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With the first snowfall already behind us, the lower mainland is getting chillier by the day. If you still like to get outside, we have compiled a list of winter hikes that are open during winter - which you don't need snowshoes for!
1. Burnaby Mountain
These trails are mostly known for mountain biking but they make for a good winter hike as well. Trek up through the trees to Simon Fraser University, and get a beautiful view of the Lower Mainland. These trails are kid and dog-friendly.
Location: Burnaby
Difficulty: Beginner/Easy
Length: 7 km+ (depending on which trail you choose)
Time: Around 3 hours
More info: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/burnaby-mountain/
2. Rainbow Lake
This hike is open year-round and has some beautiful views. The lake is usually frozen over in winter and is also used for Whistler's water supply.
Location: Whistler
Difficulty: Novice/Medium difficulty
Length: 16 km
3. Jug Island Beach
This is another winter-friendly trail that features the beautiful Jug Island beach. Just like rainbow lake, resist the urge to take a dip in the wintery water to swim out to Jug Island. We promise it's just a bunch of trees that you can just as easily snap a picture of from the shore.
Location: Port Moody
Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate
Length: 5.5 km
Time: Around 2 hours
4. Harrison Grind
The Harrison Grind is known as the baby brother (or sister) of the Grouse Grind. It's dog-friendly but definitely not for the faint of heart. The view though is definitely worth it!
Location: Fraser Valley
Difficulty: Hard/Intermediate
Length: 7 km