As verdant leaves the size of a grizzly bear’s paw turn into a palette of autumn hews, the coastal city of Vancouver B.C. is transformed into a haven for fall foliage enthusiasts. Whether you are simply seeking a stroll through the city or a bit of adventure while gazing at the vibrant colors during your weekend getaway, you will delight in photographic views around every turn.
A gateway to Canada’s great outdoors, Vancouver is immersed in nature. Mountains, ocean, and rainforest blend in with skyscrapers, landmarks, and cobblestone lanes. Options for seeing fall foliage are endless, so begin with where you stay. Located on False Creek, the Granville Island Hotel is a renowned retreat nestled on the city’s beloved Granville Island and serves up impressive glowing waterfront views of Vancouver’s striking skyline.
On your first day, walk from the hotel to Granville Island’s famous Public Market. Open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, it is home to more than 50 independent food purveyors. After wandering the market, pick your favorite stall for a coffee and breakfast pastry, then stroll over to the Granville Island Ferry Dock and take the ferry to the Aquatic Center Ferry Dock. From there enjoy a walk along the Seaside Greenway, the world's longest uninterrupted waterfront path which includes the Stanley Park Seawall. The path offers stunning water vistas lined by towering trees adorned with sunny yellow, vibrant orange, and blazing red leaves.
When you’re done strolling, grab an Uber or taxi to the Totem Poles on the east side of Stanley Park. You will be dropped off by three beautifully carved, red cedar portals at the Brockton Point Visitor Centre, the traditional lands of the Coast Salish people. At Brockton Point you will find nine First Nations totem poles framed by majestic trees ablaze with fall foliage.
Meander your way out of the park and take an Uber or a taxi to the Steam Clock located in Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown dating back to 1867. Today the district retains its historic charm with Victorian architecture that houses a thriving fashion scene, curated décor boutiques, and one-of-a-kind galleries. Here you will find colorful tree-lined streets and some of the best culinary fare in the city.
On your second day visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. If you are an adrenaline junkie and a fall aficionado, this Park is for you. Start by crossing the 450-foot-long suspension bridge that hangs 230 feet above the Capilano River. The bridge crosses to towering evergreens and a cedar-scented rainforest where you can weave through the Treetops Adventure comprised of 7 suspended footbridges offering views 110 feet above the forest floor. Next take The Cliffwalk along the Capilano River with its labyrinth of narrow cantilevered bridges, stairs and platforms enveloped by the colors of fall.
Framed by striking vistas ablaze with autumn colors, Vancouver puts on a spectacular show for leaf peepers.
For details visit: destinationvancouver.com