Vancouver is surrounded by mountains, ocean, and endless green spaces, which makes it a playground for anyone who loves the outdoors. This city is the ultimate adventure playground.
Whale Watching
The waters off Vancouver are prime territory for whale watching. Most tours leave from Granville Island or Steveston and last between three and five hours.
Orcas are most likely to be seen around the Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands from spring to early autumn. It’s a wonderful experience to see these huge animals in their natural habitat, especially with the mountains and coast in the background.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
One of the most famous attractions in the city is the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The bridge is 137 meters long and 70 meters high across the Capilano River. The bridge sways a little as you walk across, which makes it a thrilling experience.
Apart from the main bridge, the park has treetop walkways and the Cliffwalk, a glass-sided path that hugs the side of the cliff. Both offer more chances to admire the towering Douglas firs and the rushing river below. Visit in autumn or winter to enjoy the seasonal lighting.
Want to enjoy the comforts of the best luxury hotel in Vancouver while staying close to the bridge? Pan Pacific Vancouver is only about 15 minutes away.
Indian Arm Boat Tour
Join an Indian Arm boat cruise for a more relaxing adventure.
Indian Arm is a glacial fjord that lies north of the city, bordered by rugged mountains and waterfalls that flow down rock cliffs. The scenery feels remote, even though it’s only a short distance from downtown Vancouver.
Tours often stop at Granite Falls, a stunning waterfall at the end of the fjord. An Indian Arm tour is a great opportunity to see eagles and seals along the way.
Jet Skiing on Howe Sound
Jet skiing on Howe Sound is ideal if you’re into fast-paced adventure. Howe Sound is a network of fjords northwest of Vancouver, with deep blue waters surrounded by mountains and islands. Here, riding a jet ski combines the thrill of speed and beautiful views on the West Coast.
Tours generally include meandering between small islands, stopping to see seals sunbathing on the rocks, and taking in the views of the Coastal Mountains.
The view of the snow-capped peaks makes the experience much more beautiful on a clear day.
Kayaking at False Creek
If you want to do something closer to the city, kayaking at False Creek is perfect. It’s both fun and easily accessible.
Lined with parks, marinas, and neighbourhoods, False Creek is a sheltered waterway that flows through the heart of Vancouver. Paddling here is an opportunity to view the skyline from a different perspective. You can glide past Science World, paddle under bridges, and even get close to floating homes.
The calm waters make it a great option for beginners, and more experienced paddlers can head out to English Bay.
For the best experience, paddle when the city lights up in the evening.
Grouse Mountain Gondola
Take the Grouse Mountain Gondola for more panoramic views. If you want to enjoy the outdoors without having to do too much, this gondola ride is perfect – the Skyride will have you flying over the forest, the city, and ocean in just a few minutes.
There’s plenty to do at the summit besides just taking in the view. You can go hiking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
What’s more, the wildlife refuge here is home to two grizzly bears, and there are dining options with stunning views.
Snowmobiling in Whistler
An hour and a half north of Vancouver, Whistler is known worldwide for skiing and snowboarding, but snowmobiling is another thrilling way to explore the mountain landscape.
A guided trip will take you through alpine meadows, thick forests, and broad snowy fields – a wonderful way to enjoy the scenery. Trails cater to all skill levels, and some trips even stop at mountain chalets where you can grab a bite and a warm drink before heading back out.
Cycling around Stanley Park
You can’t visit Vancouver and not cycle around Stanley Park – it’s one of the must-have experiences here. The Seawall loop goes around the park and is about 9 kilometres long. The trail is easy, so anyone can try it, no matter how fit they are. So, give it a try, would you
