Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wreck Beach
Getting down to Wreck Beach
is easy, via a steep trail leading
from SW Marine Drive on the
UBC campus
(see p85).
The hard
part is the climb back up from this
clothing-optional beach. Beware:
ogglers on the beach are conspic-
uous. There are spectacular views
across the Strait of Georgia
toward Vancouver Island
(see p53).
Top 10
Outdoor Activities
Cycling
Stanley Park's seawall
(see
p8)
has a dedicated bike lane.
d
Spokes Bicycle Rentals, 1798
W Georgia St • 604 688 5141
Sailing
English Bay and Vancou-
ver's outer harbor beckon.
d
Simplicity Sailing Charters
• 604 765 0074
Mount Seymour
Provincial Park
Drive to the top of Mount Sey-
mour for glimpses of deer and
bears, and for views of Deep Cove
and Indian Arm. The park, on the
eastern end of the Coast Moun-
tain range, is popular in winter,
with gentle slopes for beginners
as well as challenges for more
advanced skiers and snowboard-
ers. Hiking is a summer activity.
The park encompasses Mount
Seymour, Mount Elsay, and Mount
Bishop.
d
Map C1
•
604 986 2261
Rock Climbing
Over 1,000 routes on the
Squamish Chief make it a top
climbing destination
(see p89)
.
Skiing &
Snowboarding
Whistler-Blackcomb is one
of the top resorts in North
America
(see pp28-31)
.
Hiking
Completing the 2-mile
(3-km) Grouse Grind wins you
bragging rights
(see p86).
Canoeing & Kayaking
Vancouver and Gulf Island
canoeing and kayaking take
little training. d
Lotus Land
Tours • 604 684 4922
Beacon Hill Park
Since 1858, Beacon Hill Park
has been the queen of Victoria's
open-air spaces. Wooden bridges
over the stream, petting zoo, and
English-style rose garden add
charm to the peaceful setting.
Views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca
from some points in the 62-acre
(25-ha) park. Visitors can walk,
bird-watch, ride horses, and
picnic on the beach
(see p96).
Golfing
Golden Ears mountains are
the backdrop for a champion-
ship course. d
Newlands Golf
& Country Club
,
21025 48th
Ave, Langley • 604 533 3288
In-line Skating
Stanley Park's seawall
(see
p8)
makes for a satisfyingly
long skate.
d
Bayshore Rentals
,
745 Denman St • 604 688 2453
Cathedral Grove
The grove, located in
MacMillan Provincial Park on Van-
couver Island, provides an awe-
inspiring look at a virgin coastal
forest. Giant, ancient Douglas-fir
trees share the forest with stands
of hemlock and Western red cedar.
Loop trails are located on either
side of Hwy 4. Scenic Cameron
Lake is nearby.
d
Map C4
Snowshoeing
Take a few minutes to
master the skill, then enjoy the
pristine wilderness.
d
Cypress
Mountain
• 604 926 5612
Whale-Watching
Don a sweater and water-
proof jacket, bring your binoc-
ulars, and watch the majestic
orcas
(see p109).
There is no lifeguard on duty at Wreck Beach
49
