Bowen Island- Mount Gardner- Killarney Lake: Intermediate (Loop)

About the Hike:

Move with care along this demanding loop trail located near Bowen Island, British Columbia. It’s known for being quite strenuous and is best suited for seasoned adventurers. The area is a favorite among hikers, mountain bikers, and runners, so expect to cross paths with others along the way. This trail is most enjoyable during the spring, summer, and early fall.

The route begins right from Snug Cove, just after disembarking the ferry. The initial section includes several intersecting paths, so staying aware of trail markers is important. Once you reach Hikers Trail Road, the path becomes a combination of gravel and dirt, marking the beginning of a steady uphill journey. The elevation gain is significant, similar to a well-known steep trail in the region but stretched over a longer distance and time.

The terrain becomes more rugged near the meeting point of Hikers Trail Road and the North Summit Trail, featuring natural surfaces like dirt, tree roots, and rocks. Along this section, you’ll find two scenic viewpoints—one facing north partway through, and another near the top offering panoramic views.

The final stretch leading to the North Peak is steeper and more technical, with ropes available to assist in a short scramble. Although the official summit of Mount Gardner doesn’t offer a wide view, it serves as a transition point for the descent that follows.

Difficulty, Distance, and Elevation:
Intermediate, 15.3 LOOP, 809 meters of elevation gain

Meeting At:

Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, at the Bowen Island ferry gate for boarding

The scheduled ferry to Bowen Island departs at 9:23 AM.

(If you’re driving, we park in the Horseshoe Bay parking lot and walk into the ferry terminal.)

Recommended Hiking Clothing, Footwear and Gear:

Hiking boots or Hiking Shoes
Small Daypack or Hiking Pack + 2-4 bottles of water + Lunch + Snacks
Fleece, Hoodie, Sweater, or Jacket
(For Rain) Rain Jacket
(Optional: if sunny) Sun Glasses, Sun Screen, Sun Hat or Baseball Cap
(Optional: if cold) Gloves
Fully charged Cell Phone with Charger
Special Event Requirements:
Members that are responsible and show up to events, and want to take part in these special events are encouraged to sign up, but due to special events averaging a higher then usual number of no-shows and expenses, we have additional requirements below.**

Legal Information, Liabilities and Responsibilities:
By going on these Meetup events, you acknowledge and agree that you are participating at your own risk and are entirely responsible for your own safety getting to and from the event, at the event, and during the course of the event. In case of an accident, illness, or injury, you agree to pay for your own medical and/or evacuation expenses. Therefore, you agree to release the Meetup Group, the Organizer, the Meetup Host, and any affiliate or non-affiliate from any and all liability for any loss, damage, expense, or injury that may arise out of participation in these Meetup Events or travel to and from them.