Murrin Provincial Park Ultimate Guide from a BC expert (includes Quercus Viewpoint and Jurassic Ridge)

I spent a good chunk of my childhood living in and travelling through British Columbia. In 2015, as an adult I moved to Vancouver. I never thought it would be a long term move, but here I am almost a decade later. I have loved the opportunities I have had to road trip and explore all of British Columbia. Living in Vancouver, Murrin Provincial Park is less than an hour from home. It is definitely one of my favourite places to enjoy nature. Also, Murrin Provincial Park is home to the best Squamish hikes, in my opinion!

Top Things to do in Murrin Provincial Park

• Hiking Murrin Loop/Quercus Viewpoint, Jurassic Ridge, and Browning Lake
• Paddle boarding and Kayaking
• Swimming
• Rock Climbing
• Picnicing and Throwing Rocks in the Water

Local Tips for Enjoying Murrin Provincial Park

• There are no services here, closest amenities are in Squamish or Lions Bay.
• There are outhouses -one in the parking lot, and one by the picnic area
• This is a popular swimming spot in the summer and makes a great place to go for a cold swim close to Vancouver year round! There are no lifeguards here.
• Parking is free, & can be busy mid day/weekends in the summer. There is another parking lot down the highway (towards Vancouver) that requires about a 1 km walk along a trail beside the Sea to Sky Highway.
• Weekdays are less busy, as are mornings. My favourite time to visit is for sunset. Parking is easily available after 4:30pm.
• Murrin Provincial Park is open daily year round, the parking lot will be closed if there is snow on the road/ground.
• The rocks are very slippery in the rain if hiking. There are many other rainy day hikes close to Vancouver that are great options!
• Bring a headlamp or light source with you, especially if you choose to take in sunset.

Murrin Provincial Park Hikes

Murrin Provincial Park has stunning viewpoints, a beautiful lake, and hikes for all levels of enthusiasts. You’ll also have the opportunity to see local wildlife, including beavers, eagles, and maybe bears! If you want more information about Browning Lake, Murrin Loop/Quercus Viewpoint, and Jurassic Ridge- the 3 hikes in Murrin Provincial Park, you can find very detailed information on the TrailCollectiv app.

Jurassic Ridge, Squamish BC

Jurassic Ridge Hike Overview: Distance: 3.2 kms loop, 204m elevation gain, roots along the trail, rope features, slippery when wet, stunning views

If you’re looking for a stunning, interesting hike close to Squamish, Jurassic Ridge is the perfect adventure for you. While the hike is relatively short, it is the most challenging trail in Murrin Provincial Park. Jurassic Ridge offers unparalleled views of Howe Sound and the surrounding Coastal mountains. Along the way, the trails winds through the lush rainforest. The views at the top are incredible and make sure to take time to notice the ferns and plants that grow along the trail.

Murrin Loop/Quercus Viewpoint Trail

Quercus Viewpoint Overview: 1.5kms out and back, 112 m elevation gain, roots and stairs, slippery when wet. Stunning views included!

Although the trail to Quercus Viewpoint is short, and is considered an easy Squamish hike, it does have roots and stairs. I have personally hiked this trail many many times with folks of all ages including children. I have done this trail as an out and back or the scenic Murrin Loop through the forest. My son hiked this trail on his own starting at 3 years old. Saying that, this will be challenging for anyone with mobility or knee problems as there are plenty of roots and some stairs to get to Quercus viewpoint.

In my opinion, this is truly THE best short hike close to Vancouver. Visiting Murrin Provincial Park is definitely a off the beaten path thing to do around Vancouver. Once you reach Quercus viewpoint, you will be treated to those jaw dropping views of Howe Sound. I especially recommend sunset here! The rock at the viewpoint is large and flat, and is the perfect place to have a picnic.

Browning Lake Loop

One of my favourite things about Murrin Provincial Park is that it is accessible to most physical abilities. A smooth gravel pathway runs from the paved parking lot to a picnic area and 1 km packed, flat gravel path that goes around Browning lake. Because of the well packed trail, this trail is suitable for most physical abilities, including those using mobility aids or wheelchairs. Remember to keep children close, be mindful of the water. The lake is deep and cold and there are no lifeguards on duty here.

What to bring on your hike in Murrin Provincial Park

No matter if you choose to hike Browning Lake, Quercus viewpoint, or Jurassic Ridge, you will need to be prepared. Also, always remember that respecting nature is essential. Please be mindful of the impact we have on the environment and the wildlife that call it home. There are garbage bins and restrooms by the lake. Please pick up your garbage, and stay a long distance away from wildlife. For safety, make sure you pack your 10 essentials for hiking. Although these trails are short, I always make sure to bring water, food, a charged phone, and a light source indepent of a phone. In the winter, you will likely want to bring more layers and crampons/ice cleats and in the summer, extra water, bugspray, and sunscreen.

Trust me when I say, you will want something to take pictures with too! It’s just so stunning!!

Rock Climbing in Murrin Provincial Park.

Squamish is known for it’s access to the outdoors, and particularily rock climbing. There are many granite rock faces and crags around Squamish, and within Murrin Provinical Park. In Murrin, there are established routes for many abilities of rock climbers. Many of the routes are on the East side of rock faces, so have shade on sunny summer days.

Murrin Provincial Park Watersports

Non-motorized water sports are allowed on Browning Lake. The lake is deep and clear, and at times cold. Because there are no lifeguards at the park, please be safe and aware. This is a popular spot for swimming, SUPing, kayaking, canoeing. Also, fishing is allowed in Murrin, and requires a permit
Browning Lake is a small and calm lake, and spending a day here is very enjoyable!

Picnic in Murrin Provincial Park

There are many picnic tables alongside the lake, with bbq platforms. This is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon and have a picnic close to Vancouver. Camping is not allowed in Murrin Provincial Park, and no overnight parking is allowed. Picnicing in Murrin Provincial Park is the perfect activity after a hiking Murrin Loop/Quercus Viewpoint or all on it’s own.

Accomodations in Squamish

Visiting Murrin Provincial Park, and want to explore more? There are a variety of accommodations in Squamish close to all the thrilling outdoor activities this scenic area has to offer. You’ll find charming cabins, traditional hotels, and modern apartments, there’s something to fit every traveler’s style.

Wrapping Up: Murrin Provincial Park Squamish BC

In conclusion, I think once you visit, you will agree that Murrin Provincial Park is a nature lover’s paradise! It really is one of my favourite lesser known things to do near Vancouver! Because of the stunning views of Howe sound, surrounding mountain peaks, lush forests, and serene lake, it’s hard not to be in awe of the wonders that Mother Nature has provided. A must see on your Sea to Sky roadtrip! If you are planning a day or weekend trip from Vancouver, Squamish and Bowen Island are 2 of the best options!