Things to Do in Vancouver: 5 Perfect Family Hikes

Teeming with hundreds of public and private galleries, locally owned boutiques and famous attractions such as Granville Island, Vancouver is known as the West Coast’s bustling urban center. Yet, the true spirit of the city lies in its breathtaking natural surroundings. Towering mountains and old-growth forests characterize BC’s wilderness, but exploring these ancient giants doesn’t have to be an adult-only venture. While many of the hiking opportunities in Vancouver are challenging, there are several hikes in the Lower Mainland with easy slopes and plentiful activities that will get the whole family outside.

1. Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

The largest of Vancouver’s regional parks, Lynn Headwaters is where the urban meets the outdoors. Located on the North Shore, the park is a perfect blend of natural beauty and family-friendly activities. Walk the expansive and well-maintained trails around the canyon or explore the historic BC Mills House contained within the park.

In the House, interactive exhibits explore the mining and logging history of the park before it became a natural site. If you have little ones in tow, consider taking the short trail to Rice Lake, where you can picnic and fish for rainbow trout.

2. Quarry Rock

One of the most stunning views you’ll find for minimal effort is at Quarry Rock, an increasingly popular spot in the northern end of Deep Cove, just up from Panorama Park at the Baden Powell Trail. You’ll immediately delve into the thick of the temperate rainforest to follow a trail comprised of many small wooden bridges and walkways, gentle slopes and lush green undergrowth.

Approximately 45 minutes later, you’ll find yourself on a large rocky outcrop that overlooks Indian Arm. Bring snacks and plan on spending some time on the rock before heading back to Deep Cove, where you can reward your family’s efforts with some of the tastiest doughnuts in the city. We recommended you try the signature honey flavor. Warm, softy and sticky, it is pure melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

3. Pacific Spirit Regional Park

An expansive natural green space on the west side of Vancouver, Pacific Spirit Regional Park separates the University of British Columbia from the city and encompasses the University Endowment Lands. Hiking the loop around the park—made up of 750 hectares of forest—is a three-hour undertaking.

However, a plethora of trails that are easily accessed by road means your family has many options for exploration. Cruise along Marine Drive to reach the Salish Trail, a more extensive route along the southeast side of the park. Or tackle Pacific Spirit from Kitsilano, there are numerous trail heads from the trendy neighborhood that quickly lead you into the wilderness.

4. Capilano Regional Park

Listen to the roar of the Capilano River as you explore Capilano Regional Park. Like Lynn Headwaters, Capilano lies across the water from downtown Vancouver, but many free shuttles will take you straight there. Cycling, camping, off-leash dog walking, fishing and canoeing are all featured at Capilano, or you can journey north to see the Cleveland Dam. The enormous structure holds Capilano Lake, water from which fuels the fish hatchery downhill from the dam. If you only have time for one activity, don’t miss the Capilano Suspension Bridge: the 450-foot bridge stretches 230 feet above the river and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in BC.

5. Shoreline Trail

This Port Moody trail is a favorite of families and dog-walkers due to its locale as well as the playgrounds that bookend the trail. The whole Shoreline Trail takes approximately two hours to complete, but you can pick a segment to conquer depending on your time and fitness level. Stick to the southern portion of the trail to enjoy the fresh, salty sea breeze and views from the harbor before a final, refreshing stop at Rocky Point Ice Cream.

It’s easy to find outings in Vancouver that are suitable for all age ranges. These picturesque hikes will keep you and your entire brood happy and active while you experience the great outdoors.