Inside Vancouver

For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on March 28, 2017

Birding at the Maplewood Flats Conservation Area Photo: Rob Weiss

Affectionately known by locals as Maplewood Flats, the Maplewood Conservation Area in North Vancouver is an ideal destination for a rainy day walk. Managed by the Wild Bird Trust of BC, this wonderful natural area along Burrard Inlet near the base of the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge, is home to over 230 species of birds and features 3km of easy walking trails to explore.

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For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

The 7 Best Ways to See Vancouver

by Inside Vancouver in Town on December 20, 2016

Populist is Vancouver’s cinematic city guide, showcasing everything that’s happening in the city through video – Your hub for where to go, what to do and who to see. Populist is run by Film and TV Producer, Rebecca Traub and Broadcast Journalist, Blanca Blandon (aka YinYang). Follow the fun at thisispopulist.com.

Visiting this fine city of ours for the first time? Take in all Vancouver has to offer and more by using a few (or all) of the following modes of transportation:

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The 7 Best Ways to See 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

Ewok sighting at UBC? Greenheart TreeWalk – Vancouver’s Suspended Eco-Attraction

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on May 15, 2016

Greenheart TreeWalk Photo: Rob Weiss

Swinging high above the forest floor on the Greenheart TreeWalk, I began to imagine myself as a heroine in a Star Wars movie. With every twist and turn I fully expected to encounter an Ewok, one of those diminutive furry species first made famous in Return of the Jedi. If you recall, the Ewoks made their homes in the forest canopy, 15 metres above the ground. Their Bright Tree Village was connected through a series of ladders, bridges, vines and catwalks. Unlike the imagined land created for the big screen in Star Wars, the Greenheart TreeWalk located in the UBC Botanical Garden is a real world eco-adventure.

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Ewok sighting at UBC? Greenheart TreeWalk – Vancouver’s Suspended Eco-Attraction

Exit the Fast Lane – Stroll Through Colony Farm

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on March 28, 2016

Millenium Bridge, Colony Farm Photo: Rob Weiss

Sometimes the best surprises lie right beneath your nose. Colony Farm Regional Park is one of those surprises. What comes to mind when you visualize the Port Mann Bridge, Cape Horn Exchange and Lougheed Highway? I suspect your blood pressure is rising and you are thinking of tolls and Monday morning rush hour traffic congestion. I challenge you to reimagine the area! Slow down, take time out of your hectic schedule and follow the signs to Colony Farm. Within minutes, you will find yourself in the middle of hedgerows, open fields and wetlands.

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Exit the Fast Lane – Stroll Through Colony Farm