Feeling the urge to escape the concrete and glass of the city? Human beings evolved out of the jungles and emerged out of forests – it’s important to remember where we came from. Vancouver is the land of yoga pants, breathtaking scenery (4 months of the year), and outdoor adventures; and hiking is the perfect way to get in touch with your inner sasquatch. Make your calf muscles burn with these local hikes:
Quarry Rock
This hike won’t break your legs as much as it will get you ready for the next weekend’s adventure. Making your way to Deep Cove may seem like a hike in itself, but the good stuff is waiting just a little further. The hike takes you from beach level all the way up to a big giant rock – aptly named Quarry Rock – which is your cue to take out your phone and snap a selfie. It doesn’t have the competitive vibe spots like the Grouse Grind has, everyone doing the hike is just in it for the nature and the good times. And, with a view over the beach and surrounding mountains and ocean, it makes the perfect backdrop for soaking in the beauty the PNW is known for. Be sure to check out Honey Doughnuts on your way out of Deep Cove because while the hiking is good, the doughnuts are even better.
Pacific Spirit National Park
This giant green area off the UBC Endowment Lands holds a multitude of trails to get lost on, and there are a few hidden surprises along the way. Escape the urban landscape and delve into the wonders the woods have to offer. There are so many trails here that you'll want to pack a meal and bring plenty of water! And if you're feeling extra adventurous, take the extra hike down to Wreck Beach, where you can bask in the sun, relax near a log, or work on that tanline-free full-body tan of yours (come on, like you didn't know about vancouver’s notoriously popular nude beach).
Cypress Falls
If you're willing to take a 30 minute drive out of the city, you can catch a bit of mist from a pair of waterfalls on this beauty of a hike. Stick your nose back into nature by walking amongst 200 to 300 year old Cedar and Fir trees and seeing where those fancy cedar oil toothpicks you buy come from. This hike is accessible all year round so when the other big attractions are snowed in, you can stay active. It's also a great date hike ;)
Being stuck in a rainforest does come with its perks - try these hike spots out to get your blood pumping, get your shoes dirty, and get yourself over 120 likes with a sweaty trail selfie. Bonus likes if you've got a pooch with you.