COVID-19 Update: These boardwalks and trails are still open. But please be respectful and practice social distancing (2 meters apart from other groups)
Vancouver boasts some of the most beautiful city, sea and mountain views in BC. If you’re looking to get out and see what this city has to offer without having to tie on some hiking boots, why not check out a few easy and fun boardwalks. Pick up an iced coffee, grab your girlfriends or partner and the kids for a little Nature Scavenger Hunt Adventure at a local boardwalk around Vancouver. Take your time on foot or bring your bikes and go as far as you can! Here are some of my favourites:
Steveston’s Fisherman’s Wharf, Richmond
This one might be a long haul for little kids so be sure to refuel at Pajo’s Fish & Chips at the Warf (it’s on a floating dock right on the water. Watch for seagulls on the hunt for your french fries!). Count the boats, look for the harbour seal, watch the live entertainment, and walk west to follow the boardwalk all the way to Garry Point Park right along the Fraser River to the ocean. If you walk East on the boardwalk, it’ll take you to the newer part of Steveston’s Imperial Landing, also a great walk. The newer part of the boardwalk is wider and bike friendly. If you decide to take the bikes, go all the way down, past the bridge with the pond on your left and river on your right to Britannia. Where you’ll see some of the original and colourful stilt houses. Watch for the resident swans, ducks and eagles in this area. Bring some cash with you because you won’t want to miss out on freshly made frozen yogurt and warm waffle cone at Timothy’s when you’re back in the Village.
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Deer Lake Park, Burnaby
A popular place for photos right before dusk, Deer Lake Park is a beautiful, flat and easy walk that goes around the lake and passes by a beach area, a viewing tower and a boardwalk with a pier. The trails are great for dogs too! Most of the trail around Deer Lake is gravel, paved or the boardwalk (all good for city strollers). It’s a nice peaceful walk with great scenery! There’s also a Boat Rental hut, where you can rent kayaks, rowboats or pedal boats.
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Pier Park, New Westminster
Pier Park, close to The Quay in New Westminster is fairly new and so beautiful. Super stroller friendly, this paved and boarded, boardwalk stretches along the north arm of the Fraser River. Along the way, you’ll find playgrounds, a beach, a few viewpoints and public art displays. Start the day with Breakfast or Bunch at Angelina’s (kid friendly). It’s always busy on the weekends so make a reservation if you can.
Shoreline Trail at Rocky Point Park, Port Moody
Along the shore of the Burrard Inlet, this trail is 6km’s roundtrip. With young kids on foot it could be a bit of a trek but you decide how far you want to go! No matter where you end up along this trail it’s beautiful. Expect to come home with pockets full of rocks, leaves and sticks. Start at the Pier and follow the shoreline, through the grassy park away from the boat launch. You’ll walk through a wooded area, scenic boardwalks and adventurous gravel paths. Bring a picnic lunch and stop at the picnic area or find a spot with a view to chill out before heading back.
Deep Cove, North Vancouver
Create your own adventure at Deep Cove. Follow the boardwalk to the Burrard Inlet and watch all the boats come in and out. Walk past the shops and disappear into the forested area. Pick out your own trails and get to know some of those big and tall trees North Van is known for. Before you head out of Deep Cove, stop at Honey’s and get a deliciously, dense doughnut. Yum!
If you’re looking to keep the kids busy along the walk, Scavenger Hunts are always fun. Here’s an easy printable Scavenger Hunt form you can take with you.
Amanda is a writer, photographer, videographer and a content creator with a passion for sharing stories. With her family of 5, they share experiences, tips and ideas that empower Moms to make memories with their families right here in British Columbia.
