This week we head to Bowen Lookout. This trail is one of our go to trails for hiking as it is short and not too challenging, but still has a short and moderately steep section with switch backs that will break a sweat. As well, the view at the end of this trail is amazing, so we love hiking this trail both in summer and in winter. The trail can be accessed from Cypress Mountain. If you plan on going in the winter, plan to go early to beat the ski crowd, as Cypress Mountain contains one of the most popular ski resorts in Greater Vancouver. I will be writing about the winter trail in this post, as the winter trail and summer trail are slightly different. The winter trail itself is about 5km out-and-back with approximately 150m elevation gain. The first section of the trail is mostly flat, passing by streams and lakes. Eventually, the trail takes you into the forest, but only for a short while. As you emerge from the forest and continue past the end section of a cross country ski run, you cross a small bridge to begin the uphill climb of switchbacks. Just as you are about to feel tired from the uphill climb, there is a fork on the trail where you take to bring you to Bowen Lookout. The lookout got its name because it overlooks Bowen Island. The beautiful Howe Sound and mountain ranges to the north can also be seen. On a clear day with good visibility, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Vancouver Island far in the distance. Photos below are from our most recent hike to Bowen Lookout in January 2025.

It was foggy and raining slightly when we arrived at the parking lot. We got there just before 8am to beat the skiing crowd. Main parking lot was already half full when we arrived.

Weather started to get better and it started to clear up when we finished gearing up and started our hike. We passed by the ski resort on our way to the trailhead. There was no one, because ski resort opens at 9am and we passed by this spot at about 8:20am.

Trailhead.

Avalanche warning sign.

Trail starts off pretty flat.

Trail passes by several lakes and streams.

Snow on trees as well.

Trail marker/signs so you won't get lost.

Little one had been hiking on his own for a while. He enjoyed this winter hike.

Final section before the viewpoint.

Viewpoint. The large island behind the two dead trees is Bowen Island.

Mountain range to the north/northwest.

We saw a couple making fresh breakfast, cooking fresh eggs, toasting toasts, frying bacon, and all, at the viewpoint. We also saw this other couple taking photos of birds with huge lens. I came up with a joke, pointed at the couple with the huge lens, and told my kids "Now I understand why it's called Canon."

We don't have DSLRs or Canons, but my wife with her mere iPhone was able to capture a photo of this bird. I believe this is a Steller's jay.

On our way back to the parking lot. The lazy winter sun is higher up now and had burned away all the fog.

Back on the flat section of the trail, nearing the parking lot.

Our drive down the mountain. Long line up just to get to the third or fourth overflow parking. Main parking and the first two overflow parking were completely full when we left.

Check out my previous hikes: