West Lion(edit)

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail in Cypress Provincial Park that starts off dull but has a spectacular panoramic views and intersects with the Howe Sound Crest Trail. 6 hours for a return trip is conservative.
The West Lion's summit is a 4th class scramble with significant exposure and some tricky route finding across the first slab section. The route goes climbers right, look for flagging and plan your route across prior to getting onto the rock. If you suspect you might experience fog or cloud cover then take a pass on a summit attempt.
People have died here, don't be one of them.

• Fun fact when you approach the West lion you will see where the Howe Sound Crest trail passes by and between the West and East Lion on a narrow rocky ledge below. Be careful in this area, as the drops are very steep.

Getting Started

This trail starts in Lions Bay off of Highway 99 in a spot where parking is quite limited. Arrive early for this one and park at the trailhead at the end of the road or in the limited parking down the street. Watch for Permit Only signs, otherwise you face a $200 parking ticket.
This summit can also be reached via a much longer (overnight is best), hike from Cypress Bowl parking area in the Cypress Ski area.

Taking Children

There are some challenging sections that kids will need to climb, but with the exception of the very final (optional) summit, children should be fine. Length and overall difficulty is the main issue with this trail. 6/10 for kids.