UBC students are lucky to be living in one of the most beautiful places in the world, ripe with glorious views and activities that are worthy of taking a break from your studying.
Get ready to dust off your Lululemon athleisure and Hydro Flasks — here are the best outdoor recreation spots in Vancouver.
Hikes to rival your tuition increases
Pacific Spirit Regional Park: Located just off campus, Pacific Spirit Regional Park is a great introduction to the beautiful temperate rainforests that Vancouver is known for. The 10-km round trip trail is well-suited for beginners or active hikers looking for a chill day out.
Stawamus Chief: Whether you are in the mood to work your glutes or are just an overly-zealous Led Zeppelin fan, the Stawamus Chief is the closest you will get to an actual Stairway to Heaven. This intermediate hike is a toughie but the waterfalls and views from any of the three peaks are well worth it. And as a bonus, you’ll be ready to trek up the Wreck Beach stairs after completing this hike!
Black Tusk: Just got a poor grade on a midterm and are desperate to flee into the wilderness to start over? This 29-km round trip hike is difficult but rewarding, with gorgeous scenic views of the mountain, Black Tusk. Some people prefer to camp overnight rather than cram the journey into one day of endurance — either option will make for a perfect bonding adventure with your study buddies before finals hit.
Scaling mountains (and hopefully midterms)
Riley Park: Bouldering is a form of rock climb- ing without ropes or harnesses. Riley Park is a popular location for those interested in testing out their climbing skills.
Squamish: A favourite among avid climbers in Vancouver, Squamish provides opportunities for bouldering and climbing. There’s even a forum dedicated to updating fellow climbers on the conditions, supporting rideshare inquiries and more.
Mountain Project: This resource is perfect for students interested in exploring the hottest spots for climbing and bouldering in the Vancouver area. You can input your location, preferred rock type and more to find your perfect fit.
Oh my god, he on X Games mode
North Shore: Proudly boasting nearly 350 trails, Vancouver’s North Shore is a truly iconic spot for avid mountain bikers. The trails range in difficulty from green to double black diamond, and offer something for bikers of all skill levels.
These outdoorsy options are just a glimpse into all of the activities that Vancouver has to offer. When the semester kicks off, be sure to grab a buddy and plan your next outdoor adventure.