2.5 L of water, layered clothing, sturdy boots and a lightweight first-aid kit. Start early for firmer footing, check mountain weather, and respect fragile alpine vegetation when pausing for photos.
challenging.
6–8 hours (guided).
Good aerobic fitness and strong legs for sustained climbs; comfortable with off-trail scrambling and long descents
Guided trips run about 6–8 hours; expect roughly 1,200–1,400 m of elevation gain and a long, steep round-trip distance typical of full-day alpine hikes.
The itinerary reaches the saddle with optional scramble to West Lion; the exposed summit scramble is for experienced scramblers and may be declined by guides for safety.
Most participants do not need technical climbing gear for the standard route, but a helmet, experience with exposed scrambling, or guided rope protection may be recommended for summit attempts.
You may see ravens, marmots or mountain goats; keep distance, store food securely, and follow your guide’s instructions for wildlife encounters and route safety.
The Lions have been a landmark for local Indigenous communities and early settlers; the peaks appear in regional folklore and long marked the North Shore skyline.
Trails pass fragile alpine meadows—stick to durable surfaces, pack out all waste, and follow Leave No Trace to protect rare plants and prevent erosion.
Vincent operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step out of private transport into a wash of cedar and Douglas fir; the trail immediately pitches up, cool air sliding down from the ridgelines as the peaks loom like carved stone guardians. Early bird calls and the chatter of creeks escort the climb, and the forest thins until alpine rock and wind-swept slabs open views back toward Vancouver and Bowen Island.
You step out of private transport into a wash of cedar and Douglas fir; the trail immediately pitches up, cool air sliding down from the ridgelines as the peaks loom like carved stone guardians. Early bird calls and the chatter of creeks escort the climb, and the forest thins until alpine rock and wind-swept slabs open views back toward Vancouver and Bowen Island.
The Lions—two volcanic remnants on the North Shore—have long been a visual landmark for the city below and a cultural reference for local First Nations. Geologically the peaks are part of the Coast Mountains’ rugged spine: hard, exposed rock, steep ridgelines and ledges carved by glaciation and weather. Expect mossy boulders in the lower forest, then a transition to scree, lichened rock and fragile alpine flora as you gain elevation.
On a guided day, pacing, route-finding and safety on exposed sections are priorities. The itinerary typically includes a steady forest ascent, a ridge approach to the Lions’ saddle, and top-of-the-world lunch slabs with views stretching to Mount Baker and Garibaldi. An optional, exposed scramble to West Lion is possible for experienced climbers but is not recommended for novices.
Practical guidance: this is a full-day, strenuous outing—plan for 8 hours, bring 1.5–2.5 L of water, layered clothing, sturdy boots and a lightweight first-aid kit. Start early for firmer footing, check mountain weather, and respect fragile alpine vegetation when pausing for photos.