The Lions

Visible from downtown Vancouver, the Lions, are two unique looking adjacent peaks. The Binkert trail, which brings you from Lion's Gate to the ridge just below the two peaks is easily the longest hike I've done, yet only average as far as hikes around here go.

There is parking for only 5 or 6 vehicles at the start of the hike, so you may have to drive around a little, and walk just a bit extra. The hike starts on gravel access road for a water treatment plant. It turns into more of an ATV track for 1 or 2 km before the actual trail-head. Once you get to the trail-head, things start to get interesting. There are a few nice views along the way, as well as fairly big mountain stream with a bridge. The trail winds its way through pine forest and a few rock slides before opening up in a spectacular view below the West Lion. For the last part of the hike (approximately 1 km), you are above the tree line (and when I was there, above the clouds as well), and most of the vegetation are small shrubs and a bit of moss/grass.

The hike starts on an access road

The whole trail is very clearly marked

I know I probably should have been ON the bridge, but I wanted a picture!

You make your way along a ridge until you're right below the hump (for lack of a better word) which is the peak of the West Lion. To your right a trail continues between the two lions and on to Porteau Cove (among other places, I imagine), and ahead of you is the trail (if you can call it a trail - it's mainly marked by coloured tape here and there on the rocks) to the peak. Climbing all the way to the peak is fairly involved and can be a dangerous undertaking. Only attempt to do so if you know what you're doing, and you have the proper equipment (such as a helmet).

Nearing the top - Leaving the trees behind

Getting to the peak involves climbing along a narrow ledge.

When I reached the top I spoke with a few different people who were there, and I learned that there are a few different ways to get to the Lions. Most people had started out at Cypress mountain, and a few people were planning on making a one way trip to Porteau Cove (about 20 km further), where they had left a vehicle that morning.

The East Lion

Watching the clouds come over the mountain

The West Lion

The Howe Sound to the west

My Rating:

4.5/5 stars. Beautiful views, perfect distance for a nice day of hiking. Lost half a point because nothing can be perfect. I think next time I'll try the path from Cypress.