Prospect Point

One of Vancouver’s most glorious lookouts, this lofty spot is located at Stanley Park’s northern tip. In summer you’ll be jostling for elbow room with the tour groups as you angle for a view of the passing cruise ships – heading down the steep stairs to the viewing platform usually shakes some of them off. Look out for scavenging raccoons here and remember that it’s never a good idea to pet these semi-tame, rabies-carrying critters. The cairn here commemorates the 1888 wreck of the SS Beaver, a Hudson’s Bay Company steamship that was the first to travel the entire west coast of North America. Prospect Point Café offers refreshments – aim for a table on the deck and a view of the Lions Gate Bridge.