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The Great Outdoors

Grab a paddle, lace those hiking boots and ready that fishing pole: Where‘s headed to the North Shore

By Jennifer Patterson

Meghan and Mat glide through the water in brightly coloured rentals from Deep Cove Canoe & Kayak. Photo by KK Law

Get Wet

Water babies feel right at home in picturesque Deep Cove, a short drive from downtown Vancouver and a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Rent a kayak at Deep Cove Canoe & Kayak and glide through the water, up picturesque Indian Arm, to Granite Falls. This photogenic park offers camping spots for multi-day trips. A growing trend with both celebs and weekend warriors: paddle boarding. Stand upright on a long, flat, surf-style board and use a long paddle to manoeuvre through the calm waterways.

Grab a fishing pole and head into the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve for some peaceful trout fishing around Rice Lake. The main dock is usually busy but the three-km- (1.8-mi-) long path around the lake is filled with hidden benches and quiet corners.

Learn about the culture and history of the Coast Salish First Nations on a guided canoe trip through Indian Arm with Takaya Tours. The traditional wood canoes are 7.6 m (25 ft) in length and tours can be customized to include drumming, songs and stories. End your day on the water with a grilled salmon feast, available by request.

Stay Dry

Landlubbers seeking an outdoor escape head north of downtown to kick up dirt on the tree-covered mountains. The 48-km- (30-mi-) long Baden-Powell Trail, a winding stretch through the North Shore Mountains, starts in Horseshoe Bay and ends in Deep Cove. Don’t feel pressured to complete the entire route in one go—an ambitious venture, indeed—as the trail has multiple entry points and smaller trails branching off along the way. A couple of route highlights: the famous Grouse Grind, also known as Mother Nature’s StairMaster; the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge; and Quarry Rock lookout in Deep Cove.

Those with a need for speed grab a mountain bike and burn rubber on backwoods trails. Mt. Seymour, Mt. Fromme and

Meghan and Mat make their way back from Quarry Rock viewpoint on a well-established trail. Photo by KK Law

Cypress Mountain offer paved, gravel and plank-covered paths ranging from relaxed cross-country to extreme downhill. If you’re a first timer looking for a little guidance, companies such as Endless Biking (page 64) can set you up with an instructor and guide.

If a city bike is more your style, 10 km (6 mi) of paved trails await on the car-free Seymour Valley Trailway. Do you have some energy to spare? Peddle the paved roads all the way to the top of both Cypress and Seymour.

Head a little further north, to the Stawamus Chief Park, for hard-core rock-climbing on the second largest granite monolith in the world (think sheer rock face with nowhere to go but up). If you prefer pounding the dirt to dangling from ropes, make your way up and through the mountains via trails, ladders and stairs to either the first, second or third peak. The climb is a bit challenging but the 360-degree views from the top make it well worth the sweat. Before heading back into Vancouver, visit neighbouring Shannon Falls, the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia.

Up in the Air

Challenge your fear of heights on the 137-m- (450-ft-) long Capilano Suspension Bridge, hanging 70 m (230 ft) above the rushing river. This popular attraction with both visitors and locals added a jaw-dropping new feature this year: the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered and suspended walkway that juts out of a granite cliff face. The faint of heart may balk at the glass-bottomed sections, which offer crystal-clear views of the canyon far below.

Feel the wind beneath your wings as you set flight from the top of Grouse Mountain on a tandem paragliding ride with an elevation drop of 1,000 m (3,300 ft). No experience is required but a sense of adventure is a must.

Gear for Here
Stock up on clothing and equipment, for outdoor adventures both big and small, at Mountain Equipment Co-op and the Arc’teryx Factory Store.

Via Rail’s Bike Train service connects Windsor to Quebec City

Bikes on trains. Photo by Sandbanks Pro

Bike enthusiasts looking to explore another city’s streets should consider a weekend two-wheel road trip enabled by one of VIA Rail Canada’s bike trains. Cyclists can bring their bikes on board for $20 per direction, and then sit back and relax until they arrive. Cities serviced include the well-travelled streets of Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City, and a few lesser-trod spots like London and Windsor in Ontario and Jonquière and Senneterre in Quebec.

Take the family on Ottawa’s Capital parkway network, which is the reason why our capital often pops up on lists of the best cities in North America to cycle. With the views of the Ottawa River and well-groomed parks, you won’t feel like you’re in a metropolis. In Senneterre, bikers can check out Mount Bell and the dense pines of Aiguebelle Park. Cyclers travelling to Windsor have the vast 42 km Chrysler Canada Greenway ahead of them—rural routes, wineries and the beaches of Lake Erie offer something for all.

Via offers bike transportation on trains with bike racks until October 31, 2011. Find details at http://www.viarail.ca/bike.

Essential to Toronto: Bixi’s Pedal Power

There’s a new way to get around the city this summer, thanks to the arrival of Bixi Bikes. The bicycle-sharing system launched in May and has quickly become a popular alternative form of public transportation. With 1,000 bikes available at 80 docking stations, it’s an easy way to make short trips between downtown restaurants, shops and sites. Simply use your credit card to pay for 24- or 72-hour access ($5 or $12), then grab a bike and pedal to your destination within 30 minutes. Additional charges are incurred if you keep the bike for longer than a half-hour. The sturdy yet sporty two-wheelers are available at all times within a service area between Bathurst and Jarvis streets from east to west, and north-south from Bloor Street to Queens Quay. Find specific stations online, here.

Hot Entertainment: Hog Wild

Both adults and wee ones get a kick out of the Gastown Motorcycle Show 'N' Shine. Photo by Greg Descantes

Biker dudes and dudettes of all ages show off their motorcycles on the streets of Vancouver for the 6th annual Gastown Motorcycle Show ‘N’ Shine (Aug. 15). Ogle hundreds of gleaming two-wheelers on display, including cruisers, choppers and drag bikes. Brush up on brands at the manufacturers’ displays, watch bikers perform stunts for the crowds and enjoy live music. The motorcycle demos are a hit, so line up and ride, baby, ride.—Kristina Urquhart

Hot Date: Yaletown Grand Prix

Cyclists race in the Yaletown Grand Prix. Photo by Paul Cordick

Some Canadians celebrate our nation’s birthday by donning red and white and belting out “O Canada” at the top of their lungs. Others jump on their bicycles and do lap after lap around the streets of Yaletown, competing for $4,000 in prize money—and entertaining folks watching from the beer garden (Jul. 1).—Sheri Radford

Go Play Outside

Bring a sense of adventure on these outdoor escapes

By Jennifer Patterson

No matter what type of activity you’re after, Where has you covered.
Daredevil cyclists barrel down the jumps and runs in Skiers’ Plaza. Looking for something not as reckless? Rent a bike to explore smoother, less vertical terrain, as mountain biking is the summer sport here.

Views abound on Whistler's biking and hiking trails. Photo by Toshi Kawano courtesy Tourism BC

Animal lovers feel at home on a dog sled as a team of huskies leads a snowy alpine ride. Hop in the back of a 4×4 vehicle and join expert Michael Allen on a bear watching tour, including stops at favourite feeding sites and daybeds—don’t forget your camera! Channel John Wayne on your own trusty steed with a horseback ride through the wild countryside. Prefer horsepower to horses? Kick up some dust in the backcountry on a quad or dirt bike.
Adrenaline junkies get their fix with a bungee jump, while slightly more sane individuals go ziplining through the trees. For the even saner, glass-bottomed cabins on two of the Peak 2 Peak Gondolas offer enough of a thrill—and don’t require harnesses.
Shutterbugs and sightseers, have your cameras at the ready: aerial sightseeing tours and helicopter rides provide the perfect opportunity to capture the sweeping panorama.
Those seeking peace and tranquillity need look no further than the stunning golf courses and fish-filled rivers. For a quiet getaway, rent a canoe or kayak, don some life jackets and explore the pristine lakes. Nature enthusiasts breath the crisp mountain air while hiking the meadows and trails surrounding Whistler.
Snow bunnies can still strap on skis and snowboards, as Horstman Glacier is open through July for sun-filled summer skiing.
For activities listings, click here.

15 Things We Love About Vancouver: May

# 1. Photo by Holly Chan

1 Breathtaking cityscapes.
2 The passion for all things local—including goat cheese and heirloom tomatoes—at farmers’ markets around the city. If you forget to bring an eco-friendly shopping bag, most likely you can buy one there.
3 Rick Hansen. The local paraplegic activist makes us proud over and over again.
4 Walking, biking or blading along the 8.8-km (5.5-mi) Stanley Park seawall.
5 The perfect gift or souvenir, such as a bottle of award-winning BC wine.
6 All the Hollywood celebrities in our midst.

#11. Photo by Tony Chen

7 The gradual change from spring to summer. It’s the perfect excuse for a shopping spree.
8 Spotting cute harbour seals and majestic orcas on a whale watching tour.
9 Tasty Japanese tapas and addictive cocktails at Hapa Izakaya.
10 Living in a picture postcard every single day. Vancouver has been called the supermodel of international cities, but we’re more than just a pretty face. We have substance, too.
11 A sunset stroll along the seawall to view the inukshuk in English Bay.
12 First Nations bentwood boxes at Wickaninnish Gallery.

#13. Photo by Lili Vieira de Carvalho

13 Joining the throng of locals at the always-popular Granville Island Public Market.
14 The last few cherry blossoms of spring.
15 Tasting the season’s first sweet and juicy prawns, right out of the ocean and cooked up by a dozen of Vancouver’s best chefs, at the annual Spot Prawn Festival (False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf; May 8, noon to 3 p.m.). Don’t delay: the season for these local, fresh, sustainable prawns runs just eight weeks.

Larger Than Life

Giant sculptures take over Vancouver

By Kristina Urquhart

Stop by English Bay’s Morton Park to see “A-maze-ing Laughter” by Chinese artist Yue Minjun—the huge, cast-bronze statues are hard to miss. They depict Minjun’s own face in a state of hysterical laughter. Look at them long enough and you’ll be laughing, too. Photo by KK Law

Art lovers, you’re in luck: the Vancouver International Sculpture Biennale has turned our city into an alfresco gallery until summer 2011. Not an art aficionado? You’re bound to be after beholding this exhibition, which makes art accessible to everyone, free of charge.

These enormous installations aren’t for the art snob; they’re meant to be interactive. Pose alongside giants with Yue Minjun’s “A-maze-ing Laughter” (pictured, left), or hunker down and participate in Wang Shugang’s “Meeting”. Crane your neck to see the small hare perched on the giant wire-mesh Minotaur in VanDusen Botanical Garden, or take a seat among the smattering of empty stainless-steel chairs on Kitsilano Beach.

Five of the 29 sculptures currently beautifying the city were acquired from the inaugural 2005 exhibition—check out one of these legacy projects, a pair of enormous engagement rings by American artist Dennis Oppenheim, on English Bay’s Sunset Beach Park.

This time around, the Biennale’s theme is “in-TRANSIT-ion,” in recognition of our mobile society. Fittingly, art from 12 participating countries has popped up on bicycle routes, at Canada Line SkyTrain stations, on buses and outside Vancouver International Airport. New-media installations will appear in transit shelters and on buses and trains in May as part of the Biennale New Media Rapid Transit Festival, on until September.

For those who want to go beyond the open-air museum, the Biennale offers publications and public lectures, as well as the Biennale Performance Art Festival, which kicks off in June with interactive, live attractions, including large-scale

The stainless steel “Barbora” by Lithuanian sculptor Vladas Vildžiunas is a formidable presence outside Pacific Central Station in Thornton Park. The piece is an homage to the medieval Polish queen and Lithuanian duchess Barbora Radvilaité. Photo by KK Law

sand drawings by Californian artist Jim Denevan.

The spring BIKEnnale cycle tour of the sculptures isn’t scheduled until late May, but cycling is a great way to explore the public art. Rent a two-wheeler at Bayshore Bicycle & Rollerblade Rentals or Spokes Bicycle Rentals & Tours and plan your own excursion.

For a map of the sculptures, visit www.vancouverbiennale.com.

Hot Shopping: Gear Up

High-performing, high-quality gear is available at Mountain Equipment Co-Op

With Canada’s rugged landscape, it’s little wonder one of our largest sporting equipment stores started in Vancouver. Find apparel and gear for every conceivable adventure, including watersports, cycling, skiing, climbing and hiking, at Mountain Equipment Co-Op, a local institution since 1971. The store stocks kayaks, luggage and backpacks (pictured), too.—Kristina Urquhart

Top 10 Reasons to Return

If you think Vancouver is beautiful right now, just wait until you see the city in the summer

by Sheri Radford, Jennifer Patterson and Kristina Urquhart

Downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains, as seen from the oceanfront between Kitsilano Beach and Vanier Park. Photo copyright Ann Badjura/Dreamstime.com

1 Gorgeous Scenery
Vancouver has no shortage of breathtaking outdoor escapes: the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean, the almost-year-round snow-capped mountains, and greenery as far as the eye can see. Wriggle your toes in the sand at one of the many public beaches, including Kits Beach—rated one of North America’s top 10 sexiest beaches by Forbes Traveler—or Wreck Beach, where clothing is optional. Head up the mountains for scenic 360-degree views, challenging hikes and glimpses of local wildlife. Grab your camera and visit one of the city’s many green spaces, including VanDusen Botanical Garden and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Bike, walk or run Vancouver’s famous seawall, a 22-km (13.7-mi) shoreline stretch that wraps around Stanley Park, past Science World and Granville Island, finishing up at Kits Beach.—J.P.

2 Major Attractions
Seek refuge in Stanley Park, where you can see summertime displays of roses and rhododendrons, catch outdoor theatre

A team races in the annual Dragon Boat Festival in front of Science World at Telus World of Science. Photo by Tom Ryan courtesy Tourism BC

shows, frolic on beaches and ogle baby beluga whales at Vancouver Aquarium. Views abound at Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain, where observing the antics of Grinder and Coola—two orphaned grizzly bears—is a popular summer activity. False Creek forms the backdrop for Granville Island, a hub for artist studios. Impromptu street performances are common, the Public Market boasts seasonal bounty from local farmers and the public fish sales dock is a local favourite for buying fresh, in-season seafood. Closed through most of March, Science World is spending our Winter Games as the pavilion for the Sochi 2014 Winter Games. This iconic “golf ball” is a fixture in the Vancouver skyline; inside you’ll find hands-on exhibits, science demos and educational films in the OMNIMAX Theatre.—K.U.

3 Festivals & Special Events
July and August brim with outdoor events that take full advantage of the long, sun-soaked days. Bard on the Beach presents Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, Antony and Cleopatra, Falstaff and Henry V against a stunning ocean-and-mountains backdrop. Theatre Under the Stars mounts Joseph and the

The ferris wheel at the PNE. Photo by Sheri Radford

Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Singin’ in the Rain on alternating nights in Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl. The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) celebrates its 100th anniversary with rides, midway games, outdoor concerts, parades, the PNE prize home, mini-donuts and, of course, the Superdogs. The Vancouver Folk Music Festival brings musicians from around the world to Jericho Beach Park for three days of groovy sounds. Pride Week bursts with a rainbow of gay-pride events, culminating in the Pride Parade and Sunset Beach Festival. The HSBC Celebration of Light marks its 20th anniversary with fireworks over English Bay that light up Metro Vancouver.—S.R.

4 Outdoor Adventures
When the temperature rises, outdoor enthusiasts take to the seas for kayaking, scuba diving and whale watching. From late April through October, the waters surrounding Vancouver and Vancouver Island are abundant with orcas (formerly called killer whales). Whale-watching trips offer glimpses of other wildlife, too, including porpoises, sea lions, harbour seals and eagles. Thrill-seekers in both Vancouver and Whistler ride high above the treetops of rainforests while

A pod of orcas. Photo copyright Lazareva Evgeniya/Istockphoto.com

harnessed to a cable called a zipline. Avid cyclist? Participate in myriad bike races, or head to the Whistler Mountain Bike Park for 1,507 m (4,946 ft) of bike trails and a jump park. Hike the mountains and nearby national parks, or take a low-key stroll around the seawall. After a long day in the sun, relax like a Vancouverite with a yoga session on the beach.—K.U.

5 Golfing, Sailing & Skiing
You might have heard a rumour that it’s possible to golf, sail and ski in Metro Vancouver, all on the same day. Unlike most rumours, this one is true. Highly rated courses such as University Golf Club, Westwood Plateau, Furry Creek Golf and Country Club, and Nicklaus North Golf Course boast views so stunning that it may be difficult to keep your eye on the ball. Local companies such as Sewell’s Marina can take you on a sea safari or—if you’re up to the job of captain—rent you a boat to go exploring on your own. As for catching

Nicklaus North Golf Course in Whistler

some powder in the summertime, Whistler Blackcomb’s Horstman Glacier stays open for intermediate and advanced skiers and riders through July.—S.R.

6 Winter Games Sites
Relive exciting moments from the 2010 Winter Games with a tour of Olympic and Paralympic venues, either by yourself or guided by Enjoy Tour and Travel. Canada Hockey Place, otherwise known as GM Place, is home to our NHL team, the Canucks, and sits alongside BC Place. Up on Cypress Mountain, take in the view of the Vancouver Convention Centre. To the east is the Pacific Coliseum, the showcase for figure skating. Experience your own medal-worthy moment with a lap around the Richmond Olympic Oval, open to all levels of fitness after the Games. In Whistler, follow the path of gold-medal bobsledders with a guided tour of the Sliding Centre and Olympic/Paralympic Park.—J.P.

7 Sports Teams
You’ll hear the hoots and hollers of Vancouver Canucks fans until regular-season games wrap up Apr. 10—but if the team advances to the Stanley Cup playoffs, ’Nucks fever can last into June. September marks the start of the 2011 game season for both the Canucks and the Vancouver Giants, the city’s major junior hockey team. Football fans root for the BC Lions

Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo. Photo by Jeff Vinnick courtesy Vancouver Canucks

(Jun. to Nov.), and the Vancouver Canadians play the ol’ ball game at historic Nat Bailey Stadium (Jun. to Sep.). The Vancouver Whitecaps don their cleats this summer (Apr. to Oct.) before beginning their major-league soccer career in 2011.—K.U.

8 Day Trips
Head to Squamish and Whistler for outdoor activities aplenty, including windsurfing, mountain biking and canoeing. Hop aboard BC Ferries for a trip to Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia and home to our historic parliament buildings. A skip-and-a-jump between Vancouver and Vancouver Island are the Gulf Islands, and there’s no shortage of charming getaways on Salt Spring, Galiano and Mayne islands. The Fraser Valley is the perfect spot to grab farm-fresh cheese and u-pick raspberries. The province’s wine region can be found in the Okanagan, known for its dry, sunny climate. South of the border is Seattle, home to rock legends Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix, as well as the iconic Space Needle.—J.P.

9 Restaurants
Vancouver boasts world-class cuisine, but many of our best restaurants are rented out or booked solid during the 2010 Winter Games. Return in the warmer months, then, for an eating-and-drinking tour of the city featuring summer’s cornucopia of fresh

The seaside neighbourhood of Yaletwon, with Burrard Bridge in the background. Photo copyright KWest/Fotolia.com

local produce and sun-kissed patios with breathtaking views. Your stomach will thank you.—S.R.

10 Sunshine
Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t always rain in Vancouver. But July and August are especially bright for sun worshippers.

Cycling to Views

Biking Pyramid Bench courtesy Jasper Tourism

Wendy Hall of Freewheel Cycle suggests Pyramid Trunk Trail for an easy, two-hour ride offering a steady elevation gain, and stunning townsite and Pyramid Mountain views. The 15 km (9 mi) wooded route starts behind the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and ends at Pyramid Lake. Take corners slowly to avoid hikers! —RM

What’s Hot in June Across Canada

This month, discover hot jazz festivals happening across the country, as well as pro sports events, concerts and stand-up comedy.

Toronto

Luminato lights up Toronto’s stages, streets and public spaces with 10 days of arts and creativity. Between June 5 and 14, more than 140 free and ticketed arts events are certain to capture your imagination. Opening June 26, the TD Canada Trust Jazz Festival brings the best of the musical genre to the city, with over 1,500 accomplished performers putting on jiving shows at venues. Don’t miss headlining acts like legendary saxophonist Sonny Rollins on June 26 and Kool & the Gang on June 29.

Whistler

The Whistler Farmer’s Market runs every Sunday from June 21 to October 11. Offering local, organic produce, you’ll also find clothing, homemade soaps, fresh baked goods, jewellery and more. Upper Village near Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Thomas the Tank Engine rolls into Squamish for rides, crafts, stories and music June 6 to 7, and 13 to 14, as part of the Day Out With Thomas 2009: The Hero Of The Rails Tour. West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish.

Ottawa

Catch some of jazz music’s hottest acts performing at venues around town during the Ottawa International Jazz Festival from June 25 to July 5. Don’t miss the stunning collection of 16th century art on display at the National Gallery of Canada in From Raphael to Carracci: The Art of Papal Rome. On view through the summer until September 7.

Canadian Rockies

During the Banff National Park Bike Fest June 18 to 21, cyclists compete in seven challenging races that include a time trial, hill climb, sprint and criterium amidst famous Canadian Rocky Mountain scenery. Family-friendly events include a Little Crits costume race for kids.

Vancouver

Often dubbed the world’s greatest living saxophonist, Sonny Rollins is just one of the many great musicians featured at this year’s TD Canada Trust Vancouver International Jazz Festival, June 26 to July 5. Other performers guaranteed to get you all jazzed up? The David Sanborn Group, The Derek Trucks Band and Al Di Meola World Sinfonia.

Calgary

Comedian and TV star Jerry Seinfeld stops in Calgary to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Owen Hart Foundation on June 16. Seinfeld will present an evening of stand-up comedy at the Jubilee Auditorium, with proceeds benefiting the foundation. On June 17, the Calgary Stampeders—the 2008 Grey Cup champions—start the season at McMahon Stadium against Western rivals the B.C. Lions.

Halifax

A sentinel at the mouth of Halifax Harbour, Georges Island has guarded the city for centuries. Although it’s a National Historic Site, it’s been closed to the public so few visitors get a chance to see this key piece of Halifax’s heritage. That all changes on June 13 and 14, as the Explore Georges Island event opens the site to the public for two days only. It’s a rare chance to visit one of the city’s hidden treasures.

Victoria

Take in 10 hot days and nights of cool jazz during the Victoria JazzFest, June 26 to July 5. One of the premiere festivals of summer, highlights this year include Michael Kaeshammer, the David Sanborn Group, Al Di Meola and many others.

Edmonton

When The Blind Boys of Alabama formed in 1939, few dreamed they’d be giving gospel goosebumps to fans seven decades later. They perform June 19 at Jubilee Auditorium. Branford Marsalis, an artist at the forefront of modern jazz, is a three-time Grammy winner and man of many musical tastes, from jazz, blues and funk to classical. The New Orleans native’s 2009 release, Metamorphosen, marks the 10th anniversary of the Branford Marsalis Quartet, they perform June 28 at Winspear Centre.

For more upcoming hot tips, follow Where Canada on Twitter.