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Cypress Mountain

Located on the North Shore in West Vancouver, Cypress Provincial Park is more than just the home of Cypress Mountain Ski Resort. It offers incredible year-round recreational activities, attracting skiers in winter and hikers, campers, and mountain bikers in the warmer months.

Covering 30 square kilometers, Cypress Provincial Park became internationally recognized as a 2010 Winter Olympic Games venue. The park is easily accessible via Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway/Upper Levels Highway), and visitors can also reach it using ParkBus, which provides transportation from downtown Vancouver to various provincial parks.

 

Scenic Mountains & Trails

Cypress Bowl, the park’s central area, comprises three mountains:

  • Mount Strachan
  • Black Mountain
  • Hollyburn Mountain

These mountains serve as ski terrain in winter and transform into prime hiking destinations in spring, summer, and fall. Popular trails include the Howe Sound Crest Trail and a section of the Baden-Powell Trail.

 

Barrett’s View Lookout: A Must-See Viewpoint

Located about six kilometers up Cypress Bowl Road, Barrett’s View (Highview Lookout) offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Lower Mainland. Positioned just before a sharp hairpin turn, this scenic lookout is a perfect quick stop for visitors, especially on a clear day. Many people drive up solely for the view, as it is one of the most stunning spots in the region.

 

Summer Activities at Cypress Provincial Park

During the summer, Cypress is an ideal spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry adventures. The area near the main parking lot at the top of the mountain features picnic tables, washrooms, and the Crazy Raven Restaurant for added convenience.

Top Hiking Trails

Cypress offers trails suitable for all fitness levels, including:

  • Cabin Lake Trail
  • Bowen Lookout
  • St. Mark’s Summit
  • Howe Sound Crest Trail (longer, challenging route)
  • Baden-Powell Trail
  • Yew Lake Trail – A short, family-friendly route with excellent wildlife viewing

 

Mountain Biking at Cypress

The park also features some of BC’s most thrilling mountain biking trails, many of which follow winter ski routes. These trails are renowned for their difficulty and attract experienced riders seeking an adrenaline rush.

 

Backcountry Hiking & Camping

For those looking for a more rugged outdoor experience, Cypress offers backcountry hiking and camping. Key backcountry camping sites along the Howe Sound Crest Trail include:

  • Magnesia Meadows (14.5 km from Cypress Mountain Resort)
  • Brunswick Lake (19 km from Cypress Mountain Resort)
  • Deeks Lake (22 km from Cypress Mountain Resort)

Backpacking and camping are permitted year-round, but adventurers should be well-prepared as the terrain can be challenging, and weather conditions change rapidly. Following the Leave No Trace principles is essential—campers must pack out all waste, and campfires are prohibited.

 

Annual Events at Cypress Mountain

  • New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Ring in the new year with a dazzling fireworks display over the mountain.

  • Family Day Weekend: Enjoy a fun-filled holiday with special family-friendly activities and fireworks.

  • Brewski Fest: A seasonal event (held some years) where pass holders aged 19+ can sample free craft beer.

  • Outdoor Barbecues: Occasionally, Cypress hosts free outdoor BBQs, perfect for refueling after a day on the slopes!

Want to see what’s happening next? Check out the Cypress Mountain Events Calendar for the latest updates.

 

The Eagle Coaster Attraction

Since 2021, Cypress Mountain has been home to the Eagle Coaster, a thrilling summer ride that blends the excitement of an alpine slide, toboggan, and roller coaster all in one.

This gravity-powered ride takes visitors down a winding mountain track, offering a unique and exhilarating experience. While it doesn’t have steep drops like a traditional roller coaster, it follows a twisting path close to the ground for an adrenaline-packed descent. Riders can control their speed, making it a fun adventure for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Eagle Coaster Highlights:

  • Solo or Tandem Ride: One adult (or one adult and a small child) per cart.

  • Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery on your way down.

  • Fun for All Ages: Perfect for kids and adults looking for a summer thrill!

 

Winter Activities at Cypress Mountain

In winter, Cypress transforms into Metro Vancouver’s largest ski hill, offering downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing. The park also features designated areas for backcountry snowshoeing and winter camping.