Description

Day trip
Cycle through Lower Seymour Demonstration forest to Seymour Dam.
Hike to Mt Bishop via Vicar lake trail.
Although Mount Bishop is very close to Vancouver, it is seldom climbed. Hikers now approach this mountain from either the BCMC trail on the west shoulder of Mount Elsay, or the North Shore Rescue trail which runs up from the East side of the Seymour Dam. Both these trails bring one to Vicar Lake, then a steep climb brings the hiker up the west ridge of the mountain to the peak. The Peak is flanked closely by Mount Dickens on the North, with Elsay Lake and Mount Elsay to the South. This is rough backcountry and should be approached only with caution and experience.
Another typical North Shore Trail, steep and challenging ! Follow the orange tapes uphill to the Vicar Lake area, at 950m. There are ropes on the more difficult sections. Once you reach the lake go around it to the left and look for the trail up Mt Bishop which begins there. The Indian Arm Trail shares the route from the lakes upward, but you leave the trail in the upper meadows to gain Bishop’s main summit. Return whence you came

This is rugged wilderness territory, so be well prepared, be fit and know your capabilities. Many parties will want to make this an overnight trip, camping is permitted within the boundaries of Mt Seymour Provincial park

The trail itself is approximately 7 km return off of the Seymour Valley Trailway. Return distance from the start of the trailway is estimated at 32.6 km.

Vicar Lake is the halfway point, timewise, on this trail to Mt Bishop from LSCR. There are Mmany fixed-ropes and steep sections. It’s well-marked with a surprisingly well-established trailbed. At about 20 minutes into the trail, you come upon the grove of old growth containing The General and The General’s wife. Just seeing these two trees is worth the effort to get there! This is a steep and strenuous route, and getting to the trailhead involves a 13km walk or bike ride (one-way) from the Rice Lake Gate.