Some of the region's oldest trees live within this accessible 75-hectare park, including a rare stand of original coastal forest and plenty of gnarly, copper-trunked arbutus trees. About 13km of hiking trails crisscross the area, including a recommended trek that leads to the rocky perch of Point Atkinson Lighthouse, ideal for capturing shimmering, camera-worthy views over Burrard Inlet.

Accessible via transit bus from downtown Vancouver, if you're driving here turn left on Marine Dr after crossing the Lions Gate Bridge to reach the park.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby North Shore attractions

1. Spirit Gallery

2.75 MILES

Drop into this Horseshoe Bay gallery to peruse authentic First Nations artworks.

2. Horseshoe Bay

2.81 MILES

This small coastal community marks the end of West Vancouver and the starting point for trips to Whistler, via the Sea to Sky Hwy (Hwy 99). It's a pretty…

3. Whytecliff Park

2.84 MILES

Just west of Horseshoe Bay, this is an exceptional little waterfront green space. Trails lead to vistas and a gazebo, from where you can watch the Burrard…

4. West Vancouver Seawall

3.91 MILES

Take bus 250 from downtown Vancouver and hop off on Marine Dr at the intersection with 24th St. Peruse the stores and coffee shops in Dundarave Village,…

5. Spanish Banks

4.39 MILES

This tree-backed public beach is a popular locals' hangout; they're the ones jogging past in Lululemon outfits. It's also a good spot to unpack a picnic…

6. Museum of Anthropology

4.53 MILES

Vancouver's best museum is studded with spectacular indigenous totem poles and breathtaking carvings – but it's also teeming with artifacts from cultures…

7. Morris & Helen Belkin Art Gallery

4.62 MILES

This ever-intriguing gallery specializes in contemporary and often quite challenging pieces, with chin-stroking new exhibitions opening in its high…

8. Chung Collection

4.74 MILES

Leave your photo ID at the front desk of the lower level of UBC's main library building, and then wander around a roomful of exhibits chronicling the…