For those of you who are looking to get outdoors with your kids, I’ve compiled a list of 5 fun, family-friendly hikes to try in and around the Vancouver area. Start the spring season on the right foot and trek through these trails with your tots in tow today.
Cates Park, North Vancouver
This little gem on the North Shore is a personal family favourite. Not only does Cates Park offer a kid-friendly trail that weaves through the forest, with stairwells that lead down to sandy beaches, an expansive playground, and a super-cool hide-and-seek fort (actually an old mill burner that looks like a castle with tunnels and platforms fit for a day of play), but it’s also a great spot to bring your furry friends too! If you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Deep Cove for a sweet treat.
Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver
Walk through acres of Douglas Firs, check out the outdoor amphitheatre, climb around on the rocks, and take in the breathtaking views at the lighthouse viewpoint. This is a beautiful spot to stroll with your dogs, and on warmer days, this is the perfect spot for a picnic. Don’t forget your camera!
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver
Pick your path with a range of interlocking trails that loop through 750 hectares of forest that neighbours the University of BC. The trails are accessible year round, and are a great spot for hikers, bikers, strollers, and dog walkers. When you’re finished your walk, head over to Wesbrook Village for some warm drinks and a wide selection of snacks.
Mundy Park, Coquitlam
This Coquitlam park features over 5 kilometres of trails (may are off-leash for those families who are hiking with dogs). Go for a scenic loop around Mundy Lake, or take in the views from the benches that look onto Lost Lake. Fun fact: scenes from the hit series Supernatural were filmed at this park!
Richmond Nature Park, Richmond
Featuring over 200 acres of peat bog habitat, this is nice spot to stroll and seek animals. Pop into the Nature House to learn more about the wildlife that surrounds you, or walk through the flat trails that are located on site. In Winter, this is a great spot to see winter birds, and follow animal tracks through the snow. Due to the wildlife on site, pets aren’t permitted at this park.
Please note: as things are changing daily, it’s important to check the park websites before heading out as some may be closed.
For more great activities, tips and resources, check out our latest issue! You can read the full March/April issue of WestCoast Families magazine online here.
