Get out of the town and have an epic time with this record of one of the best day journeys from Vancouver!
Vancouver is without doubt one of the greatest cities in Canada and probably the most visited in North America.
Boasting one of the best of each the mountains and the ocean, Vancouver has been ranked as probably the most livable cities within the nation during the last a number of years.
This large metropolis is filled with unbelievable issues to do, experiences available, views to see and eating places to get pleasure from. However what if you need a bit bit extra?
You’re by no means removed from an superior journey if you arrive in Vancouver.
From the well-known Sea to Sky Freeway, to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, to the close by sizzling springs and mountains round British Columbia, listed below are a number of the finest day journeys from Vancouver.
The Finest Day Journeys from Vancouver
Head out for a day of snowboarding in Whistler or go chasing waterfalls in Squamish. Or journey the Sea to Sky Gondola in between the 2 and benefit from the views over the Howe Sound.
Pack your baggage and head to any variety of Provincial Parks, or catch a ferry journey to the islands. Or soak within the Harrison Scorching Springs and marvel at Bridal Falls.
This attractive metropolis is a must-visit. However if you’re searching for a bit escape from the town try these 8 superior day journeys from Vancouver.
READ MORE: Don’t miss out on this epic 3 days in Vancouver itinerary!
1) Whistler
With regards to Vancouver sightseeing you’ll see all the gorgeous views in your option to Whistler.
The Sea to Sky Freeway connects Vancouver to Whistler with 120km of essentially the most unbelievable surroundings on provide in British Columbia. The drive alone is an epic day journey!
Whether or not you’re driving or catching a journey on the Greyhound bus your head will probably be up within the mountains very quickly in any respect.
And if you need an additional particular option to get you Whistler you’ll be able to guide a helicopter tour and see all of it from above.
Or you’ll be able to journey the Sea to Sky Gondola from Squamish as much as Whistler and benefit from the dramatic views of the Howe Sound alongside the best way.
Should you’re visiting within the low season there are numerous trails to be explored, mountain biking to be executed and patios to be loved.
In fact, Winter is finest to your snowboarding and snowboarding wants but additionally prime time for snowshoeing, skating and even winter climbing too.
What To Do In Whistler
One of many venues for the 2010 Winter Olympic Video games, Whistler affords a number of the most unbelievable terrain for winter sports activities.
At the start, Whistler and Blackcomb mountains have over 200 runs for snowboarding and snowboarding on over 8,100 km of skiable terrain.
The views are a number of the finest within the nation and may also be loved by those that might not be inquisitive about snowboarding/snowboarding.
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects Whistler’s Roundhouse Lodge to Blackcomb’s Rendezvous Lodge and is the proper option to expertise the great thing about the mountains all yr spherical.
After a day on the slopes, you could be looking out for one thing enjoyable to do in your day journey.
Scandinave Spa is the proper place to go to to deal with your self. This Nordic Impressed Spa additionally has a Finnish sauna, a thermal waterfall and therapeutic massage therapies on provide.
The spa’s enjoyable and idyllic setting is the proper place to soak away the potential ache of the slopes earlier than trying out any variety of wonderful bars and eating places for an apres-ski session.
There may be a lot extra than simply hitting the slopes and pampering your self in Whistler Village.
For starters, irrespective of the season you’ll discover tons of climbing trails to benefit from. Head to the Whistler Prepare Wreck path which begins at Jane Lake Street.
You’ll comply with a marked path by the forest, previous stunning waterfalls and out to a website the place prepare automobiles have been painted and left after wreckage within the Nineteen Nineties.
Cheakamus Lake is without doubt one of the finest trails in Whistler boasting attractive views and little or no elevation acquire too.
Or perhaps you need to try some attractive waterfalls?
Positively make a cease at Brandywine Falls which is well accessible from the car parking zone and lovely even in winter when the falls freeze over.
2) Sunshine Coast
Why not escape the Vancouver mainland for the islands sooner or later?
Even within the winter months, the Sunshine Coast lives as much as its title benefitting from 4-6 hours of additional daylight a day.
Whether or not you’re on foot or have your individual automotive, you’ll be able to catch a ferry journey from Horseshoe Bay and in 40 minutes you’ll be stepping foot on the coast.
This recreation vacation spot is a favorite for locals for its limitless provide of issues to do and views to be seen.
There may be climbing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking for all these out of doors fans.
There are farmer’s markets, distilleries, and award-winning eating places with a West Coast flare for anybody eager to deal with themselves on this enjoyable day journey.
What To Do On The Sunshine Coast
One of many attracts for visiting the Sunshine Coast is the wonderful surroundings. Princess Louisa Provincial Park surrounds the picturesque Princess Louisa Inlet and a must-see spot.
This 6km lengthy fjord is residence to steep towering partitions of granite rising out of the water and the equally spectacular Chatterbox Falls on the finish of the inlet.
These falls are much more spectacular within the rain, so in case you get unhealthy climate, nonetheless add this to your record of Vancouver day journeys to not be missed.
Should you’re a sundown chaser then try Half Moon Bay. That is additionally an incredible spot for anybody who’s eager on diving, and an ideal picnic spot with a stunning view.
Smuggler Cove Marine Park, Ruby Lake and Soames Hill are all locations excellent for climbing and swimming (when it’s heat sufficient) in stunning blue waters.
The Sunshine Coast has 4 breweries and 1 cidery all of that are massively group primarily based and give attention to small batch manufacturing.
Be sure you go to Townsite Brewing, The Bricker Cider Firm, and TapWorks simply to call a couple of.
Not solely nice beers and ciders on provide but additionally superior meals menus and all with attractive settings and incredible patios to benefit from the views.
Being on the coast you’re after all in for some wonderful seafood, however what’s higher than the traditional fish & chips lunch after a day of climbing or beaching hopping?
Head to Sharkey’s Fish Locker in Roberts Creek for regionally sourced, wild and natural meals that flatter the setting completely.
For extra foodie favourites try a number of the markets alongside the coast together with The Coast Berry Farm, Gibson’s Public Market and The Powell River open-air market.
Blackwater Creek is nice for climbing or mountain biking by unbelievable forests and thru a shocking gorge.
Langdale Falls is a fast path at lower than 1-hour return and takes you to a shocking set of falls over 40 meters tall.
Cliff Gilker Park is a hiking-only space with over 7 km of trails to be explored. For out of doors and nature fans, this is without doubt one of the finest day journeys from Vancouver!
One of the best ways to get round is to lease a automotive and discover by yourself! We suggest Rental Automobiles, which has the biggest vary of autos for one of the best worth in the marketplace.
3) Joffre Lakes or Garibaldi Provincial Parks
There’s a critical abundance of Provincial parks in British Columbia, and they’re all gorgeous.
As you head out of Vancouver alongside the Sea to Sky freeway previous Squamish and Whistler you’ll hit the primary of the gorgeous parks, Garibaldi Provincial Park.
Head a bit additional north and also you’ll discover Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. It’d take an early get up to make the drive as much as both park however it’s going to completely be price it.
Joffre Lakes is situated in Pemberton simply north of Whistler and the place you’ll discover 3 of essentially the most stunning lakes within the nation (and perhaps even the world).
Accessible in each summer time and winter, by snowshoes, and even has a campsite on the prime of a glacier in case you fancy coming again for an extended journey.
Garibaldi Provincial Park will be discovered simply off the Sea to Sky freeway and covers practically 2,000 sq. km of land.
Each are stunning and might every be reached in sooner or later out of downtown Vancouver.
What To Do In Joffre Lakes or Garibaldi Provincial Parks
Driving from Vancouver Garibaldi Provincial Park is the primary you’ll see. The primary a number of km of the path could seem to be they stretch on endlessly by the dense forest however don’t quit.
You’ll have the choice at a fork within the path to chop by to the lake or undergo Taylor Meadows to the lake which is the recommended route.
The Meadows are filled with extremely vibrant alpine wildflowers that bloom in early summer time and into autumn.
All the paths are nicely marked and there are maps alongside the best way to information you to Garibaldi Lake.
Laying eyes on this turquoise colored alpine lake will probably be love at first sight for many and also you’ll probably snap tons of photographs to indicate off if you get residence.
Whereas this park is ideal for a day journey from Vancouver when you’ve got the time and the expertise. This path additionally intersects with 2 multi-day hikes to Black Tusk or Panorama Ridge from Garibaldi Lake.
Joffre Lakes Provincial Park has 3 insanely attractive glacial lakes to be explored. The primary inside minutes of the car parking zone.
It’s finest to get right here early because the car parking zone is comparatively small and though you’ll be able to park on the aspect of the highway, after 10 km return you most likely received’t need to be strolling again to your automotive.
The hike will take you alongside switchbacks from the primary lake as you climb up by the bushes and also you’ll be capable of spot the second lake by the bushes too.
That second lake is probably going essentially the most spectacular of the three with its insane blue color.
Fed from an enormous glacier, swimming right here just isn’t for the faint of coronary heart. Nevertheless it’s a great way to kickstart your coronary heart to proceed onto the third lake which takes you previous an epic waterfall.
Previous the third lake can also be the place the campsite is if you’re inquisitive about turning your day journey into an extended one.
4) Victoria
The capital metropolis of British Columbia and doubtless probably the most stunning cities with a small-town vibe.
Victoria is the most important metropolis on Vancouver Island and a stunning day journey out of Vancouver and really a lot accessible by everybody.
Whereas the quickest option to Victoria is by seaplane, it might not be in everybody’s finances.
As a substitute, you may get a ferry journey on foot or together with your automotive from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Schwartz Bay (Victoria).
Public transit goes from downtown Vancouver to the ferry and from Schwartz Bay to central Victoria.
The capital metropolis of British Columbia is stuffed with historical past and also you’ll really feel as in case you’ve been transported to a different time simply strolling across the metropolis.
However be certain to not miss the superior out of doors actions together with Butchart Gardens and Beacon Hill Park.
Victoria can also be residence to a number of the most vibrant areas within the province so be looking out for all the colors of the rainbow irrespective of the place you go.
What To Do In Victoria
The Inside Harbour in Victoria is a hub of exercise and an exquisite place to discover as a primary cease.
Dwell music, arts and craft distributors, and painters displaying their artwork alongside the boardwalk create a full of life ambiance, to not point out the gorgeous boats docked right here.
The British Columbia Metropolis’s Parliament buildings look over the inside harbour and will be mistaken for a citadel any day. Try the Royal British Columbia Museum and Archives to study extra in regards to the metropolis’s historical past and tradition.
Should you’re searching for one other citadel price trying out there may be additionally Hatley Citadel. Usually utilized in TV collection and flicks and was as soon as a army base and now a museum.
Craigdarroch Citadel is a nationwide historic website and mentioned to be probably the most haunted buildings in Canada.
Open to the general public, guests can stroll by and get a way of what life was like within the 1800s and discover out all of the haunted historical past.
Discovering color in Victoria is the alternative of discovering a needle in a haystack. It’s all over the place! Fisherman’s Wharf is without doubt one of the most vibrant of all with dozens of brightly colored houseboats and eating places.
Pop right down to Fisherman’s Wharf for a wander alongside the boardwalk or fish & chips and be looking out for frolicsome harbour seals that come as much as see what all of the fuss is about.
Decrease Johnson Avenue is stuffed with unbiased outlets and isn’t solely charming but additionally painted in pretty pastels and vibrant colors.
Not far off you’ll discover Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Victoria’s Chinatown is a Nationwide Historic Website and an exquisite a part of Victoria’s historical past.
Lanterns line the streets main away from large pink and gold gates and FanTan alley is mesmerizing it doesn’t matter what time of day you go to.
Butchart Gardens is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Victoria and receives over 1 million guests yearly.
Beacon Hill Park is a incredible place to go for a stroll not removed from downtown. Masking over 200 acres of land you’ll discover strolling trails, a mini-golf inexperienced, a number of gardens and even a petting zoo.
In case you are hoping to flee the town parks and get out into nature in a giant manner head for Goldstream Provincial Park.
The paths take you thru the gorgeous forests and also you’ll discover tons of waterfalls alongside the best way too.
Most trails result in Goldstream Trestle which is an deserted railway crossing above the Niagara River.
It’s suggested to not cross the trestle however the views from the highest of this path are unbelievable with out setting foot on it. Additionally, think about taking a brief drive north to discover the great thing about Hornby Island.
You may additionally guide a whale watching tour through the ultimate months of April to November.
READ MORE: Embody these 7 prime issues to do in Victoria to your day journey!
5) Bowen Island
Whereas Bowen Island could technically be a part of the metro Vancouver space, you’ll nonetheless have to get a ferry over from Horseshoe Bay.
Common BC ferry providers from Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island go all year long and is without doubt one of the quickest islands to succeed in from the town.
This fast Vancouver day journey is ideal for these seeking to discover on a time crunch.
At simply 12km in size, the island could also be small compared to different islands close by nevertheless it’s filled with nice issues to do.
The proper place for kayaking, climbing and recognizing wildlife, but additionally an island with nice eating places and affords a tremendous yoga facility.
What To Do On Bowen Island
On the lookout for one thing particular to do to have fun or perhaps simply desire a distinctive eating expertise?
Why not go for dinner and a cruise to Bowen Island. You’ll get unbelievable views of the Howe Sound and be handled to an unbelievable meal when you attain the island.
One thing a bit extra particular than simply taking the ferry throughout by yourself.
Whereas more than likely wouldn’t instantly consider Bowen Island for eating choices there are some really incredible locations right here.
Department & Butter is a tiny shack turned superior snack bar and restaurant proper on the pier as you get off the ferry.
The proper place for connoisseur ice lotions or post-hike tacos, they even have an cute boutique subsequent door filled with regionally sourced goodies.
There are a handful of climbing trails throughout the island as nicely, all with wonderful views and alternatives to identify some wildlife.
Dorman Level takes lower than 2 hours spherical journey and is the easiest way to get a really feel for the island.
There are some steep sections however you’ll come by the bushes and on the prime be gifted with gorgeous panoramic views throughout the Queen Charlotte Channel again to Vancouver.
Mt. Gardener is the island’s tallest mountain and will be fairly difficult at 10 km return.
Wonderful views await you on the prime nevertheless it must be famous this isn’t for newbie hikers.
For one thing a bit extra laidback head for the Killarney Lake Loop which is shaded by stunning fir bushes and circles round a beautiful lake.
If yoga is one thing that you just love, try Nectar Yoga. Whereas this can be a yoga retreat centre / B & B additionally they provide group yoga lessons at instances and provide day therapies and tarot card readings in a tranquil and picturesque setting.
Or maybe you’re seeking to get out onto the water for the afternoon, sea kayaking is the proper option to just do that.
Kayaks will be rented at a store proper on the pier by the ferry terminal and so they even provide paddleboards as nicely to get an entire new perspective of the island from the water.
6) Chilliwack
Lower than 120km east of Vancouver is Chilliwack, an often-overlooked metropolis however one excellent for a sooner or later journey from Vancouver.
Driving is your quickest possibility and provides you extra freedom when you attain the town. However Greyhound buses do function from Vancouver to Chilliwack each day as nicely.
Surrounded by gorgeous mountain ranges and the Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park and extra, there are tons of outside actions to get pleasure from.
Museums and cultural centres are at your disposal to actually get an understanding of the town and the way it got here to be.
To not point out the always-growing meals and craft beer scene is a number of the finest within the province too.
What To Do In Chilliwack
One of the vital iconic components of Chilliwack to be explored is certainly Bridal Veil Provincial Park.
Probably the most wanted vacation spot within the park is certainly the Bridal Falls themselves, and the best to entry too.
Only a quick distance from the car parking zone and there you’re, shut sufficient to really feel the loopy spray in your face from Bridal Falls.
If you wish to hold the journey going there are a number of different climbing trails that fork off from the falls that may be loved as nicely.
Should you actually need to get out into nature make your option to Lindeman Lake.
The loop path right here is lower than 4km roundtrip taking you thru the plush forests and has some fairly photo-worthy lake views too.
For one of the best views in Chilliwack be sure you try Mount Cheam.
This comparatively intermediate hike takes you up by stunning meadows with attractive views of the valley under till you attain the summit.
As soon as on the prime marvel in any respect you’ll be able to see over the Fraser Valley and panoramic views of Chilliwack.
In case your go to occurs to convey you to Chilliwack in April you’ll be one of many fortunate individuals who get to go to the Tulip Competition.
You’ll be capable of see the colourful colored rows of tulips from the freeway which ought to persuade you fairly rapidly it’s price trying out too.
A visit to Klassen farms is a should to select up snacks to gas up in your day journey from Vancouver.
The farm has been a neighborhood institution for years and affords a u-pick arrange the place you’ll be able to go in and choose your individual blueberries to remove.
Nothing more energizing than that! Or perhaps you fancy some regionally made cheese from Smits & Co W Farm or natural and scrumptious honey from Chilliwack River Valley Honey.
The area is ripe with produce and the locals delight themselves on giving guests one of the best of one of the best to take residence with them.
Adrenaline junkies, don’t despair Chilliwack has acquired the proper afternoon already deliberate out for you.
Head over to Chilliwack River Rafting for a day of wonderful enjoyable on the river. From Might by July guests can gear up and get strapped in for any variety of adventures in white water rafting.
With a number of completely different journey choices, whether or not you’re a first-timer or a seasoned professional on the speedy the staff right here can have you loving each minute of this moist and wild expertise.
A few of their journeys provide climbing stops and lunch stops or in case you favor extra time on the rivers that’s doable too.
Irrespective of the climate that is the proper option to expertise Chilliwack.
READ MORE: Plan your journey to Canada with our Canada Journey Information.
7) Harrison Scorching Springs
For an unforgettable day filled with sizzling springs, having fun with nature, and enjoyable, go to Harrison Scorching Springs.
Situated only a 1.5 hour drive west of downtown Vancouver, this small resort city is surrounded by nature and has loads of enjoyable actions.
On the southern finish of the gorgeous Harrison Lake close to Echo Island, this spot boasts all of the pure great thing about the Fraser Valley in British Columbia. The new springs are set simply subsequent to the lake, with loads of mountains and forests within the background.
The gorgeous waterfall linked to Fraser River often known as Bridal Falls is close to Harrison Lake as nicely so you’ll be able to mix the 2 into one go to.
What To Do In Harrison Scorching Springs
The most effective factor to do right here is having fun with the nice and cozy, pure mineral waters of the recent springs.
The Harrison Scorching Springs Public Pool is the easiest way to entry the mineral-rich waters of the spring. It’s situated on the cross of Scorching Springs Street and the Esplanade Avenue.
The water is pumped in straight from a pure spring, and cooled to a cushty temperature at round 100 levels Fahrenheit/38 levels Celsius.
Any visitors staying on the Harrison Scorching Springs Resort can nonetheless use the non-public sizzling springs reserved for visitors. The Harrison Scorching Springs Resort has 5 mineral springs swimming pools in addition to spa therapies.
Soaking within the sizzling springs isn’t the one attraction in Harrison Scorching Springs, consider it or not. The new springs are excellent for enjoyable after a day exploring all the character that surrounds the resort city.
While you go to in the summertime months you’ll be able to go climbing and mountain biking within the mountains of the Harrison River Valley. It’s also possible to sunbathe on the seashores of Harrison Lake or go kayaking within the water.
Within the winter, the Fraser Valley fills will recent snow and you’ll cross nation ski or snowshoe. So though the summer time months are most likely ultimate for visiting Harrison Scorching Springs, you’ll be able to come at any time and benefit from the peaceable, pure great thing about the world.
This is without doubt one of the finest day journeys from Vancouver for many who need to have some enjoyable in nature after which space themselves to a soak within the therapeutic sizzling springs afterward.
Bridal Falls is close by as nicely. Spilling into the Fraser River, Bridal Falls is a straightforward cease from right here or from Chilliwack. The hike to Bridal Falls is brief and simple, although it could be closed through the winter months.
However in case you’re visiting this space in summer time, Bridal Falls is a tremendous cease earlier than or after heading to Harrison Scorching Springs.
8) Squamish
Surrounded by a few of BC’s most breathtaking mountains, Squamish is a must-do day journey from Vancouver.
Situated simply 65km from Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Freeway, Squamish is usually ignored by travellers who head straight for Whistler.
Nevertheless, the gems to be found listed below are unbelievable.
This aspect journey from Vancouver will be executed by automotive alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway, or by Greyhound Bus.
Deal with the notorious Chief, style some native brews and undoubtedly chase some waterfalls whilst you’re right here.
What To Do In Squamish
The most effective day journey from Vancouver to Squamish will certainly embrace a visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola.
A ten-minute journey in a cable automotive often known as the Sea to Sky Gondola takes you almost 900 meters above sea degree with views out over the Howe Sound that can blow your thoughts.
A number of viewing platforms make this a photographer’s dream. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge additionally boasts top-of-the-line views within the space, and you’ll even hike as much as the suspension bridge from the car parking zone in case you’re feeling formidable.
Whereas there are tons of hikes in Squamish, essentially the most iconic is The Chief. This intermediate hike will take you an 11 km spherical journey and all 3 peaks will be executed in a day.
The path is fairly intense with even a ladder part. However the views from the highest are like nothing you’ve ever seen earlier than.
For one thing much less intense try Alice Lake and The Lions Bay Loop.
There may be a number of wonderful consuming and ingesting within the space as nicely which you’ll be able to get pleasure from after climbing and having fun with the views on the Sea to Sky Gondola or the suspension bridge.
Pop into The Howe Sound Brewery for a post-hike pint or two after tackling the paths.
This homegrown brewery opened in 1996 and affords some actually incredible craft brews and an incredible meals menu too.
Each Saturday you’ll discover the Squamish Farmers Market arrange, bringing you over 60 distributors of native produce and crafts and an incredible place to replenish on snacks for an journey.
Match Eatery & Public Home is a superb spot for lunch and has an epic view of The Chief too.
Squamish can also be an incredible place if you wish to check out some adrenaline-inducing actions. Try mountain biking, mountain climbing, white water rafting and even kiteboarding.
The Squamish Journey Middle is one of the best place to search out out extra about any of those actions and work out simply what number of epic issues you are able to do in a day.
And for waterfall fans, you’ll need to be sure you get to Shannon Falls.
Part of the Provincial Park you’ll be capable of get a glimpse of the falls as you drive into the car parking zone from the freeway.
Inside minutes you’ll hear the spray and on an particularly wet day, you’ll even be capable of really feel it too.
Nice picnic areas are on the base of the falls too and a path exists to hike as much as the highest of the falls however it’s fairly intermediate if you wish to try it.
Bonus Day Journeys Shut To Downtown Vancouver
An incredible factor about Vancouver is all the character that lies near the town centre. Should you try the journey suggestions in our record of issues to do in Vancouver, you’ll discover there are many day journeys into nature which are tremendous near downtown Vancouver.
A few of these sights are technically a part of Vancouver, however you can dedicate an entire day to having fun with them. So listed below are some fast day journeys from downtown Vancouver you can attain by public transport or simply by driving a brief distance from the town centre.
Grouse Mountain: Only a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is without doubt one of the finest day journey concepts within the space as a result of it’s enjoyable throughout all seasons. Ski, snowboard, hike, go to the native wildlife refuge, journey the sky gondola, and extra within the North Shore Mountains close to North Vancouver on Grouse Mountain.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is simply over a ten minute drive from north Vancouver. It’s one of many prime sights on this space of British Columbia. Stroll throughout the long-lasting, 140-meter-long Capilano Suspension Bridge over the river, and benefit from the close by forest climbing trails.
Granville Island: Granville Island is an exquisite spot to go to close to Vancouver Island. Right here you’ll be able to go for a motorcycle journey, try the general public meals market, and admire the coastal views.
Deep Cove: Referred to by locals as The Cove, this postcard wanting a part of Vancouver is actually an incredible escape from the massive metropolis life with out even actually leaving the town. Spend your day in Deep Cove climbing, kayaking, wandering or indulging in nice foods and drinks, this a part of the quaint seaside metropolis has all of it.
