Cove Runner – Rain Dancer – Boundary Trail Loop – North Shore Edge

The Cove Runner - Rain Dancer - Boundary Trail Loop

A Wild, Scenic Loop through Old Growth Forest and Hidden Trails

Contact Info

Highlights

7.9 km Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
2 Hours 32 Minutes
Street Parking
Dogs Allowed
Wildlife
Lakes
Forests
Bridges
Mixed Terrain
Unmaintained

Maps

Featured Local Listing

Advertise with us!

About

The Cove Runner, Rain Dancer and Boundary Trail Loop is a 7.9 km scenic loop trail near Deep Cove, offering moderately challenging terrain that takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. Winding through old growth forests, creek crossings, and rocky viewpoints, this loop is ideal for hikers and trail runners looking for a less-traveled route on The North Shore Edge. Although popular, the trails are unmarked, unmaintained, and not officially recognized, so navigation requires attention. Hikers are rewarded with dense forest, heritage-tagged trees, and beautiful glimpses of Burrard Inlet from a rocky lookout.

Special Features This loop showcases softer, natural terrain, rolling over roots and forest floor with numerous hand-built log bridges over creeks — rustic crossings that require careful footing, especially in wet weather. The heritage-tagged trees along Cove Runner / Rain Dancer are a highlight, offering a look at some of the largest and oldest trees in this section of forest. Several unmarked crossover trails can make route-finding tricky, so using GPS at junctions is highly recommended. A portion of the Baden Powell Trail is included, connecting this wild loop to the larger trail network. The unnamed rocky lookout offers a quiet spot to take in views of Burrard Inlet and surrounding mountains, especially rewarding after the trail’s ups and downs. Dogs are welcome but must remain on leash, and street parking is usually available along Cliffwood Road, close to the trailhead.

North Shore Edge Tip This trail is perfect for those looking to explore a wilder, less-manicured part of The North Shore Edge, but be prepared with a map, an app like All Trails and good shoes for creek crossings and muddy patches. Take your time to admire the massive heritage trees, and if you can, start early to enjoy quieter stretches of trail. As always, stay on trail to avoid damaging this sensitive forest and pack out everything you bring in to help preserve the beauty and solitude of this hidden gem.