A Hiker's Paradise: 3 Trails to Visit at E.C Manning Park This Summer

A Hiker's Paradise: 3 Trails to Visit at E.C Manning Park This Summer

 

Manning Park has so much to offer, and with only a (relatively) short 2.5 hour drive from Vancouver, it's more than worth taking some time out of your weekends this summer! This past weekend I headed into the park with friends and family to cross-country ski at the park, and in the process, felt inspired to share my three absolute favourite hikes at this provincial park.

  

3 Hikes to Visit in E.C Manning Park This Summer

 All of these hikes are challenging, so make sure you learn about the trail in advance, are prepared with the necessary gear, and have told someone where you are going!  

#1: Three Brothers Mountain

 

Hike Length: 20.4 km

Duration: 7-9 hours, depending on speed

Difficulty: Moderate

Dog Friendly: Yes

Season: Summer (the roads leading to these trails are subject to seasonal closures, so keep this in mind if you are too eager to wait until warmer months!)

Three Brothers Mountain (via Heather trail) is the most scenic hike in Manning Park, showing a full spectrum of wildflowers in bloom during the late summer months. It's also the most popular, so get there early if you want to avoid crowds!

 

#2: SKYLINE II TRAIL 

Hike Length: 20 km

Duration: 8-9 hours, depending on speed

Difficulty: Hard

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash

Season: Summer

My favourite hiking spot — it's an incredible hike, with psychedelic sunset skies and stunning views. It's also the second most popular trail, after Three Brothers. This trail is difficult, with 1200m elevation gain, but worth every step! If you are only able to do one overnight hike this summer, I highly recommend this being your choice! 

#3: FROSTY MOUNTAIN TRAIL

Hike Length: 21.2 km

Duration: 8-9 hours, depending on speed

Difficulty: Hard

Dog Friendly: Yes, on leash, although not recommended. There are a few areas where you have to scramble over sharp rocks, which isn't the best for your pup's paws and stability.

Season: Summer (until September)

Frosty Mountain has the highest elevation of all the peaks in E.C Manning Park, but it's views are well worth it! There is something extra special about this trail, particularly in the early fall: larch trees! Larches are deciduous conifers; come Autumn, their branches turn a bright gold, and it's breathtaking to see. 

Additional Hiking Tips

Some words of advice:

  • Check the weather before you go, especially if you are going near the end of September. Snow falls early in Manning Park - you definitely don't want to get caught in a snow storm unprepared!
  • Don't overestimate your hiking ability. If you are unsure whether you are able to hike a challenging/hard route, try an easier trail first to prepare yourself.
  • Bring your favourite treat/snack for the top. There's nothing quite like a bag of Sour Patch Kids after a grueling 13km mountain trek. Trust me, you won't regret it! 

 

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