Ask anyone in Vancouver, and they would tell you that hiking is amongst their favorite hobbies. With mountains within the city and many other nature parks nearby (like Whistler), hiking is an opportunity to get away from urban stress. That being said, here are easy day hikes that you don’t have to travel far for.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
First built in 1889 by Scottish Mackay and Khahtsahlano, the bridge is suspended 70 meters above Capilano River. Today it has evolved into Vancouver’s most popular attraction and cost $55.66 SGD ($54.95 CAD) per adult for entry. Additionally, there is also a cliff walk and treetop adventure which promises a fair bit of walking with a rewarding view!
Want to get away from the tourists’ crowds, and seek a true hike in nature? Head to the Capilano River Regional Park instead. There, you can find three trails to choose from with the longest one taking about 6 hours for a 15km hike. Along the way, you will also get to admire the gorgeous Cleveland Dam and learn about the salmon hatchery.
For those who are interested in a free suspension bridge, consider Lynn Canyon Park. There are many other extensive hikes in that park with Twin Falls and a 30-foot hole swimming pool to explore too.
For more information on Capilano Suspension Bridge, you can visit their official site here.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
Stressed-out students in the University of British Columbia would swear that a hike in this park has helped them out at crucial moments. There are over 54km of trails in this forested park to conquer, and once inside, you will be shielded off from the outside world.
Cycling and horseback riding are also popular sports in this park and you have the option of hiking to the famous nude beach.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Hiking routes can be strenuous so if you want to have a walk in a park instead, Queen Elizabeth’s Park is a must-see. It is especially beautiful in spring with its galore of flowers and has a little golf course. It also features a world-famous tropical garden in its Bloedel Conservatory where you can view birds such as parrots.
The area is about 52 hectares in total so make sure to plan your routes so you do not have to walk more than you expect! On Saturdays, you can attend the Riley Park Farmers Market for fresh produce and rub shoulders with the locals.
Grouse Mountain
Heading back to the grind, you can challenge yourself with the 2.9km trail, with up to 2830 steps to reach the peak. Once up the mountain, there is a whole range of activities to do, including watching Lumberjacks show, having a sweet Beavertails snack, and observing animals. In the winter, join in seasonal activities such as ice skating and skiing.
Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the Eye of the Wind, where you stand on a viewing platform inside a huge wind turbine and watch short films at the Theatre in the Sky. Admittedly, I almost fell asleep in the theatre (before the show started) from the exhaustion of climbing the Grouse Grind so maybe you could do that on a separate trip.
For more information on Grouse Mountain, visit their official site here. Different entrance fees apply for hiking, taking the Skyride, and viewing attraction zones.
Quarry Rock
Known for the view at the top and easy to hike, this trail takes about an hour and a half round trip. Make sure to put on a good pair of hiking as there are loose stones on the trail! Many trekkers here bring their furry companions along as well. You can hike this trail in any season but preferably go on a day without fog to thoroughly enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
It is very easy to find a place to decompress in nature while in Vancouver, with hiking routes that provide many attractions to see and do along the way. If you are interested in driving down to Whistler, there are way more options to see and do as well.
