Quarry Rock at Deep Cove

The Quarry Rock hiking trail in Deep Cove is a great way to explore the forests and views of BC, without venturing too far from Vancouver. Combined with its proximity to Vancouver, and great views, it’s often incredibly busy. I would recommend starting early to avoid the crowds. That said, it’s still a great hike regardless of the weather, with the views at the rock changing from sunny and spectacular to moody and atmospheric when it rains.

The trail to Quarry Rock is relatively easy, though does have a little up hill at the start, gaining about 100m or so in the first kilometer. The trail begins on the left side of Panorama Drive in Deep Cove, about 200m beyond the main parking lot. It rises up and left from the road to meet the Baden Powell trail which is well signposted..

Quarry Rock, which is the viewpoint at the far end of the trail, makes the perfect stop for a picnic or lunch snack. Take your snacks, and enjoy the views back over the Indian Arm, Belcarra Park and Deep Cove. You can spend some time watching the sailing boats go out, or the kayakers and paddle boarders venturing out across the water. Deep Cove certainly brings together many aspects of BCs outdoor culture in one accessible place, so it's no wonder this place gets so busy.

Quarry Rock also makes a great place to watch either sunrise or sunset. The rock and other adjacent viewpoints have expansive views to the east over the Indian Arm, and to the southwest, back over Deep Cove. This area has some spectacular sunsets in particular, so fingers crossed you get a good view. Be sure to take a head torch if you plan to stay until sunset.

Aside from maintenance closures, the Quarry Rock trail is always open, so you can start and finish whenever you like. As with most hikes in BC, you are in bear country. That said, you're incredibly unlikely to see one at Deep Cove as the bears tend to avoid the crowds.

Once you've finished your hike to Quarry Rock, the parks in Deep Cove are a great place to chill. Their waterside location, with plenty of tables and facilities, makes them a great spot for a family outing, or picnic. You can most definitely swim at Deep Cove, though I'd recommend doing so on the right-hand side, further from the marina. During the summer, Deep Cove organizes some evening concerts which play at the waterfront. I haven't made it to one yet, but I imagine it would be a great way to spend an evening by the water.

To explore more spectacular hikes, check out these amazing hiking trails near Vancouver.

The trail: Well-signed, marked or frequent on trail maps. Always carry a map. Phone signal in BC is not reliable when hiking. Always carry an OFFLINE map. I recommend and use AllTrails+ and Gaia Maps.