Go North and Prosper

Adventures in Vancouvers North Shore Mountains

Which direction for true adventure? North! British Columbia, Canada, is an outdoor mecca and its heart is Vancouver, a cosmopolitan city surrounded by spectacular nature, including the North Shore Mountains, hidden cove beaches, and rainforest. It's also the launch point for the Sea-to-Sky Highway, a 90-minute scenic rhapsody along a sparkling fjord and up to Whistler. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is home to three thrilling adventures, including walking (or tip-toeing) across its namesake bridge, 230 feet above the Capilano River canyon. The park's newest feature, Cliffwalk, clings to the granite for an even more daring perspective.

Or get a squirrel's–eye view of the brilliant green rainforest on the Treetops Adventure—seven suspension bridges connected high above the forest floor. Ready for more? Vancouver's Grouse Mountain is a rite of passage for locals and visitors. Get to the top on the Skyride tram and take your pick of hiking trails, or get to the top the hard way! The famed Grouse Grind (aka Nature's Stairmaster) is a steep hike to a staggeringly good view. In the spirit of the grind, meet "Grinder" the Grizzly Bear at the mountain's wilderness sanctuary (there's a grey wolf there too!). And for one of the best views of Vancouver and its pristine surroundings, take the scenic Peak Chairlift all the way up to The Peak of Vancouver, where you'll soar above towering Douglas firs and see everything from the city, to the sea, to the Gulf Islands and the many peaks beyond. But getting to the top is only half the fun. Mountain bike down the neighboring trails on Mount Fromme—a world renowned spot for riding. British Columbia, Canada is your north star for adventure.

Start planning your summer adventure to British Columbia! 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

    View
  2. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  3. Man hiking up a trail at Montara Mountain, with a view of the Pacific and Grey Whale sand beach in the background

    From Beach to Summit

    No need to decide between a beach and a mountaintop—this hike includes both! Explore the stunning coastal scenery on this 6-mile out-and-back up Montara Mountain and into Rancho Corral de Tierra.

    View
  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Legendary Deals!

    There are outlet malls … and then there’s The Outlets at Legends! Located just east of Reno in the neighboring city of Sparks, this open-air entertainment, dining, and shopping destination isn’t just a visit, it’s an experience.

    View
  2. How Do You Après?

    Après all day? Hey, in Reno Tahoe, anything goes! But if you insist on skiing, skating, or snow tubing first—well, of course you do! Reno Tahoe is one of the best places on the planet for snow adventures of all kinds, followed by outdoor firepit gatherings and cozy indoor hideaway respites like these...

    View
  3. Woman walking in the Venice Canals of Los Angeles County

    Canal Contemplations

    With its incense-scented boardwalk, bohemian shops, skateparks, and abundance of body builders, Venice is happily eccentric, and artistic. Exhibit A: Its network of European-style canals with charming bridges, offering a tranquil tour of the town’s history.

    View
  4. Hike A Fall Classic

    Reno hit the jackpot with its well-planned urban trail system, including the Tom Cooke Trail adjacent to the Truckee River, and brilliant in fall.

    View