Photo via Isabelle Vauclair
The sun is shining and Vancouver is glimmering with a blanket of snow, which means it’s the perfect time to embark on one of the many walking trails in & around the city. So bundle up (and don’t forget your gloves!) because these magical winter walks are the perfect opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty all around you.
It’s always worth decompressing after a long week surrounded by nature, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Not only can visitors immerse themselves in a forest without leaving the city, but you’ll also find a handful of creeks, beaches, rocky cliffs, and a bog, if you venture far enough! Standout trails include the Chancellor Trail, the ocean-side Admiralty Trail, the Salish Trail, and the Douglas Fir Trail.
It’s also worth extending your walk to other parts of the University Endowment Lands, including Acadia Beach.
Where: 5495 Chancellor Boulevard
This one kills two birds with one stone! The walk from Spanish Banks West to Locarno is a stunning one, and both beaches offer incredible views of the snowcapped mountains of West Vancouver and the downtown skyline. Start at Point Laurence and make your way to Locarno Beach, or even Jericho Beach Park and the Old Hastings Mill Store Museum if you have some time to spend!
Where: Point Grey
Why not take in the spectacular winter views from the top of Vancouver? At 125 metres above sea level, Queen Elizabeth Park is home to the highest point in the city, offering a stunning view of the city skyline against the backdrop of the North Shore mountains. Plus, it’s always worth wandering the garden trails and sledding down the giant hill above the duck pond.
Where: Cambie Street and West 33rd Avenue
Whether you’re heading from Granville Island or down from West 7th Avenue, False Creek is a must during wintertime, and Choklit Park has some of the best views of the city by far. So make sure to plan some stops along your path to the seawall! Of course, you can always carry onto the north side past Science World, but we think False Creek South warrants a visit of its own.
Where: Between Cambie and Burrard Bridges
An urban oasis known across Canada, Stanley Park is magical any time of year. But Stanley Park might just look the best while covered in snow. Embark on a winter stroll along the seawall for a classic Vancouver experience, or duck into the tree-lined pathways to visit the Stanley Park Rose Garden, Shakespeare Garden, or mysterious rock garden.
The path from Second Beach to Third Beach is another great reason to head to Stanley Park.
Where: North of West End
Now, for a couple of picks outside of the city. Steveston is absolutely breathtaking in the wintertime, and the views from Garry Point and the adjacent West Dyke Trail are so worth the visit. Grab a coffee from the village centre or a snack from Fisherman’s Wharf and head to the park to start your idyllic stroll.
Where: 12011 Seventh Avenue, Richmond
This out-and-back waterfront trail is popular for a reason. The 1.7-kilometre route starts at the bottom of 18th Street and extends to Dundarave Park, offering views of the Burrard Inlet, the Coast Mountains, Lions Gate Bridge, and the Vancouver skyline. So grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and roam the path, which can easily be extended to the scenic Ambleside Park if you’re tempted!
Where: Bottom of 18th Street to Dundarave Park, West Vancouver
Known for its birdwatching (and dog-watching) opportunities, Deer Lake Park is a great place to wander that’s not far from the amenities on Commercial Drive, but still feels like its own slice of the world. The partially frozen lake and surrounding snowy trees offer passersby a beautiful, tranquil place to slow down. There’s also a boardwalk stretching along the eastern side of the lake, with picture-perfect views.
Where: 5435 Sperling Avenue, Burnaby
Maybe you’re craving a walk before or after dinner in the area, or simply want to see the views from the other side of the bridge. Either way, the Lonsdale Quay area is the perfect place for a stroll that’s near all the city comforts you could want – coffee, chocolates, brews, global cuisines, local shops, and even an art museum. You name it, it’s likely at Lonsdale.
Where: Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Finally, we come to Lighthouse Park – right across from where we started. The West Vancouver park is truly a haven from the city life, offering visitors a rare view of UBC, Pacific Spirit Park, and Vancouver proper that’s best experienced early in the morning or at sunset. You’re surrounded by snow-covered trees, the trails are short, and you can get up close and personal with a still-operating lighthouse that’s been in operation since 1870. What’s not to love?!
Where: 4902 Beacon Lane, West Vancouver
It’s worth slowing down and taking the time to enjoy all of the beauty the season has to offer.
Enjoy some winter walks, Vancouver!
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