Quarry Rock – Deep Cove

Deep Cove’s most popular hike known as Quarry Rock is a short 3.8 km round-trip hike following the Paden Powell Trail leading to a large rocky outcrop standing tall above the shore offering beautiful views of the Indian Arm and the mountains surrounding Belcarra. The trail travels though classic North Shore nature; densely wooded areas of Douglas Fir and Hemlock trees filled with tall lush ferns, and traversing numerous small creeks of mountain runoff. This hike being popular as it is can get very busy and slow moving on the weekends and summer months.

Time: 1.5 hrs
Distance: 3.8 km
Difficulty: Easy
Season: Year-Round
Elevation Gain: 100 m
Scenery: ★★★☆☆
Camping: No
From Vancouver: 30 minutes
Public Transit: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes

If you are looking for a quiet hike away from swarms of people, Quarry Rock is not the ideal hike. Expect traffic jams, dogs running freely and groups talking loudly or listening to music. Despite these inconveniences, this is a good place for a quick and easy hike in some fresh forest air rewarded by a nice view at the end.

The start of the Baden Powell Trail begins along Panorama Drive just beyond the down slopping park area. Look for the sign on the left side of the street and walk up the edge of the driveway towards the wooden steps. The first section of the trail climbs quickly up a narrow set of stairs where you will have to manoeuvre around other hiking coming down. Watch your steps over the roots and continue upwards.

After 30 minutes or so, the trail heads down towards a large wooden bridge. Cross the bridge and ascend up a set of wooden stairs on the other side. Another 10 minutes and you reach a fork in the trail where the left side goes up a steep embankment. Go right towards the clearing in the trees as the trail climbs up onto the big rock. You have arrived at Quarry Rock.

At this point, if you are hiking with a dog, we strongly advise to tie their leash as there has been reports of dogs stranding themselves by climbing down the rock face below. Find a spot to sit amongst the crowd and take in the view.

When you are ready to return, head back the way you came along the trail as it weaves through the forest and back towards Deep Cove. Great! You've just burned enough calories to devour one of Deep Cove's famous Honey's doughnuts.

For something more challenging with much less traffic and a view at the top, check out Lynn Peak, in Lynn Headwaters Regional Park.