Top 8 Day Trips from Vancouver for Adventure & Relaxation (2024)
Vancouver is a famous city in Canada that always attracts tourists with its laid-back vibe and immense natural beauty. This urban settlement is nestled between the stunning Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The unique cultural heritage and diverse population make Vancouver a popular tourist destination for travelers from around the world. But do you know, there’s much more here than the city itself? Yes, beyond the city limits lies an enjoyable world of small towns, cultural attractions, landscapes, hot springs, and much more. And with so much as options, Vancouver makes a popular base for day trips in Canada.
When in Vancouver, travelers have some of the most exciting options for day trips. Whether it is Whistler, the adventure wonderland, Squamish, a recreational landmark, or White Rock, a coastal town, options are truly many. From venturing into the rugged wilderness to taking a ferry ride to some Island or exploring history, day trips from Vancouver offer a diverse range of options to enjoy.
So, are you ready to take a closer look at some of the best day trips from Vancouver? If yes, then join us in this article and learn how the surrounding areas of Vancouver offer endless possibilities for day trips.
Top 8 Day Trips from Vancouver for Adventure & Relaxation
Let’s get started.
1. Vancouver to Whistler
Whistler is a popular year-round recreational landmark north of Vancouver. It is popularly known for housing Whistler Blackcomb one of North America’s largest Ski resorts. A day trip from Vancouver to Whistler takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (covering a distance of 121.2 kilometers). There are multiple modes of navigation to make this day trip, including self-driving or public transport. The best option is to either take a shuttle bus or take the Whistler Mountaineer train from Vancouver. The latter offers scenic views of the coast and mountains, making for the start of a memorable journey.
When in Whistler for a day trip, there are a lot of things to experience. During the summer months, visitors can indulge in activities like hiking, mountain biking, swimming, ziplining, etc. The Peak to Peak scenic gondola rides provides an elevated and enjoyable experience between two mountains. This 11 minutes rides offer the most astounding views of the town, better than the one seen from land. Whereas during winters, Whistler transforms into an adventure ground for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Whistler Blackcomb attracts skiers from all across North America all the way from November through May or sometimes even June. Non-skiers can enjoy snowshoeing or dog sledding tours of the area or stroll through the charming pedestrian village.
Whistler also boasts a vibrant food and drink scene. The range of restaurants and cafes here caters to different palates ensuring no one goes back disappointed. Visitors can also find souvenir shops to high-end boutiques to spend time at. Other popular attractions in Whistler include Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Whistler Olympic Park, Lost Lake, Audain Art Museum, and Whistler Museum.
2. Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs
For an escape from the hustle and bustle of Vancouver, there is no better place than Harrison Hot Springs. This small village makes for an excellent day trip from Vancouver to its east. The road distance between Vancouver to Harrison Hot Springs is 131.5 kilometers, and it takes less than 2 hours to complete the trip (one-sided). The stunning views of the Fraser Valley along the way are truly enjoyable, and road-trippers cannot stop themselves from taking halts to witness the same. Though the best way to make this road trip is through self-driving, individuals can also go for Vancouver to Chilliwack bus ride or opt for other local buses.
A day in Harrison Hot Springs means you are signed up to enjoy a lot. As you arrive, the masterpiece is the Hot Springs themselves. Individuals can choose to check out the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa for an ultimate day of relaxation or rejuvenation. Or, explore the village and hunt down hot springs pools lying in the wild. The town is pretty small so no matter where you walk, everything is always nearby. Tourists can also check out Harrison Lake, take a dip, and enjoy a beach day. The lake also boasts some nice picnic spots and a family-friendly environment. Or, hike to the nearby Sasquatch Provincial Park, soaking yourself in a unique second-growth and birch forest.
3. Vancouver to Cultus Lake
Another day trip from Vancouver takes enthusiasts to the stunning recreational Cultus Lake. This water body is nestled in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia and is quite popular amongst locals. The distance from Vancouver to Cultus Lake is nearly 100 kilometers, and it takes less than 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete a one-side trip. The most convenient option to make through it is driving around. However, individuals who do not prefer the same can either opt for bus services or browse several tour companies that offer day trip convenience. Also, during the peak season, finding parking around the lake can be difficult, this public transport comes out as a better option.
When around Cultus Lake, there’s so much to do around. The lake itself is a major attraction offering a lot of scenic as well as recreational opportunities. Several sandy beaches around the lake allow visitors to relax and enjoy under the sun. Main Beach and Maple Bay Beach are two good options for checkout. The lake also operates for activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. In addition to a day around water, visitors can also go hiking the Teapot Hill Trail. Or check out other opportunities, including Cultus Lake Amusement Park, Cultus Lake Waterslides, Golfing, River rafting, and more.
4. Vancouver to Victoria
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is another popular day trip landmark near Vancouver. This charming city is known for its tourism, education, high-tech industry, and marine use. This pacific getaway doesn’t just attract individuals from Vancouver but all across Canada. The journey from Vancouver to Victoria is an experience on its own. The city is usually a scenic two-hour ferry ride from Vancouver. Travelers can join the BC Ferries from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Swartz Bay and then cover half an hour’s distance to downtown Victoria. There are multiple ferry rides throughout the day. This journey will introduce individuals to stunning views of the Gulf Islands and the surrounding mountain vistas.
The city of Victoria welcomes day trippers with a range of gardens, historic architecture, and cultural attractions. The most popular place to check out here is the Royal BC Museum, one of Canada’s best museums. The Craigdarroch Castle is another landmark for history enthusiasts. When in Victoria, one should never miss a chance to explore the famous Butchart Gardens. One of the world’s top display gardens, it receives over a million visitors every year. Other popular tourist attractions include British Columbia Parliament Buildings, Emily Carr House, Avenue Gallery, and Helmcken House. Victoria is also popular for its locally sourced seafood and classic afternoon tea.
5. Vancouver to Fraser Valley Wine Region
Dive into the beautiful, lush countryside of the Fraser Valley on a short day trip from Vancouver. A visit to this wine region allows individuals to sample some of Canada’s best wines. Fraser Valley is nestled nearly 67.8 kilometers east of Vancouver, and a journey here takes approximately an hour. Getting up to the valley is possible via driving or joining tours. There are multiple tour options available that include everything from transportation, tastings, and a knowledgeable.
Once at the Fraser Valley wine region, individuals can check out a range of wineries. The first stop to make should be Township 7 Vineyards & Winery, one of the initial wineries of British Columbia. Next, check out Backyard Vineyards, an exceptional local setting offering award-winning wines. Chaberton Estate Winery, Singletree Winery, and Seaside Pearl are other unique landmarks to check out. Besides its wines, Fraser Valley is also popular for its stunning natural beauty. There is a range of hiking trails, parks, and rivers to explore. Or visitors can also spend some time at Fort Langley National Historic Site.
6. Vancouver to Squamish
A town north of Vancouver, Squamish is known for its mesmerizing outdoor beauty and endless recreational opportunities. Approximately 64.5 kilometers from Vancouver, it makes for a stunning day trip. The town of Squamish is nestled north of Vancouver, and a nearly an hour-long drive will take you here. Individuals can either drive on their own or take a bus or train from Vancouver. The time of the journey may fluctuate depending on the mode of transportation.
When in Squamish for a day trip, there are a lot of things to do. The most happening experience undoubtedly is the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, a 10 minutes ride that takes participants to the top of a mountain. The ride exposes some outstanding views of mountains, forests, and the ocean, and this panorama is arguably the best. Once on the top of the mountain, individuals can walk through a suspension bridge or hike around. Other popular attractions in the town include Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, Alice Lake Provincial Park, Shannon Falls, and Britannia Mine Museum. Recreational activities like hiking, white-water rafting, kiteboarding, kayaking, and rock climbing are quite popular here.
7. Vancouver to Mount Baker, Washington
Not many may think to plan for this, but Vancouver to Mount Baker, Washington, makes an excellent day trip and weekend getaway. The journey takes 2 hours and crosing a border, but once you are at Mount Baker, it is all worth it. One can either drive or adjust with a bus + cab route. It is nearly an 88.5 miles drive, but the journey and destination make it worth it.
Once in Vancouver, travelers can enjoy plenty of opportunities to keep themselves busy for the day. If you are here during the winter season, plan accordingly for a day of skiing and snowboarding at the renowned Mount Baker Ski Area. Snow enthusiasts can also try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making the most out of their day. In addition, activities like hiking and mountain biking flourish here throughout the year. Some popular trails to explore include Chain Lakes Trail, Skyline Divide Trail, and the Mount Baker Trail. A scenic drive on Mount Baker Highway is another hit amongst locals and visitors. However, considering all these charms, planning a weekend getaway instead of a day trip is always a smarter idea.
8. Vancouver to White Rock
Last but not least is White Rock, a charming coastal town nestled on the U.S.- Canada Border. White Rock makes for an engaging and enjoyable day trip from Vancouver, and you cannot dare to overlook it. White Rock is nearly 50 kilometers south of Vancouver and is easily accessible in an hour via public or private transport. A combination of bus and train connects this route featuring a scenic journey.
As you arrive in White Rock, a range of exciting opportunities will welcome you to the town. The highlight here is White Rock Beach, a famous tourist destination from where individuals can enjoy stunning views of Semiahmoo Bay. The beach itself is a popular spot for activities like water dipping, sunbathing, and strolling. Or, visitors can explore Semiahmoo Park, a vibrant outdoor space. This landmark caters to hikers, picnic enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Adventure enthusiasts can also take a whale-watching tour from White Rock and observe orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales in their natural habitat. Or, spend some time at the White Rock town itself enjoying some vibrant art scene at local galleries and studios. The town also has a range of restaurants and cafes which are popular for their seafood.
