Cheakamus Canyon Hike - 2WD Parking

"Type: Hike Level: Easy-Moderate Bus: No This hike is definitely a hidden gem in Squamish, as few people have even heard about it. Yet it offers unique views of train tracks overhanging inside a canyon, with a turquoise color river running down below! The hike starts around Paradise Valley, a little further after Squamish. The last section of the drive to there is on a gravel road, but is pretty well maintained and manageable with any car. The main parking lot is for 2WD, but if you have a 4WD you could even drive a bit further, just know that the road is getting really super bumpy. Even if you don't have a 4WD, you can still enjoy walking along the river before the trail actually starts. There is definitely some incline all the way, but it's never really steep and not technical at all, the trail is very easy to follow. However, what might make it harder is if it's hot, as it's very little shaded. About halfway up there is a lake where you can cool down. Really soon after the lake you will start getting views of the canyon, with various viewpoints to catch the train tracks. The last viewpoint is when you see the bridge in the distance. The trail keeps going, but it's only joining the highway and there are no more viewpoint that would be worth it, my recommendation is to turn around after this point. This is a hike that I would even suggest to do when the sun is not out, to better see the canyon from a photographic point of view. extra tip: if you feel like having a pre or after hike snack, there is a place on the way to there called Fergie's Cafe, it's a really trendy place into the forest with a very neat architecture!"