Aug 27, 2016
Aaah the famous Vancouver landmark, the Lions. Finally I can say that I've been on there as I look at the North Shore Mountains. I underestimated this hike - after taking on Wedgemount Lake, Black Tusk, Panorama Ridge and Cirque Lake. All other hikes were rated as difficult and there is no doubt that they are indeed tough and hard hike. So after those hard hikes, I was told that taking on the West Lions was a piece of cake for me. I took the more challenging trail via Howe Sound Crest Trail. Starting from Cypress Bowl up St Mark's Summit, down and up the South Peak of Mt Unnecessary, up and down again 3 times through all the other bumps/peaks of Mt Unnecessary and finally down and up to the base of West Lions. You really work your legs/thighs when taking this path. The views are incredible giving you a 360 view of Howe Sound, Tantalus and neighboring ranges, Whistler - black tusk, North Shore Mountains and downtown Vancouver. This is the reason why I chose this trail instead of Binkert Trail (Lions Bay). Its spectacular being at the top of Mt Unnecessay and base of West Lions. I did not dare go to the top of West Lions itself as I am a solo hiker and the scramble up to the base was already a tough one. There were people who did the steep, dangerous and sketchy summit to the top. Kudos to them. After taking in the view, relaxing my legs and eating my snacks it was time to head back. The way down from the base of West Lions was scary for me - I would rate it the same as Wedgemount and Cirque Lake. It is a puzzle to get down to find the safest way. I made though so I am glad. After which you then have to go back up and down 3 times through Mt Unnecessary and thus how the mountain got its name. There are sections of the trail of Mt Unnecessary where you need your upper and core strenghth to lower and pull yourself up with the help of ropes on the cliffs. This trail/hike is by far the most challenging and strenuous hike I have ever done. I normally hike up to my destination and hike down for the return (with no breaks on the return hike). This hike requires you to have as much energy going to and back.It should be rated very difficult. I finished the hike in less than 9 hours - very very tired. However, the pain was worth it all because you come out really proud of yourself for completing one of the hardest hikes in the Lower Mainland.
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