Inside Vancouver

Waiting for Winter at Whytecliff Park, West Vancouver

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on November 19, 2016

View from Whytecliff Park Photo: Rob Weiss

When the snow starts to fly in the upper alpine, and a gorgeous dusting of white becomes clearly visible on our beloved Lions, like many other Vancouverites, I naturally turn to the mountains for my outdoor fix. Anxiously, I monitor snowfall, weather forecasts and await the upcoming ski season with impatience. Over the years I have learned to turn the waiting game into an exploration game. Why not take advantage of shoulder season to revisit many of our local parks? These little gems are there under our noses and offer a wide variety of walks and easy hikes. One of my favourite weekend destinations is Whytecliff Park, located in West Vancouver. Here land meets sea in an explosion of natural beauty.

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Waiting for Winter at Whytecliff Park, West Vancouver

Quarry Rock, North Vancouver – Selfies on Steroids

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on October 18, 2016

View from Quarry Rock, North Vancouver Photo: Rob Weiss

Searching for that iconic “Vancouver Selfie” for your Instagram feed? Look no further than Quarry Rock in North Vancouver. Arguably, this natural, rocky outcrop has become a destination of choice for those seeking a relatively easy day hike through dappled, lush west coast rain forest to a scenic viewpoint. In truth, scenic viewpoint doesn’t adequately describe the panoramic views of Indian Arm and Deep Cove that are the rewards for those who complete the climb. Spectacular, breathtaking, awe-inspiring and quintessentially Vancouver comes to mind when describing the Quarry Rock views. However, in my opinion, this little hike is so much more than an opportunity to snap a selfie. Be sure to slow down and absorb all of the sights, smells and sounds along the route!

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Quarry Rock, North Vancouver – Selfies on Steroids

BC Parkway – Searching for Fall

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on September 29, 2016

Flickr Photo: Totororo

Exploring the lower mainland by bicycle is always a treat, and today was no exception. We decided to begin our ride at the New Westminster Quay and head into Vancouver via the BC Parkway. Formerly known as the 7-11 trail, this multi-use urban pathway is 26 kilometers long and follows the Expo Sky Train line from Surrey, to New Westminster, South Burnaby and into Vancouver. Recent upgrades to the path, including new wayfinding signage and freshly paved sections, have improved safety for both cyclists and pedestrians.

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BC Parkway – Searching for Fall

Back Country Adventure to St. Mark’s Summit

by Jane Weiss in Outside, Uncategorized on August 25, 2016

View from St. Mark’s Summit Photo: Rob Weiss

The majestic North Shore mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for Vancouver, arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Towering over the city and ocean below, these mountains beckon to those who wish to get outside and explore. Heeding the call of Mother Nature, we decided to grab our backpacks, hiking poles, ten essentials for back country travel and set our compass headings on Cypress Provincial Park. The area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts – a veritable smorgasbord for day trippers, “instagrammers” and mountaineers alike!

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Back Country Adventure to St. Mark’s Summit

Up a Creek with a Paddle – Canoeing Widgeon Creek, Pitt Meadows

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on June 21, 2016

Serenity while paddling Widgeon Creek Photo: Rob Weiss

Looking for an outdoor adventure close to home? Interested in a day trip that combines paddling and a scenic hike to a waterfall? Widgeon Creek is the destination you have been looking for! Dial in your compass heading for Pitt Lake and set course for Widgeon Creek and the incomparable Widgeon Falls.

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Up a Creek with a Paddle – Canoeing Widgeon Creek, Pitt Meadows

Vancouver’s Best Eagle Viewing

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on February 29, 2016

Photo: Rob Weiss

The eagle has landed! Majestic, powerful, striking, imposing, brave, noble. In aboriginal northwest coast culture, the Eagle has been a source of inspiration for both traditional and contemporary artists since the beginning of time. This amazing creature symbolizes grace and power. The eagle captures my imagination and there is no better place to get up close and personal with these fantastic birds than Mud Bay Park. During a walk, jog or ride along the dyke trail it is not uncommon to see dozens of eagles. Now is the perfect time to go to watch these symbolic birds busy at work building and repairing their nests.

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Vancouver’s Best Eagle Viewing

Sunrises, Sunsets & History – Cycling Langley’s Fort to Fort Trail

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on January 28, 2016

Photo: R. Weiss

Interested in time travel? An outing to Fort Langley is an opportunity to journey back in time to the 1800’s. As a closet history buff, I thoroughly enjoy a day exploring the Fort Langley National Historic site. Founded in 1827 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, this site is considered by some to be the birthplace of British Columbia. It is almost surreal that within minutes from Vancouver you can feel so removed from big city living. While strolling through the grounds, I could almost hear the blacksmith forging his products and visualize fur traders trading their pelts at this post.

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Sunrises, Sunsets & History – Cycling Langley’s Fort to Fort Trail