Bowen Island - a short hop from the city
A trip to Bowen Island makes a fantastic excursion out of Vancouver, especially now the weather has improved.
Some of the most spectacular views can be seen from the North summit of Mt Gardner, as pictured above, but there is a fair hike before you can enjoy the scenery. From the ferry landing point at Snug Cove, it is around an 11km round trip to the peak and back but, if you have the time, it is well worth the effort.
On the way to the trail, stop off for a moment at Killarney Lake - which has picnic tables and toilets - and take in the quiet beauty of the tree-rimmed pool.
The summit of Mt Gardner has two heli-pads which double as great viewing platforms and sun loungers. One side looks down onto Stanley Park, English Bay and the rest of Vancouver's downtown, while the other side has a magnificent panorama of snow-capped mountains and sea.
Keep an eye out for wildlife - we spotted two pairs of eagles at the top.
The ferry is an easy 20 minute ride from Horseshoe Bay and costs less than $8 per person for the return trip. Get to Horseshoe Bay on the 250 or 257 bus from downtown Vancouver (Burrard Station and stops along Georgia Street).
There are plenty of other trails around the island - maps are available from an info centre near the ferry at Snug Cove.
