Stawamus Chief Trail

The backside trail of the Chief is an ideal destination if you are interested in a short hike that can be done in a morning and you don't mind tons of people around. Also a nice trail run if you like going up, up, up. Worthwhile for the beautiful view of Howe Sound at the top and to be able to say that you've "climbed" the Chief. There are three "peaks", the first and second being very popular, especially in the afternoon in the summer, and the third being visited a little less. The first and second can be done in a couple hours max. There is also the Squaw which can be accessed the same trail as the other three peaks, although the trail is a little less well marked. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. All trails can be accessed either through the Chief campground (park in the climber's parking lot and walk all the way through the campground to the stairs at the top of the big boulder at the back) or via Shannon Falls (go past the Falls heading in a northwesterly direction, following the signs to the Chief - this way is nicer). This is somewhat in the vein of the Grouse Grind but a little more mellow and certainly nicer, but not a place to go if you enjoy the sounds of solitude!