Top 10 Winter Activities on Vancouver’s North Shore
Winter has arrived on Vancouver’s North Shore, but that’s no reason to stay cooped up inside! When you’re standing at the foot of a world-class mountain range, there’s always something exciting to discover, especially this time of year. But if you’re unsure where to begin, here are just a mitten-full of ways you can make the most of the season. Consider it your personal guide to all the insider attractions and activities that are unique to this culture and nature-rich city. A visitor’s guide of local favourites. So now that you’re in the know, grab your touque (see: wool hat) and let’s head out!
1. Hit the Slopes of the Local Mountains
With three local hills, all located within 30 minutes of the city, Vancouver’s North Shore is a destination for top-tier winter sports. Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding the world-class runs on Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain or Mt. Seymour, they all offer fun for any skill level. If you’re looking to take in gorgeous winter scenes in nature, then be sure to try the Nordic skiing at Cypress Mountain!
2. Ice Skating
Did you know there’s a skating pond at the top of Grouse Mountain? The 8,000-square-foot frozen pond is the only one of its kind on the West Coast! One of our favourite local spots to experience the season, this unique attraction is a winter tradition among local families. Now you’re getting the hang of how to Play Like a Local! There’s also a community skating rink at the Shipyard’s Skate Plaza, right on the waterfront. Set against the backdrop of Downtown Vancouver, you can take in the stunning view of the city with all its lights reflecting in the Inlet.
3. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a fun and accessible winter sport that is a fantastic way to experience local nature. All three local mountains, Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain and Mt. Seymour offers scenic snowshoe trails and you can rent shoes and book engaging guided tours on-site!
4. Snow Tubing & Sledding
Not much of a skier or snowboarder? Snow Tubing offers all the rush of the mountain with far less technique required— just hop in and hang on! All three North Shore mountains have dedicated tubing and tobogganing areas that the whole family will love. Cypress Mountain and Mount Seymour have fantastic snow tubing parks, and Grouse Mountain offers a sliding zone where you can rip down the slope on a sled!
5. Grab Some Comfort Food
When the chilly forecast arrives, the North Shore has plenty of tasty spots to keep warm. Just a few of our favourite cozy meals around town are the mac & cheese with pulled pork at Burgoo, the steak and mushroom pie at Tomahawk Restaurant, the baked spaghetti at Arms Reach Bistro, and freshly made artisan-style pizzas from Scratch Kitchen Lonsdale. There’s no better way to stay toasty than with a bit of comfort food!
Photo courtesy of @thegull175
6. Visit an Art Gallery or Museum
If you need a boost of colour to compliment all these snowy escapes, look no further than the North Shore’s bustling art scene! You’ll find all kinds of inspiration with a walk through The Polygon Gallery’s boundary-pushing modern art exhibits, a tour of local history at The Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA), or an arty workshop at Seymour Art Gallery in Deep Cove. At Spirit Gallery and the Inuit Gallery of Vancouver, you’ll find beautiful Indigenous pieces that share the stories of the North Shore’s first people. And if you’re in the shopping mood, many of these locations offer fabulous gift shops and art for sale!
7. Brewery Hopping at Your Fav North Shore Breweries
With eleven breweries, two distilleries, a cidery and a winery, the North Shore is ready to raise a glass to the season! Here’s to the cold brews and adventurous taplists our craft scene has become famous for. All across North Vancouver, a tour through each stop is one of the most fun ways to experience our vibrant craft beer scene.
Photo Courtesy of @lacerveceriaastilleros
8. Check out the Quay Market and Food Hall
The famous waterfront market is a must-visit, offering everything from artisan gifts to a variety of international cuisine. Stroll through the stalls with coffee in hand, or indulge in a delightful lunch from one of the fantastic food vendors while enjoying the views as boats drift by. There’s always something happening at this vibrant community hub! Plus, the Spirit Trail is nearby if you want to take your treats on the go and explore even more.
9. Grab Hot Chocolate at a New Cafe
Is there a better way to experience the brisk winter air than with a cup of hot chocolate and a freshly baked pastry? Vancouver’s North Shore is chock-full of tasty gems that keep us smiling throughout the season. Start with BjornBar Bakery, Andrews on Eighth, or Honey Doughnuts & Goodies and marvel at how they elevate baked goods to high art. Relax at a cozy table with a book and watch the world go by, or head out with your treats and explore a little more!
Photo courtesy of @bjornbarbakery
10. Check Out The Spirit Trail
One of the city’s most famous routes to explore is the Spirit Trail, a continuous greenway across almost the entire North Shore! By bike, or on foot, it’s a fantastic way to see the local sights as you pass by The Shipyards, Lonsdale Quay, parks, beaches and breweries. And if you don’t have your own wheels, you can always rent an e-bike and take in the scenic wonders that way!
If one day here isn’t enough, you’re always welcome to stay a little bit longer, of course! Our boutique hotels have great seasonal package deals so you can make the most of your visit! Stay an extra day or two, there’s plenty more to discover on Vancouver’s North Shore.