Top National Parks near British Columbia

Immerse yourself in nature’s splendor moments from downtown Vancouver. History meets the great outdoors at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you wander through the stunning temperate rain forest. Soar over the Capilano River as you cross the suspension bridge, climb and rise high above the canyon along a towering wall of granite on the new Cliffwalk.

Get epic aerial views of Canada’s dramatic landscape without leaving the ground on this simulated flight ride! Start with an entertaining presentation on the history and culture of Canada, then brace yourself for take off. From your seat under the high-dome screen, you’ll careen through the sky, hurdle over mountains, feel the wind in your face and take in the woody scents of alpine forests. At eight minutes long, this simulated flight is the longest in the world!

Escape to the picturesque alpine landscape just outside Vancouver with this admission to Grouse Mountain, a cultural and outdoor park that's perfect for the whole family. In summer, see wildlife like bears and owls, enjoy outdoor shows like our Lumberjack show and Birds in Motion, and enjoy fabulous views of the forest and Vancouver. In winter, enjoy adventures including the stunning Light Walk, Sliding Zone, outdoor skating pond, or give snowshoeing a try on an array of trails. Skates, sleds and snowshoes are available for rent (additional cost). Grouse Mountain transforms into Vancouver's North Pole from November 20 to January 3 - see real live reindeer, stroll through the magical Light Walk and enjoy the festive décor.

Marvel at the majesty of Canada’s marine wildlife on this 3-hour whale-watching adventure in Victoria. Hop aboard your boat, a semi-covered vessel built specifically for whale-watching trips, and cruise through the Haro Strait with your guide. Watch the waves from the open sun decks or stay protected from the spray in the heated indoor cabin. Stop off at points of interest through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Listen to fascinating commentary from marine naturalists on board, and admire the beautiful orca, humpback whales, and minke whales you find.

Feel like you’ve stepped back in time to vintage Victoria with a 1-hour tour through the city’s most splendid neighborhoods aboard a horse-drawn carriage. Beginning at the illustrious Empress hotel, admire sailing ships in the Inner Harbor and trot through the leafy gardens and lawns of Beacon Hill Park. Pass stately Victorian mansions and other local landmarks like the Trans-Canada Highway Mile 0 marker, and take in fantastic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca during the stylish ride. 

Hit the waves with expert naturalists in search of Canadian sea-life on this whale-watching cruise from Victoria. Hop aboard your whale-watching boat and head out into the rolling seas with your guide. Gaze out over Victoria’s attractive coastline and watch the waves for sightings of graceful orcas. Listen as the two expert naturalists onboard explain the life cycles of the majestic creatures, and learn of their pivotal role near the top of the marine food chain. Enjoy fine views from the seating areas both inside and on-deck. 

Admire native marine wildlife in the waters of British Columbia on this 3-hour whale-watching adventure in Victoria. Hop aboard your open-top boat in Victoria Harbour and cruise out into the rolling waves with your guide. Your vessel, a zodiac speedboat, is built with stability in mind and remains buoyant even in rough seas. Cruise through the Haro Straight to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Watch the water for sightings of humpback whales, minke whales and orcas breaching the waves, and learn of their life cycle and migration habits.

Soak up some of British Columbia’s most dramatic scenery—and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the sights—when you book tickets to the Golden Skybridge. Tickets will entitle you to two suspension bridges that soar 426 feet (130 meters) above the Columbia Valley, a well as multiple viewing platforms, canyon ridge walking trails, and even a treetop Village Play Park. You can also upgrade to take advantage of the on-site zipline and lofty challenge course.