Howe Sound Crest Trail

Howe Sound Crest Trail (HSCT) is a wilderness traverse in British Columbia’s North Shore Mountains, running along Cypress Provincial Park’s crest and linking Cypress Mountain ski area to Porteau Cove on the Sea to Sky Highway. Treat it as a true thru-hike: the route is short in distance but steep and demanding in terrain.

Most parties hike it south to north (Cypress Mountain to Porteau Cove). Heading that way brings roughly 1,830 m of climbing and about 2,600 m of descent, so the work is front-loaded and the downhill at the end is still long on legs and feet.

The trail line crosses high country with several named peaks and passes—St. Mark’s Summit, Unnecessary Mountain, The Lions area, James Peak, David Peak, Magnesia Meadows, Brunswick Mountain, and the Deeks Lake access area—plus the highpoint around Unnecessary Mountain. Expect sections that feel closer to scrambling than casual hiking, including ledges and terrain that can be rope- or chain-assisted where needed.

Because it’s a coastal backcountry route, water planning is critical. The first half of the route between Cypress and Magnesia Meadows can be dry in late season, so plan to carry enough water to bridge to the reliable supply around Magnesia Meadows; don’t rely on frequent streams along the ridge.

Camping is wilderness-camping only (no developed tent pads or similar facilities). Magnesia Meadows is a common first-night target; afterward Brunswick Lake and Deeks Lake are typical choices depending on whether you’re aiming for 1 night or pushing to 2 nights.

Typical completion is 1–2 nights, with very fit hikers/trail runners sometimes doing it in a single day. Late July through October is the usual window; avoid it outside the season window because winter hazards and conditions can persist well into spring.

More information: Wikipedia, Hiking - Howe Sound Crest Trail – The Ultimate Guide to ..., Howe Sound Crest Trail | The Road Goes Ever On