Right off the bat, let’s say it: if you want to do a most excellent hike in Squamish and you have the stamina to go up and down 800m in a single session, The Chief is bar none the best route around. But this is a page about family adventures—and more specifically, families with little ones. This hiking guide is for those who want to get the taste of a good coastal BC hike but either don’t have the time or the wherewithal to get too gnarly.
But if you want righteous views, bodacious groves of old-growth trees, and just enough sweat to remind your heart that a little exercise is most excellent, then may we present to you Murrin Park, just a few kilometers south of Squamish. It’s located right at the top of the hill between Shannon Falls and Britannia Beach, making it a must-stop spot along the Sea to Sky highway.
Why This Trail Builds Resilient Kids
Living in the Sea to Sky corridor for nearly two decades, I’ve found that getting kids stoked on the outdoors is about finding that perfect reward-to-effort ratio. Taking our kids out here has proven that short, punchy trails followed by a world-class view are the best recipe for building resilience. They get to scramble over roots, navigate varied terrain, and learn the basic life skills of foot placement and pacing, all without the exhaustion that leads to meltdowns.
It’s also an incredible place to introduce a culture of mountain safety early on. As a backcountry guide, I treat these summer hikes as foundational training. We practice staying together, observing our surroundings, and making smart decisions on uneven ground, which hopefully will stay with them for the rest of their lives.
The Route & The Rocks
Rock climbing is regarded as religion in the park. As long as the kids keep a safe distance, there is usually a friendly climber who will happily answer questions from curious minds about their gear and what they are doing. It’s a fantastic way to expose little ones to different outdoor pursuits.
The loop trail offers excellent panoramic views of Howe Sound, but a quick heads up: if you’re not used to hiking, the way down can be a bit steeper than expected, especially if the kids are tired and want to be carried. It’s not impossible, but it does take some slow, deliberate walking to ensure safety. Strollers are fine at the lake, but you’ll soon want to ditch them for a hiking backpack if you want to get anywhere good.
The Hard Data: Logistics & Amenities
- Distance & Elevation: The loop is roughly 1.8km with about 160m (524 ft) of elevation gain. Expect it to take 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Amenities: There are no running water or food facilities here, so stock up before arriving. There are standard pit toilets located right by the parking lot and halfway along the loop trail.
- Post-Hike Vibe: There are plenty of picnic tables next to Browning Lake right at the base. Bring snacks or a lunch and make an afternoon of it.
- Parking: Parking can get pretty nuts on the weekends. Your best bet is to come before noon midweek. (Note: Do not park on the highway shoulder; you will be towed).
View More Of Our Adventures
Murrin Park is just one of the many locations that we’ve featured in Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea to Sky. We also have a ton of gear reviews to help you explore in comfort and practicality, and love to hear from other families who are out there doing it. Or learn more about us where you can also get in touch.
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