Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 2 hours
Round-Trip Distance: 5 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Season: June - October
Car Travelling Time from Vancouver: 50 minutes
Credits: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/dog-mountain/
Edit: I went again on July 4, 2020, and conditions were quite different due to inclement weather on the days preceding the hike - snowy, icy and muddy, which aggravated the technical portions of the hike. We had to proceed cautiously to maintain our balance amidst slippery stones, roots, branches and mud. The trail from First Lake to Dog Mountain (1.5km) is closed, however, a lot of people proceeded to the end for amazing views.
The Dog Mountain Trail is a brief and easy hike from Mount Seymour that provides really picturesque views of Vancouver on a sunny day. Although the elevation gain is slight and the entire trail is only about 5km return, the path is slightly technical, so be aware of several sections that contain super slippery and muddy tree roots and areas. There are also several areas with a lot of snow, which you might have to sidetrack. If you want to avoid getting dirty, I would recommend giving this a skip. Also, take note of the brightly colored markers located on the foliage to ensure you don't go off trail. The trail is not straightforward and a wrong turn could lead you off trail rather easily.
Upon entering the trailhead, walk down the small hill to the first bridge across a small stream. The trail meanders around tree roots and rough areas, while remaining quite flat with several bumps.
Edit: After walking for 1.1km, you arrive at First Lake. Walk across the small bridge and along the lake shore to the sign on the far side pointing the way to Dog Mountain. It's around 1.5km to Dog Mountain from this point, however the next section of the trail has a few more hills than the first. Continue along the trail making your way past the small streams and the rocky and slippery path.
First Lake in the mist, July 2020
Hop over streams and little bridges until you reach the final viewpoint which offers expansive views of English Bay, Grouse Mountain and the City of Vancouver.
walk to the other side for another perspective