Mount Gardner offers year-round dual panoramas across the Howe Sound to metropolitan Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast. A very achievable day hike using only public transport, perfect if you have just arrived in the lower mainland.
Arriving on the Bowen Island Ferry in Snug Cove (see getting around section for more information on the B.C ferries) you can catch a local shuttle to the trail head, or take the minute along Mount Gardner Road. From here there is a 'skid trail' which winds its way through beautiful ferns up towards the South Summit. There are deer in this section of forest and plenty of bird life.
A small circuit will take you to the impressive dual-lookouts on the North Summit of the mountain. From here you can stop to admire the amazing views and take photos. Descending is a lot faster, follow the small orange tree markers for the best route out.
Overall the commute and hike from downtown took us about six and a half hours using public transport only. We walked about twenty once kilometres , however the trail itself only represented fourteen. A very affordable day out on Bowen Island that will leave you feeling refreshed.
The full hiking information is available here.
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