Spring is truly one of the most magical times of year in Vancouver, and the season is so close we can taste it. Warmer, longer days, budding blossoms, bursts of colour, and more time spent outdoors. While it’s great to start planning for those longer road trips you have in mind, it never hurts to have a couple of beautiful day trips on rotation that aren’t too far from the city. The season might not officially start until the end of March, but the weather is already warming up!
Here are 10 spontaneous day trips to take from Vancouver this spring!
Squamish
Food. Art. Craft beer. Waterfalls galore. Squamish is a cornerstone for all things outdoors, but there’s also plenty to do if you just want to hang out without the climbing or hiking equipment. Grab a coffee and do some thrift shopping in Squamish’s quaint downtown, head to Backcountry Brewing, or check out the views from the famous Sea-to-Sky Gondola.
Distance from Vancouver: 50 minutes by car
Harrison Hot Springs
Fancy a day by Harrison Lake? Harrison Hot Springs is a 90-minute drive from the city and an idyllic spot to unwind in. Whether you choose to kayak, go for a scenic hike or golf session, or relax at the hot spring pools at the resort, you’re guaranteed a spectacular time surrounded by views on views.
Distance from Vancouver: One and a half hours by car
Pemberton
Situated just 20 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton has plenty of hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and dining opportunities to offer, all the while surrounded by the stunning Joffre Lakes, Birkenhead, and Nairn Falls Provincial Parks.
Distance from Vancouver: Two hours by car
Deep Cove
This one’s a no brainer! One of the most scenic spots in the Lower Mainland, Deep Cove is especially popular for paddle board and kayak enthusiasts, who can paddle their way through the sheltered harbour into the Indian Arm. But there’s no wrong way to relax here – grab a Honey’s donut, lounge on the beach, or head up to Quarry Rock to take in the spectacular views from above.
Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes by car
S⨱ótsaqel / Chilliwack Lake Park
Located just under three hours away from Vancouver, Chilliwack Lake is a picturesque spot to set up for the day of paddling, kayaking, and swimming, and spring is a great time to visit to beat the crowds. The scenic provincial park is situated in the upper Chilliwack River Valley, and is known for its valley-bottom lake with sparkling waters.
Distance from Vancouver: Two hours and 17 minutes by car
Steveston
Don’t sleep on Steveston! It’s quaint, historic, and perfect for those looking for a beautiful stroll by the open ocean. After your walk, you’ll find plenty of food options on the pier and a cafe and craft brewery options scattered throughout the downtown. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and Steveston Tram to learn up on the area’s fascinating history.
Distance from Vancouver: 35 minutes by car
Bowen Island
This beautiful island is the perfect spot to explore on foot, and just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. Go on a hike through the Mount Gardner Loop trail, walk through the Ecological Reserve, or simply load up on ice cream from Earnest in Snug Cove.
After sunbathing at Sandy Beach, head to Riley’s Cidery and sip some delicious, locally crafted cider.
Distance from Vancouver: One hour and 35 minutes by car
Sasamat Lake
A popular choice for lake days during the warmer months, Sasamat Lake is no less beautiful in the spring time, and its clear waters off the perfect cool down after a hike. All in all, it’s about an hour and a half trip each way if you want to bus, or a one-hour drive to Belcarra Regional Park.
Distance from Vancouver: One hour by car
Gibsons
Just a 40-minute ferry ride from West Vancouver, the scenic town of Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast is best known as the location behind CBC’s longest-running show The Beachcombers. However, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore the waterfront area known as Gibsons Landing, which has numerous parks, beaches, a seawall, and a public market with six permanent local merchants.
Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes by car + 40 minutes by ferry
Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park
Waterfall lovers, this one’s for you. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park is located just east of Chilliwack, and includes a 60-metre-high waterfall that’s only a 15-minute walk away. The surrounding Minter Gardens are just as beautiful, with over 30 acres to explore.
Distance from Vancouver: One and a half hours by car
Longer days are coming, Vancouver! Which day trips are on your list?
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