The park's namesake, Golden Ears (Mount Blanshard) rises to 1,716 metres and offers hikers panoramic views of the Fraser Valley and surrounding peaks. First, Golden Ears Park is open from 7 am to 11 pm so if you intend to complete this hike in a day without camping or being locked behind the gate in the park then you must start early. You'll traverse some steep, tall steps, a dried up riverbed, and plunge into forest before you finally encounter some exposed rock cliffs. government announced earlier this week that camping spots at Golden Ears Provincial Park in Maple Ridge will only be available through online reservations during peak season. Most spots fill up quickly by reservation as this is a popular park for camping. Camping Backcountry: There are several backcountry campsites for paddlers on Pitt Lake and Alouette Lake. Rating: DifficultDistance: 21 kmNet Elevation Change*: 1,183 mHighest Point: 1,372 mTime Needed: 11+ HoursType: Out-and-back, Season: July – SeptemberDogs Allowed: YesDriving Time from Vancouver: 90 MinutesTrailhead Coordinates: 49.327226, -122.463092, Rating: DifficultDistance: 24 kmNet Elevation Change*: 1,527 mHighest Point: 1,716 mTime Needed: 12+ HoursType: Out-and-back, Season: July – SeptemberDogs Allowed: YesEst. Selected filters. Note that the shelter itself is for emergencies only. Keep grinding uphill until you eventually come to an opening to another view of Edge Mountain et. Golden Ears. You will cross over a footbridge. There are also two other walk-in sites along the East Canyon Trail – Viewpoint Beach and Half Moon Beach. Spend some time to explore some of the small alpine lakes before you head back to Camp 1 to pack up and head down. The Allouette Mountain Trail is a difficult 10-kilometre summit, but the reward is stunning panoramic views. There will be signs. This time up an old service road. The park is gated, so you won’t be able to enter/ leave outside those hours. From Vancouver head east on the Lougheed Highway; turn off heading north on 232nd Street and follow the signs into Golden Ears Provincial Park. There are, as of 2019, some first-come first-served sites are available. Golden Ears – Camping season is not far off and Golden Ears Provincial Park will be 100% reservable during peak season, from May to September. More expansive views will open on your right as you get into the sub-alpine, with Golden Ears on your left. If you camp here you can enjoy the sunset on the ridge in addition to the sunrise on the north face of Golden Ears. The Golden Ears Summit is a spectacular hike that always makes for a memorable day – for both its beauty and its challenge. As this is alpine, the trail is now an exposed rocky path. From Viewpoint Beach, on a clear day, you can see Golden Ears and also Raven Peak. Where: Golden Ears Provincial Park Time needed: 2 days Dogs Allowed? There are three campgrounds spread out along the shores of Alouette Lake that have over 400 campsites combined. Wildflowers. Just before 4 km, you will come to the Gold Creek Lookout. First, Golden Ears Park is open from 7 am to 11 pm so if you intend to complete this hike in a day without camping or being locked behind the gate in the park then you must start early. The Ministry of Environment said Wednesday that all the camping sites will have to be reserved online, during the peak season, from May to September. The popularity of camping in BC Parks has grown significantly over the years. With that model, 15 per cent of the sites will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The trail here is generally heading due north. Golden Ears sits at the south end of the park leading into the Fraser Valley. The path to the right is marked for Lower Falls. Golden Ears is the name of the summit that lies north of Maple Ridge, British Columbia and is visible from most of the western Lower Mainland.The mountain is in Golden Ears Provincial Park, and was originally referred to as Golden Eyries, [1] [2] possibly for Golden Eagles that were observed near the summit. One slight edit. There are three frontcountry campgrounds in this park: Gold Creek, Alouette and North Beach. Golden Ears Provincial Park, the southern neighbour to Garibaldi, has three excellent and advanced hiking choices. The trail zigs up to the right, on an old logging road, and starts to climb uphill. The trail here is flat, heavily forested, and scenic. After the bridge, the trail drops back down again. Become a Patron! You can access these trails from rear of our campground at two trail heads. Golden Ears Provincial Park. Edge Peak Evans Peak Golden Ears Alouette Mtn Blanshard Needle Legend GOLDEN EARS PROVINCIAL PARK 01 2 Kilometers Vehicle/Tent Camping Group Camping Walk-in/Wilderness Camping Trail Parking Information Interpretation Area Day-use Area Telephone Wheelchair accessible Road, paved Road, gravel Toilets Park Boundary Emergency Shelter Sani-station DIFFICULTY – While beautiful, this is not a beginner hike. The West Canyon Trail leaves the parking area on a gentle gravel path and slowly climbs through a few steeper sections until it connects to the Golden Ears Trail. This was Skeena’s first scramble. Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto Golden Ears Way (signs for Abernethy Connector). As one of the highest peaks around, it provides unbeatable views in all directions from the summit. Be the first to submit your climbing note! Golden Ears Provincial Park. The campgrounds was pretty big! Apr 10, 2020 - First week of September 2019 Golden Ears Peak Golden Ears Provincial Park B.C Canada #hiking #camping #outdoors #nature #travel #backpacking … Golden Ears Trail is a 13.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada that features a river and is rated as difficult. The mountain was originally known by the natives as the ‘Golden Eyrie’, the place where the golden eagles nested.SourceBlanshard PeakPitt LakePitt-Addington MarshMount Baker behind Edge and BlanshardThe second summit of Golden Ears. There are rough campsites at Alder Flats, nearer the base of the mountain, and on Panorama Ridge, closer to the summit. Share to. Golden Ears Provincial Park is located north of the municipality of Maple Ridge in the Coast Mountains. The trail is marked for Alder Flats and West Canyon Trail. The trail carries up to your right, where you will find a wooden staircase. Immediately on the other side of the creek, there’s a marker that says Alder Flats to the left and East Canyon Trail to the right – go left towards Alder Flats. Ice tools are not required for this route as there is no permanent snow, ice or technical rock climbing required. Just past 1 km, you will climb a short way and cross over a bridge. Article from awalkandalark.com. Dogs are also able to use this trail. The park takes campsite reservations, which are highly recommended during the peak months. Golden Ears Provincial Park will retain the current 85 per cent reservable model for the 2019 camping season, B.C. To the south, you will see Mount Baker. Located in Golden Ears Provincial Park, it is a popular destination for experienced hikers who are looking for a difficult outing. July 14, 2017 Josy A Comments 36 Comments. Carefully navigate down from the summit to the emergency hut, to Alder Flats, and back to your car. Golden Ears now 100% reservable during peak season. You will get a view of Golden Ears and the ridge you’ll be climbing to approach it – Panorama Ridge. Looking for the most amazing hikes near Vancouver? Sleeping is NOT permitted within the emergency shelter (unless, of course, you’re in an emergency situation). You will come to a lookout where you can see far to the east – Mount Martyn, Mount Robie Reid, and others can be spotted. Golden Ears sits at the south end of the park leading into the Fraser Valley. Golden Municipal Campground and RV Park resides along the Majestic Kicking Horse River . Around 3.5 km into the hike, the trail starts to get ‘real’ and becomes more gnarly. Either way, this is a great hike that should be on your to-do list. This park is located east of Vancouver in Maple Ridge. Before long, the trail will cross the path of the Menzies Trail – a shared horse trail. Golden Ears was first protected in 1927, when it was included as a part of neighbouring Garibaldi Provincial Park. Train Spotting. The trail is easy to follow, and the junctions are marked. There are plenty of orange markers so you can pick up the trail again beyond the campsite. At roughly 4.5 km, you come to a creek crossing. You should check this information yourself. The trail then goes to the left. The trail climbs steeply from this point and gains several hundred meters in few kilometers. Join us at patreon.com/outdoorvancouver. GOLDEN EARS TRAIL: (12 km; suggested time: 7 hours; elevation change: 1,500 metres). Wanderung is a outdoor club with a couple of thousand(!) Turn right onto 232 St. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto 132 Ave/Fern Crescent. There’s a marker at the bottom of the ladder that says 10 km. You can also get a glimpse into the Fraser Valley. There are plenty of camping options in Golden Ears Provincial Park. Secondly, the West Canyon parking lot, where the hike begins, can fill up fast in the morning during peak season. There are orange markers in the rocks for you to follow. Continue onto Golden Ears Pkwy. On December 14, 1967 it was preserved as its own park, in recognition of the fact that a spine of rugged mountains separated the Golden Ears region from Garibaldi Park. Once you make it to the top there are some stunning views!. Summiting Golden Ears requires a full day’s work. Since I moved to Vancouver in 2016, I have wondered what it would be like to be on the summit of Golden Ears. There is a composting toilet here. No open fires are permitted in the backcountry. Golden Ears Provincial Park - Evans Peak - A walk and a lark. To improve visitor experience, camping in Golden Ears Provincial Park will be 100% reservable during peak season, from May to September. Rustic camping sites are located at Alder Flats on the West Canyon Trail at 5.7 km, Viewpoint Beach at 4.5 km and Half Moon Beach at 9.8 km on the East Canyon Trail as well as on Panorama Ridge near the Emergency Shelter on the Golden Ears Trail at 10.7 km. The popularity of camping in BC Parks has grown significantly over the years. With that model, 15 per cent of the sites will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. As one of the largest parks in the province, Golden Ears Provincial Park is prized for its recreational opportunities. The hut is not to be used except in emergency situations. Both campsites are walk-in backcountry campsites and require a backcountry camping permit from B.C. Download this stock image: Pitt Lake with the Snow Capped Peaks of the Golden Ears, Tingle Peak and other Mountain Peaks of the surrounding Coast Mountain Range in the Fraser Va - MC4NPK from Alamy's library of millions of high resolution stock photos, illustrations and vectors. Edge Peak and Blanshard Peak; The trail beyond Alder Flats; Edge Peak; Just past this lookout of these beautiful mountains, you will see a 6.5 km marker in a tree. Golden Ears Provincial Park is located north of the municipality of Maple Ridge in the Coast Mountains. Get on the wide trail, and there is a junction almost immediately. I went on my first hike with Vancouver’s hiking group, Wanderung. At roughly 9.5 km, you will come to a clearing where you can see north towards Mount Garibaldi and Atwell Peak in the distance. Turn left onto 224 St. Go right. Turn right onto 132 Ave. This is about 5 km into the hike. A last scramble up a steep and rocky area brings you to the emergency shelter and backcountry camping area. The trail is difficult, and there is a walk-in campground about half-way up, and an emergency shelter on Panorama Ridge, near the highest peak. There are some parts you need to be careful and use both hands – a fall could be tragic. The second half is a steep, arduous journey into the alpine, culminating with a scramble to the summit (if conditions are right). Golden Ears Provincial Park is a Provincial park in British Columbia, Canada and is 555.9 square kilometres (214.6 sq mi). : Yes Details: With over 1,500 meters of elevation over the 12 km trek up to Panorama Ridge, the Golden Ears Trail is one that burns the legs. Filter. Here, you have a great view on your left of Alouette Mountain, Blanshard Peak, Edge Peak, and Golden Ears. There are three frontcountry campgrounds in this park: Gold Creek, Alouette and North Beach. Consider things such as access and accommodation at the base of Golden Ears (peaks), as well as the logistics of climbing to the summit. The park's namesake, Golden Ears (Mount Blanshard) rises to 1,716 metres and offers hikers panoramic views of the Fraser Valley and surrounding peaks. No cabin use. There are views in all directions, with Golden Ears directly ahead of you. An overnight trip gives you a chance to enjoy your surroundings and the new perspectives on surrounding mountains. As you climb, the views keep getting more spectacular. By providing this information, Bottletop Media does not assume any liability for the use of this information by our readers.Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions. You will come to wooden steps in places and several short switchbacks. Track (2020-05-31, 2:22:28PM) One of my favourite hikes! NEW Free Day-Use Passes are coming to six BC Parks. To ensure the health and safety of our visitors and staff during the peak season, we’ve developed a free day-use pass program for specific trails/areas in six of our busiest parks: Cypress, Mount Seymour, Garibaldi, Golden Ears, Mount Robson (Berg Lake Trail) and Stawamus Chief (Chief Peaks Trail). Located in the central area of the park. All reviews alouette lake hiking trails great camping day trip boat launch beautiful scenery dogs are allowed picnic tables campground ears gold hike creek summer vancouver falls nature . Access 650K+ miles of trail data, Offline Maps, GPS Tracking, Waypoint functionality, Outdoor Project Adventures, and more with onX Backcountry. Views of Pitt Lake will open up to your right, as the trail is now carrying along due west. At 1,370 m elevation and 10.5 km into the hike, you will reach the emergency hut, and the tenting platforms. All rights reserved. A fantastic less-travelled option compared to many others in the area and just as accessible. You’ll reach boardwalks covered with metal gratings, in a wet, mossy section of the trail. There is an extensive trail system that includes easy nature walks, the challenging ascent of Golden Ears Peak and everything in between. Originally part of Garibaldi Provincial Park, the establishment of Golden Ears Park in 1927 recognized the almost impenetrable mountain barrier between the two areas.” Source. Follow the West Canyon Trail from the parking lot to Alder Flats. This has… Alternative route down Golden Ears Peak . You will come to a wooden ladder that will take you down a steep drop. Alder Flats can be reached within about 5.5 km from the West Canyon parking lot. The bridge crosses over a creek which may be dry heading into the fall season. The popularity of camping in BC Parks has grown significantly over the years. You will continue walking uphill, beside a creek on your left. . ★ ★ ★ tvansteinburg 9 months ago . 5 minutes after the bridge, you will see a trail on your left marked for the Viewpoint Trail. Want to connect with other local hikers? Join the Outdoor Vancouver Slack Channel to chat about trail suggestions, current hiking conditions, and all things related to hiking around Vancouver and B.C. Golden Ears Provincial Park is open from 7 am to 11 pm and parking slots can fill up really quickly in summer weekends. Once you’re at that lookout, you’re going to turn to your right and climb up. Updating list... 64 - 69 of 346 reviews. Across the river from us … The trail then carries on and you continue to have incredible views to your right, including of Garibaldi Provincial Park.Looking north to Garibaldi Provincial ParkA permanent snowfieldThe emergency hut with Pitt Lake in the background. There is confusion about the name, because of the twin summits the peak exhibits. From the emergency shelter to the summit will take you at least 45 minutes, one-way. Gold Creek Campground is one of three major campgrounds in Golden Ears Provincial Park. “If going back makes sense, you’re going forward ~ Wendell Berry”. There’s also Evans Peak, which is definitely for the more experienced hikers. Here, there’s a sign that says no drinking water beyond this point. During snow melt and heavy rain, this route becomes a stream and Gortex becomes your best friend. At 1.7 km, the trail narrows, and you will come to another bridge crossing another large creek. The trail carries on from the lookout, rolling up and down, with the valley down to your right. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure. Enjoy these easy kilometers early in the trail, because they do not last. Outdoor Vancouver © 2021Disclaimer: The information in this website should not be taken as accurate, complete or up-to-date. They offer no amenities except pit-toilets, and the campsites have little-to-no privacy. Golden Ears Way will change into 128 Ave, and then to Abernethy Way. Please note - No Cell phone coverage. The B.C. It’s about more than standing on the mountain top. https://campnab.com/parks/british-columbia/golden-ears-provincial-park Trip date: May 9, 2015 • Golden Ears Provincial Park • Ashika Parsad. Cool fact: “The park was named after the twin peaks of Mount Blanshard near the peak’s western boundary. Old-growth forest. The trail becomes a little less steep as you proceed up to Panorama Ridge for a new view of Golden Ears as well as Pitt Lake and the mountains to the west. Climb up the rocky path, and you will begin to have views looking to the west. The trail cuts back into the forest, away from the valley, and keeps climbing up a rocky path. After some hard climbing, you will come to the crest and get a backside view of Edge Peak. That said, if the conditions are favourable, and you have the time and fitness, you can proceed to the summit from here. Golden Ears – Camping season is not far off and Golden Ears Provincial Park will be 100% reservable during peak season, from May to September. Alder Flats is just past the streams, and this is a good place for camping that has a toilet and an emergency helipad. Golden Ears Peak - elevation 1706 meters. Option to head up Alouette Mountain. Make sure to drive slowly inside, there's always lots of families and children around. You'll reach the first stunning viewpoint of Alouette Mountain, Blanshard Needle, Edge Peak, and Golden Ears, this is where you can decide to stop, take photos and watch the fog roll through the peaks before turning back, or you can continue on the West Canyon trail for another 12 miles. Had three kids in tow so this hike could be done much faster as well. Another kilometer or so brings you to a wet, cool, area with small, fresh running water; this is the last fresh water available on the trail. Once you make it to the top there are some stunning views! If you are low on energy, time, or confidence, this is the spot to turn around. esthert424. Great views. If you find our content helpful, please support us via PayPal or Patreon. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'outdoorvancouver_ca-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',107,'0','0']));From the West Canyon parking lot, find the trailhead which is marked by a ‘Ridge Meadows Outdoors Club’ sign. That’s about a … The park is located 6km north of the town of Maple Ridge, a suburb of Vancouver. There’s a sign in a tree indicating this point, and you have a scenic view of Gold Creek below. You will cross over more streams, too many to count. Due to the altitude, weather can change quickly near the summit, and fog can roll in and limit your visibility quickly. There is an outhouse here, along with some roughed-out camp spots. This is a good place to fill up your water bottle(s) for the long trek ahead. Most people camp on this Golden Ears Summit Hike, but it is possible to finish a there-and-back in one day on long summer days. It is difficult to reach this campsite with camping gear, but it rewards with the potential for incredible sunsets and sunrises in clear conditions. The most popular campsites are located at Gold Creek, Alouette Lake, and North Beach. Stunning views north towards Garibaldi Provincial Park. Along the hiking trail to Golden Ears, there are 2 campsites, referred to as Walkin Backcountry Campsites. Golden Ears (peaks) Climbing Notes. Learn More. Gold Creek Campground is the only one of the three that has year-round camping, as the other two close in September for the winter season. Start your free trial today–no credit card required. This is the super-steep walk up Evans Peak in Golden Ears Provincial Park. Is this traversible at this time? There are more details on camping at the bottom of this guide . But there are small bridges over most of them. The popularity of camping … Go left, where it cuts up.A creek along the West Canyon TrailA junction early in the hikeScenic forest. Clearly marked hike with lots of viewpoints. Carry on the road, which remains mostly flat. © 2020 Outdoor Project. Many people choose to camp here and even use it as a base camp to summit Golden Ears the following day. At one opening, you’ll have almost 360-degree views, with Mount Baker to the south.Mount Judge Howay to the eastGolden EarsMount Judge Holoway, Mount Robie Reid, and Mount Martyn. The Golden Ears hike can be thought of in two separate halves: The first half is an easy-going, relatively flat hike through the forest to Alder Flats. Golden Ears can be completed as a punishing day hike but is often completed over two days. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. Sign up to receive our weekly newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. This is a moderate one way trail to Half Moon Beach Campground in Golden Ears Provincial Park. The summit area is exposed to the sun, and as the hike is strenuous, you may be going through lots of water. The higher you climb the views keep getting better. Gold Creek LookoutBoardwalks before Alder Flats. During the summer months the park draws in many weekend and summer holiday guests, which can make getting a reservation very difficult. It’s about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. The popularity of camping in BC Parks has grown significantly over the years. There are plenty of markers and short flights of wooden stairs. Just short of 8 km, you will come to a point where there are some ropes. By providing this information, Bottletop Media does not assume any liability for the use of this information by our readers. Becoming a Patron through Patreon unlocks all sorts of membership benefits and rewards. When we moved to Canada in 2016, Golden Ears Provincial Park was the first BC Park we visited. Just past this lookout of these beautiful mountains, you will see a 6.5 km marker in a tree. ... 7 consecutive nights during peak season (June 15 to Labour Day, inclusive) All other provincial parks: 14 days, per park, per calendar year: No-Shows and Late Arrivals . Golden Ears is the name of the summit that lies north of Maple Ridge, British Columbia and is visible from most of the western Lower Mainland. Golden Ears Provincial Park: Evans Peak hike - See 346 traveler reviews, 245 candid photos, and great deals for Maple Ridge, Canada, at Tripadvisor. A one-time donation through PayPal helps with monthly website hosting costs. Scramble to Evans Peak. You should check this information yourself. Reserved sites are held until 11 AM the day after the scheduled arrival date. 17 were here. Parks website for current gate hours. Finally, after all that effort, you will emerge at the summit of Golden Ears. To improve visitor experience, camping in Golden Ears Provincial Park will be 100% reservable during peak season, from May to September. Once you leave the flats you are back in the forest , and the trail descends down slowly through mossy slopes and tall trees. Reservations can be made through Discover Camping. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. This beautiful hike leads up to the summit of 1,716-meter Golden Ears, the eponymous peak in Golden Ears Provincial Park just west of Vancouver. Push down to Alder Flats for an opportunity to replenish your water, have some lunch, and enjoy the last views of the mountains. You will now be walking on a wide, flat, gravel road, with a slight overall incline. Ryan and I were keen on getting some elevation in our legs last Saturday, we decided to check out Evans Peak in the Golden Ears Provincial Park. Golden Ears Provincial Park is a Provincial park in British Columbia, Canada and is 555.9 square kilometres (214.6 sq mi). The extensive system of trails within the park provides an excellent opportunity for hiking and horseback riding, and Alouette Lake is a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, water-skiing, canoeing, boating and fishing. – Guides for 10 amazing hikes near Vancouver– Hiking safety and trail etiquette– Resources, hiking gear overview, and more! Find the most current and reliable 7 day weather forecasts, storm alerts, reports and information for [city] with The Weather Network. Solitude. A keen eye might be able to spot Mount Bishop, Coquitlam Mountain, and some other familiar peaks. We camped at Golden Ears Provincial Park in a Motorhome. Thank you! The park’s campsites were going to be 100 per cent reserved online in 2019, until Angela Massey headed a group which opposed the change. From Alder Flats the Golden Ears Trail continues up a steep path to an old rail bed heading west. There is also, of course, front-country camping within Golden Ears Provincial Park. It’s about protecting what sustains us. Behind you, Raven Lake can be found nestled down below Raven Peak. We’d like to rely on loyal readers, rather than erratic ads to keep this site going. Gold Creek Campground is one of three major campgrounds in Golden Ears Provincial Park. The pace is slower here, given the technical terrain. Click following button or element on the map to see information about it. You will quickly be back on a rooty and rocky single-track trail. Cool fact: Golden Ears has two distinctive summits which from certain angles do loosely resemble ears. Bugs can be brutal in the sub-alpine depending on when you go. You may see a false trail leading to the right and arrows in the trees pointing left, so follow the direction of the arrows if you see them. Please heed the advice in the intro section of this guide about attempting the summit. 10. The Golden Ears Summit is a spectacular hike that always makes for a memorable day – for both its beauty and its challenge. Please submit any useful information about climbing Golden Ears (peaks) that may be useful to other climbers. 500 m into the hike, you’ll see one marked 0.5 km. And due to the high elevation, the peak might still have some snow patches even in the hottest summer days, so be prepared for cooler temperature and sunburns on top. Steep rugged trail. During the summer months the park draws in many weekend and summer holiday guests, which can make getting a reservation very difficult. Keep going straight, and you’ll soon see another sign for the West Canyon Trail. Soon, the trail will begin climbing up Panorama Ridge.