Vancouver

Vancouver is an ideal base for hiking, ocean activities, and mountain scenery, all within 30 to 45 minutes of downtown. Stanley Park combines the Seawall with temperate rainforest, while Pacific Spirit Park offers walks beneath giant trees and access to beaches such as Spanish Banks. Across the harbor, the North Shore adds Lynn Canyon, Lighthouse Park, and the Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour mountains.

Kayak or paddleboard in False Creek and Deep Cove, where seals and eagles sometimes appear. The Sea-to-Sky route leads to Shannon Falls, the Stawamus Chief, and the Squamish gondola, with Garibaldi Lake for prepared hikers. May through October generally offers longer, drier days. Bring rain gear and proper trail shoes, and always respect local wildlife.