12 Best Hikes in Vancouver

Vancouver is consistently named as one of the top five worldwide cities for livability and quality of life, and it’s no wonder given its accessibility to the great outdoors located on Canada’s stunning west coast of British Columbia. The mild climate, proximity to the ocean, mountains, lakes and rivers makes Vancouver and the surrounding Sea-to-Sky area a haven for outdoor recreation. The city itself is home of one of the largest urban parks in North America called Stanley Park as well as within minutes of the downtown core, you can access three ski areas, Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour, amongst a plethora of other outdoor activities.

In the summer, take a swim at one of the numerous sandy beaches, sail the open seas of the Georgia Straight and the Pacific Ocean, SUP paddle board around Granville Island Market, mountain bike through North Vancouver’s famous trails or hike to any of the 90+ peaks of the coastal mountains, just footsteps from the city.

Take advantage of Vancouver’s proximity to one of the world’s most famous ski resorts and enjoy the stunning drive up to Whistler Blackcomb Resort located in Whistler B.C. about 120 km from Vancouver. Be sure to stop in Squamish on your way to hike the Chief, try out the Sea-to-Sky Gondola or check out the wind and kite surfers at the Squamish Spit.