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Downtown adventure sites – Metro US

Downtown adventure sites

Photo courtesy of Dave Norona

Kim Duess and Dave Norona enjoy a wicked day sailing aboard Ulladulla in Vancouver.

You don’t have to be ultra fit to get outside and experience a great adventure.

Vancouver is one of the best cities in the world because we have the best outdoor terrain right at our doorstep. Whether you like getting lost in the woods or feeling the wind in your hair out on the water, Vancouver has it all. Below are a few awesome adventures close to the downtown core.

Sailing at Jericho

There is no better way to experience Vancouver than on the water from a sailboat. Mac Sailing offers lessons and boat rentals to anyone who wants to get out and experience sailing first-hand. Their amazing instructors will teach you everything you need to know and once you get your sailing certificate they have tons of different types of sailboats to rent. It is windy everyday during the summer months so all you have to do is sign up and join in. See www.macsailing.com

Hiking in Lighthouse Park

Lighthouse Park is one of the coolest city parks we have. Located off Marine Drive in West Vancouver, this 185-acre park offers undulating trails with endless ocean views. Once you park your car you can get lost for hours before retreating to your own personal rock bluff for an evening picnic right on the water. Lighthouse is also a dog-friendly park, so no one has to stay at home. Check out www.westvancouver.net

Renting a Cruiser from Simon’s Bike Shop

In the middle of the downtown core lies Simon’s Bike Shop. Here, for $20, you get a rental bike, helmet and a map of the city so you can create your own adventure. Take in the sights along the city seawall and have lunch at one of the many cafés. Cruising on a bike is an excellent way to take it all in and enjoy a beautiful sunset with someone special. Go to www.simonsbikeshop.com

Paddling at Eco-Marine Kayak

Kayaking is one of the best ways to discover all the nooks and crannies along our amazing shoreline. Eco-Marine Kayak has three locations and the largest kayak rental fleet in Canada, so you can choose your favorite kayak and head off into uncharted terrain. They also offer weekly lessons, so you can get proficient in your craft and enjoy a summer out on the water. Check out www.ecomarine.com

gear guide

Ultimate Picnic Backpack for Two

Description: Who says you have to eat off paper plates in the backcountry? The Ultimate Picnic Backpack provides all the essentials for a romantic lunch or dinner in the woods. Stainless steel flatware, melamine plates and stemmed wine glasses are just a few of the items found in this comfortable backpack.

Price range:$100

Where to find it:
www.picnic-basket.com

Columbia Buga Bliss Women’s Water Skirt

Description: Short, skirt, or skort. You can have it all with the Columbia women’s Buga Bliss water skirt. This versatile piece matches a tropical-print water short with a removable wrap-around skirt for maximum comfort on any adventure.

Price range:$49.99

Where to find it:
www.columbiasportswear.com

Keen Ventura Shoes

Description: The Ventura is a classic sneaker perfect for any cool getaway. Its enhanced metatomical footbed provides all-day comfort, the natural rubber sole provides excellent grip on all surfaces and the breathable natural canvas will keep your foot cool.

Price range: $80

Where to find it:
www.keencanada.ca

Coleman 2-Burner Stove

Description: Bring cooking to the great outdoors with this light and simple unit from Coleman. Non-stick cooking surface, 22,000 BTU’s of heat and folding wind blocks that also double as side tables.

Price range:$79.99

Where to find it:
www.canadiantire.com