Enjoy The Outdoor Adventures in North Vancouver
We found so many ways to experience outdoor adventures in North Vancouver. On different day trips we explored Deep Cove, Lynn Canyon, Rice Lake, Lighthouse Park and Horseshoe Bay. And sometimes we headed even further north to Whistler.
There was so much to discover when we went outside of Vancouver on a stay in British Columbia.
Visit North Vancouver For The Day Or Stay In The Area
It is easy to plan a day trip to many areas north of Vancouver. Once we crossed the Lions Gate Bridge or the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge we found lots to discover. Some of the tourist spots can be visited by bus or by special tour. But all are easy to find when we had a car.
We generally stayed in the city on our visits to Vancouver. But when we visited and then headed for a stay on the Sunshine Coast, we decided it made sense to actually stay in North Vancouver. We were working on our points and status for 2023 and the IHG One Rewards Program had a special offer for Platinum status. So we booked a few days at the Holiday Inn and Suites North Vancouver. So many of the great outdoor adventures in North Vancouver were so easy to reach from here.
The hotel itself had lots of outdoor space. And it was an easy walk to hikes along the Lynn Creek. Although we were a bit surprised when we found signs warning us about bears in the area.
We enjoyed this new spot for a stay in North Vancouver. Especially when we headed north of the city.
Relax In Deep Cove
We visited the small town of Deep Cove at the foot of Mount Seymour on several trips to Vancouver. We enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere in this small town originally called “Deepwater”. The town was great to wander. There were lots of spots to pick up gelato or food for a picnic by the bay.
We always spent time wandering the paths along the water. The Deep Cove Kayak Rental shop was right on the beach. Every visit we planned to rent a kayak and head along the shore or out to the nearby Racoon Island. When we visited last, we were delighted with the colourful sight we found. A large kayak class enjoyed the calm waters in the bay.
Heading up the Fraser River to Deep Cove was one of our favourite ways to experience the outdoor adventures in North Vancouver.
Explore Across The Suspension Bridge At Lynn Canyon
Many Vancouver visitors want to visit the Capilano Narrows Suspension Bridge. But when we first visited the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and explored the park we knew we would be back.
After parking we started along the path and found the Visitors Centre with washrooms and food. While we could wander on this side of Lynn Creek, the suspension bridge took us to the paths through the Lynn Canyon Park. We are not afraid of heights so we did not mind the swaying of the suspension bridge as we crossed and looked down at the cascading water below.
On our first visit we went left when we got off the bridge. This took us along a set of paths to the 30-foot pool. This was one of the few spots where we could actually get into the water. And the braver kids jumped and dove off the higher rocks. Signs all through the park reminded us of the dangers with the fast flowing waters.
Heading To Twin Falls At Lynn Canyon
On our return visit to Lynn Canyon we turned right after the bridge. The paths were a mixture of dirt with rocks and wooden platforms. And lots of stairs that took us down into the valley.
We followed the path to the Twin Falls. At one point there was a steep hill that people scrambled down for early views of the water. Of course David had to try out his billy goat feet to get an early view of the water!
When we arrived at the Twin Falls we got a good look at the double falls from the bridge. And then climbed back up out of the valley.
We saw little wildlife when we hiked at Lynn Canyon Park. But our day was not yet done. When we stopped in the small town we smiled when we found our first bears. Even if they were just statues at the mall.
A visit to Lynn Canyon Park was a great way to experience the outdoor adventures in North Vancouver.
Walk Around Rice Lake For Outdoor Adventures in North Vancouver
When we headed north from Lynn Canyon, we found the parking lot for Rice Lake. From this spot there were a number of different trails including some that went back towards Lynn Canyon.
For our day trip we wanted to walk around Rice Lake. A lot of the trails were suitable for bikes and dogs but the path around the lake allowed neither.
When we hit Rice Lake, we got our first view of the amazing reflections we found on Rice Lake. The blues and greens sparkled on this clear day.
As we continued our walk around the lake we stopped often for more reflection views. Benches were placed along the path to enjoy the tranquility in the forest. It was an easy 3.2km (2 mile) walk around the lake. And we enjoyed every minute!
On our first visit to Rice Lake we only had time to walk around the lake. But we knew there were other hiking paths and many ways to experience outdoor adventures in North Vancouver at Rice Lake.
Hike In Lighthouse Park
We passed the Point Atkinson Lighthouse for the first time when we rented a boat and explored the coast north of Vancouver. So when we passed Lighthouse Park we knew we needed to check out the lighthouse from the land.
We parked and checked out the trail map. There were a lot of hiking trails in the park. But on this visit we headed for our view of the lighthouse.
When we followed the path to the viewpoint, we climbed up on the rocks and looked out at the water. Just below the trees we got our first glimpse of the lighthouse.
Backtracking we followed the path and got a clear view of the Point Atkinson Lighthouse. We read the signs at the viewpoint and learned more about this historic spot and the keepers of the lighthouse.
On this visit to Lighthouse Park, we had no more time to hike the paths. But we knew this was a great spot to enjoy outdoor adventures in North Vancouver.
Take The Ferry From Horseshoe Bay
When we continued north of Vancouver, we arrived at Horseshoe Bay. There was much to see when we wandered around this coastal town. And always great fish and chips for lunch!
From Horseshoe Bay we took a BC Ferry and explored Vancouver Island. And on many of our visits to Vancouver we headed by ferry and discovered all the outdoor adventures on the Sunshine Coast. While the destinations were always a new discovery, we always enjoyed the ferry ride too.
Horseshoe Bay was always a great starting point for outdoor adventures.
Keep Going North To Whistler
When we wanted to head even further north, Whistler was a great option. It was about 90 minutes from Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway so a day trip was possible. But we loved when we planned a longer stay in Whistler and enjoyed this great area for a few days.
Whistler was a great destination in all season. It was probably best known for winter Olympics and skiing. But we loved visiting Whistler in “off season”. The hills were used by bikers. And the chair lifts went high in the mountains for amazing views. We were always amazed at how long snow stayed high on the mountains.
Our personal favourite time to visit Whistler might be the colourful Fall season. We found the village ablaze in colours.
On the drive to Whistler we found great stops along the way. And even in the rain, there were so many great hikes in the Whistler area.
When we looked for outdoor adventures north of Vancouver, Whistler was always a great destination.
So Many Great Outdoor Adventures in North Vancouver
We found so great ways to experience the outdoor adventures in North Vancouver. Whether we explored Deep Cove, Lynn Canyon, Rice Lake or Lighthouse Park we always enjoyed the sights and the things we found to do.
When we went further north to Horseshoe Bay we found the gateway to even more British Columbia adventures on Vancouver Island or the Sunshine Coast. When we headed even further north to Whistler, we discovered something to enjoy in every season.
It was never hard to find outdoor adventures when we went outside of the city on a stay in Vancouver.
Have you enjoyed the outdoor adventures in North Vancouver? Did we miss one of your favourite spots?
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The scenery here is amazing! I would love to check out Vancouver and see the sights. Lots of great spots on your trip!
We love to find new outdoor spots to enjoy on our visits to Vancouver.
North Vancouver is definitely a good choice for getting outdoors. As always you managed to get active and see some great nature spots and the falls. I don’t think I would jump in the water there but then I am a coward! Whistler looks so pretty, I’d like to see it too.
We do try to be as active as possible when we travel. Lets us enjoy more of the local food!
Classic teenagers ignoring the signs about no cliff-jumping! 😮 (Though to be fair I can see why they were tempted – the water looks so refreshing!)
The waters around the area north of Vancouver are indeed all so tempting!
I was just in Vancouver last month! I got to go to Capilano and Grouse Mountain (both of which I’ve visited before). Since I only had 4 days, I wish I had more time to explore and go to Deep Cove and Lynn Canyon.
I am glad to have given you a few reasons to return to Vancouver and explore north of the city. We have been to Vancouver a lot and still have not visited Capilano or Grouse Mountain. So we have stuff on our list to bring us back too.
Looks like there’s so much beauty in North Vancouver!! Just added Whistler to my travel bucket list – those fall colors are beautiful!
Whistler is known for winter skiing. But we have visited at different times of year and every visit has been a treat.
Warnings of coyotes and bears – now, doesn’t that sound inviting?! But then you convinced me with those beautiful pictures of the mesmerizing sceneries. Actually, nothing beats the view of a lake against the backdrop of a mountain – and there seem to be quite a few of thos in North Vancouver. Scenerywise it looks like a mix between European northern coasts and the mountains in central Europe – an alluring mix for sure 🙂
There is certainly an alluring mix of outdoor scenes available when we headed north from Vancouver. A little bit for everyone. And much of it would be available by public transit for you.
British Columbia certainly is a beautiful place for outdoor adventures!
We get back to British Columbia regularly. The outdoor adventures sure are a draw.
Vancouver has really beautiful scenery, would love to hike the Capilano bridge. Fish and chips at Horseshoe Bay sounds good.
So many great outdoor spots north of Vancouver Island. And lots of good food after you have burned some calories.
There are so many amazing outdoor adventures awaiting people in North Vancouver! I would be like David trying the offshoot trail to get to see the first view of the river. 🙂 And it’s good to know that a car will help a lot in exploring this region of Vancouver.
We love exploring all the outdoor spots north of Vancouver. And heading for views when we can find a safe path!
Undoubtedly when it comes to Nature and outdoor activities Canada is unbeatable. I went to Ontario many times but never to Vancouver. It sounds even more interesting…
Vancouver and BC will certainly add a lot of amazing outdoor adventures in Canada.
So many beautiful outdoor adventures in North Vancouver! I would love to explore love Lynn Canyon especially!
Lynn Canyon is a great alternative to Capitano if you ever get to Vancouver.
Your piece about the outdoor activities in North Vancouver was interesting to read. You did a great job of capturing the place’s beauty and energy. The pictures of the waterfalls and the suspension bridge were my favourites. You seem to have had a lot of fun and excitement. North Vancouver has always been on my travel bucket list, and your post has motivated me to book a vacation there soon.
I am so glad you planned a visit to Vancouver. You will love all the great things to explore north of Vancouver.
Wow, so much natural beauty! I would love to visit Canada – Vancouver being right at the top of my list. Rice Lake and Lighthouse Park look sooo pretty, thanks for sharing 😄
There are lots of reasons to have Vancouver high on your travel wish list. So many great outdoor adventures.
I had no idea there was so much to do in Vancouver! I would love to kayak in deep cove!
There are outdoor adventures for everyone if you venture north of Vancouver. And we always look for ways to get on the water.
North Vancouver seems to be an awesome place for great outdoors. I would love to visit Whistler in fall and take a chairlift to the top. Also waterfall there look amazing. Thanks for useful information and beautiful pictures.
Day trips north of Vancouver are great at any time of year. And Whistler has so many options year round for fun.
I spent 3 years in Seattle and sure miss the Pacific Northwest! The scenery there, as your photos show, is spectacular! I hope to get to north of Vancouver soon.
I hope you do get to visit Vancouver and head north to discover the outdoor adventures. Another great gem in the Pacific Northwest.
That is such a lovely photo of you taken on the bear! I’d love to visit Rice Lake and take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay. You covered so many awesome outdoor things to do!
It was great to visit so many different spots north of Vancouver for outdoor adventures. And of course I could not resist posing with the cute bears.
Looks like a lovely trip to North Vancouver! I would love to do this some day. Some places like the uneven path with big roots sticking out to the waterfall reminded me of a similar place in Maine. The bear statues are cute. The kayak class sounds interesting. Great images as usual. 🙂
We love all the great variety we found when we travelled north of Vancouver for outdoor fun.
Deep cove looks so quaint and charming. I’d love to visit and I’d definitely love to go kayaking there… I love kayaking!
We have been back to Deep Cove a few times to enjoy the water views. Definitely a great spot to kayaking.
Actually sitting on a plane right now making my way to Vancouver! I really enjoyed reading about North Vancouver. I wish we had time to explore…especially Lynn Canyon and the suspension bridge. It looks less crowded and touristy than Capilano. Loved the beautiful water behind your husband while you enjoyed a meal! I’m going to have to plan a special trip just to explore North Vancouver someday!
You are going to love your visit to Vancouver. Even if you don’t make it north of Vancouver to explore all the outdoor adventures. Lots of reasons to return.
Looks like lots of fabulous hiking in North Vancouver, and I know they have great food to reward yourself with 🙂
We sure did find lots of options for great hiking north of Vancouver.
I love all the waterfalls and trees in the area as well as the hiking trails. I’ve never really gone too far north from Vancouver and have spent most of my 3 visits in the city. It looks like I should travel further next time I am in the area.
I hope you do get to head out of the city the next time you get to Vancouver. So much great outdoors to explore.
These are some spots for outdoor adventure in North Vancouver. Kayaking in the small town of Deep Cove would be absolutely awesome with the calm waters at the bay and the cool gelato shops.Walking across the Lynn canyon suspension bridge would be so amazing discovering the pools and the twin falls from the The blue reflections of the Rice lake, the Views of the Point Atkinson light house, sailing to the Horseshoe Bay and enjoying fish and chips and the exhilarating cable car ride at Whistler to see the amazing fall colors is something I would love to do.
I hope you do get to visit Vancouver and head north for some of these amazing outdoor experiences.
There seem to be a lot of great places to spend time in nature north of Vancouver. Out of all of these places I have only heard about Whistler before. A friend of mine worked there for a few winters, so I’ve heard stories on how beautiful it is covered in snow. If I will ever be in this part of the world, I would like to see the Capilano Narrows Suspension Bridge. Not sure how much eager I’ll be to cross it, as I’m afraid of heights and that includes hanging bridges, but I’d love to explore the area surrounding it. The Twin Falls look pretty as well, and what a beautiful trek through the forest to get to it. Rice Lake looks like a very picturesque place as well. I would too walk around the lake and take in the views.
I am sure you will find lots of great outdoor spots to enjoy on road trips north of Vancouver that won’t challenge your fear of heights!
So much to see and do! I remember as a kid I went to Capilano Suspension Bridge, but that is not the same right?
Capilano Suspension Bridge is the more popular spot. But Lynn Canyon is a good option with some great hiking too.
Oh my! I love outdoor adventures, and North Vancouver looks like the perfect place to do so. I’m a sucker for waterfalls, and there are so many pretty ones. Suspension bridges are also somewhat scary but also fun to cross. And, of course, I’d have to go kayaking as it’s fun to explore the waterways at a slow pace. It really looks like you had fun!
We did indeed have fun as we explored the outdoor adventures north of Vancouver. Good for all!
I was pausing and admiring the beautiful views you captured and felt as if I were there. The Lynn Canyon suspension bridge sounds interesting through I am rather afraid of the shaking but if it is as beautiful as Capilano then I would be willing to brave it and walk across.
Lynn Canyon is apparently not as bad a crossing. But it does depend on how many people are there and if some people jump to make it shake. We have been twice and had no issue with crossing the suspension bridge. Lots of things to explore once you cross.
The geography is so beautiful–clear skies and emerald waters. Am sure it would be such a rejuvenating trip. I am scared of heights, but that view from the suspension bridge is surely umissable. The clean ambience of Whistler is so captivating. Those boys jumping off the cliff remind me of young boys in rural India, they are so brave. I would certainly like to walk around Rice Lake and just meditate for hours, it’s so clean.
So many places to go for nature and relaxing views north of Vancouver.
It seems like a lot of fun to be having this outdoor experience in North Vancouver. Kayaking in Deep Cove while admiring the beautiful scenery is a real treat. Twin Lake and Rice Lake are both breathtaking! I can’t wait to go on this incredible journey in the future.
I hope you do get to visit Vancouver one day and head north for some fun outdoor adventures.