Deep Cove, North Vancouver

One trip to Deep Cove, which lies east of the Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Crossing, and you'll always want to go back. A simple drive down Gallant Avenue gives way to the sheltered, calm harbour vista that is the area's signature view.

Deep Cove is a largely residential neighbourhood. Its commercial core is in the two-block stretch of Gallant Avenue where galleries and a local theatre vie for attention alongside the kids' clothing store Kuddel Muddel and household accessory and gift boutiques.

The Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak Centre offers a range of options from straight-up kayak rentals, to lessons and guided day and weekend paddles. Ocean kayaks, canoes and surf skis can be rented are hourly, daily and multi-day. Paddling Indian Arm offers a unique opportunity to view the mountains and native wildlife from sea level. Knowledgeable guides can interpret the local history and reveal the natural beauty of Canada's southernmost fjord.

Don't forget to visit the Deep Cove Heritage Society's gift shop and archives located in the Deep Cove Cultural Centre. A little west of the cove itself, evidence of waterfront industry can be seen from Cates Park, which has both a beach and heavily wooded trails.

Further west still at Parkgate Shopping Centre is local bakery and hang-out
Bean Around the World. Pick up a big, fat cookie or muffin and head up to
Seymour Mountain for a hike or, in winter or spring, a ski. Be aware that the
precipitation that falls as rain on the streets of North Vancouver becomes
snow at higher elevations; dress appropriately.

Deep Cove is also the eastern start to the Baden Powell trail that spans the North Shore in the foothills of the mountains.