Vancouver is a beautiful city, and the immediate surroundings are an expression of nature’s beauty. That makes it perfect for amazing day trips-be it you who are longing for a brief getaway from the city or a tourist eager to see what lies in the surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re an island bum, mountain enthusiast, or anything else in between, there’s no shortage of adventures. Starting from tranquil islands and bays and finishing with rugged mountains, Vancouver’s surroundings have something to offer for any type of explorer. We will guide you through the 10 best day trips from Vancouver that will assure scenic beauty, thrilling activities, and lifelong experiences.
These are some trips from Vancouver that let the foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, or thrill-seekers plunge deep into the landscapes of British Columbia. From here on, read the best day trips you can make and start planning your next epic journey!
10 Best Day Trips from Vancouver
Whistler
Among the most famous day trips out of Vancouver, a visit to Whistler leads the pack-the world-famous resort town nestled in the Coast Mountains. The city lies only a couple of hours away up the Sea-to-Sky Highway and is thus pretty easy to get away to.
Whistler is a snowboarder’s or skier’s paradise in the winter months, filled with miles of trails and some of the best slopes in North America. During summer, it metamorphoses into an outdoor enthusiast’s dream that includes mountain biking, hiking, zip lining, and so much more. Whether hitting the slopes, enjoying the high spirits in Whistler Village, or hiking to Lost Lake, this adventure is one of the most epic trips from Vancouver.
Bowen Island
A short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, Bowen Island is a haven of peace that truly feels worlds away from the city. Known for its relaxed vibe, pristine beaches, and charming shops, Bowen Island is ideal for day trips that are a little more low-key than some of the others on the list from Vancouver.
Hiking enthusiasts will want to check out the famous Mount Gardner trail on this island, offering great panoramic views over the surrounding islands and mainland. You can also rent a kayak and paddle around Snug Cove or explore some of the small galleries and cafes in Artisan Square. This tranquil spot is one of the most relaxing trips from Vancouver, perfect for recharging in nature.
Grouse Mountain
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain boasts the fastest route up to a fun and exciting adventure. Grouse Mountain is well-known for activities that abound throughout the year. In summer, one of the favorite things to do is hike the Grouse Grind-a steep, difficult trail more affectionately known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster”. In winter, the mountain becomes a winter wonderland with skiing, snowshoeing, and skating.
Grouse Mountain offers some of the most accessible trips from Vancouver, giving you experiences of nature and not taking you too far from the city. The Skyride gondola whisks you through breathtaking views over Vancouver, making this a memorable day trip.
Victoria
Take the ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island and spend a day in Victoria, the beautiful capital city of British Columbia. With its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant harbor, Victoria is considered a must-see destination for anyone looking for a cultural day-trip from Vancouver.
Start off with the famous Butchart Gardens, take a walk through vibrant Inner Harbour, and then head to the grand Fairmont Empress Hotel. The Royal BC Museum or a drive along the coastal Dallas Road are potential options, too. This is probably one of the most culturally enriching trips from Vancouver: a merger of history with nature in such an interesting combination.
Squamish
Squamish is equidistant from Vancouver and Whistler but rightly has been called the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of Canada.” For such a small town, Squamish offers world-class rock climbing, hiking, and windsurfing and provides one of the most thrilling trips from Vancouver.
The Stawamus Chief is one of those things a hiking enthusiast just has to do. The towering monolith of granite over the town offers some challenging yet rewarding trails. At the summit, you will find breathtaking 360° views of Howe Sound. If this is a bit beyond what you are looking for in adventure, try the Sea-to-Sky Gondola for stunning views and very easy walking trails at the top. Squamish really is a paradise both for the adventurer and the nature lover.
Harrison Hot Springs
From Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs is ideal for a less serious day trip. This tiny lakeside town is about 1.5 hours from the city and is famous for its natural hot springs, one of the city’s most favorite attractions for relaxation and rejuvenation.
From the hot springs that fill with minerals to renting boats and taking in the sites from Harrison Lake, there is so much to see and do. Take a leisurely walk along one of many hiking trails, including the spectacular Spirit Trail that winds its way through the forests down to the lake shoreline. This is one of the most peaceful trips from Vancouver, combining relaxation with breathtaking scenery.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a heart-pounding day excursion from Vancouver, just 20 minutes from downtown. Suspended 230 feet above the Capilano River, this iconic bridge is 450 feet from end to end and takes in breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.
In addition to the bridge itself, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park features treetop walkways and the Cliffwalk will have you hugging the canyon’s walls down a granite cliff face lined with temperate rainforest. The nature, adventure, and touches of adrenaline make this one of the most exciting trips from Vancouver.
Deep Cove
Only 30 minutes northeast of downtown Vancouver, the quaint seaside village of Deep Cove is a refreshing escape from the city. With its stunning waterfront views and ease of access to outdoor activities, Deep Cove is arguably one of the most serene day trips from Vancouver.
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Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and paddle around tranquil Indian Arm waters, or hike the breathtakingly beautiful Quarry Rock trail with its panoramic views of the cove and surrounding forest. Afterwards, head down to Honey’s Doughnuts and indulge your sweet tooth before heading back into town. Deep Cove represents the best in casual outdoor activity.
Fort Langley
A day trip from Vancouver, Fort Langley in the 19th century is a unique experience for any history enthusiast. An hour out of the city, this historic village was once an active trading post and is now a National Historic Site.
At Fort Langley, stop in at the reconstructed Hudson’s Bay Company fort, watch live demonstrations of blacksmithing and gold panning, and the early settlers who helped mold British Columbia. This little village has loads to offer in the name of charming shops, cafes, and galleries, so this will likely be one of the most enriching trips from Vancouver, since history and scenic beauty come hand in hand together.
Garibaldi Provincial Park
For serious hikers, Garibaldi Provincial Park represents one of the best day trips out of Vancouver. Some 90 minutes out of the city, this large park offers some of the most spectacular hiking trails in British Columbia.
One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Garibaldi Lake Trail, an alpine lake with crystal clear water surrounded by tall snowy peaks. Getting to the lake is rather challenging, but it is well worth the tough climb. For a more relaxed adventure, try hiking either the Elfin Lakes or Cheakamus Lake trails, both with great views and truly wild. Nature enthusiasts cannot miss out on Garibaldi Provincial Park for an epic outdoor adventure.
Final Thoughts
Of course, Vancouver really is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in British Columbia, and these day trips from Vancouver offer something for every kind of adventurer. From relaxing hot springs to historic sites, challenging hikes, and thrilling outdoor activities, there’s simply no shortage of epic scenic adventures that are waiting just outside the city.
Whether you want a quick getaway or an unforgettable nature experience, these trips from Vancouver will leave you with long-lasting memories. Please let us know which one of these day trips is your favorite or if you have other recommendations in the comment section below!
