Important: The trailhead across the highway from the viewpoint is no longer accessible due to a 30-minute parking restriction. Now, hikers are advised to begin the trail at the trailhead on Sunset Drive in Lions Bay. This is the same trailhead commonly used for hikes like Brunswick Mountain and The Lions and requires payment for parking (unless you park on the street). Outdoor Vancouver has a useful and updated guide on how to complete this hike with the new access point.
The Tunnel Bluffs Hike just after Lions Bay is a fun and dog-friendly hike that’ll reward you with an amazing view at the top. While certainly not an easy hike, it’s manageable and should only take 3 – 4 hours roundtrip depending on your fitness level.
Note for dog owners: Some sites list this hike as on-leash only, but as this hike is a rugged wilderness hike, there is no official law stating dogs must be leashed. If your dog is a capable hiker, obedient, and friendly, we say let fido run free!
Tunnel Bluffs is a great hike to kick off the season when higher alpine hikes are still covered in snow. While the trail is not too exciting, there are several viewpoints that give you an excuse to rest for a few minutes before beginning your climbing again.
Getting to the start of the Tunnel Bluffs hike will require a car. You’ll be driving the beautiful Sea to Sky Highway until the Lions Bay community.
Once you get to the top of Tunnel Bluffs, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view towards Bowen Island and the Sunshine Coast as well as south to Horseshoe Bay and along the Sea To Sky Highway.
Directions from Vancouver Trails: From the parking lot at the Sunset Trailhead in Lions Bay, begin your hike following the service road as it climbs steeply at the first switchback. The first section of this hike on the road is the steepest and it continues until you reach the Brunswick Mountain junction after 6 switchbacks (at the 7th switchback). Continue uphill and pass the water reservoir on your right. When you reach what looks like a junction, go right and follow the rocky road as it climbs quickly.
At the 7th switchback, and after hiking for about 30-40 minutes up the road, watch for signs on a tree on the left next to a trail that leaves the road. Go left and leave the road, following the Mount Brunswick Trail (continuing uphill will take you to the Lions Binkert Trail).
This hike has become incredibly popular, so it’s a good idea to try and tackle it during off-peak times (i.e. not during the weekend) to get a parking spot.
No Comments