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St Mark's Summit

West Vancouver, British Columbia

4.4/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

6.45 miles

Elevation Gain

1801 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Ian Tyley

St Mark's Summit is an incredible hike starting at Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver. Enjoy an amazing sunset from the summit and spectacular views of Howe Sound.

From the Cypress Mountain downhill parking lot, head north toward the nearby chairlift and look for the Howe Sound Crest Trail sign. The trail follows alongside the several ski runs until a sign that points to the right to the Howe Sound Crest Trail. Follow this trail uphill until it merges onto a wider ski run and veer to the left towards a large green water tower. Just before the tower, go right onto a trail and walk uphill through the trees.

After a short hike, the trail reaches a gravel road. Go left at the gravel road and continue as a short distance later the road narrows and becomes a trail. You are now on the Howe Sound Crest Trail and this route will take you to St. Mark's Summit.

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Features

Hiking
Forest
Scenic

St Mark's Summit Reviews

Hiked this trail the first weekend of May and it was snowyyyyy. The trail isn't difficult (minimal elevation gain) but the path became more slippery later in the day as it warmed up and with more hikers. Proper snow hiking shoes and hiking poles would've made the hike much easier (especially on our feet). Despite wet and cold feet, the view at the end was incredible. On a clear day you have panoramic views of the islands of Howe Sound, Tantalus range and Vancouver Island.

This trail has undergone some major upgrades in the past few years (up to 2016) and is now a gravel path for much of the route. It used to be a miserable root- and rock-fest with a seriously high potential for injury. It's a much more pleasant experience now, if a little boring, and passes through some lovely old-growth hemlock forest. Note there are no water sources along the way so take all you need. Note that in the winter the route crosses a big avalanche path that should only be crossed if the conditions are appropriate. This is unpatrolled backcountry - you should be prepared for self rescue.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hiking the Howe Sound Crest Trail

Snowshoe to St. Mark's Summit

Hike Eagle Bluffs

Hike to Mt. Strachan

Bowen Lookout

Snowshoe to Black Mountain and Eagle Bluffs