Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Outdoor Family Just a young Vancouver family havig fun in the great outdoors ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Nairn Falls Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/22/nairn-falls-camping/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/nairn-falls-park/ Access to water: short drive or an easy hike to One Mile Lake just to the north of the campground Rustic facilities: pit toilets, pumped water, no showers Activities: nice hike to Nairn Falls, and it's a good basecamp for Whistler, Pamberton, and Joffrey Lakes Outdoor Fam rating: - [Rolley Lake Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/08/rolley-lake-camping/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/rolley-lake-park/ Access to water: quick drive to the day use beach. No views of the lake from campground. Deluxe facilities: flush toilets, hot shower, playground Activities: water sports, hiking Beach type: sandy beach Outdoor Fam rating: 7 out of 10 Rolley Lake Provincial Park features a sizable frontcountry campground - [Where to Paddle in the City of Vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/23/where-to-paddle-in-the-city-of-vancouver/) - Surrounded by water on 3 sides, Vancouver enjoys some fantastic paddling locations. The entire stretch of coastline from False Creek to Wreck Beach is dotted with water access points and parks. You can also go north to explore English Bay and Stanley Park, but be mindful not to get too close to Lions Gate Bridge. - [Camping at Sasquatch Provincial Park - Hicks Lake Campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/03/camping-at-sasquatch-provincial-park-hicks-lake-campground/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/sasquatch-park/ Access to water: walkable distance, with some sites with obstructed views of the lake Pit toilet, non-potable water source, garbage collection Activities: water sports, limited hiking Beach type: mix of sandy and pebbly beach, lots of geese poop Outdoor Fam rating: 6 out of 10 As a provincial - [Camping in the Rain](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/05/25/camping-in-the-rain/) - It's a bliss to go camping in perfect weather, as one gets to enjoy the sunshine during the day and the starry sky in the night. However, it's not always easy to avoid the rain on the west coast. We live in a temperate rain forest, after all. As we often book a camping trip - [Fort Camping at Brae Island Regional Park: Easy Family Camping in Fort Langley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2026/06/13/fort-camping-at-brae-island-regional-park-fort-langley/) - Fort Langley is one of those places that always feels like it has more to offer than its small-town size suggests. There are charming shops, the BC Farm Museum, the Fort Langley National Historic Site with oTENTiks where we stayed a few years ago, the picturesque Bedford Channel for paddlers, and the Fort-to-Fort Trail for - [Camping at Juan de Fuca Provincial Park - China Beach Campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/08/27/camping-at-juan-de-fuca-provincial-park-china-beach-campground/) - Juan de Fuca Provincial Park covers a long stretch of the southwest coast of Vancouver Island, from China Beach to Botanical Beach. This is where the popular 47 km Juan de Fuca Marine Trail runs along the coastline, although the trail sustained severe storm damage in 2024 and is closed for 2025 except for a - [One-on-One Camping at Alice Lake Provincial Park with Middle Bro](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2026/05/22/one-on-one-camping-at-alice-lake-provincial-park-with-middle-bro/) - Back to Alice Lake, Five Years Later We are no strangers to Alice Lake Provincial Park. The park hasn't changed much since our full review in 2021. The campground reservation is still hard to get, the shower facility and flush toilets are still deluxe for camping, the lake is still popular with paddlers, and the - [BMO Vancouver Half Marathon 2026: My First 21.1 km Race](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2026/05/06/bmo-vancouver-half-marathon-2026-my-first-21-1-km-race/) - A first-time runner’s BMO Vancouver Half Marathon 2026 race report, with training notes, pacing strategy, course hills, water station tips, recovery lessons, and finish-line mistakes. - [人生第一場半馬:溫哥華BMO馬拉松](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/2026/05/06/人生第一場半馬:溫哥華bmo馬拉松/) - 賽前準備:從「也許有一天」到站上起跑線 我很喜歡挑戰自己從來沒有跑過的比賽距離。這種感覺很自由:一方面是新的挑戰、新的訓練目標,另一方面心理壓力也比較小,因為不管最後成績如何,都會是我的個人最佳紀錄。 這就是我今年面對 BMO Vancouver Half Marathon 的心情。 我之前已經跑過幾場 10 公里比賽,包括 Vancouver Sun Run,但 21.1 公里的半程馬拉松一直給我一種遙遠又有點嚇人的感覺。聽起來就是「真跑者」才會參加的距離。不過,這一年慢慢把耐力建立起來之後,我才發現要準備一場半馬,其實沒有想像中那麼難以達成。 對我來說,關鍵是把訓練計畫維持得簡單又可持續:每週跑三次。 一次長跑,用來建立耐力和信心。 一次輕鬆跑,用來增加有氧訓練量。 一次節奏跑,讓身體更習慣維持較快的配速。 就是這樣。沒有什麼花俏的東西。我盡量按照計畫執行,也把逐漸加長的長跑放在優先順位。最後兩次長跑分別是 16 公里和 18 公里。16 公里那次是在美麗的 Squamish 完成的;18 公里那次則跑了很大一段 Vancouver Seawall 和附近安靜的住宅區街道。 我很喜歡跑一個大圈,而不是在同一段路上來回重複。沿途景色一直變化,尤其距離變長的時候,真的比較能讓腦袋保持新鮮感。我的節奏跑大多安排在橡膠跑道上,這樣對腿部的衝擊也比較小。 如果你已經可以舒服地完成 10 公里,訓練半馬其實會是一個很自然的下一步。它確實需要更多投入,但並不需要讓整個生活都被訓練佔滿。 用 AI 當訓練教練 這次訓練期間,我用一個很新潮的工具: AI。 我把 Garmin 的訓練和比賽資料丟給 ChatGPT,請它幫我規劃和調整訓練。它替我做出一個逐週的訓練計畫,內容是根據標準的耐力訓練原則設計的。我也把這些原則拿去和幾本我買來或借來的跑步書交叉比對,發現AI的建議都很有依據。 使用 AI 最有用的地方,不是它可以幫我做出一份計畫(要一套現成的訓練計畫,書上和網路都有)。真正有價值的是,它可以針對我個人的狀況即時調整。 現實生活總是會干擾訓練。小孩會生病,工作會變忙,週末會去露營,有些日子腿就是沒有力。AI 教練可以在計畫被打亂時幫我重新調整,而不是讓我覺得整個訓練週期都毀了。我只要把實際完成的訓練紀錄給它看,再請它根據我已經做過的訓練,調整接下來的安排。 到了比賽前夕,我也請它回顧我的訓練紀錄,給我一些建設性的回饋。它很準確地指出,我太偏好低強度 Zone 2 慢跑,應該要加入更多結構化的節奏跑訓練。它最後給我的訓練週期打了 B-,這個評分有點傷人,但也很公道。 - [Vancouver Sun Run 2026: 一家大小一起跑一跑](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/2026/04/22/vancouver-sun-run-2026-一家大小一起跑一跑/) - 我們家的 Vancouver Sun Run 回憶 我和 Vancouver Sun Run 的緣分,其實已經很久了。 2005 年,這是我人生中第一場正式報名、也第一場認真訓練的路跑賽事。我到現在都還很懷念高中時參加的「Learn to Run 10K」訓練課程,最一開始只是很溫和的 1 分鐘跑、2 分鐘走。我那時候還很認真地寫跑步日記,把每一次訓練都記錄下來。年少的我雖然覺得訓練很有挑戰,但也進步得很扎實。最後即使是在重感冒剛恢復的狀態下,我還是跑出了 59:45 的成績。 Vancouver Sun Run 2005——這是我和爸媽、弟弟以及高中同學第一次一起參加 Sun Run。至於青春期照片裡那種不情願的表情,就請大家自動忽略吧。 2006 年,我剛上大一,自己揪了一個隊伍去參賽,在完全沒有結構化訓練的情況下,跑出了個人最佳的 55:12。啊,19 歲真好!2009 年,我又一次幾乎沒訓練就跑了 Sun Run,成績是 56:46。 Sun Run 2009 2010 年,Tina 和我第一次一起參加這場比賽,完賽時間是 1:14:23。之後因為工作起步、結婚、生第一個孩子,再加上運動這件事總是很容易被往後擺,我們有很長一段時間沒有參賽。直到 2019 年,我們才和同事們一起再度回到 Sun Run,並把我們家的 Sun Run 紀錄推進到 1:10:20。 Sun Run 2019 接著又是一段空窗期:孩子更多了、工作更忙了、生活裡需要兼顧的事情也更多了,當然還有疫情。就這樣,一路來到了 2026 年。 - [Vancouver Sun Run 2026 Race Report: Family, Kids, Stroller, and PRs](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2026/04/20/vancouver-sun-run-2026/) - A personal and family race recap of the Vancouver Sun Run 2026, from my first Sun Run in 2005 to pacing Big Bro through his first 10K, with Tina’s PR, Grandpa’s stroller push, and practical race-day tips for families. - [Harrison River Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/11/05/harrison-river-paddle/) - Parking: Harrison Hot Springs beach front parking (seasonal parking fee required from May 15 to Sept 15) Launching Charlie Wilson Dock or nearby sandy beach launch Pull out: Kilby Park Difficulty – Harrison Lake is prone to strong northerly winds, which can carry sizable waves from the side. The first half of the river to - [Maple Bay Cabins 楓葉灣小木屋:Cultus Lake 家庭露營完整指南](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/2025/10/02/maple-bay-cabins-cultus-lake/) - Cultus Lake 楓葉灣小木屋共有 25 間,鄰近營地與湖畔,附加熱與乾淨衛浴。適合家庭與親友同遊。內含 2021–2023 三次旅遊心得、行李清單與預訂技巧。 - [Maple Bay Cabins at Cultus Lake: Family Cabin Camping Guide](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/06/maple-bay-cabins-camping-at-cultus-lake/) - Heated Maple Bay cabins at Cultus Lake with easy lake access, spotless facilities, and kid-friendly tips. Trip reports (2021–2023), packing list, and booking advice. - [Cycling Seymour Valley Trailway and Coho Trail: A Scenic 30 km Loop in Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/09/30/cycling-seymour-valley-trailway-and-coho-trail-a-scenic-30-km-loop-in-lower-seymour-conservation-reserve/) - Discover the best cycling routes in Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, from the paved Seymour Valley Trailway to the adventurous Coho Trail. A 30 km loop with forests, salmon streams, and stunning dam views. - [北溫哥華 Seymour Valley Trailway 單車路線|Coho 單車道與西摩大壩騎行全攻略](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/2025/09/30/北溫哥華-seymour-valley-trailway-單車路線|coho-單車道與西摩大壩騎/) - 探索北溫哥華下西摩保育區單車路線!從 Seymour Valley Trailway 柏油道到 Coho 單車道、Spur 4 與西摩大壩,30 公里騎行全紀錄,適合新手與進階騎士。 - [雨天露營攻略:如何搭設防雨天幕,保持帳篷與營地乾爽](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/2025/09/27/雨天露營攻略:如何搭設防雨天幕,保持帳篷與營/) - 雨天露營不用怕!學會如何正確搭設防雨天幕,避免積水與淹營。本文分享裝備清單、搭設步驟與排水技巧,讓帳篷與營地保持乾爽,露營體驗更舒適。 - [East Beach Campground Golden Ears: The Easiest SUP Camping Trip Ever](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/09/21/golden-ears-east-beach-the-easiest-sup-camping-trip-ever/) - Discover East Beach Campground at Golden Ears Provincial Park—BC’s easiest paddle camping trip. A perfect SUP adventure for families with kids. - [Camping at French Beach Provicial Park & Exploring Sooke](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/08/20/camping-at-french-beach-provicial-park-exploring-sooke/) - French Beach Provincial Park has one of the two front-country, drive-in campgrounds along the stretch of southwestern Vancouver Island between Sooke and Port Renfrew (the other one being China Beach in Juana Fuca Provincial Park). It's only about 20 minutes west of Sooke by car, so it's a very convenient base from which to explore - [Camping at Bamberton Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/08/16/camping-at-bamberton-provincial-park/) - Bamberton Provincial Park is located about 30 minutes north of Victoria BC on the western shore of Saanich Inlet. The campground is rustic, with pit toilets, water taps, and garbage bins. The sites are nice and clean, and the mosquitoes weren't too bad when we visited in August. We booked a double site 31a and - [Beginner's Guide to Family Camping (with Kids!) from Vancouver, BC](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/09/06/beginners-guide-to-family-camping-with-kids-from-vancouver-bc/) - Are you a Vancouver family dreaming of fresh air, campfire stories, and starry skies—but not sure where to start? Camping with kids can seem overwhelming, but with the right plan, it can become one of your family’s most rewarding (and affordable!) adventures. This guide gives you step-by-step instructions to make your first camping trip smooth, - [Camping at Cal Cheak Recreation Site](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/09/10/camping-at-cal-cheak-recreation-site/) - Quick facts: First-come-first-served, maintained RSTBC Rec Site 3 groups of campsites: Callaghan Camp, North Camp, and South Camp $15/party/night. Exact cash only. Party = 1 vehicle, max 6 people. Location: 15 mins south of Whistler Village, 2 minutes north of Brandywine Falls Provincial Park by car Facilities: picnic table, fire pit, pit toilet, garbage bins, - [Camping at Miracle Beach Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/28/camping-at-miracle-beach-provincial-park/) - To round out our 3-stop tour of Central Vancouver Island, we made a final stop at Miracle Beach Provincial Park. It's set on a beautiful stretch of pebbly and sandy beach between Campbell River and Courtney/Comox, and it's very popular. For a large campground with 202 campsites, the shower facilities are strikingly sparse. Until recently, - [Coquitlam River Paddle - from Lions Park to Maquabeak Park (with 1km portage!)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/09/01/coquitlam-river-paddle-from-lions-park-to-maquabeak-park-with-1km-portage/) - With its proximity to urban populations and many parks along the lower sections, the Coquitlam River is quite accessible year round. In the summer, families flock to the river to play in the shallow waters. In the fall, fishermen line the river to catch some salmon. The higher sections of Coquitlam River is a described - [Cowichan River Tubing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/08/25/cowichan-river-tubing/) - The number 1 activity to do in Lake Cowichan is arguably tubing the Cowichan River. The route starts near Saywell Park and runs just under 3km to Little Beach Park, and usually takes about 2-3 hours to complete in a tube depending on water flow and how many times you stop. There is very limited - [Bamberton to Brentwood Bay Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/08/20/bamberton-to-brentwood-bay-paddle/) - When we camped at Brentwood Bay Provincial Park, I came up with a cool little adventure paddle across the Saanich Inlet to explore Brentwood Bay and Tod Inlet around the Butchard Gardens. Tina will drive the kids and take the Mill Bay to Brentwood Bay ferry to meet up with me, and treat herself to - [Kentucky Alleyne Provincial Park - Group Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/07/25/kentucky-alleyne-provincial-park-group-camping/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/kentucky-alleyne-park/ Access to water: some sites are right on the water, but very exposed and close to roads. Rustic: pit toilets, boil water advisory, no shower Activities: water sports, hiking, fishing Beach type: silty clay Outdoor Fam rating: 6 out of 10 Kentucky Alleyne are the names of two - [Biking the Myra Canyon Trestle Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/07/26/biking-the-myra-canyon-trestle-trail/) - AllTrails link: Myra Canyon Trail Distance: 11km one way, 22km out and back Grade: essentially flat Points of interest: 18 trestles, 2 tunnels, and expansive views down the canyon towards Kelowna Access: 9km of Myra Forest Service Road, which is a gravel road with small potholes. It's navigatable with carefully driven city cars Starting point: - [Level 1 River SUP Course on Chilliwack/Vedder River](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/06/02/level-1-river-sup-course-on-chilliwack-vedder-river/) - Updated July 7, 2025 June 1, 2025: Level 1 River SUP course Paddleboarding is an amazingly versatile sport. You can pick up a paddleboard and sit on it like a pool float, do small loops with your kids or pets near shore, go for a 20km workout paddle, load 20kg of gears and go camping, - [Nicomekl River Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/08/07/nicomekl-river-to-crescent-beach-paddle/) - Parking and Launching: Ward's Marina next to Elgin Heritage Park Launching type: low profile dock or a boat ramp Difficulty – imperceptible river flow, water level follows tidal changes; very shallow areas covered with sharp oyster shells at low tide Boat traffic – moderate motor boat traffic View – a few twists and turns in - [Chuckanut Bay Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/04/25/chuckanut-bay-paddle/) - Parking: Southern start: Larrabee State Park boat launch ($10 USD for Discover Pass day parking, $7 to launch all watercrafts including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards) Northern start: end of Fairhaven Ave at "Chuckanut Pocket Estuary" at high tide >8ft Fairhaven start: Marine Park Launching: concrete boat ramp at Larrabee, mud flat at Chuckanut Pocket Estuary, - [Camping at Silver Lake Whatcom County Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/05/21/camping-at-silver-lake-whatcom-county-park/) - The Victoria Day long weekend is the unofficial start of camping season for many in BC. As a result, it's usually quite difficult to reserve a campsite anywhere close to population centres. As a result, we explored our neighbors to the south, and landed on the picturesque Silver Lake Park of Whatcom County. This is - [Killarney Lake Loop - Crippen Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/09/03/killarney-lake-loop-crippen-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Killarney Lake Loop, with the option of starting right off the ferry (8km) or at the picnic area (4km) Difficulty: moderate Traffic: light Facilities: pit toilet at the picnic area with garbage bins and picnic tables. No running water. View: marshy calm lake Overall score: 5/10 Crippen Regional Park is located - [Grouse Grind at Grouse Mountain Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/09/04/grouse-grind-at-grouse-mountain-regional-park/) - Quick facts: Alltrails link: Grouse Grind Trail. 2.5km distance point to point, 800m elevation per official signage. Difficulty: difficult for the steep climb Traffic: very busy, parking lot fills up early on the weekends. Facilities: washrooms and Starbucks at the bottom of Grouse Mountain skyride. Washrooms, water refill stations, restaurant, and mountain top activities on - [Indian Arm Paddle to Thwaytes Landing Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/13/indian-arm-paddle-to-thwaytes-landing-regional-park/) - Thwaytes Landing is a water-access-only, 130-acre property midway up Indian Arm, directly across from the famous Buntzen Powerhouses. The Land Conservancy (TLC), who purchased and transferred the property to GVRD to turn it into a regional park, has a fantastic write-up on its history and features. In summary, the lot was named after Captain Tom - [Biking in Aldergrove Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/05/13/biking-in-aldergrove-regional-park/) - Aldergrove Regional Park is located between Langley and Abbotsford near the Aldergrove American border crossing. It used to be an open-pit gravel mine that was restored into the Aldergrove Bowl. The 6.5km "Rock ‘n Horse Trail" is a mixed use trail shared between hikers, horses, and cyclists. It's well maintained with gravel, and it rolls - [Barnston Island Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/08/barnston-island-regional-park/) - I recently reconnected with Dave, a good friend I met almost 20 years ago at a summer camp, over our blog and outdoor activities. We set up an outdoor reunion and headed to Barnston Island for a fun family bike ride with his lovely family. Barnston Island is formed by Fraser River sediment deposition, between - [River of Golden Dreams](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/16/river-of-golden-dreams/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Rainbow Park Pay Parking $2/hour Closer to the start of River of Golden Dreams Lakeside Park 1.4km paddle on Alta Lake until you can reach the River Launching type: dock and sandy beach Pullout: Meadow Park Sports Center Difficulty – intermediate, somewhat rapid flows in sections, hairpin turns, shallows, beaver - [Camping at Bay View State Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/04/21/camping-at-bay-view-state-park/) - Quick Facts: Washington State Park website Access to water: walkable distance, but no view of the water from campsite Free hot shower, flush toilets, drinking water source Activities: a large oval shaped sport field in the center of the main loop, nice day use beach with enormous mud flat that stretches for kilometers at low - [Eagle Harbour Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/04/02/eagle-harbour-paddle/) - Parking: Small public parking lot here, can fit about 10 cars Launching muddy beach Difficulty – intermediate, not beginner friendly. fairly exposed to the mixture of winds and waves from Howe Sound and the Straight if you ventured much beyond the harbour Boat traffic – fairly busy boat traffic out in the boating channels, and - [Comparing Vancouver's Ski Hills for Families with Young Children](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/02/13/comparing-vancouvers-local-ski-hills-for-families-with-young-skiers/) - Discover the best Vancouver ski hills for families! Compare Cypress, Grouse, and Mt. Seymour for terrain, lift tickets, ski lessons, and season passes. - [Snow Hike at Lynn Headwaters Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/02/16/snow-hike-at-lynn-headwaters-regional-park/) - Quick facts: Alltrails link: Lynn Loop Trail, 5.3km, 184m elevation gain Difficulty: 90% easy, 10% intermediate steep climb Traffic: light in the winter, moderate in the summer Facilities: pit toilet at trailhead Views: babbling Lynn Creek and the dense forests were magical after a snowfall Overall score: 8/10 Middle Bro had his mind set on - [Pitt Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2025/01/26/pitt-lake-paddle/) - Parking: Grant Narrows Park, free parking from October to May Launching concrete boat ramp and floating docks Difficulty - very large tidal lake, strong wind and waves during warmer months. Large mud flats may trap the unsuspecting paddlers. Boat traffic - moderate boat traffic even in the dead of winter. At least 10 motor boats - [Winter camping baby step! in Porteau Cove](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/02/04/winter-camping-baby-step-in-porteau-cove/) - Winter camping is always a daunting but exciting prospect. It's a frontier that we haven’t explored yet, and conquering it would mean unlocking the possibility for year-round camping. The risk of hypothermia in the winter is real though, when we’re separated from the elements with nothing but a few sheets of plastic. However, there is - [Mahon Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/11/mahon-park/) - Quick Facts: 2.8km walk (AllTrails page, but their route is slightly different from ours) Difficulty: easy, but not stroller friendly Traffic: light to moderate Facilities: free parking View: forest, creek side views Overall score: 6/10 Mahon Park is a sizeable municipal park in North Vancouver, featuring a very pleasant forested walk beside a babbling Wagg - [Squamish Estuary Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/12/09/squamish-estuary-paddle/) - Parking: Gravel pullout along Spit Road in Squamish Launching Easy launch on either side of the spit here and here Difficulty – Squamish is famous for its winds, which can significantly increase the difficulty. On rare days with minimal winds, it's a low-intermediate paddle with gentle but noticeable current in the river. Look up the - [Biking the Traboulay PoCo Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/10/02/biking-the-traboulay-poco-trail/) - Traboulay PoCo Trail is a beautiful mixed use loop surrounding Port Coquitlam. Spanning 25.3km, the trail is almost entirely separate from vehicle traffic. With minimal elevation changes, there wasn't any particularly challenging section. With an invitation from Aaron and Amy, we tackled this beautiful loop trail on a cool autumn afternoon. As this was a - [BC Family French Camp - Nanaimo](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/17/bc-family-french-camp-nanaimo/) - This summer we did something a little different, a little outside our comfort zone. No, it's not just camping for 2 weeks straight, although that is a new record for us. It's doing the first half of the trip with an organized group, with itinerary, schedules, and even meetings -- en français! That's right! Tina - [Camping at Silver Lake Provincial Park - Hope BC](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/09/20/camping-at-silver-lake-provincial-park-hope-bc/) - A search on Google Maps shows that "Silver Lake" is probably the most over-used names for lakes. Even "Silver Lake Provincial Park" is not unique, as there's one with the same name in Ontario! We visited the Silver Lake Provincial Park situated just 12km southwest of Hope BC in mid September. The park is quite - [Othello Tunnels [partially reopened]](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/12/othello-tunnels-hike/) - * Due to devastating storms in November 2021, Othello tunnels trail was closed. As of 2024, it's partially reopened to the second tunnel. Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Othello Tunnels, 2.5km with 40m elevation gain Difficulty: very easy, stroller friendly Traffic: heavy Facilities: pit toilets at the trail head, and 1 or 2 picnic tables at the - [Paddle Camping at Plumper Cove, Keats Island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/09/16/paddle-camping-at-plumper-cove-keats-island/) - From our various trips to the Sunshine Coast, I became aware of the small provincial marine park: Plumper Cove on Keats Island, just across the water from Gibsons Harbour. It features 20 campsites, pit toilets, and a pump for fresh water (but with a long-term boil water advisory) during the summer months. Camping is $16 - [Camping at Porteau Cove Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/26/camping-at-porteau-cove-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/porteau-cove-park/ Access to water: steps to the water's edge Fantastic views of Howe Sound Deluxe facilities: flush toilets, hot shower in the loop. Activities: water sports, or just be mesmerized by the ocean views. Beach type: rocky beach. Main drawbacks: traffic noise from highway and trains, fearless raccoons and - [Setting up rain tarps for camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/09/07/setting-up-rain-tarps-for-camping/) - Over the last few years, we've gone camping a few dozen times. Among these trips, many were in the rain. As we are strictly tent campers for now, setting up rain tarps is an essential skill to ensure acceptably dry living quarters. I have documented my learning process and the evolution of my techniques in - [Camping at Elk Falls Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/24/camping-at-elk-falls-provincial-park/) - Elk Falls Provincial Park is located minutes away from Campbell River. We stayed for 2 nights here during our 3-stop tour of Central Vancouver Island, after camping for a week at the Living Forest Campground in Nanaimo. This park offers 122 vehicle-accessible campsites. Approximately 25 of these sites border the Quinsam River and the rest - [Camping at Smelt Bay Provincial Park on Cortez Island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/26/camping-at-smelt-bay-provincial-park-on-cortez-island/) - The Cortez Island - Smelt Bay leg of our 3-stop tour of Central Vancouver Island had a rocky start. Literally, we were rocked back and forth on the ferry, and it was doing enormous splashes like we haven't seen before. Cars on the front of the line were getting washed with sea water. We soldiered - [Nanaimo River Estuary Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/23/nanaimo-river-estuary-paddle/) - Parking: We were camping in the Living Forest Ocreanside Campground, but there is a small public parking lot outside the campground if you aren't camping here. Launching Sandy river bank off and a concrete boat ramp on campground property The public trail also leads to the river bank, but it's a bit steeper Difficulty – - [Paddle Camping in Sechelt Inlet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/08/12/paddle-camping-at-sechelt-inlet/) - Since our successful, even transformative paddle camping trip to Indian Arm, Johnny and I have been eager to go again. We narrowed our destinations down to two options: Pitt Lake and Sechelt Inlet. After doing ample research on both, and watching the forecasts for weather and air quality like hawks, we finally settled on Sechelt - [Camping at Golden Ears Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/11/camping-at-golden-ears-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/golden-ears-park/ Access to water: walkable distance down a winding trail (Campers Beach Trail) with gentle slope, about 300m from the closest campsite in Alouette Campground and 500m from the closest campsite in Gold Creek Campground. No views of the lake from campground. Deluxe facilities: flush toilets, hot shower, playground - [Whonnock Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/09/whonnock-lake/) - Quick Facts Parking: 49°12'29.4"N 122°26'54.3"W Launch: 49°12'32.7"N 122°26'59.6"W Launching type: sandy beach Difficulty – very easy Boat traffic – no motor boats allowed View – conifer-covered lakeshores Facilities – playground, picnic tables, sandy beach, porta potties at the park. Overall score – 7/10 Whonnock Lake is a small, calm lake in Maple Ridge, accessible to - [Paddling around Shady Island near Steveston, Richmond](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/06/08/paddling-around-shady-island-near-steveston-richmond/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Imperial Landing Launching type: dock Motor boat traffic: moderate (commercial fishing vessels in the Steveston Channel, tug boats and large ships on the Fraser River South Arm) Typical paddling distance: 6.5km Facilities: no toilets available at launch site, free parking, tons of activities in Steveston village View – unique views - [Big Bro's First Paddle Camping Trip at Widgeon Creek](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/08/07/big-bros-first-paddle-camping-trip-at-widgeon-creek/) - Preamble When I first introduced the idea of paddle camping to my kids 3 years ago, Big Bro was instantly fascinated and wanted to join me right away. I set out 3 prerequisites before he can join me: Comfortable swimming with a life jacket on. Comfortable getting into the water and reboarding a paddleboard without - [Buntzen Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/05/buntzen-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking: 49.338198, -122.857502 Launch: 49°20'24.4"N 122°51'32.1"W (Ok to drive up to the launch point but need to park the car in parking lot afterwards) Traffic: extremely busy on weekends especially in the warmer months, parking lot is almost always full within 1-2 hours of opening. We don't even try to come here on - [New Paddling Achievement at Buntzen Lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/07/21/new-paddling-achievement-at-buntzen-lake/) - The Preparation I had enthusiastically bought a kids' paddleboard 2 years ago (Thurso Surf Prodigy Junior, 7 feet 6), thinking it would be awesome to paddle with the boys. But after a few attempts, Big Bro just couldn't get the hang of it yet. The board was unceremoniously tucked away in storage most of the - [Paddle Camping at Glacier Bay on Stave Lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/07/16/paddle-camping-at-glacier-bay-on-stave-lake/) - Returning to Stave Lake Since visiting Stave Lake in 2020 with a SUP group, I haven't been back. The experience was rather underwhelming: a bumpy, dusty gravel forest service road, loud motor boats and party music, and the dirt bike and ATV crowds at the lower Stave Lake weren't very conducive for the type of - [Paddle Camping at Moyer Creek Marine Campsite in Golden Ears Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/09/08/paddle-camping-at-moyer-creek-marine-campsite-in-golden-ears-provincial-park/) - After a 2-year hiatus from paddle camping since our unforgettable trips to Granite Falls and Sechelt Inlet, the stars aligned for Johnny and I to team up once again for another quick but impactful overnight paddling trip at Moyer Creek Marine Campsite on Alouette Lake. We had 2 days to plan, and we quickly narrowed - [Camping at Ruckle Provincial Park on Salt Spring Island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/08/26/camping-at-ruckle-provincial-park-on-salt-spring-island/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/ruckle-park/ Access to water: camp sites are on rocky outcrops unsuitable for launching a water craft. A day use area with a pebble beach is nearby for launching hand-carried water crafts. Pit toilet, drinking water source, garbage collection Activities: beach combing, hiking, visiting the heritage Ruckle Farm Beach type: - [Ruckle Provincial Park Group Camping: Oceanfront Fun for Large Groups](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/07/07/ruckle-provincial-park-group-camping-oceanfront-fun-for-large-groups/) - Sharing our love for the outdoors has been a passion of our family for a while. We have introduced camping to many of our friends, but we've always booked individual campsites for the group. It's somewhat stressful because it relies on successfully booking multiple campsites near each other if it's more than 2 families, otherwise - [Checklist of our camping gears](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/22/checklist-of-our-camping-gears/) - Camping has always been a fun activity for our family; however, when it was our first time the packing part stressed me out. I have no idea what to bring and was afraid of not bringing enough, so I ended up over packing. After our many camping trips over the last few years, we have - [oTENTik Glamping at Fort Langley National Historic Site](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/10/05/otentik-glamping-at-fort-langley-national-historic-site/) - If it wasn't clear enough yet, our family loves camping. Most of the time, camping brings us close to the best places Mother Nature has to offer. But occasionally, camping can lead us to a completely different experience. Such was our amazing stay at an oTENTik tent in Fort Langley National Historic Site, where we - [Biking Whistler Valley Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/06/23/biking-whistler-valley-trail/) - The Valley Trail in Whistler is a beautiful 46km network of multi-use trails that connect the major neighborhoods, parks, and lakes of the resort municipality. It's mostly paved, car free, and all the intersections with roads are controlled by traffic light. It has gentle rolling sections, which is just the right amount of challenging to - [Sumas River Paddle (and an attempt at the Floating Forest)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2024/06/17/sumas-river-paddle-and-an-attempt-at-the-floating-forest/) - Parking: Barrowtown Pump Station Boat Launch Launching Sandy river bank off the boat launch ramp Difficulty – Sumas River is very calm and slow. Vedder River has a noticeable but surmountable current. Fraser River was brisk and not to be trifled with. Main hazard is boat wake, making this a padddle with intermediate-level difficulty. Boat - [Best Frontcountry Campgrounds near Vancouver for Paddlers](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/21/best-frontcountry-campgrounds-near-vancouver-for-paddlers/) - Camping and paddling are two of our family's main warm-weather hobbies. Some of the best paddling in our region can be had early in the morning before the crowds and winds pick up. The easiest way to get onto the water at daybreak is to sleep right next to it the night before, so here - [Lake Louise Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/18/lake-louise-paddle/) - Ah, Lake Louise. The icon of Canadian Rockies in my books. This was the highlight and focal point of our 2020 Rockies Road Trip. I've visited Lake Louise many times with my family before, but we've never been on the lake due to time constraints and high cost of canoe rental here. I often wondered - [Paddling Bedford Channel in Fort Langley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/12/31/paddling-bedford-channel-in-fort-langley/) - Parking: Marina Park, Bedford Landing, or Brae Island Regional Park Launching Public boat ramp at Marina Park, Public dock at Bedford Landing, or sandy beach at Brae Island Regional Park Difficulty – calm, sheltered branch of Fraser River with slow current, which can get much stronger during spring freshet. The river is still tidal here, - [Camping at Deception Pass State Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/08/14/camping-at-deception-pass-state-park/) - Washington State Park website: https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/deception-pass-state-park Judd rating: 5 stars out of 5 Stienstra rating: 10 out of 10 Access to water: a few hundred meters of easy walking token-operated shower, flush toilets, drinking water Activities: hiking, biking, paddling on Cranberry Lake Outdoor Fam rating: 10/10 Deception Pass is the most-visited State Park in Washington State. - [White Rock Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/10/13/white-rock-paddle/) - Parking and Launching: West Beach at the bottom of Bay St, next to Bayview Park East Beach, between Totem Park and the washroom Semiahmoo Public Parking Lot Launching type: pebble beach Difficulty – wind dependent. Very calm, shallow, and warm waters on a good day Boat traffic – minimal boat traffic View – great views - [Camping at Birch Bay State Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/19/camping-at-birch-bay-state-park/) - Camping in Washington State Parks From our home base in Vancouver, we've camped to the north along the Sea to Sky corridor and Sunshine Coast, west on Vancouver Island (ok, technically Victoria is more south than west from Vancouver, but on the rudimentary map in my mind, the entire Island is our western shield), and - [Big Bro Takes on Mountain Biking!](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/09/25/big-bro-takes-on-mountain-biking/) - Route: Tin Pants then Gypsy Drum, in WhistlerDistance: 5.5kmElevation Gain: 82mMoving Time: 44mDifficulty: green This is a momentous occasion, as both Big Bro and I unlocked a new sport at the same time: Mountain Biking! I was somewhat hesitant at first, seeing even I've never done a proper mountain biking ride myself. Big Bro and - [Camping at Moran State Park on Orcas Island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/20/camping-at-moran-state-park-on-orcas-island/) - Quick Facts: Washington State Park website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/547/Moran Judd rating: 5 stars out of 5 Stienstra rating: 10 out of 10, Most Scenic, Best for Hiking Access to water: some sites are directly on the lake front Coin-operated hot shower, flush toilets, drinking water source Activities: hiking, biking, paddling on the lakes Outdoor Fam rating: 10/10 - [Paddling Alouette River](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/27/paddling-alouette-river/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Trail Pavilion, off Harris Road near the bridge Launching type: muddy/pebbly beach Difficulty – easy, calm river with slow current but variable wind conditions Boat traffic – no motor boats east of Harris Road bridge View – magnificent views of the snow peaks in Golden Ears and Pinecone Burke Provincial - [Nanaimo - not just a Harbour City](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/03/nanaimo-not-just-a-harbour-city/) - We had a lukewarm review of Nanaimo from our visit last summer and concluded that its main purpose was to serve as a "stepping stone to nearby attractions". But it turned out, to appreciate the Harbour City, one has to look away from the harbour. We had a chance for a second visit this year, - [Camping at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/06/camping-rathtrevor-beach-provincial-park/) - A highly anticipated campground this season was Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, which is one of the most popular provincial parks on Vancouver Island. Thanks to Billy's lightning-speed reservation skills, we were lucky to snatch up the last spot for our week-long trip after camping on Gabriola Island. Before getting there, we made a quick stop - [Camping on Gabriola Island - Descanso Bay Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/04/camping-on-gabriola-island-descanso-bay-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: Descanso Bay Regional Park website: https://www.rdn.bc.ca/descanso-bay-regional-park Access to water: very short walk to the water Obstructed views of the ocean Rustic amenities with pit toilets, no showers, and only one water tap far from campsites Activities: trails and paddling Beach type: rocky beach and mud flats Outdoor Fam rating: 8 out of 10 - [Camping at Larrabee State Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/07/17/camping-at-larrabee-state-park/) - Quick Facts: Washington State Park website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/536/Larrabee Judd rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 Stienstra rating: 9 out of 10, Best for Wildlife Viewing and Best Waterfront Campgrounds Access to water: walkable distance, but no view of the water from campsite Coin-operated hot shower, flush toilets, drinking water source Activities: boat launch, small scenic beach - [Gold Creek Walk-In Campsites at Golden Ears Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/05/25/gold-creek-walk-in-campsites-at-golden-ears-provincial-park/) - Quite presciently, BC Parks added 65 campsites at the ultra popular Golden Ears Provincial Park in 2019. This undoubtedly helped with the COVID-19 Outdoor Rush of 2020 and 2021. Twenty of these new additions are walk-in sites at the Gold Creek Campground. (A common misconception is that "walk-ins" mean no reservation or First Come First - [Nanaimo - hopping stone to nearby attractions](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/19/nanaimo-hopping-stone-to-nearby-attractions/) - Our second multi-day stay on our BC Coastal Circle Tour was in Nanaimo, with our good friends Aaron, Amy, and their son. We arrived at dinner time, so we headed out to the Old City Quarter for a highly rated Italian restaurant, only to find it closed. Thankfully, there was a Japanese restaurant nearby run - [Porteau Cove Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/27/porteau-cove-provincial-park/) - Launching: two concrete boat ramps. Adjacent rubble beaches are harder to reach. Parking: day use parking lots Difficulty – easy in the morning, but strong southerly wind picks up late morning around 10:30 and is usually overpowering during summer. Boat traffic – motor boats frequently seen, but they usually stay mid channel View – spectacular - [Hicks Lake Paddle - Sasquatch Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/06/04/hicks-lake-paddle-sasquatch-provincial-park/) - Launching: Various beach launching spots, and a boat ramp Parking: day use parking lots Difficulty – easy in the morning, fairly warm waters, but southerly wind picks up mid day and can be fairly substantial. Swimmer's itch at shallower areas. Boat traffic – motor boats up to 10hp is allowed View – nice views of - [Belcarra Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/29/belcarra-paddle/) - Belcarra Regional Park encompasses two very popular paddling destinations: Sasamat Lake and Belcarra Picnic Area. When people say they are paddling in Belcarra, they usually mean the latter. An important recent update here is the introduction of paid parking during the peak season. For details: visit the metro van website. After hiking the moderately difficult - [Lindeman Lake Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/28/lindeman-lake-trail/) - Quick facts: AllTrails link: Lindeman Lake Trail. 3.5km out and back, 238m elevation gain Difficulty: moderately difficult for our 5 year old but he did it! Traffic: very busy, parking lot fills up early on the weekends. Lots of dogs too, supposed to be leashed but some do not follow the leash rules. Facilities: pit - [Camping and Paddling at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/20/camping-at-porpoise-bay-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/porpoise-bay-park/ Access to water: slightly long but walkable distance of 200-300m from campsite to beach, water not visible from campsite Deluxe amenities Activities: playground at the day use area, water sports, beach-combing Beach type: rocky Outdoor Fam rating: 9 out of 10 Sunshine Coast is a quick 40 min - [Alice Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/08/alice-lake-paddle/) - Launching: beach launch Parking: day use parking lots Difficulty – very easy Boat traffic – none View – bland Facilities – free parking, flush toilet, kayak rental, picnic tables, playground Overall score – 4/10 For camping near Vancouver, Alice Lake Provincial Park is always a popular choice. It's a very accessible 1-hour drive from Vancouver, - [Camping at Alice Lake Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/16/camping-at-alice-lake-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/alice-lake-park/ Access to water: walkable distance Deluxe amenities Activities: playground, pump track, water sports, hiking Beach type: sandy but usually covered with goose droppings Outdoor Fam rating: 9 out of 10 The campground at Alice Lake Provincial Park is routinely listed as one of the most family friendly in - [Lightning Lake Camping at Manning Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/13/lightning-lake-camping-at-manning-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/ec-manning-park/ Access to water: walkable distance from Lightning Lake Campground, especially the Large Loop, only pick-a-boo views of the water from campsite Flush toilet, hot shower Activities: playground, water sports, hiking Beach type: mix of sandy and pebbly beach Outdoor Fam rating: 9 out of 10 Our friend Amy - [Solo (Plus) Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/10/01/solo-plus-camping/) - When the weather forecast called for unseasonably warm temperatures across the region, Tina and I made an impromptu decision to book a camping trip for the weekend. Unfortunately, Middle Bro got a fever the day before our departure so Tina decided to stay back with him and Baby Bro. Thus, I went on a solo - [Camping at Dash Point State Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/21/camping-at-dash-point-state-park/) - Quick Facts: Washington State Park website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/496/Dash-Point Judd rating: 3 stars out of 5 Stienstra rating: 8 out of 10 Access to water: drivable distance to Dash Point Beach (or an uncomfortable 1km, downhill walk on the road from campsites) Token-operated hot shower, flush toilets, drinking water source, dish washing sink 4 cabins Activities: water - [Camping at Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/26/camping-at-chilliwack-lake-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: BC Provincial Parks website: https://bcparks.ca/sxotsaqel-chilliwack-lake-park/ Access to water: walkable distance from Paleface Loop, only pick-a-boo views of the water from campsite Pit toilet, drinking water source, garbage collection Activities: playground, water sports, hiking Beach type: mix of sandy and pebbly beach Outdoor Fam rating: 7 out of 10 Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is - [Chilliwack Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/27/chilliwack-lake-paddle/) - Launching: Chilliwack Lake Boat Ramp Parking: day use parking lots Launching type: pebble beach and concrete boat launch Difficulty – easy in the morning, but cold water, wind, and boats pose a hazard Boat traffic – motor boats and water skiing is allowed here View – majestic views of snowy mountain peaks, making this one - [Island 22 Bike Skills Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/31/island-22-bike-skills-park/) - After our camping trip at Chilliwack Lake, the boys really wanted to go somewhere biking. After a quick search, we came across this bike park. Compared to a few pump tracks we went to in the Lower Mainland, this bike park is fairly big with many different levels to try out. And the best part: - [Ladner Marsh and Harbour Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/24/ladner-marsh-and-harbour-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Ferry Road Boat Launch Ladner Wharf Wellington Point Park Launching type: Ferry Road: dock and boat ramp Ladner Wharf: dock Wellington Point: boat ramp Difficulty – intermediate due to boat wakes and river current Boat traffic – many motor boats especially on a weekend afternoon View – muddy Fraser River - [Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/05/20/terrell-marsh-interpretive-trail/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Terrell Marsh Trail, 1km, 5m elevation gain Difficulty: easy but not very stroller friendly Traffic: light Facilities: interpretive boards View: mixture of local flora from forest trees to marsh plants Overall score: 7/10 On our short overnight camping trip in Birch Bay State Park, we checked out this cute little hiking - [Locarno Beach to Wreck Beach Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/09/16/locarno-beach-to-wreck-beach-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Locarno Beach Launching type: sandy beach Difficulty – Exposed ocean, subject to swells, chops, and tides Boat traffic – no motor boats near this route due to the shallow water and distance to traveling lanes View – nice views of the North Shore and Howe Sound mountains, many snow-capped peaks - [Camping at Cultus Lake Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/14/camping-at-cultus-lake-provincial-park/) - Being so close to Vancouver, Cultus Lake Provincial Park is one of the most popular camping destinations in BC. There are ample recreational opportunities including a waterpark and an adventure park, boat and jetski rentals, and a privately owned Sunnyside campground for camping alternatives to the provincial sites. We've stayed at 3 of the 4 - [2022-2023 Ski Season Wrap Up](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/04/15/2022-2023-ski-season-wrap-up/) - We just wrapped up a fantastic ski season. Big Bro was the MVP, skiing and progressing the most. But Middle Bro had amazing improvements too, and was doing significantly better than how Big Bro did at age 3. Our first skiing session of season was Dec 28, 2022. It was a big mistake to come - [Hayward Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/10/02/hayward-lake-paddle/) - Parking and launching: Hayward Lake Recreation Area Launching type: sandy beach and concrete boat launch Difficulty – easy, beginner friendly Boat traffic – no motorized boats allowed View – medium sized lake with tree stumps from flooded forest, views of mid-distance mountains, short canal exploration to Powerhouse Facilities – free parking, drinking water fountain, washroom, - [Icy Winter Paddle on North Alouette River](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/02/26/icy-winter-paddle-on-north-alouette-river/) - A 20cm snow dump followed by a sunny break provided the best opportunity to try out my new dry suit. Alouette River proved to be just the paddle destination. - [Gabriola Island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/20/gabriola-island/) - During our stay in Nanaimo, Tina convinced the group to take the short ferry ride to explore Gabriola Island. And we were all very glad she did! Gabriola boasts more public beach access points than any other Gulf Island, which is impressive considering it's only 6th largest island by area. We went for two of - [Best Winter Activities for Kids in Whistler Besides Skiing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/01/29/best-winter-activities-for-kids-in-whistler-besides-skiing/) - Whistler Village is still full of fun for a young kid even if skiing isn't an option. Here are some of our favorite hangout places in Whistler Village. - [Capilano Suspension Bridge - Great Tourist Attraction for Locals](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/02/25/capilano-suspension-bridge-great-tourist-attraction-for-locals/) - We finally got resident annual passes for Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. With day time guided nature walks and dazzling light installations at night, we believe it's worth it! - [Musings on teaching Big Bro skiing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/02/12/musings-on-teaching-big-bro-skiing/) - Teaching kids skiing can be both fun and exhausting. Here I reflect on how far Big Bro has come and where we want to go next. - [Camping at Goldstream Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/08/25/camping-at-goldstream-provincial-park/) - Goldstream Provincial Park features a campground just 25 minutes outside Victoria via Highway 1. It has what we call the "deluxe" facilities by provincial park standards: hot shower, flush toilet, deep sinks for dish washing, and even decent cellular reception. But our first impression of the campground was less than perfect. At around 2pm, there - [Granite Falls Paddle Camping: Out Of This World!](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/24/granite-falls-sup-camping/) - Paddle camping trip report at Granite Falls campsite in Indian Arms. A fantastic and surreal first experience at SUP camping opens new doors - [First Time Skiing Whistler: Big Bro Takes on Big Mountains](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2023/01/28/whistler-skiing-with-kids/) - This is Big Bro's 3rd season skiing. We spent the first two seasons on our local mountains, and we saw some dramatic improvements from not willing to take more than a few steps to linking turns. With him turning 5 and starting kindergarten this year, we took advantage of the free Epic Schoolkids pass. This - [Lower Gold Creek Falls Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/10/02/lower-gold-creek-falls-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Lower Gold Creek Falls Trail, 5.5km, 92m elevation gain Difficulty: easy and mostly stroller friendly Traffic: very heavy, many dogs, mostly leashed Facilities: outhouse at the trailhead parking lot View: nice views Evans Peak from the middle view point, and cool little waterfall at the end Overall score: 7/10 Lower Falls - [Mystery Creek Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/09/24/mystery-creek-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Mystery Creek and Hyannis Loop (a lollipop loop), 3.7km, 129m elevation gain Difficulty: easy to moderate, not stroller friendly on Mystery Creek Trail but ok on the flat gravel Hyannis Trail Traffic: moderate, shared with off leash dogs and mountain bikers Facilities: no washrooms View: mature, lush forest with glimpses at - [Train Wreck Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/09/11/train-wreck-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Whistler Train Wreck via Sea to Sky and Train Wreck Trails. 2.3km, 46m elevation gain Difficulty: easy, stroller friendly up until the train wreck site, where a stroller needs to be carried over tree roots Traffic: moderate Facilities: no washrooms View: nice suspension bridge over a rushing Cheakamus River, and of - [Still Creek Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/08/08/still-creek-paddle/) - Parking and Launching: Burnaby Lake Rowing Pavilion Launching type: low profile dock Difficulty – very slow, barely noticeable moving water Boat traffic – no motorized boats on Burnaby LakeView – marshy channels and abundant birding opportunities, but definitely an urban paddle with visibly poor water qualityFacilities - free parkingOverall score – 4/10 After missing the - [2022 BC Coastal Circle Tour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/29/2022-bc-coastal-circle-tour/) - Our biggest trip of 2022 is a 15-day circle tour of a beautiful section on the southern BC Coast, with stays in Sidney, Nanaimo, Comox, Powell River, and Gibsons. The 530km (including ferries) circle we drew: July 15 to 18: Sidney BC Sidney BC July 15: Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, first attempt at crab fishing - [Skookumchuck Narrows Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/28/skookumchuck-narrows-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Skookumchuck Narrows, 7.7km, 188m elevation gain Difficulty: easy to moderate, not stroller friendly Traffic: moderate Facilities: washrooms in the Egmont Heritage Centre with a museum and gift shop View: impressive feats of nature depending on tide directions Overall score: 8/10 The hike in Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park is perhaps the most - [Paddle in Smuggler Cove, Sunshine Coast](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/27/paddle-in-smuggler-cove-sunshine-coast/) - Parking and Launching: end of Brooks Road past the parking lot to Smuggler Cove trailhead. 49°30'35.3"N 123°56'52.9"W Launching type: pebbly beach Difficulty – well protected coves at either end of the paddle, slightly more chop in the channel of Thormanby Island Boat traffic – the channel is frequented by power boats View – fantastic maze - [Sunshine Coast: Ruby Lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/27/sunshine-coast-ruby-lake/) - Ruby Lake is a gorgeous lake with a nice resort and restaurant. It's about 4km across, and it's popular with boaters. There's a public boat launch at Ramp Road, and there's a small sandy beach at Dan Bosch Park down a short dirt path. Guests at the Ruby Lake Resort could also use their private - [Sunshine Coast: Pender Harbour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/26/sunshine-coast-pender-harbour/) - If we didn't have our super generous friends who let us house-sit for a week, and we had to vote on what we think is the best vacation spot the Sunshine Coast, I think Pender Harbour might just be the crème de la crème. Here are some reasons why. Painted Boat Spa Rated as one - [Sunshine Coast: Halfmoon Bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/26/sunshine-coast-halfmoon-bay/) - A bit further up from Sechelt is the community of Halfmoon Bay. Grandpa and I scouted the area for beach access and on-shore crabbing opportunities, and to prepare for my Smuggler Cove Paddle. Sargeant Bay Provincial Park Our first stop was Sargeant Bay Provincial Park, which grants easy access to a beautiful stretch of rocky - [Sunshine Coast: Sechelt](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/25/sunshine-coast-sechelt/) - Sechelt is the central hub of the Sunshine Coast. It houses the highest population in the region, has the most shops and restaurants, and is basically unavoidable as one travels through. We've spent considerable time in Sechelt on our previous trips, including camping at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, and doing an expedition paddle trip up - [Sunshine Coast: Gibsons](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/24/sunshine-coast-gibsons/) - The last leg of our BC Coastal Circle Tour was also the reason why we planned a circle tour in the first place. Our super generous friends Nancy and Gordon offered to let us use their home in Gibsons while they were away on vacation for a week, so we extended our Vancouver Island trip - [Powell River](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/23/powell-river/) - Our time at Powell River was cut short due to ferry cancellation the day before, but we made the most of it. The Sea Walk The Powell River Sea Walk is a flat, 2.7km out and back trail (1.3km one way) right on the water's edge starting near the ferry terminal. The views of the - [Comox Bonus Day](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/21/comox-bonus-day/) - After Parksville, we said goodbye to Amy and Aaron and headed north to catch a ferry in Comox. It's a quick 1 hour drive, and we had a choice of two routes. The faster option was through Highway 19, a boring 4-lane highway that would get you to Comox about 10 to 15 minutes faster. - [Parksville - seaside vacation destination](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/21/parksville-seaside-vacation-destination/) - When we stayed in Nanaimo, we visited Parksville on multiple occasions. In hindsight, we should have looked for a place to stay closer to Parksville since there were so many more things to do around here. No only is it only a short 10 minute drive to the eclectic community of Coombs, Parksville also has - [Coombs - eclectic attractions](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/20/coombs-eclectic-attractions/) - Coombs is famous for its "Goats on the Roof" aka Old Country Market, which is way too popular for the location it's in. There's almost always a traffic jam on that small drive around the market with very limited parking. Honestly, I feel the market is probably only worth a visit if you haven't seen - [Duncan - BC Forest Discovery Centre](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/18/duncan-bc-forest-discovery-centre/) - The second leg of our BC Coastal Circle Tour is in Nanaimo, so we said goodbye to Sidney and the Saanich Peninsula. We did some research before the trip to find some things to do along the way, since it's a rather monotonous drive otherwise. We considered visiting Bamberton Beach for its sandy beach and - [Elk/Beaver Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/17/elk-beaver-lake-paddle/) - Parking and Launching: Victoria City Rowing Club Launching type: options of beach or dock Difficulty – easy, medium sized lake with rare encounters with boats Boat traffic – faster power boats required to stay on the northwestern corner of Elk Lake (the northern portion of the amalgamated Elk/Beaver Lake) View – above average lake views with - [Sidney BC - City of Crabs](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/07/17/sidney-bc/) - Sidney BC is an easily-overlooked town right off the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. We've driven past it many times on our way to Victoria, only occasionally stopping at the MacDonalds for a quick bite. We've rectified this error this time, and spent a fabulous 3-night stay here with our good friends David, Rofie, and their - [Smuggler Cove Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/06/07/smuggler-cove-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Smuggler Cove, modified as a 2km out and back hike to the first fork on the map. Difficulty: moderateTraffic: heavy, with lots of dogsFacilities: pit toilet a trailheadView: cool boardwalk through wetland and nice views of Smuggler Cove at the end. After the fork, it wasn't clear how the trail continues. - [Spanish Trail to Salish Trail Loop in Pacific Spirit Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/25/spanish-trail-to-salish-trail-loop-in-pacific-spirit-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Salish Trail to Spanish Trail Loop, 7.2km with 103m elevationDifficulty: intermediate but only due to lengthTraffic: moderateFacilities: flush toilet at trail head, pit toilet at the information kiosk on 16th AveView: forests, creeks, canyon, golf course, wetland, and partially obstructed views of Burrard Inlet and Spanish Banks below a cliffOverall score: - [Deas Slough Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/24/deas-slough-and-ladner-marsh-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Deas Island Regional Park (49°07'34.5"N 123°03'18.2"W)Launching type: dock and muddy beachDifficulty – easy, but with occasional boat wakesBoat traffic – usually infrequentView – muddy Fraser River slough and marshes, distant views of North Shore mountainsFacilities: picnic tables, a regional park with trails, toilet about 100m awayOverall score – 7/10 Deas - [Lighthouse Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/21/lighthouse-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Lighthouse Park Viewpoint Loop, 5.8km with 267m elevationDifficulty: intermediate to difficultTraffic: usually heavy on weekendsFacilities: pit stop toilets at trail head, flush toilet near the lighthouse View: fantastic views on the western shore, looking at snow capped mountains surrounding lower Howe Sound. Good views of downtown and Vancouver on the southern - [Everett Crowley Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/16/everett-crowley-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Everett Crowley Loop, 2.1km with 19m elevationDifficulty: easy, stroller friendly if you stay on the graveled loopTraffic: heavy, lots of dogsFacilities: minimal. There's a washroom placed strangely across the park on the other side of Kerr St, away from the rest of the parkView: obstructed views of Fraser River and the - [Robert Burnaby Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/14/robert-burnaby-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Robert Burnaby Park Loop, 2.1km with 63m elevationDifficulty: moderate, with more technical sections through the woods Traffic: lightFacilities: flush toilet available near the tennis court, picnic tables, playground, sport facilities, swimming poolView: wilder than expected network of trails, crossing small streamsOverall score: 7/10 For an urban park, Robert Burnaby Park was - [Brunswick Point Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/11/brunswick-point-trail/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Brunswick Point Trail, 11.3km with minimal elevationDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: light Facilities: no toiletsView: Fraser river estuary, lots of birding opportunities, surprisingly great views of surrounding mountain ranges on a clear dayOverall score: 7/10 Brunswick Point Trail is a great hidden gem at the eastern tip of City of Delta - [Rolley Lake Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/08/rolley-lake-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Rolley Lake TrailDifficulty: easy on the Lakeside Trail (but not stroller friendly), and moderately difficult on to Rolley Falls TrailTraffic: lightFacilities: pit toilet at parking lot, picnic tablesView: nice lake surrounded by lush forest. Small waterfalls mostly hidden from view.Overall score: 7/10 April 2021 Lakeside Trail Loop During our last paddle - [Stearman to Dundarave Paddle - a humbling experience](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/04/01/stearman-to-dundarave-paddle-a-humbling-experience/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Stearman BeachLaunching type: pebbly beachDifficulty – weather dependent, very difficult on windy daysBoat traffic – no boats close to shoreView – fancy houses on the shoreline, nice views across Burrard Inlet towards Vancouver, Stanley Park, Lions Gate Bridge, and Point Atkinson LighthouseFacilities – no washroomsOverall score – 6/10 The forecast - [Burnaby Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/03/28/burnaby-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Burnaby Lake Rowing PavilionLaunching type: dockDifficulty – very easy, beginner friendlyBoat traffic – no recreational motor boats allowedView – wetlands, wildlife, North Shore mountains, and crops of high rise buildingsFacilities – no public washroomsOverall score – 7/10 Located in the center of Burnaby Lake Regional Park is its namesake Burnaby - [Locarno to Stanley Park Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/03/26/locarno-to-stanley-park-paddle/) - This isn't really a new paddle, since I've done the whole route in sections before. What made it blog-worthy is the length (nearly 17km), which is a new record for an impromptu day paddle for me. These days, I'm on daycare pickup and drop off duties, so my time window for a paddle is restricted - [Dundarave Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/02/25/dundarave-paddle/) - Difficulty – choppy waters even with low wind conditionsBoat traffic – no boats near the coast View – nice views of suburban coast line, Lions Gate Bridge, and Lighthouse ParkFacilities – public washrooms availableLaunch - Beach launch Overall score – 7/10 The southern coast of West Vancouver from Ambleside Park to Lighthouse Park is almost - [Moodyville Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/02/21/moodyville-park/) - Moodyville Park is a small urban park in North Vancouver that features a paved pump track and a playground. It's tucked away behind apartment buildings, and the entrance is not well marked. My GPS had a hard time pinpointing where parking spots are, so we had to circle back both times we visited. Navigate to - [Trout Lake Park (aka John Hendry Park)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/02/07/trout-lake-park-aka-john-hendry-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Trout Lake Loop, 1.3km with 6m elevationDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: heavy on a sunny weekend afternoonFacilities: flush toilet at the community centre, two small playgrounds, a few sandy beachesView: best view from the south end of the lake (Trout Lake Beach) with the North Shore mountains beyondOverall score: 4/10 Tucked away - [Campbell Valley Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/02/03/campbell-valley-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Little River Loop, 2.3km with 11m elevationDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: light on a winter morningFacilities: pit toiletView: wetland, river viewOverall score: 5/10 We had a chance to visit South Surrey and we dropped by Campbell Valley Regional Park for a quick stroll, which is just a short drive away in the - [Toddler Skiing Update - Grouse Mountain](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2022/01/28/toddler-skiing-update-grouse-mountain/) - Building on the success of 2020-21 skiing season, where Junior finally got into skiing after 15 visits to the ski hills, we got a season pass to Grouse Mountain this year. At first we were weary about the Skyride Tram being risky during the COVID19 pandemic, but we were relieved to find out that Grouse - [Lynn Canyon Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/09/18/lynn-canyon-park/) - Before we went all out with exploring the outdoors during the pandemic, we only knew a few spots that we frequented around Metro Vancouver. Lynn Canyon Park is one of these go-to destinations of ours for many years. It features a great suspension bridge (a smaller but free alternative to the famed Capilano Suspension Bridge) - [Kinsol Trestle Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/08/25/kinsol-trestle-trail/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Kinsol Trestle Trail, 3km with negligible change in elevation if you stay on the trestleDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: moderateFacilities: portable toilet at the trail headView: very cool looking trestleOverall score: 5/10 During our camping trip outside Victoria, we took a little detour and visited the Historic Kinsol Trestle. Per the - [Paddling Victoria Harbour and the Gorge Waterway](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/08/25/paddling-victoria-harbour-and-the-gorge-waterway/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Banfield Park Dock Launching type: dockDifficulty – very busy working harbourBoat traffic – heavy in the inner harbourView – great forest-lined rocky shores north of Selkirk Trestle, industrial activities in the upper harbour, and glances at the Parliament Building in the inner harbour Facilities: no toilets near the Banfield Dock Overall - [One Mile Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/24/one-mile-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: One Mile LakeLaunching type: dock and sandy beachDifficulty – very easy, beginner friendlyBoat traffic – no motor boatsView – nice views of the surrounding mountains, some snow-capped peaks in the backgroundFacilities: pit toiletOverall score – 5/10 (good spot for beginner paddlers to practice if you are nearby) One Mile Lake - [Duffey Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/23/duffey-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching: Duffey Lake ViewpointLaunching type: pebbly beachDifficulty – windy and small waves made it more of an intermediate paddleBoat traffic – no motor boatsView – majestic, snow capped Mt Rohr accompanies the outbound paddleFacilities: none. Overall score – 5/10 Duffey Lake sits on Highway 99, halfway between Pemberton and Lillooet. Most motorists - [Nairn Falls Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/22/nairn-falls-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Nairn Falls Trail, 2.6km out-and-back trail with 108m elevation gainDifficulty: easy, but unprotected steep slopes down to the river requires close supervision for a toddlerTraffic: heavyFacilities: pit toilets at trail headView: powerful waterfall cutting deep into a gorge Overall score: 8/10 Nairn Falls Provincial Park has a rustic campground but the - [Joffre Lakes Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/15/joffre-lakes-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Joffre Lakes, 7.7km out-and-back trail with 497m elevation gainDifficulty: moderateTraffic: very heavy even during the weekFacilities: pit toilets at trail head, Middle, and Upper Joffre LakesView: 3 gorgeous glacial lakes that can rival those in the Rocky MountainsOverall score: 9/10 If there is one hike near Vancouver that is hyped beyond - [Lightning Lake Loop Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/13/lightning-lake-loop-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Lightning Lake Loop, 6km with 200m elevation gainDifficulty: easy, with some sections that require closer supervision for a toddlerTraffic: moderateFacilities: pit toilets at trail headView: nice views of Lightning Lake Overall score: 6/10 We did a modified version of the Lightning Lake Loop, starting from Lighting Lake Campground, going south to loop - [Paddling Lightning Lake at Manning Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/07/13/paddling-lightning-lake-at-manning-park/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching:Lightning Lake Day Use Area (the better option)Spruce Bay Parking (if the above is full)Launching type: small dock at Lightning Lake Day Use Area and sandy beach at Spruce BayDifficulty – very easyNo cell phone service. Boat traffic – no motor boats View – layers of mountains surrounding a zig-zagging lake - [Barnet to Jug Island Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/20/barnet-to-jug-island-paddle/) - I have paddled and reviewed Barnet Marine Park and Belcarra separately, but this weekend I linked up the two and then some, paddling from Barnet to Jug Island on a 12km out-and-back paddle trip with my good friend and fellow paddle enthusiast Johnny. The first challenge we faced was finding parking at Barnet on a - [Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/17/four-lakes-trail-at-alice-lake-provincial-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Four Lakes Trail, 6.1km with 146m elevation gainDifficulty: easy to moderateTraffic: lightFacilities: flush toilet at Alice Lake which is a swimmable lake, playground, bicycle pump track, nice campgroundView: 4 small quiet lakesOverall score: 7/10 During our recent camping trip to Alice Lake, we did the Four Lakes Trail to conclude our trip. - [Cultus Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/06/11/cultus-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking and Launching:Entrance Bay Picnic AreaSpring Bay Picnic AreaMaple Bay Picnic Area Launching type: beachDifficulty – generally easy especially in the morning before motorboats and wind pick up Boat traffic – many motor boats, jet skis especially on a weekend afternoon. Water-skiers get up surprisingly early. View – lakeshore houses, lush forests, snowcapped - [Boundary Bay Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/05/23/boundary-bay-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Boundary Bay, 3.7km with 11m elevationDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendly Traffic: heavy on a sunny weekend afternoonFacilities: flush toilet, big playground, accessible path on sandy beachView: sandy beaches of Boundary Bay, flat and exposed sandy dunes Overall score: 7/10 Boundary Bay Regional Park features a sandy Centennial Beach and tidal flats, smaller - [Paddling Safety Tips](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/22/paddling-safety-tips/) - As more and more of our friends pick up paddleboarding, here are a few safety tips that we learned from various sources. I felt obligated to list them here so that readers consider these before jumping in to explore one of the destinations we share on our blog. Paddle with others. Paddling with someone who - [2021 Island Camping Trip](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/15/2021-island-camping-trip/) - 2021 was the Year of Camping for our Outdoor Family. We did more than a dozen small camping trips between April and August, culminating in a big 6 day, 5 night trip to Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island. August 15: Camping at Goldstream Provincial Park August 16: Royal BC Museum, Victoria waterfront, Goldstream Falls - [Kanaka Creek Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/10/kanaka-creek-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Kanaka Creek Canyon Trail, 3.7km with 123m elevationDifficulty: easy, but not stroller friendlyTraffic: light on a rainy dayFacilities: pit toilets, picnic tables near the canyons and at the Kanaka Creek Watershed Stewardship CentreView: interesting views of the canyons and water carved sandstones Overall score: 8/10 Kanaka Creek Regional Park follows and protects - [Derby Reach Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/02/derby-reach-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Derby Reach Regional Park, 9.2km with 70m elevation gainDifficulty: easy, doable with a stroller but the Houston Trail has some steep hills Traffic: heavy on Edge Farm Trail, light to moderate on Houston TrailFacilities: pit toilets, sheltered picnic area, picnic tables, grassy field, water access to Fraser RiverView: Edge Farm Trail - [Rolley Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/04/01/rolley-lake-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking: 49°14'30.4"N 122°23'20.3"WLaunch: 49°14'33.4"N 122°23'23.3"WLaunching type: sandy beachDifficulty – very easyBoat traffic – no motor boats allowedView – conifer-covered lakeshoresFacilities – pit toilets, no running water. Picnic tables, sandy beach.Overall score – 7/10 Paddle Report: September 2020 For the Labor Day long weekend, we stayed close and did short-distance day trips. At our friend - [Ambleside Centennial Seawalk](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/28/ambleside-centennial-seawalk/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Ambleside Centennial SeawalkDifficulty: easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: quite busy on weekendsFacilities: flush toilets at multiple parks along the walk. Great playgrounds at Ambleside and John Lawson Park. Restaurant options. Water access. View: panoramic views of Lions Gate Bridge, Stanley Park, and Burrard Inlet.Overall score: 7/10. (-1 for the interruption of walking path - [Rice Lake Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/27/rice-lake-hike/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Rice Lake via Rice Creek Loop Trail, 3.1km with 26m elevation gainDifficulty: very easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: heavyFacilities: flush toilet at parking lot, picnic tables, pit toilet at Rice LakeView: beautiful lake surrounded by lush forestOverall score: 8/10 This is a great little 3.1 km stroller friendly "hike" sandwiched between Lynn Canyon - [Mundy Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/26/mundy-park/) - Mundy Park is a 178 hectare park in Coquitlam, featuring a stroller-accessible gravel walk through a lush forest, with a small tranquil lake in the centre of the park. It also has an epic looking playground, a small pump track, a sheltered picnic area, a disc-golf course, an outdoor pool, and some sport fields. Park - [Admiralty Point Trail - Belcarra Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/17/admiralty-point-trail-belcarra-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Admiralty Point TrailDifficulty: easyTraffic: heavyFacilities: flush toilet, picnic tables, fire ring, water access, playground, basketball court, grassy field at Belcarra Picnic Area. Pit toilet at Maple Beach (about 1.5 km into the hike)View: Burrard Inlet, Indian Arm (peak-a-boo view of the water throughout hike, and more expansive views at several rocky - [Norvan Falls Trail - Lynn Headwaters Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/14/norvan-falls-trail-lynn-headwaters-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Norvan Falls, 13.8km with 345m elevationDifficulty: moderate to challenging, 5 hour hikeTraffic: moderateFacilities: pit toilet at the parking lotView: Lynn Creek, Norvan FallsOverall score: 8/10 This is Hike #5 on Stephen Hui’s 105 Hikes in and Around Southwestern British Columbia, which he rated as 'easy' with a quality of 2 stars out - [Lynn Creek Sea to Sky Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/06/lynn-creek-sea-to-sky-trail/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Sea to Sky Trail, 11.9km with 235m elevation gainDifficulty: moderate, but many flights of stairs make it strenuous Traffic: heavy in the urban parks in Lower Lynn and near the suspension bridge, light to moderate in between Facilities: flush toilets at Lynn Canyon Cafe and Bridgman ParkView: Twin Falls, different sections - [Dog Mountain Snowshoe](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/03/04/dog-mountain-snowshoe/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Dog Mountain Trail Difficulty: green snowshoe trail (took us 3 hours to complete)Traffic: very busy on weekendsFacilities: flush toilet in the ski resortView: spectacular views of Metro VancouverOverall score: 8/10 Dog Mountain Trail is one of the most popular, beginner-friendly snowshoeing trails around Vancouver. It is very heavily trafficked on weekends, to - [Minnekhada Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/27/minnekhada-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Addington Lookout and Mid-March-Lodge-Fern Loop. Difficulty: moderate (some muddy and mildly hazardous sections)Traffic: quite busy on weekendsFacilities: pit toilet, picnic tablesView: interesting marsh views. The view at the Addington Lookout was partially obstructed by trees. Overall score: 6/10 Trip Report: February 2021 On this bright February weekend, we visited the Minnekhada Regional - [Fraser Foreshore Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/26/fraser-foreshore-park/) - To map out our Fraser River Series of parks, we headed to Fraser Foreshore Park in Burnaby on a cloudy fall afternoon. We were very confused by Google Maps because when we arrived at where it said the park was, it was just a long narrow road next to an industrial park. We weren't sure - [Burnaby Lake Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/26/burnaby-lake-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Burnaby Lake. Difficulty: easy, stroller friendly Traffic: quite busy on weekendsFacilities: flush toilets at Nature House at Piper Ave Entrance and Burnaby Sport Complex. View: peek-a-boo views of the lake through out. Overall score: 5/10. Significant highway noise intrudes the South Shore Trail, and railway noise intrudes the Cottonwood Trail to the - [Colony Farm Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/24/colony-farm-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Sheep Paddocks LoopDifficulty: easy, but due to a flight of stairs, not stroller friendlyTraffic: light on a weekdayFacilities: flush toilet, picnic tables at the community gardenView: turns out the best view of the distant mountains was right at the community farm. Views on the dyke trail was fairly bland. Overall score: - [Deas Island Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/19/deas-island-regional-park/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Deas IslandDifficulty: easy, stroller friendlyTraffic: moderateFacilities: flush toilet near the northern tip of the island, pit toilet in the center. Picnic tables, water access.View: Fraser River, North Shore Mountains on a clear dayOverall score: 3/10 Deas Island is a small island (technically a peninsula) at the lower reaches of Fraser River - [Buntzen Lake Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/02/05/buntzen-lake-trail/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Buntzen Lake TrailDifficulty: moderate (eastern section easier than the western section, with option to walk back to parking lot on Pipeline Trail which is a flat service road.)Traffic: extremely busy on weekends especially in warmer months, parking lot may be full. We don’t even try to come here on weekends in - [Toddler Ski Lessons 10-15: Chair Lift](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/01/22/toddler-ski-lessons-10-14-chair-lift/) - For Lessons 10-13, we slowly worked on Junior's confidence on the Magic Carpet. We also took 2 weeks off during the winter break to avoid the epic crowds. We read reports that it took more than 2 hours of lining up in the car just to get to the parking lot. I attempted to bring - [Discovery Snowshoe Trails on Mt Seymour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/01/16/discovery-snowshoe-trails-on-mt-seymour/) - For an easy, well marked, well maintained and moderately trafficked snowshoe trail in the Lower Mainland, we recommend the Discovery Snowshoe Trails on Mt Seymour. Day passes are $15 for adults, $35 including snowshoe rentals, and limited season passes are available. We got our season passes before they sold out. An added bonus is that - [Deep Cove Winter Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/01/13/deep-cove-winter-paddle/) - Deep Cove is one of the very first places where I learned to paddle. The protected harbour with a well-stocked kayak rental shop right on the water is famously friendly for beginners. There is also the popular Quarry Rock trail (closed during pandemic) that draws a big crowd. As a result, people come out in - [Sasamat Lake Loop Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/01/09/sasamat-lake-loop-hike/) - After our visit in the summer, we came back almost exactly 6 months later, in January. Again, we headed to Buntzen Lake first, and AGAIN IT WAS FULL. Granted, we arrived to the park gate leisurely after 12 noon, but who would have thought a lakeside park can be full in the middle of the - [English Bay Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2021/01/08/english-bay-paddle/) - For my first paddle of 2021, and my first time paddling with a full 3mm wetsuit, I headed to Vanier Park with the gang. The air temperature was a cool 5 degrees celsius, and the conditions were perfect for trying out the wetsuit. Launching from the dock during winter is actually preferable to me now, - [Steveston Channel Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/12/14/steveston-channel-paddle/) - Quick Facts Parking: 49°07'22.9"N 123°10'39.6"W Launch: 49°07'20.2"N 123°10'39.6"WTraffic: moderateLaunching type: dockMotor boat traffic: moderate (commercial fishing vessels)Typical paddling distance: 5km loop in the Steveston ChannelFacilities: no toilets available at launch site, free parking, tons of activities in Steveston villageView – unique views of historic sites, fishing boats, waterfront condos, and marsh wilderness. From the western - [Toddler Ski Lessons 8-9: Magic Carpet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/12/11/toddler-ski-lessons-8-9-magic-carpet/) - After multiple sessions on random slopes pre-season and in public areas, we have officially moved onto a proper serviced beginner's slope. After looking into our options among the local mountains near Vancouver, we chose Mt. Seymour to be our playground for teaching Junior to ski this year. I usually ski much more often at Cypress - [Toddler Ski Lessons 4-7](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/12/07/toddler-ski-lessons-4-7/) - We tried to build on the success and progress from our ski lessons 1-3, and hit the slopes pre-season a bunch more times. During our Lesson 4, we hit a small hiccup: it was snowing. We thought Junior's enthusiasm was enough to conquer a little bit of dry snow, but he was having none of - [Toddler Ski Lessons 1-3](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/11/12/toddler-ski-lessons-1-3/) - One major family goal of ours for this winter had been to teach Junior skiing. We had been looking forward to this ever since he was born, because we knew that as he turns 3 this season, he would officially be old enough to take ski lessons. Then COVID hit, and it sure put a - [Widgeon Creek Fall Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/11/08/widgeon-creek-fall-paddle/) - I visited Widgeon Creek this summer with a small group of paddleboarders, and had a great time. I came back in the fall and had a serene solo paddle on a cool (7 degrees celcius) but very sunny day. Tina and the gang came along, but they stayed on shore and explored the nearby dykes - [Gladstone-Riverside-Riverfront Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/11/04/gladstone-park/) - To continue our exploration along the Fraser River after Deering Island Park, and Fraser River Park, we decided to go further east and arrived in Gladstone Park. We came here on 2 separate visits, the first time in late October when it was raining. We walked east from the parking lot at Gladstone-Riverside Park alone - [Rocky Point Park and Shoreline Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/31/fall-colours-at-rocky-point/) - We've covered Rocky Point before, both as a great family-friendly park as well as one of our go-to paddling spots. We came back to enjoy some fall foliage and finish the Shoreline Trail. We tackled the Shoreline Trail, aiming at the finish line at Old Orchard Park. It's an easy 5.8km out-and-back trail, as detailed - [Garden City Community Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/28/garden-city-community-park/) - After visiting Vanier Park for its Bike skills track, Junior wanted to try other bike track close by. We decided to check out the Bike Terrain Park inside Garden City Community Park. Bike Terrain Park We got so excited once our car pulled over to the park. This terrain park is a little bigger than - [Crecsent Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/26/crecsent-park/) - The fall weather really started to set in around Vancouver in the last few weeks, ushering in single digit temperatures and the famous Vancouver rain. It does put a damper on getting outdoors. Like most kids, Junior doesn't like to be cold and wet, so we need to step up the game. Usually taking him - [South Dyke Trail and Finn Slough](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/20/south-dyke-trail-and-finn-slough/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Richmond South Dyke TrailDifficulty: easy, flat, stroller friendlyTraffic: usually light Facilities: flush toilet, picnic tablesView: industrial boat activities on Fraser River, small water dwelling community of Finn Slough was also very interestingOverall score: 7/10 The South Dyke Trail in Richmond spans from Steveston in the west to Finn Slough in the - [Fraser River Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/17/fraser-river-park/) - After visiting Deering Island Park, we became more interested in parks along the Fraser River. For one, the view is beautiful, and we heard that there are boardwalks in some of these parks which is the perfect trail for our cyclist toddler. Our good friends David and Rofie brought us to Fraser River Park earlier - [Vanier Park to Granville Island Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/12/vanier-park-paddle/) - Vanier Park sits on the western end of False Creek, right as it opens up to English Bay. The water here is cleaner than East False Creek around Science World, and it offers several good options to paddle: going east to Granville Island and into False Creek, west to connect to Kitsilano and beyond, or - [Vanier Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/10/vanier-park/) - We wouldn’t have made a trip here if it wasn’t for Junior’s absolute love for "mountain biking" these days. He absolutely loves the sport, and kept on asking us if we can bring him to Whistler to mountain bike. We definitely will fulfill his bike dreams, but first he needs to up his skills and - [Deering Island Park and Fraser River Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/10/04/deering-island-park-and-fraser-river-trail/) - Did you know there’s an island in the Dunbar/Southlands neighbourhood in Vancouver, that's so small it only has 1 street with 2 rows of houses? And they still managed to squeeze in the tiniest park on the tip of this island. We did an early evening stroll here and was quite amazed with the beautiful - [Barnet Marine Park and Drummond's Walk](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/30/barnet-marine-park-and-drummonds-walk/) - Barnet Marine was not only good for paddling, it was also a great destination for picnic, BBQ, and beach sand fun times. The park is divided into two sections: the eastern section was off-limits to dogs, whereas the western section was basically doggie paradise. We explored the park a little and did Drummond's Walk, a - [Barnet Marine Park Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/30/barnet-marine-park-paddle/) - Not to let Port Moody and Vancouver have all the waterfront glory, Burnaby also has a great park on Burrard Inlet: Barnet Marine Park. This park can get extremely busy on a sunny weekend in the summer. We have come here around noon in July, and couldn't even turn off the Barnet Highway because the - [Jug Island Beach Trail (in Belcarra Regional Park)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/29/jug-island-beach-trail-in-balcarra-park/) - Even though summer has ended a few weeks ago, we agreed to continue enjoying the outdoors even if the famously wet Vancouver weather inevitably set in. But we were blessed with a streak of good weather, like a return of summer! When the sun came out on this beautiful weekday morning, I know we have - [Crescent Beach trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/29/crescent-beach-trail/) - One of our favourite places to take Junior biking is by the beach. Not only can we enjoy some beautiful view of the ocean, but Junior can also enjoy the rocks covered trail creating some bumpy riding experience, which he loves. We decided to visit Crescent Beach today. We strolled down the Crescent Beach Walk, - [Richmond Nature Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/29/richmond-nature-park/) - This is one of my favourite parks since childhood. My dad used to bring us here to watch the hummingbirds, visit the nature house for info on different wildlife, and stroll on the wide boardwalk and the beautiful bog forest trails. So when my boys wanted to go to a new place for biking today, - [Rocky Point Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/21/rocky-point-park-and-shoreline-trail/) - After our good friends Alison and Johnny introduced us to this park, it immediately become one of our favourite places to go in Metro Vancouver. This is one of the best family friendly park situated in the heart of Port Moody. Since it was just a 15 minute drive away from Crystal Falls, we decided - [False Creek Paddle from Science World](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/21/false-creek-paddle-from-science-world/) - False Creek is an iconic feature of Vancouver, and it's quite accessible for kayaks and paddleboards. It is surrounded by the concrete jungle of downtown, crowned by the landmark metal ball at Science World, and there are lots of opportunities to watch interesting people on the Seawall. However, being right next to the densely populated - [Crystal Falls Hike [closed]](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/20/crystal-falls-hike/) - Crystal Falls Trail is Closed The route to Crystal Falls passes through private property. As of February, 2021 “No Tresspassing” signs have been placed along the trail by landowners. The City of Coquitlam has also placed signs at the trailhead. This is officially our last hike of the 2020 summer season! We decided to check - [Rocky Point Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/20/rocky-point-paddle/) - Our good friend Johnny and Alison introduced us to Rocky Point Park last year, and we've come back several times since. It's a great family-oriented park with a large grassy field, a spray park, a Pajo's fish and chips semi-outdoor food stand, a full service Boathouse restaurant, and a very good walking trail. Most importantly, - [Deer Lake Loop Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/20/deer-lake-loop-trail/) - The past week we all stayed at home due to the poor air quality from all that forest fire going on. So when the air finally cleared today, my boys absolutely can’t wait to go out. We decided to visit one of our most frequented parks, Deer Lake Park in Burnaby. My good friend Amy - [Deer Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/19/deer-lake-paddle/) - For a beginner-friendly lake 30 mins from Vancouver, Deer Lake is a great choice. The lake is only 850m end to end, and it's surrounded by a well maintained network of trails, a great restaurant, and plenty to do for families. There is also a busy rental service right at the lakeshore, with a parking - [Camosun Bog Trail - Pacific Spirit Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/10/camosun-bog-trail-inside-pacific-spirit-park/) - After a great experience in Burns Bog, Billy remembered that there's another one right in Pacific Spirit Park: Camosun Bog. We’ve been to Pacific Spirit Park many times in the past, but we never explored this corner of the large park. We soon found that walking around the Camosun Bog is truly a fun and - [Burns Bog Trail in Delta Nature Reserve](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/07/burns-bog-trail/) - This trail is highly rated among many of my mom friends who rave about how fun it is for toddlers. I knew I had to check it out one day, so when Junior asked to go biking somewhere new, we immediately decided to check this trail out. Trail Condition This is a fairly short loop - [Spanish Banks Beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/07/spanish-banks-beach/) - Spanish Banks has been a long time favourite for us. Billy and I used to come here a lot back in our university days. In fact it used to be one of our favourite dating spot...And now with the two kiddos, we definitely want them to love this place as much as we do! Beach - [Iona Beach Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/06/iona-beach-regional-park/) - As it’s currently the long weekend before school starts, we decided to hike more trails but also to stay local and avoid the crowds. Junior once again wanted to go on his bike and I wanted to do some jogging, so we ended up on Iona Beach Park. Trail Condition We took the Iona Jetty - [Spanish Banks Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/02/spanish-banks-paddle/) - Spanish Banks lies immediately to the west of Jericho Beach, making it a natural extension of my usual go-to paddle route. It's closer to the open waters of Straight of Georgia, and it can get much windier such that kite boarders and windsurfers can sometimes be seen, so it's a little intimidating for me as - [Cypress Falls Park Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/09/02/cypress-falls-park-trail/) - I recently came across an article on local waterfalls worth visiting, and Cypress Falls caught my eyes. It’s not too far away and seems like a short hike that we can challenge junior to complete. To our surprise, what we thought may be an easy hike is actually quite difficult at some parts, but junior - [Mill Lake Park (Mill Lake loop)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/25/mill-lake-park-mill-lake-loop/) - One our final home stretch of our road trip, our search for a nice park with playgrounds brought us to the city of Abbotsford. Mill Lake Park was highly rated for its diverse activities for the kids and it certainly did not disappoint. The loop around Mill Lake spans about 2 km with several different - [Kamloops Riverside Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/22/kamloops-riverside-park/) - One of the wonderful things about exploring new places with a toddler is that they will make you find hidden gems you wouldn't otherwise have given a second thought. Our road trip came to a pause when my toddler reeeaaalllly wanted to ride his bicycle. In the spur of the moment we randomly stumbled upon - [Takakkaw Falls (Yoho National Park)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/21/takakkaw-falls-yoho-national-park/) - To continue our family Rockies road trip, we drove past scenic mountains and beautiful lakes and arrived at the most magnificent Takakkaw Falls. This is probably the most amazing, and the tallest waterfall I’ve seen so far in Canada! Trail Condition The 13 km drive up to the falls can be tricky as the mountain - [Moraine Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/21/moraine-lake-paddle/) - If there is a lake that rivals and even surpasses Lake Louise in Banff in terms of fame, popularity, and beauty, it would have to be Moraine Lake. Surrounded by beautiful peaks, valleys, and glaciers, Moraine Lake is frequently called "the most photographed lake in the world" (not sure who counted) and for good reason. - [Mistaya Canyon Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/20/mistaya-canyon-hike/) - On our way back from Wilcox Pass, we made a quick stop at Mistaya Canyon. It's an easy 1km out and back trail that leads you to a thundering river canyon, so it's big bang for your buck. The trail heads down on a gentle slope until it reaches the bridge that crosses the canyon. - [Wilcox Pass Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/20/wilcox-pass-hike/) - After paddling and hiking around Lake Louise, we ventured out a little and arrived at Wilcox Pass. We did the first approx. 1.5km of this out and back trail until we reached a pair of Red Chairs (right about here), then turned back for a 3km round trip. Junior had a blast on this trail - [Hike to Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/19/hike-to-plain-of-six-glaciers-teahouse/) - Quick Facts: AllTrails link: Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, 12km with 480m elevation gainDifficulty – challenging, strenuous with several hazardous sections. I think this may be close to the limit of our abilities for carrying toddlers on backpacks. View – awe-inspiringTraffic volume – moderate foot traffic and considerable horse trafficFacilities – pit toilets at the - [Moraine Lake Shoreline and Rockpile Trails](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/18/moraine-lake-shoreline-and-rockpile-trails/) - As discussed in my Moraine Lake Paddle post, parking here is insane. On the first morning of our stay in Banff, our original plan was to have my dad and I drive here at 6am to get our paddling in, and the rest of the gang will take a shuttle bus later at 11am after - [South Thompson River Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/17/south-thompson-river-paddle/) - We definitely don't recommend gunning for distance when taking two little ones on a road trip. For our outbound and homebound journey, we checked in at South Thompson Inn, 25km east of Kamloops, which breaks up the long drive from Vancouver to Lake Louise roughly into two 5-hour chunks. I was very excited to stay - [Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/16/bridal-veil-falls-provincial-park/) - Along our road trip to the Rockies, we decided to explore Interior BC as we haven’t done many hikes along this direction. After a couple hours on Highway 1, we arrived at Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park as our first stop. Trail Condition This is a fairly short, 1km loop hike that is suitable for - [2020 Rockies Road Trip](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/16/2020-rockies-road-trip/) - Before we jump into this blog post, I feel like disclaimer is in order. We travelled in our tightest possible social circle (with my parents, wife, and children), and we avoided all local contact. When we were not out in the open air hiking or paddling, we stayed in our hotel room. We had all - [Alta Lake Paddles](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/12/alta-lake-and-river-of-golden-dreams-paddle/) - Difficulty – very easy in the morning, windy in the afternoonBoat traffic – I haven't seen motor boats on Alta Lake. I think they prefer the larger Green Lake.View – great mountain views dotted with big expensive lakeside housesFacilities – Lakeside Park and Rainbow Park have flush toilets, grass fields, and hiking options.Overall score – - [Lost Lake Nature Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/12/lost-lake-nature-trail/) - Lost Lake Trail is one of our favourite spots in Whistler. We snowshoed there this past winter when I was pregnant with my second, and the experience was so memorable that we had to revisit again. The snow covered trail in the winter is absolutely gorgeous and immediately took our breath away! Since we have - [Brandywine Falls Trails (Brandywine Trail and Sea to Sky Trail)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/12/brandywine-falls-trails-brandywine-trail-and-sea-to-sky-trail/) - To continue our hikes along the Sea to Sky highway, we decided to explore the scenic Brandywine Trail, which is a 5.8km out and back trail with 164m elevation gain. Trail Condition The first leg of the trail leading up to the falls (the Brandywine Falls Lookout Trail on Google Maps) is fairly short and - [Squamish/Howe Sound Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/10/squamish-howe-sound-paddling/) - I went for a socially-distanced group paddle in Squamish over the weekend. The weather was fantastic: sunny but not too hot, and best of all, almost no wind in the morning! This is apparently rare in Squamish, which is known for being one of the windiest places in the region for wind sports on the - [Alice Lake Loop Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/06/alice-lake-loop-trail/) - For a change of scenery, we ventured towards Squamish and Whistler for a weekend getaway with Amy, Aaron, and their young baby. They are into photography so our walks became a competition about who can get more photos featured on our blog. The Sea to Sky Highway is an enjoyable drive in the summer months, - [Terra Nova Rural Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/05/terra-nova-rural-park/) - After spending 2 hours in the hot afternoon sun on the West Dyke Trail, we decided to explore the other end of the trail just before dusk (much smarter time to explore the relatively exposed Richmond landscape in the summer heat). We arrived at Terra Nova Rural Park. The Terra Nova Rural Park is a - [West Dyke Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/03/west-dyke-trail/) - We wanted to continue where we left off yesterday and my toddler was still eager to ride his bike again, so we checked out West Dyke Trail. We parked at Garry Point Park, and headed directly for the trail. Trail Condition This is a wide and flat gravel trail from start to finish. If you - [Stave Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/03/stave-lake-paddle/) - Stave Lake is a large and fairly rugged lake north of Mission, only accessible by a winding gravel road with fair number of potholes. Due to its ruggedness, it's much less frequented than the nearby Aloette Lake and Pitt Lake, making it a good option on a busy summer weekend. There is a boat launch - [Garry Point Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/02/garry-point-park/) - We decided to go on a small biking trip with my toddler and one of his best friends today. Since he is just beginning to get comfortable with his balance bike, I want to bring him somewhere that doesn’t have to share the road with cars, preferably a large park that has long and wide - [Whyte Lake Trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/08/01/whyte-lake-trail/) - We were hoping to review Whytecliff Park and its trails today, but once again parking was impossible on this sunny Saturday morning both at the main lot and the overflow lot. So we scrambled for an alternative, and happened upon the beautiful Whyte Lake trail. We followed this AllTrails route to complete the 5.5km, 209m - [Volunteer Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/31/volunteer-park/) - This is one of daddy’s favourite paddling spots so it naturally becomes our most frequented park. The park is separated in two levels, with a small grassy field on the top level and a long stretch of sandy beach at the bottom. The beach is connected to the popular Kits beach and you can access - [Hiking Essentials (For toddler friendly hikes)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/31/hiking-essentials-for-toddler-friendly-hikes/) - Here are a few things we always bring when hiking with our two kids. Hiking Carrier and Baby Carrier A hiking carrier is the best to carry a baby/toddler around since it’s got the most back support, have several built in compartments so you can store essential items, and also a sunshade to block UV - [Pacific Spirit Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/29/pacific-spirit-park/) - This is our go-to park when we want an easy walk but still want to do some forest exploration with the kids. In fact, the very first time we tested our hiking carrier was in Pacific Spirit Park when our son was just over 7 months old. There is a large network of trails inside - [Alouette Lake (short) Paddles](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/29/alouette-lake-short-paddles/) - Given its proximity to Vancouver, highly rated hiking trails, well-serviced campground, and gorgeous Alouette Lake, Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of the most popular provincial parks in BC. As of July 27, 2020, a day-pass system was introduced to control the crowds during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We went to Alouette Lake to paddleboard on - [Kits to Jericho Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/28/kits-to-jericho-paddle/) - One of my favorite paddleboarding spots in Vancouver is the stretch between Kitsilano Beach and Jericho Beach. The view is spectacular: as you look west, open water stretches in front of you, flanked by the North Shore Mountains and Point Gray peninsula, with the sun setting on the horizon if you time it right. As - [Capilano River Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/28/capilano-river-hike/) - Starting from Cleveland Dam, the easy-to-moderate 8-km loop goes through sections of Baden-Powell Trail, Upper Shinglebolt, Capilano-Pacific Trail, then doubles back after we reach the fences at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The loop goes on to cross the Capilano River, follows the Coho Trail to the Salmon Hatchery, with a final climb back to - [Widgeon Falls Hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/25/widgeon-falls-hike/) - After paddling 1.5 hours from Pitt Lake, I went on a 2.9km hike from Widgeon Creek Campsite to Widgeon Falls, thus completing this AllTrails route. The hike goes through some fairly rough terrain, with muddy sections, rocks, tree roots, and some wobbly wooden planks. Not recommended to bring kids in carriers due to these minor - [Widgeon Creek Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/25/widgeon-creek-paddle/) - I went on a day-long paddleboarding trip with a few friends from Pitt River, up Widgeon Creek till the Widgeon Creek Campground. We then went on to do the hike to Widgeon Falls. I was the first to arrive around 8am, so I was rewarded with a serene view of the Pitt-Addington Marsh all by - [Sasamat Lake Paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/2020/07/18/sasamat-lake-paddle/) - Sasamat Lake is a small, popular lake in Belcarra Regional Park. In the summer, the overwhelming traffic is on-par with that of Buntzen Lake, its big brother just 15 mins drive away. We tried to visit Buntzen Lake on a sunny weekend in July, only to find that the park entrance was closed because it ## Pages - [Outdoor Family Blog - check out our adventures!](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/) - A young Vancouver family enjoying all the outdoor fun that the Lower Mainland has to offer. Camping, skiing, hiking, biking, paddling. Join us outside! - [大溫哥華新手立式划槳 SUP 景點推薦|最佳湖泊與海灣指南](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/大溫哥華新手立式划槳-sup-景點推薦|最佳湖泊與海/) - 大溫哥華最適合新手的立式划槳地點總整理!小湖泊、平靜海灣與親子友善設施,附停車、水質與安全建議。 - [Best Places for Paddleboarding Near Vancouver for Beginners](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/best-places-for-paddleboarding-near-vancouver-for-beginners/) - Discover the best beginner paddleboarding spots in Metro Vancouver. Calm lakes, safe inlets, and family tips for your first SUP adventure. - [戶外一家](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/blog/) - [Outdoor Family](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/125-2/) - [Metro Vancouver Regional Parks](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/metro-vancouver-regional-parks/) - Gotta get them all! Follow our quest to visit all 23 MVRD (GVRD) regional parks scattered across Vancouver, North Shore, and Fraser Valley. - [Paddleboarding Destinations Ranked By Difficulty](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/list-of-paddleboarding-destinations-ranked-by-skill-level/) - "The Vancouver Paddler" by Glen Stedham (1999) is a great resource not only for kayakers and canoeists, but paddleboarding enthusiasts too. The author categorized his paddles into flat water (lakes and ocean shores) and moving water (rivers). He rated paddles in each category as Level 1, 2, and 3, in the order of increasing difficulty. - [Frontcountry Campgrounds](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/frontcountry-camping/) - Campgrounds we've been to in and around Vancouver BC, sorted into rustic (basic amenities) and deluxe (hot showers!) camping experience. - [List of Paddle Camping Destinations](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/paddle-camping/) - Paddle camping to water-access-only spots is a fantastic way to get away from the crowds that flock to frontcountry campgrounds and explore the backcountry. - [Best Urban Parks to Visit with Kids](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/urban-parks/) - There are many great outdoor spaces right within our cities. Here are the best ones worthy of a short day trip for a quick visit. - [Sample Page](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/sample-page/) - This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger - [Maps](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/maps/) - Vancouver Spanish BanksJericho BeachKitsilano BeachPacific Spirit Regional ParkVolunteer ParkScience World at TELUS World of ScienceStanley ParkDeering Island ParkGladstone ParkEnglish Bay Beach Richmond Garry Point ParkTerra Nova Natural ParkIona Beach Regional ParkRichmond Nature Park North Shore Whyte Lake Trail HeadCypress FallsCapilano River Regional ParkMt Seymour ResortsDeep Cove Kayak Greater Vancouver Rolley Lake Provincial ParkStave LakeBuntzen LakeGolden - [List of Hikes](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/list-of-hikes/) - Lower Mainland Stroller Friendly Hikes These "hikes" can also be considered "strolls", since they are relatively (or entirely) flat with minimal obstacles, and doable with a sturdy, full sized stroller. Toddler Friendly Easy Hikes Not stroller accessible, but quite doable for an active toddler. A back-up plan such as a backpack carrier is recommended in - [About](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/about/) - We are a pretty average young family in Vancouver BC, with pretty average athletic abilities. Our team consists of a dad who likes paddleboarding a little too much, a mom who is always prepared for anything the kids throw at her when we are out on adventures, Big Bro who explores the outdoors with curiosity - [Contact](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/contact/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/uncategorized/) - [Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/camping/) - [Hiking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/hiking/) - [Paddling](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/paddling/) - [Snow](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/snow/) - [Trip](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/trip/) - [Urban Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/urban-park/) - [Biking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/biking/) - [Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/category/camping-zh/) - [單車](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/category/單車/) - [Race](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/category/race/) - [Race](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/category/race-zh/) ## Tags - [105 hikes](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/105-hikes/) - [2020 Rockies Trip](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/2020-rockies-trip/) - [abbotsford](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/abbotsford/) - [alice lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/alice-lake/) - [alouette river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/alouette-river/) - [alta lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/alta-lake/) - [anmore](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/anmore/) - [banff](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/banff/) - [barnet marine park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/barnet-marine-park/) - [BC coastal circle tour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bc-coastal-circle-tour/) - [beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/beach/) - [beginner friendly](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/beginner-friendly/) - [belcarra](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/belcarra/) - [bike park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bike-park/) - [biking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/biking/) - [boardwalk](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/boardwalk/) - [boundary bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/boundary-bay/) - [bowen island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bowen-island/) - [Buntzen Lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/buntzen-lake/) - [burnaby](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/burnaby/) - [burnaby lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/burnaby-lake/) - [burns bog](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/burns-bog/) - [burrard inlet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/burrard-inlet/) - [cabins](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cabins/) - [cal cheak](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cal-cheak/) - [camosun bog](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/camosun-bog/) - [Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/camping/) - [canoe](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/canoe/) - [canyon](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/canyon/) - [chilliwack](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/chilliwack/) - [city walk](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/city-walk/) - [comox](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/comox/) - [coombs](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/coombs/) - [coquitlam](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/coquitlam/) - [crabbing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/crabbing/) - [crippen regional park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/crippen-regional-park/) - [cultus lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cultus-lake/) - [Cypress Mountain](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cypress-mountain/) - [day trip](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/day-trip/) - [deas slough](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/deas-slough/) - [deer lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/deer-lake/) - [delta](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/delta/) - [Derby Reach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/derby-reach/) - [Duffey Lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/duffey-lake/) - [duncan](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/duncan/) - [e.c. manning](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/e-c-manning/) - [easy](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/easy/) - [edgewater bar](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/edgewater-bar/) - [educational](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/educational/) - [english bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/english-bay/) - [false creek](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/false-creek/) - [farm](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/farm/) - [fishing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fishing/) - [forest](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/forest/) - [forests](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/forests/) - [fraser](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fraser/) - [fraser river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fraser-river/) - [fraser valley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fraser-valley/) - [front country camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/front-country-camping/) - [gabriola island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gabriola-island/) - [gears](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gears/) - [gibsons](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gibsons/) - [gold creek campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gold-creek-campground/) - [golden ears](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/golden-ears/) - [goldstream](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/goldstream/) - [granite falls](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/granite-falls/) - [grassy field](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/grassy-field/) - [gravel](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gravel/) - [grouse mountain](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/grouse-mountain/) - [gulf islands](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/gulf-islands/) - [halfmoon bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/halfmoon-bay/) - [harbour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/harbour/) - [hard](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/hard/) - [Hiking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/hiking/) - [hope](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/hope/) - [houston trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/houston-trail/) - [howe sound](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/howe-sound/) - [indian arm](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/indian-arm/) - [jasper](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/jasper/) - [jericho](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/jericho/) - [joffre lakes](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/joffre-lakes/) - [kamloops](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/kamloops/) - [kayak](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/kayak/) - [kitsilano](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/kitsilano/) - [ladner](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ladner/) - [lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lake/) - [lake louise](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lake-louise/) - [lakes](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lakes/) - [Langley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/langley/) - [lighthouse park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lighthouse-park/) - [lighting lake campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lighting-lake-campground/) - [lightning lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lightning-lake/) - [lillooet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lillooet/) - [locarno beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/locarno-beach/) - [lower seymour conservation reserve](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lower-seymour-conservation-reserve/) - [lynn valley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lynn-valley/) - [maple ridge](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/maple-ridge/) - [mission](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/mission/) - [moderate](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/moderate/) - [moraine lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/moraine-lake/) - [mt seymour](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/mt-seymour/) - [mundy park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/mundy-park/) - [museums](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/museums/) - [nairn falls](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/nairn-falls/) - [nanaimo](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/nanaimo/) - [nature walk](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/nature-walk/) - [no dogs](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/no-dogs/) - [no strollers](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/no-strollers/) - [no toddlers](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/no-toddlers/) - [north vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/north-vancouver/) - [ocean](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ocean/) - [ocean paddling](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ocean-paddling/) - [okanagan](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/okanagan/) - [open water level 1](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/open-water-level-1/) - [open water level 2](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/open-water-level-2/) - [open water level 3](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/open-water-level-3/) - [overnight paddle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/overnight-paddle/) - [pacific spirit park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pacific-spirit-park/) - [paddle camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddle-camping/) - [paddleboard](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddleboard/) - [park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/park/) - [parksville](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/parksville/) - [pemberton](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pemberton/) - [picnic](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/picnic/) - [pit toilet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pit-toilet/) - [pitt lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pitt-lake/) - [pitt meadows](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pitt-meadows/) - [pitt river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pitt-river/) - [playground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/playground/) - [point atkinson](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/point-atkinson/) - [porpoise bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/porpoise-bay/) - [port moody](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/port-moody/) - [powell river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/powell-river/) - [provincial park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/provincial-park/) - [public pier](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/public-pier/) - [pump track](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/pump-track/) - [rain](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rain/) - [rec site](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rec-site/) - [Regional Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/regional-park/) - [rice lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rice-lake/) - [richmond](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/richmond/) - [river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/river/) - [river level 1](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/river-level-1/) - [river level 2](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/river-level-2/) - [river level 3](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/river-level-3/) - [river of golden dreams](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/river-of-golden-dreams/) - [rocky mountains](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rocky-mountains/) - [rolley lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rolley-lake/) - [ruby lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ruby-lake/) - [ruckle](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ruckle/) - [rustic](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rustic/) - [saanich](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/saanich/) - [safety](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/safety/) - [salt spring island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/salt-spring-island/) - [sandy beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sandy-beach/) - [Say Nuth Khaw Yum](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/say-nuth-khaw-yum/) - [science world](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/science-world/) - [sea to sky corridor](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sea-to-sky-corridor/) - [sechelt](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sechelt/) - [sechelt inlet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sechelt-inlet/) - [sidney](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sidney/) - [skiing](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/skiing/) - [smuggler cove](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/smuggler-cove/) - [snowshoe](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/snowshoe/) - [spanish banks](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/spanish-banks/) - [spray park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/spray-park/) - [squamish](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/squamish/) - [stanley park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/stanley-park/) - [stave lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/stave-lake/) - [steveston](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/steveston/) - [stroller friendly](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/stroller-friendly/) - [sunset](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sunset/) - [sunshine coast](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sunshine-coast/) - [SUP camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sup-camping/) - [surrey](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/surrey/) - [swimming](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/swimming/) - [toddler](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/toddler/) - [toddler friendly](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/toddler-friendly/) - [touring](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/touring/) - [train](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/train/) - [travel](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/travel/) - [tri-cities](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tri-cities/) - [tsawwassen](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tsawwassen/) - [tunnel](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tunnel/) - [tuwanek](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tuwanek/) - [twin island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/twin-island/) - [tzoonie narrow](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tzoonie-narrow/) - [Urban Park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/urban-park/) - [vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/vancouver/) - [vancouver island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/vancouver-island/) - [victoria](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/victoria/) - [walk-in campsite](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/walk-in-campsite/) - [water falls](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/water-falls/) - [west vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/west-vancouver/) - [whistler](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/whistler/) - [whonnock lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/whonnock-lake/) - [whyte lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/whyte-lake/) - [widgeon creek](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/widgeon-creek/) - [wildlife](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/wildlife/) - [wreck beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/wreck-beach/) - [yoho national park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/yoho-national-park/) - [deluxe camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/deluxe-camping/) - [winter](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/winter/) - [adventure](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/adventure/) - [maple bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/maple-bay/) - [washington state](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/washington-state/) - [state park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/state-park/) - [interpretive trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/interpretive-trail/) - [tacoma](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tacoma/) - [chilliwack lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/chilliwack-lake/) - [backpacking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/backpacking/) - [harrison hot springs](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/harrison-hot-springs/) - [sasquatch provincial park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sasquatch-provincial-park/) - [porteau cove](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/porteau-cove/) - [clamming](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/clamming/) - [barnston island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/barnston-island/) - [front country](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/front-country/) - [moran](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/moran/) - [mountain bike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/mountain-bike/) - [green](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/green/) - [national historic site](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/national-historic-site/) - [fort langley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fort-langley/) - [glamping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/glamping/) - [white rock](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/white-rock/) - [sumas river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sumas-river/) - [group camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/group-camping/) - [elk falls](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/elk-falls/) - [campbell river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/campbell-river/) - [smelt bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/smelt-bay/) - [tent camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tent-camping/) - [tips](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tips/) - [miracle beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/miracle-beach/) - [keats island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/keats-island/) - [silver lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/silver-lake/) - [french](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/french/) - [private](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/private/) - [deluxe](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/deluxe/) - [port coquitlam](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/port-coquitlam/) - [traboulay poco trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/traboulay-poco-trail/) - [ski lessons](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ski-lessons/) - [lynn headwaters regional park](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lynn-headwaters-regional-park/) - [snow hike](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/snow-hike/) - [snow shoe](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/snow-shoe/) - [crampons](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/crampons/) - [skagit valley](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/skagit-valley/) - [bellingham](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bellingham/) - [whatcom county](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/whatcom-county/) - [tarp](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tarp/) - [paddle canada river 1](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddle-canada-river-1/) - [chilliwack river](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/chilliwack-river/) - [kelowna](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/kelowna/) - [merritt](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/merritt/) - [brentwood bay](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/brentwood-bay/) - [bamberton](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bamberton/) - [tod inlet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/tod-inlet/) - [sannich inlet](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sannich-inlet/) - [lake cowichan](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lake-cowichan/) - [kids friendly](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/kids-friendly/) - [juan de fuca](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/juan-de-fuca/) - [french beach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/french-beach/) - [sooke](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sooke/) - [paddleboard camping BC](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddleboard-camping-bc/) - [paddle camping BC](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddle-camping-bc/) - [Alouette Lake paddleboard](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/alouette-lake-paddleboard/) - [East Beach Campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/east-beach-campground/) - [paddle camping Golden Ears](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddle-camping-golden-ears/) - [family paddle camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/family-paddle-camping/) - [Golden Ears Provincial Park camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/golden-ears-provincial-park-camping/) - [beginner paddle camping spots BC](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/beginner-paddle-camping-spots-bc/) - [easy paddle camping destinations](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/easy-paddle-camping-destinations/) - [SUP camping with kids](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/sup-camping-with-kids/) - [family outdoor adventures](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/family-outdoor-adventures/) - [paddle camping Canada](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddle-camping-canada/) - [台灣露營](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/台灣露營/) - [雨天露營](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/雨天露營/) - [帳篷搭設](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/帳篷搭設/) - [露營裝備](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/露營裝備/) - [野營防水](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/野營防水/) - [露營技巧](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/露營技巧/) - [防雨天幕](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/防雨天幕/) - [seymour valley trailway](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/seymour-valley-trailway/) - [cycling north vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cycling-north-vancouver/) - [bike trails north vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bike-trails-north-vancouver/) - [seymour river salmon](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/seymour-river-salmon/) - [road cycling vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/road-cycling-vancouver/) - [lscr biking](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/lscr-biking/) - [coho trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/coho-trail/) - [spur 4 trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/spur-4-trail/) - [fishermans trail north](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fishermans-trail-north/) - [rice lake trail](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/rice-lake-trail/) - [seymour dam](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/seymour-dam/) - [family bike ride vancouver](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/family-bike-ride-vancouver/) - [mountain biking north shore](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/mountain-biking-north-shore/) - [北溫哥華單車](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/北溫哥華單車/) - [下西摩保育區](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/下西摩保育區/) - [西摩大壩](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/西摩大壩/) - [Coho 單車道](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/coho-單車道/) - [萊斯湖](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/萊斯湖/) - [Spur 4 路線](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/spur-4-路線/) - [漁人步道](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/漁人步道/) - [溫哥華自行車路線](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/溫哥華自行車路線/) - [西摩河孵化場](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/西摩河孵化場/) - [加拿大親子單車](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/加拿大親子單車/) - [seymour valley trailway](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/seymour-valley-trailway-zh/) - [Maple Bay Cabins](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/maple-bay-cabins/) - [BC Parks Cabins](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bc-parks-cabins/) - [Cabin Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/cabin-camping/) - [Family Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/family-camping/) - [Maple Bay Campground](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/maple-bay-campground/) - [Trip Report](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/trip-report/) - [Teapot Hill](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/teapot-hill/) - [Paddleboarding](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/paddleboarding/) - [Packing List](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/packing-list/) - [楓葉灣小木屋](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/楓葉灣小木屋/) - [小木屋露營](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/小木屋露營/) - [BC Parks 小木屋](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/bc-parks-小木屋/) - [家庭露營](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/家庭露營/) - [奇利瓦克](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/奇利瓦克/) - [楓葉灣營地](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/楓葉灣營地/) - [旅遊心得](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/旅遊心得/) - [行李清單](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/行李清單/) - [立槳體驗](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/立槳體驗/) - [茶壺山步道](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/茶壺山步道/) - [cultus lake](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/tag/cultus-lake-zh/) - [running](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/running/) - [10k](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/10k/) - [vancouver sun run](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/vancouver-sun-run/) - [BMO marathon](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/bmo-marathon/) - [vancouver marathon](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/vancouver-marathon/) - [half marathon](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/half-marathon/) - [race report](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/race-report/) - [garmin](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/garmin/) - [AI coach](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/ai-coach/) - [triathlon training](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/triathlon-training/) - [brae island](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/brae-island/) - [Fort Camping](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/tag/fort-camping/) ## Tags - [English](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/) - [中文 (台灣)](https://www.outdoorfam.ca/zh/)