Top outdoor adventures in and around Vancouver

Vancouver is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled mix of mountains, forests, and ocean landscapes. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for challenging hikes and mountain biking trails or someone who enjoys leisurely walks and scenic drives, this city has something for everyone. The diverse terrain provides endless opportunities for adventure, making Vancouver one of the best destinations for outdoor activities in North America.

From hiking the Grouse Grind to kayaking in Deep Cove, exploring Stanley Park’s iconic Seawall, or skiing on world-class slopes, the city caters to all skill levels and interests. Whether you prefer the tranquillity of birdwatching, the excitement of water sports, or the thrill of rock climbing, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature. In this guide, we explore the best outdoor activities Vancouver has to offer, highlighting top trails, biking routes, water sports, and more. Get ready to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Hiking trails

Vancouver’s hiking trails range from easy scenic walks to challenging mountain climbs, offering stunning views of forests, lakes, and coastal landscapes.

Best beginner trails

For those new to hiking, these trails offer gentle paths with rewarding scenery:

• Stanley Park Seawall: This iconic trail is a must-visit. The flat, paved path winds around the park, offering stunning water and city skyline views. It's about 9 km long and suitable for all ages.

• Lighthouse Park: Located in West Vancouver, this trail is about 6 km and features easy paths through old-growth forests. The highlight is the picturesque lighthouse and the rocky shoreline.

• Rice Lake: Nestled in the lush Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, this 3 km loop around Rice Lake offers a tranquil experience. The trail is well-maintained and perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Challenging routes

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, Vancouver's trails offer some tough routes with rewarding views. These trails test your endurance and provide a sense of accomplishment.

• Grouse Grind: Known as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster," this trail is a steep climb up Grouse Mountain. It's only 2.9 km but has an elevation gain of 853 meters. It's a strenuous workout but offers stunning views at the top.

• Stawamus Chief: Located in Squamish, this trail features three peaks, each offering a unique view. The hike is about 11 km round trip and involves steep sections and ladders. It's a challenging but rewarding climb.

• Garibaldi Lake: This 18 km round trip trail takes you through dense forests and alpine meadows to the stunning Garibaldi Lake. The trail is long and has significant elevation gain, making it a challenging but beautiful hike.

Water sports

Vancouver’s coastal location makes it an excellent destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water activities.

Kayaking in Deep Cove

Kayaking in Deep Cove is a magical experience. The cove, located in North Vancouver, offers stunning views and calm waters. Paddling here, you can explore the pristine coastline and hidden coves. It's perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers.

Here are some reasons why you should try kayaking in Deep Cove:

• Scenic views of mountains and forests.

• Wildlife sightings including seals and birds.

• Calm waters, ideal for beginners.

• Guided tours available for a safer experience.

For those interested in renting kayaks, Deep Cove has several rental shops:

Stand-up paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another exciting water sport in Vancouver. This activity combines surfing and kayaking. It's easy to learn and offers a great workout. The tranquil waters of English Bay and Kitsilano Beach are perfect for SUP.

Here are some key benefits of stand-up paddleboarding:

1. Full-body workout that improves balance and strength.

2. Peaceful and calming, excellent for stress relief.

3. Great way to explore Vancouver's coastline.

Whether you are paddling through Deep Cove or balancing on a paddleboard at English Bay, Vancouver's water sports are an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on these adventures!

Mountain biking

Vancouver's stunning landscapes offer endless adventures. For those who crave thrill, mountain biking stands out. With trails for every skill level, Vancouver and its surroundings are a biker's dream. Whether you're a novice or a pro, you'll find the perfect path to ride.

Popular trails

Vancouver boasts numerous trails for mountain biking. Each offers unique challenges and scenery.

• Mount Fromme: Known for its rugged terrain. Perfect for advanced bikers. Offers breathtaking views of the city.

• Mount Seymour: Features varied trails. Suitable for all skill levels. Includes technical descents and easier paths.

• Burnaby Mountain: Ideal for beginners. Offers gentle slopes and scenic routes. Great for a family outing.

• Cypress Mountain: Famous for its steep trails. A top choice for adrenaline junkies. Also offers stunning panoramic views.

Bike rentals and shops

You will find many places to rent or buy bikes. These shops offer quality gear and expert advice.

• Cycle City Tours: Located in downtown Vancouver. Offers a range of mountain bikes. Provides guided tours and maintenance services.

• Comor Sports: A one-stop shop for all biking needs. Features top brands and accessories. Staffed with knowledgeable experts.

• Endless Biking: Offers comprehensive services. Includes rentals, sales, and bike clinics. Perfect for beginners wanting to improve their skills.

Whether you're gearing up for a ride or looking for expert advice, these shops have you covered. They'll ensure you have the best biking experience in Vancouver.

Camping spots

Vancouver offers a blend of urban life and natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience the stunning landscapes is by camping. From family-friendly campsites to thrilling backcountry adventures, there's something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best camping spots in and around Vancouver.

Family-friendly campsites

Vancouver has several campsites perfect for families. These locations are safe and well-maintained and offer amenities that cater to children and adults alike. Here are some top picks:

• Golden Ears Provincial Park: This park features large, spacious campsites. Kids can enjoy swimming in Alouette Lake, and families can explore numerous hiking trails.

• Porpoise Bay Provincial Park: Located on the Sunshine Coast, this campsite offers a sandy beach and shallow waters. It's ideal for young swimmers and beachcombers.

• Alice Lake Provincial Park: Just north of Squamish, Alice Lake has four freshwater lakes. Families can swim, paddle, and even fish. The park also offers easy hiking trails.

These campsites offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families.

Backcountry adventures

Vancouver's backcountry camping spots are a dream come true for those who crave solitude and challenge. These locations require a bit more effort to reach but offer unparalleled beauty and tranquillity. Here are some top backcountry destinations:

• Garibaldi Provincial Park: This park is known for its stunning alpine scenery—hike to Garibaldi Lake and camp near its turquoise waters. The view of Mount Garibaldi is breathtaking.

• Elfin Lakes: Located in Garibaldi Provincial Park, Elfin Lakes offers a challenging hike with rewarding views. The campsite has basic amenities like a shelter and pit toilets.

• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park: Famous for its three stunning glacier-fed lakes, this park is a backcountry paradise. The hike is strenuous but worth the effort.

Wildlife viewing

One of the most exciting activities around Vancouver is wildlife viewing. Whether you're a bird enthusiast or fascinated by marine life, Vancouver and its surrounding areas provide numerous opportunities to witness nature at its finest.

Birdwatching locations

• Stanley Park: This urban park is home to over 230 bird species. You can see bald eagles, great blue herons, and many more.

• Reifel Bird Sanctuary: Located in Delta, this sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. Look for sandhill cranes, snow geese, and owls.

• Boundary Bay Regional Park: This park is perfect for spotting migratory birds. It attracts birdwatchers from around the globe.

• Burnaby Lake Regional Park: Known for its large population of waterfowl. You can see ducks, swans, and other water birds.

Marine life tours

Marine life tours offer a chance to witness the ocean's wonders. Vancouver's coastal waters are teeming with life. Here are some popular tours:

• Whale-watching tours are available from April to October. On these tours, you can see orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales.

• Sealion Watching tours: These tours take you to colonies of sea lions. You can watch them sunbathing on rocky shores.

• Seabird Watching tours: These tours focus on the diverse seabird population. Look for puffins, cormorants, and more.

Here’s a table summarizing the best times to see various marine life:

Skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding stand out as top activities. The city's proximity to majestic mountains makes it a prime destination for winter sports lovers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, Vancouver's slopes promise unforgettable experiences.

Top ski resorts

Vancouver boasts some of the best ski resorts in North America. These resorts offer world-class facilities, diverse trails, and breathtaking views.

Here are the top ski resorts you should not miss:

• Whistler Blackcomb: Located just two hours from Vancouver, Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America. It offers over 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers.

• Cypress Mountain: Only 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Cypress Mountain offers 53 downhill runs and night skiing options.

• Grouse Mountain: This resort is known for its stunning city views. It offers 33 runs and a variety of winter activities like snowshoeing and ice skating.

• Mount Seymour: Ideal for families and beginners, Mount Seymour has 40 marked runs and a dedicated terrain park for snowboarders.

Seasonal tips

Skiing and snowboarding in Vancouver are best enjoyed with some insider knowledge. Here are some seasonal tips to enhance your experience:

• Layer up: Wear multiple layers to stay warm. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer.

• Stay hydrated: Cold weather can be deceiving. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and energized.

• Check weather conditions: Always check the weather forecast and snow conditions before heading out. This ensures you are prepared for any changes.

• Book in advance: Popular resorts like Whistler Blackcomb can get crowded. Book your passes and accommodations well in advance.

• Use sunscreen: The sun's rays are stronger at higher altitudes. Apply sunscreen to protect your skin, even on cloudy days.

• Take breaks: Skiing and snowboarding can be exhausting. Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and enjoy the experience.

These tips will help you make the most of your skiing and snowboarding adventures in Vancouver.

Rock climbing

Vancouver is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of adventures. Among these, rock climbing stands out as a thrilling activity that combines physical strength and mental agility. With its stunning natural landscapes and well-equipped indoor facilities, Vancouver provides endless opportunities for climbers of all skill levels.

Indoor vs outdoor

Indoor rock climbing is perfect for beginners and those looking to hone their skills in a controlled environment. Vancouver boasts several state-of-the-art climbing gyms that offer a variety of climbing walls, from bouldering problems to top-rope and lead climbing routes.

• Climbing gyms provide safety features such as padded floors and auto-belay systems.

• Professional instructors are available to offer guidance and ensure climbers' safety.

• Indoor climbing offers year-round accessibility, regardless of weather conditions.

On the other hand, outdoor rock climbingprovides a more adventurous and authentic experience. Climbers can enjoy the natural beauty of Vancouver's landscapes while tackling real rock formations.

Each type of climbing has its own set of challenges and rewards. Indoor climbing is ideal for practice and skill development, while outdoor climbing offers a unique connection with nature and a sense of adventure.

Best climbing spots

Vancouver is home to some of the best climbing spots in the world. Squamish is a climber's paradise, known for its granite cliffs and diverse routes.

• The Chief: A massive granite monolith offering multi-pitch routes and breathtaking views.

• Smoke Bluffs Park: Perfect for beginners and intermediate climbers with a variety of single-pitch routes.

• Murrin Park: Features both sport climbing and bouldering routes in a beautiful lakeside setting.

For those who prefer staying closer to the city, Cypress Falls Park is an excellent choice. This park offers challenging climbs amidst lush forest scenery.

Indoor climbing gyms in Vancouver also provide excellent facilities. Some of the top gyms include:

1. The Hive: Known for its extensive bouldering problems and community events.

2. Cliffhanger Vancouver: Offers a mix of top-rope and lead climbing routes.

3. Base5: Features a variety of climbing walls suitable for all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a newbie, Vancouver offers a diverse range of climbing experiences. From the indoor gyms to the rugged outdoor terrains, there’s something for everyone.

Scenic drives

The city's surroundings offer breathtaking landscapes. One of the best ways to enjoy these views is through scenic drives. These routes provide a mix of majestic mountains, lush forests, and serene coastlines.

Embark on these must-see routes to experience the best of Vancouver's natural beauty:

• Sea-to-Sky Highway: This iconic drive stretches from Vancouver to Whistler. The journey offers stunning views of the Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and Tantalus Range.

• Fraser Valley: Head east towards the Fraser Valley. This drive takes you through picturesque farmlands, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Don’t miss the Chilliwack Tulip Festival in spring.

• Pacific Marine Circle Route: This loop starts from Victoria and brings you through forests, beaches, and lakes. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

Vancouver’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, making it a dream destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking up mountain peaks, paddling through calm waters, or skiing on world-class slopes, the city offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Its unique combination of ocean, forest, and alpine terrain ensures that there’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.

By exploring its scenic trails, engaging in thrilling activities like mountain biking and rock climbing, or simply taking a peaceful scenic drive, visitors can fully experience the breathtaking beauty of Vancouver. With so many outdoor adventures at your fingertips, now is the time to plan your next trip and immerse yourself in everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Get outside, embrace the fresh air, and create unforgettable memories in Vancouver’s great outdoors!