Kayaking, hiking, suspension bridges and whales: the ultimate adventure between mountains and Pacific Ocean.
Vancouver is the epicenter of adventure in Canada. Surrounded by mountains, forests and ocean, it offers activities like kayaking among orcas, hiking on Grouse Mountain, the vertiginous Capilano Suspension Bridge and surfing in Tofino.
Itinerary
Stanley Park & Seawall
- Bike rental and full Seawall loop (10 km)
- Explore Stanley Park totem poles
- Sunset kayaking in English Bay
- Dinner at a West End restaurant with ocean views
Capilano & Grouse Mountain
- Capilano Suspension Bridge and Treetops Adventure
- Cliffwalk (walkway over the precipice)
- Grouse Mountain via gondola or Grouse Grind (intense hiking)
- Grizzly bear viewing at Grouse Mountain refuge
Sea-to-Sky Highway
- Drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler
- Stop at Shannon Falls (335m waterfall)
- Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish
- Hiking Whistler trails
- Return at sunset with spectacular views
Whale watching
- Orca and humpback whale watching tour (4-5 hours)
- Lunch at Granville Island Public Market
- Paddleboarding in False Creek
- Explore Gastown neighborhood at sunset
Deep Cove & North Shore
- Kayaking in Deep Cove (crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains)
- Hike to Quarry Rock (panoramic views)
- Lunch in Deep Cove village (famous honey donut)
- Relax at Kitsilano Beach with mountain views
Practical Tips
Equipment
Bring waterproof hiking shoes and layers. Vancouver weather changes quickly.
Book ahead
Whale watching tours and Capilano fill up fast in summer. Book at least a week in advance.
Grouse Grind
The climb is intense (2.9 km with 853m elevation gain). Bring enough water and start early.
Best time
June to September for best conditions. Resident orcas are present from May to October.
Approximate Budget
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see orcas year-round?
Resident orcas are present from May to October. Transient orcas can be seen year-round but are less predictable.
Is the Grouse Grind difficult?
Yes, it is demanding (1.5-2.5h climb). Alternative: take the gondola up and hike down via the BCMC trail.
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