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Needle Peak is a very scenic hike near Vancouver that offers spectacular 360 degree mountain views from the summit.
THE STATS
Difficulty – Difficult
Hiking time – 4-5 hours
Roundtrip – 9km
Elevation Gain – 882m
Summit altitude – 2092m
Season – July to September
Camping – At the lake
From Vancouver – 2-2.5 hours
Public Transit – No
Dog Friendly – Yes, but it’s a little dangerous
Trail type – Out and back
Toilets – None
THE HIKE
The first hour or so of the Needle Peak hike is forested and involves steep switchbacks with lots of tree roots. You’ll be rewarded with views about 45 minutes into the hike.
After this, the trail levels out and has very little shade. There are a few sections here with multiple paths, but they all seem to connect together so you can choose your own mini adventure.
After 3.3km, you reach the large cairn with a trail marker for Needle Peak and Flatiron Peak. From here, you follow the trail to the left where you spend the last 1km summiting Needle Peak, which involves some scrambling.
At the summit, you can enjoy the amazing 360 degree views on a clear day.
Enjoy lunch at the summit and then head back the way you came for your descent.
You can also hike to Flatiron Peak in the same day, which will add on an extra 3km roundtrip.
NEED TO KNOW
The Needle Peak hike is best on a clear day in order to see the amazing views at the summit. Check Mountain Forecast for the weather conditions before you go (this link is for Yak Peak, which is nearby).
If you’re driving from Vancouver, the roundtrip drive could take longer than the hike.
The hike isn’t super long, but the summit involves scrambling and climbing, with some ropes to help in some sections, which could be difficult for inexperienced hikers. And it’s difficult and dangerous for anyone in wet conditions. However, while dogs are allowed on leash, they may have a hard time with the scramble and it could be dangerous for them. Moreover, hikers with a fear of heights could also have a tough time. Those who don’t wish to attempt the scramble can hike to Flatiron Peak instead which is 1.5km away.
There’s no camping at Needle Peak, but backcountry camping is allowed at the lake below Flatiron Peak.
We hiked at the end of July, which was a great time to go. It was warm and there was a little snow left in a few areas.
Most of the hike is exposed, so bring and wear proper sun protection.
July is mosquito season and they are ruthless. However, luckily we didn’t have any problems with mosquitoes at the peak.
WHAT YOU NEED
- Bring layers, even on a hot day. The weather in the Coquihalla region can change quickly.
- Wear and bring sunscreen. The sun is stronger at higher elevation.
- Water and food.
- Bug spray.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
- Remember to stretch before and after!
HOW TO GET THERE
From Vancouver, drive towards Hope on Highway #1 and take exit #217 on the right. It’ll be a 2-2.5 hour drive each way.
Walk west from the end of the dirt parking area, cross over a small stream and then you’ll see a sign for the trailhead to Needle Peak. The trail is easy to follow with frequent orange markers.
MORE HIKES IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
Iceberg Lake – A scenic trail to an alpine lake and glacier
Garibaldi Lake – A hike to an alpine lake
Joffre Lakes – An easier and shorter hike that visits 3 turquoise alpine lakes
Watersprite Lake – A mystical alpine lake
Wedgemount Lake – A very challenging, but rewarding hike to a turquoise alpine lake and glacier
Kokanee Lake – A very scenic hike to a sapphire alpine lake
