Natural Attractions and Parks in Vancouver
Ranked constantly as one of the best cities in terms of quality of life, Vancouver never ceases to amaze. Here, you will never run out of entertainment options, especially with the vast nature preserved well and intact within the city. Fly to Vancouver to explore the harmony of city and nature – the quintessential Canadian experience. Exploring the beauty of nature in Canada offers a grand and one-of-a-kind experience, without obliterating your bank account. Here’s a list of 5 must-go natural attractions in Vancouver:
1. Stanley Park
As one of the greatest urban parks of the world, Stanley Park offers amazing views, beautiful beaches and a selection of cultural attractions. It attracts more than eight million visitors every year. You can easily spend half of your day here, wandering around in your escape from busy city life. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities here, picnic, cycling, strolling, etc. If you are an enthusiastic hiker, there are over 27 kilometers of forest tracks, perfect for those who would like a burst of energy. The trails are easy to navigate and explore, where you can spot some of the most iconic monuments in the park. The most popular one is the British Columbia First Nations totem poles, which you can find at Brockton Point, located in the eastern side of Stanley Park. The park is also home to the largest aquarium in Canada. The Vancouver Aquarium has over 70,000 creatures, such as dolphins, Beluga whales and different types of fish found in different parts of the world. If you are ready for some watery fun during your summer visit in Stanley Park, you can get wet in various water activities at the beaches in the park.
2. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is another one of the most popular attractions in Vancouver. There, not only can visitors admire the jaw-dropping scenery, they can also participate in a wide array of adrenaline-fueled and inspirational activities. What’s more, the destination is only 15 minutes from the city downtown area, making it a convenient escape to the countryside. The first step in getting the most out of the Grouse Mountain is taking the Super Skyride. It takes visitors to the Alpine Station from where you can begin all of other fun activities in the pristine nature. At the top of the mountain is the Wildlife Refuge, where endangered animals inhabit. The refuge is a shelter for animals which are orphaned or threatened, such as twp celebrity bears, named Grinder and Coola. If you are hard-core adrenaline junkies, you would like the ziplines on the mountain, which starts at the Blue Grouse Lake until hurling you at high speeds across the mountain peak. The zipline tour is available all year round, making sure fans can experience the thrill no matter the season!
3. Capilano Suspension Bridge
As suggested by the name, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is a suspension bridge over the Capilano River. The bridge is 140 metres long and 70 metres above the river! It is only a 15-minute drive from the city downtown. Built in 1889, the bridge has attracted and thrilled millions of visitors ever since. Looking a bit wobbly and flimsy, it will send chill down the spine of even a daredevil. It is certainly not for the faint of heart! If you are a fan of the mystical totem poles, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has the largest collection in the world, with some dating back to the early 19000’s. Not satisfied with the treetop walk on the bridge? You can spike your adrenaline level further with the newest addition to the park, Cliffwalk. You have to walk on narrow bridges, stairs and platforms that are only attached to the cliff with 16 anchor points! Pace yourself in this highly electrifying experience! Treetops Adventure is a less exhilarating experience, but nonetheless entertaining. Visitors will find themselves in a tree canopy 30-metre above the ground, viewing the rainforest from 1,300-year-old Douglas fir trees.A wide array of season events are also hosted here. Make sure the check the events before you go to avoid crowds.
4. Kitsilano Beach
For passionate ocean-lovers, the Kitsilano Beach (aka Kits) is not to be missed. One of the most appealing factors of the Kits Beach remains to be its vast view of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can swim, kayak or engage in other water areas in their own designated areas. Next to the beach is the enclosed Kitsilano Pool, which is a safer option ideal for families, although the pool is filled with water as salty as the sea water. Watch it before gulping down a mouthful of briny water down your throat! The Shakespeare festival is held here every summer, putting on performances and workshops to celebrate Shakespearean classic and reinventions.
5. Whistler Blackcomb
To experience the magic of winter, there’s no better place than Whistler Blackcomb, a world-class ski resort that offers ultimate mountain experiences. The ski resort was originally part of the bid for the 1968 Winter Olympics, although the bid failed eventually. It has over 8100 acres of snowy slopes, 3 glaciers and over 200 marked trails. Visitors can find ski runs for all skill levels here. If you are a complete beginner in skiing, it would be a good idea to get some training by registering for an Avalanche Skills Training Level 1 course, where you learn to use your gear and travel safely in the snow. On the other hand, if you are already a veteran ready for some family fun or solo adventure, make sure you have prepared the right gear and get the detailed weather and avalanche report, to complete a ski vacation safe and sound.
More than a bustling city with an abundance of cultural attractions and thriving business, Vancouver is also a Mother Nature’s playground. Ready to switch up your role as an urban dweller in the hustle and bustle of Singapore? Book a flight with Cathay Pacific and enjoy a pleasant and safe flight to Vancouver. Be pampered by the quality service and top-notch staff!