Canada In Pictures: The Western Coast - Volume 5 - British Columbia 9780228236283, 9780228236290, 9780228236306, 0228236282

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CONTENTS British Columbia........................................... 6 Facts About The Province............................ 7 Famous Person Born In British Columbia

Ryan Reynolds.............................................. 8 Where In Canada Is British Columbia........ 9

First Edition, 2022 Published in Canada by Speedy Publishing Canada Limited Suite 3208 620 Nine Mile Dr Suite, Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 0H4. © 2022 Tripping Out, an Imprint of Speedy Publishing Canada Limited All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under the copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise), without the prior written permission of the copyright owner. All images in this book have been reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the artists concerned, and no responsibility is accepted by producer, publisher, or printer for any infringement of copyright or otherwise arising from the contents of this publication. Tripping Out are available at special discounts when purchased in bulk for industrial and sales-promotional use. For details contact our Speedy Publishing Canada Limited Suite 3208 620 Nine Mile Dr Suite, Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 0H4. Telephone (902) 442-8966 Fax: (902) 418-5362. Email: [email protected] Print Edition: 9780228236283 Digital Edition: 9780228236290 Hardcover Edition: 9780228236306 www.canadainpictures.ca

Granville Island...................................................... 10 Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.................... 12 Emerald Lake........................................................... 14 Craigdarroch Castle.......................................... 17 Canada Place........................................................ 18 Mount Assiniboine............................................... 21 Glacier Mountain Park Of Canada............. 22 Bloedel Conservatory........................................ 25 Goldstream Provincial Park........................... 27 Whistler Blackcomb............................................ 28 Lake O'hara.............................................................. 31 Takakkaw Falls....................................................... 33 Okanagan Valley.................................................. 35 Tofino........................................................................... 37 Mount Revelstoke National Park.................. 38 Salt Spring Island.................................................. 41 Kootenay National Park.................................... 42 Mt. Robson Provincial Park ............................. 44 Queen Elizabeth Park......................................... 47 Capilano Suspension Bridge......................... 48 Playground Of The Gods.................................. 50 Yoho National Park.............................................. 53 Stanley Park............................................................. 54 Vandusen Botanical Garden........................ 57 Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.................................................... 59 Steam Clock............................................................ 61 Skookumchuck Narrows.................................. 62 Stawamus Chief................................................... 64 Garibaldi Lake........................................................ 67 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.............. 69 Sproat Lake ............................................................. 70 Butchart Gardens................................................ 72 Beacon Hill Park..................................................... 75

Lynn Canyon Park ............................................... 76 Spirit Bears Of The Great Bear Rainforest.................................................................. 78 Mountain View Cemetery............................... 80 Totems Of Haida Gwaii..................................... 82 Moss Lady................................................................. 85 Mount Seymour..................................................... 86 British Columbia Parliament Buildings.......................................... 89 Lions Gate British Columbia........................... 90 Spotted Lake........................................................... 93 Fairmont Empress................................................ 95 Hatley Castle........................................................... 96 Victoria’s Inner Harbour................................... 98 Ksan Historical Village....................................... 101 Science World........................................................ 102 Helmcken Falls....................................................... 104

"Splen dour W ithout D imin ishme n t " Fact s ab o u t t he p r ovince British Columbia, Canada's westernmost province, is defined by its Pacific coastline and mountain ranges. Nature areas like Glacier National Park offer hiking and biking trails, as well as campgrounds. Whistler Blackcomb is a major ski resort that hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. The scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway links Whistler with Vancouver, a city known for its film industry, at the province's southern U.S. border.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Victoria, capital of British Columbia, sits on the craggy southern end of Vancouver Island. With abundant parkland, it’s known for outdoor activities. The city's British colonial past shows in its Victorian architecture, including stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion. Butchart Gardens, with 55 acres of vivid floral displays, plus statuary, water features and a carousel, is one of many formal gardens in the city.

e st. J u ly 2 0 , 1 8 7 1 6

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FAMOUS PERSON BORN IN British Columbia

Ryan Reynolds - a c t o r 8

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Granville Island

Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia

Located across from False Creek, Granville Island is a peninsula in Vancouver. Known for being one of the top shopping districts in Vancouver, it's home to the Public Market, which often features a variety of food, fresh produce, crafts, and other items that are often handmade. Many local chefs enjoy the island because of the variety of cuisines that people like to try. Marinas can be found on each side of the waterway with the tall buildings of the city casting beautiful designs on the water. Best times to go: Spring, Fall

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Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Kicking Horse, Golden, British Columbia

Located west of the town of Golden in British Columbia, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a small village that offers a little bit of everything for all ages. Known for cozy accommodations and exceptional ski slopes, the resort also offers over 100 trails spread over 3,000 acres of terrain. The resort features the sixth largest drop in North America at 1,315 m. A favorite activity in the summer is mountain biking on many of the trails that are used for skiing in the winter. Best times to go: Summer, Winter

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Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake , British Columbia

Located in the middle of Canada's Rocky Mountains, Emerald Lake is one of the star attractions at British Columbia's Yoho National Park. Grizzly bears, brown bears, black bears, and other wildlife live around the lake, but locals report that the animals in the park mostly get along with humans quite well. Stay at the upscale Emerald Lake Lodge, visit the breathtaking Takakkaw Falls, and enjoy a day on the water in a canoe or a kayak! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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The historic Craigdarroch Castle, downtown Victoria, British Columbia

Craigdarroch Castle Located in Victoria, British Columbia, Craigdarroch Castle is a National Historic Site of Canada. It’s known for its stunning Victorian-era Scottish-Baronial architecture. Careful restoration efforts have kept Craigdarroch Castle frozen in time. When you take a self-guided tour through the mansion, you’ll get a realistic idea of what life was like for wealthy Canadians in the 1890s. Before you go, stop by the gift shop to purchase snacks and castle memorabilia! Best times to go: All Year

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Canada Place

Canada Place in Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Place is a multi-use facility and convention center with lots to offer. This landmark is known for the enormous variety of activities that take place within it. Enjoy the FlyOver Canada ride, which will give you a virtual flyover of Canada while using mist, wind, and scents to engage your senses. If you're an architecture buff, don't forget to gaze at the building's exterior — the roof has sails! Best times to go: All Year

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Mount Assiniboine

Mount Assiniboine, British Columbia

Located on the border of British Columbia and Alberta in the Great Divide, Mount Assiniboine lies close to Lake Magog and to the worldfamous Banff National Park. At nearly 12,000 feet tall, the mountain is the tallest in the Southern Continental Ranges of Canada's Rocky Mountains. Mount Assiniboine has a pyramidal peak, making for a rather dangerous climb that only experienced mountaineers ever attempt. You can visit Mount Assiniboine by chartered helicopter flight, by taking a scenic hike through the woods, or by horseback! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Glacier Mountain Park of Canada

View from Abbott Ridge in Glacier National Park, British Columbia

Glacier Mountain Park of Canada is a region of 521 square miles that include parts of the Columbia and the Selkirk Mountains. Also contained within the park is Rogers Pass, a National Historic Site of Canada. In addition, the park has several active glaciers and one of the most intricate cave systems in all of Canada. Go spelunking, stroll across Hemlock Grove Boardwalk Trail, and check out Bear Creek Falls! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Bloedel Conservatory Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Bloedel Conservatory is a conservatory and aviary. It's known for its hundreds of exotic plants, flowers, and birds. Wander under the building's enormous dome while you view the conservatory's feathery residents. You'll see too many free-flying birds to count, and some of the parrots might even say hello! You can also explore the mini-ecosystems created within the conservatory: There's a tropical rainforest habitat and a subtropical rainforest habitat. Best times to go: All Year

The Bloedel Conservatory in Vancouver, British Columbia 24

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Goldstream Provincial Park Goldstream Provincial Park offers a rare rustic oasis just a short drive from downtown Victoria, British Columbia. Visitors of all ages and abilities are sure to love wandering the park's diverse assortment of trails that provide up-close views of ancient fir and cedar trees as well as glimpses of many different species of wildlife in their natural habitats. Camping, swimming, cycling and other seasonal activities can also be enjoyed at the park. Best times to go: All Year

Goldstream Provincial Park, Vancouver Island, British Colombia 26

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Whistler Blackcomb mountains, British Columbia

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB Nestled in between two of British Columbia's largest mountains, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the premier ski resorts in the world. The resort first opened in January of 1966, and it was chosen to host the alpine skiing events of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Transport yourself between the tops of Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, take snowboarding lessons from one of the friendly professionals on staff, and enjoy some Canadian comfort food and Dusty's Bar and BBQ! Best times to go: Summer, Winter 28

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LAKE O'HARA

Lake O'Hara, British Columbia

Located to the west of Alberta's Banff National Park, Lake O' Hara sits at an elevation of more than 6,500 feet in the mountainous area of British Columbia's Yoho National Park. In the winter, the area around the lake becomes quite popular with snowbirds who are looking for a great place to ski. Take a backcountry hike through the surrounding Canadian mountains, camp under the stars, and enjoy a walk through nearby Opabin Plateau! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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TAKAKKAW FALLS

Takakkaw Falls of Yoho National Park, British Columbia

With a height of more than 1,200 feet, Takakkaw Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Canada and a star tourist attraction of Yoho National Park in British Columbia. The main drop, which measures 833 feet, was featured in the 1995 adventure movie The Last of the Dogmen. Meltwater from the famous Daly Glacier, which is located in the Waputik Icefield, feeds the falls all year. Go for a swim in nearby Emerald Lake, journey to the base of the falls to feel the powerful water spray, and settle in for dinner at the Truffle Pigs Bistro & Lodge. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Okanagan Valley Vineyard, British Columbia

OKANAGAN VALLEY Located in British Columbia, Okanagan Valley is a waterfront region with a beautiful climate and easygoing feel. Known for its lakeshore communities and vineyards, Okanagan Valley attracts retirees, water sports enthusiasts and people who are looking for a relaxed lifestyle. Tour the vineyards while stopping at farmers’ markets and festivals along the way. You can also cycle the Kettle Valley Rail Trail or take a boat out on Okanagan Lake. You'll get to enjoy the distinctive desert landscape and breathtaking mountains. Best times to go: Summer

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Tofino Bay, British Columbia

TOFINO Located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a sleepy town that comes to life in the summer. Known for its pristine natural splendor, Tofino attracts surfers, bird watchers, ocean lovers and water sports enthusiasts. It’s also a mecca for foodies, who come for the renowned restaurants. Visitors will be awed by Freedom Cove, a man-made, sustainable floating island, and Long Beach, the largest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. You can also take a day trip to the hot springs in Maquinna Marine Provincial Park. Best times to go: Summer 36

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MOUNT REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK

Mount Revelstoke National Park, British Columbia

Located in the Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia, Mount Revelstoke National Park is one of North America’s oldest ski destinations and a year-round attraction for wilderness seekers. Known for its world-famous ski jump, Mount Revelstoke offers hiking trails through lush rainforests and the ability to drive almost all the way to the summit of the mountain. When you’re not outdoors, you can visit the railway museum or drive along the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Best times to go: Summer

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Red ocean pier on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia

SALT SPRING ISLAND Located in the Salish Sea between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia, Salt Spring Island is one of the most popular Southern Gulf Islands. Known for its rocky coastline, flourishing art scene and local farms, the island attracts visitors to its Saturday Salt Spring Market. You can also enjoy several museums, theater productions and galleries while you visit. Don’t forget to head outdoors for some disc golf, kayaking, bicycling or beachcombing. If you hike Mount Erskine, you might spot a fairy door in some of the trees. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK Kootenay National Park is located approximately 800 kilometres east of Vancouver near the border between British Columbia and Alberta. This established park offers all the activities that you'd expect to find in a rustic, back-country tourist spot as well as an array of more unique experiences. Soak in the waters of the natural hot springs, learn about the Burgess Shale fossil deposits, enjoy the scenic Banff-Windermere highway and so much more when you visit. Best times to go: All Year

Kootenay National Park, British Columbia 42

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MT. ROBSON PROVINCIAL PARK Located in British Columbia with a close border to Alberta's Jasper National Park, Mt. Robson Provincial Park is a UNESCO Heritage Site that contains Canada's highest peak. Every year, elite mountaineers attempt to scale Mount Robson's formidable Emperor Face to reach the summit. While you're in the park, take an exciting journey through Arctomys cave, look for endangered birds, and camp out around the pristine waters of Yellowhead Lake. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Scenic Yellowhead Highway in Mt. Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia 44

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Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver, British Columbia

QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK Known for being the former location of the basalt quarries that helped provide resources to build some of British Columbia's first major roadways, Queen Elizabeth Park is a large municipal park that is owned and operated by the government of Vancouver. In the fall, the park's arboretum teems with the changing colors of tree leaves and lush plants. Visit the Bloedel Floral Conservatory, hang out with local artists at Painters' Corner, and take a slow stroll through the park's Quarry Gardens. Best times to go: Summer, Fall

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CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE Built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge in the District of North Vancouver routinely attracts more than one million visitors per year. The bridge measures 460 feet across, and it hangs over 200 feet above the ground. Over the years, the Capilano Suspension Bridge has been featured in MacGyver, Sliders, and other well-known television shows. After you've made the harrowing walk across the bridge, grab a bite at the Logger's Grill, do some shopping at the Trading Post, and trek down to the nearby canyon! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fallr Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, British Columbia 48

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PLAYGROUND OF THE GODS

View of Kamui Mintara (Playground of Gods) Park at Burnaby Mountain in Vancouver, British Columbia

Playground Of The Gods is a unique collection of tall sculptures that sits at the top of Mount Burnaby overlooking the city of Vancouver. In 1989, Phil MacGregor, who was a carpenter working for the City of Burnaby, collaborated with master Japenese woodcarver Nuburi Toko and Mr. Toko's son to complete the construction of this landmark. At sunset, take a bus from nearby Simon Fraser University, hop off at the stop nearest to the summit, and take a short walk to where you see the wooden bear looming in the distance! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Yoho National Park If wildlife watching, rustic hiking or mountain climbing appeal to you, you'll love a visit to Yoho National Park. This prominent park is located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies approximately 10 hours northeast of Vancouver, British Columbia. Guests can also take part in guided conservation tours, enjoy the numerous waterfalls, learn about the area's prehistory at the Burgess Shale fossil beds and participate n an array of sporting activities during the winter season. Best times to go: All Year

Yoho National Park, British Columbia 52

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STANLEY PARK

Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver's world-famous Stanley Park stretches out over 1,001 acres of land in the city's Downtown Peninsula. Named after Lord Stanley, the park's land was used by Indigenous peoples of Canada for several thousand years before the British colonized the area during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush in 1858. Visit the Vancouver Aquarium to see friendly sea otters, stroll around the park's scenic seawall, and take a few minutes to relax in the sun on Second Beach! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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VANDUSEN BOTANICAL GARDEN The VanDusen Botanical Garden is a popular spot where residents of Vancouver, British Columbia, can enjoy the beauty of nature all year long. The garden can be explored with a guide or on your own, and cart tours are available for individuals with mobility issues. Take in the beauty of the various trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses. But don't forget to stop by the gift shop for a souvenir on your way home. Best times to go: All Year

Path in Botanical Garden in Vancouver Vandusen Garden, British Columbia 56

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DR. SUN YATSEN CLASSICAL CHINESE GARDEN Known around Asia and North America as one of the most famous landmarks in Vancouver's Chinatown, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is free for all to visit. After Wang Zu-Xin, Joe Wai, and Donald Vaughn finalized the design plans in the early 1980s, the Canadian government, the Chinese government, and several local Chinese residents all pitched in to fund the construction. After you've made your way through the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden's immaculate walking paths, take a foot tour of Chinatown, make a dinner reservation at Bao Be Chinese Brasserie, and see the latest exhibits at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Vancouver!

Dr. Sun Yat Sen Park in Chinatown, Vancouver, British Columbia 58

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Steam Clock in Gastown, Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia

STEAM CLOCK The famous Steam Clock in Vancouver's Victorian Gastown is one of few functional clocks of its kind left in the world. Although the Steam Clock also functions as a reminder of Vancouver's history in the 1800s, Doug Smith and Raymond Saunders actually teamed up to build the clock in 1977. While there, take the time to also visit the Waterfront Station, Hill's Native Art Gallery, and the Coastal People's Fine Arts Gallery. Best times to visit: All Year

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SKOOKUMCHUCK NARROWS

Tidal rapids at Skookumchuck Narrows , British Columbia

Often confused with the British Columbia town of Skookumchuck, Skookumchuck Narrows is a strait that opens into Sechelt Inlet on Canada's Sunshine Coast. Even when the weather is calm, Skookumchuck Narrows usually has volatile whirlpools and powerful rapids. Notably, this waterway was featured in Canadian travel author Wylie Blanchet's book A Whale Named Henry. Take a rugged hike through the trails at Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park, climb up to the top of Roland Point to view the waves from high above, and book a tour with one of the professional guides on staff at the Egmont Adventure Centre. Best times to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

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View of the Stawamus Chief in Squamish, British Columbia

STAWAMUS CHIEF Also known simply as "The Chief" by experienced outdoor adventurers, Stawamus Chief is a large, granite hill in Squamish, British Columbia, that measures 2,297 feet tall at its peak. Named for the village near its base, this massive monolith is surrounded by Vancouver's Howe Sound to the west. Take a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola, tour the splendid lakes around the Alice Lake Provincial Park, and try navigating the whitewater rapids on the nearby Cheakamus River if you're up for a challenge! Best times to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall 64

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GARIBALDI LAKE

Garibaldi Lake, British Columbia

Located about 23 miles north of Squamish, British Columbia, and 11.8 miles south of Whistler, Garibaldi Lake is a turquoise alpine lake that is nearly 800 feet deep in some places. The lake is one of several attractions to be found in Garibaldi Provincial Park, which also contains several glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. Check out Panorama Ridge, march up Mount Price early in the morning, and go on an adventure with a guide from the Squamish Rafting Company. Best times to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE Located on the west coast of British Columbia's Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a popular spot for ocean lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The park features miles of beautiful beaches that are perfect for basking in the sun as well as an array of inland trails that offer up-close views of ancient forests. The area is also home to hundreds of species of birds that migrate in and out of the preserve or reside there yearround. Best times to visit: All Year 68

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SPROAT LAKE

Sproat Lake, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Originally known as the "Kleecoot" area by the indigenous people of central Vancouver Island, Sproat Lake has a unique shape that features four distinct arms. The lake has a surface area of more than 9,200 acres, a maximum depth of 640 feet, and a shore length of over 56 miles. Explore the nearby Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, enjoy an afternoon scuba diving session, and give waterskiing a go at the Sproat Lake weather-permitting! Best times to visit: Summer, Fall

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BUTCHART GARDENS The Butchart Gardens are located a few miles north of the city of Victoria, British Columbia, in the community of Brentwood Bay. This lush botanical oasis features numerous individual areas devoted to roses, Mediterranean and Asian foliage and other focused plantings. The gardens also offer special events yearround and are a great spot to host a wedding or other social gathering. Be sure to stop by the coffee shop or one of the on-site restaurants for refreshments during your visit. Best time to visit: All Year

A rainy day at the Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island, British Columbia 72

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BEACON HILL PARK Located along the shore of Juan de Fuca Strait in Victoria, British Columbia, the 740,000-square-meter Beacon Hill Park is a top attraction for tourists and locals. The park's most notable feature is the rare and endangered Garry oak ecosystem, which offers the incomparable splendor of brightly-colored wildflowers, grasses, and moss-covered Garry oak trees. Bring the whole family to enjoy the many sports facilities, children's farm, playgrounds, footpaths and picnic areas. In the summertime, be sure to catch a free show at the Cameron Bandshell. Best times to visit: All Year

Autumn in Beacon Hill Park, Victoria, British Columbia 74

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LYNN CANYON PARK Located in British Columbia's District of North Vancouver, Lynn Canyon Park has a massive hub of hiking trails for people of all ages and fitness levels. Although the park measured less than 15 acres in size when it first opened in the early 1900s, its size has grown by nearly 2,500% over the last century. Walk across the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, visit the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre to learn about local species, and relax in the park's famous 30 Foot Pool! Best times to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall

Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver, British Columbia 76

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SPIRIT BEARS OF THE GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST Located on the western coast of British Columbia, the Great Bear Rainforest is part of the largest coastal temperate rainforest ecosystem in the world. It’s known as the only place to spot spirit bears of the Great Bear Rainforest, a member of the black bear family that exhibits a recessive blond coat. Don’t confuse these with polar bears; only about 15% are born with white fur. Visit during the salmon run to watch the spirit bears hunt for their dinner. Best times to visit: Summer, Fall Kermode or "Spirit" bear, Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia 78

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MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver's only cemetery, is the resting place of several notable figures in Canadian history, including the city's first mayor. Also buried in the cemetery is William Carey Ditmars, an industrialist credited with bringing the automobile to Vancouver. After you take an official tour of the cemetery, visit Queen Elizabeth Park and walk down the Granville Street strip for a taste of the city's local culture and cuisine. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

Memorial Monument to victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915, Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver, British Columbia 80

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TOTEMS OF HAIDA GWAII The islands of Haida Gwaii are located approximately 100 kilometres off the coast of British Columbia and are only accessible by air or boat from the mainland. The magnificently carved ancient totem poles, which were created by the Haida people living within the secluded archipelago, make a trip to this remote UNESCO World Heritage Site well worth the visit. The area is also a popular destination for kayakers and nature-lovers alike. Best times to go: Summer

Historic Totem Poles, Ninstints, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia 82

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MOSS LADY

Moss Lady sleeping in Beacon Hill Park-Victoria, British Columbia

Resting serenely in Victoria's Beacon Hill Park is the Moss Lady, a charming mosscovered sculpture that blends in perfectly with the park's natural beauty. Inspired by photographs of England's Mud Maiden at the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall, artist Dale Doebert and city staff constructed the sculpture in 2015. The 11-meter-long Moss Lady is a delightful piece of artwork to encounter. Rest on one of the carved couches or chairs, take in the gorgeous surroundings and bask in the serenity of her face's peaceful expression. Best times to go: All Year

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Mount Seymour Peak, Vancouver, British Columbia

MOUNT SEYMOUR Rising high above the Indian River in the District of North Vancouver, Mount Seymour has multiple subpeaks and several hiking trails that get heavy foot traffic in the spring, summer, and fall. Since the mountain's ski area first opened in 1938, it has been a popular destination for winter tourists too. Take an outback rafting tour through Mount Seymour Provincial Park's waters, visit the nearby Playground of the Gods sculpture collection at the top of Mount Burnaby, and hike down to the surrounding rock quarries for some peace and quiet! Best times to go: All Year 86

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Canadian Parliament Building in Victoria, British Columbia

BRITISH COLUMBIA PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS Displaying several gothic architectural patterns, the imposing British Columbia Parliament Buildings overlook the city of Victoria from nearby James Bay. The buildings, which act as the default meeting place of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, sport a Neobaroque style in some areas and Romanesque Revival influences in others. Have an official guide from the Parliamentary Tour Office show you around, visit the neighboring Royal British Columbia Museum, and have a lunch picnic in Beacon Hill Park! Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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LIONS GATE BRITISH COLUMBIA Spanning 473 meters of the Burrard inlet and connecting the City of Vancouver to North and West Vancouver is the Lions Gate Bridge, recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. Built in 1938, the suspension bridge was a miracle of engineering and architecture in its time. It is a prominent landmark that lights up beautifully at night, making it Vancouver’s most photographed attraction. Hike across its pedestrian walkway for spectacular views of the city, or get a great view of Lion’s Gate from Prospect Point Lookout. Best times to go: All Year

The golden hour at the Lions Gate Bridge, British Columbia 90

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Spotted Lake, British Columbia

SPOTTED LAKE Located between the Similkameen and Okanagan Valleys in British Columbia, Spotted Lake is an unusual body of water that is considered to have healing powers. Known for its oddly-patterned water, Spotted Lake develops a display of large, colorful circles every summer. A high concentration of minerals contributes to the polka-dot appearance, which is only visible when much of the water evaporates. It’s an extraordinary photography backdrop, but Spotted Lake is also a First Nations sacred site and may only be viewed from a distance. Best times to go: Summer 92

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FAIRMONT EMPRESS Located in downtown Victoria, British Columbia, the Fairmont Empress is one of the oldest hotels in the city and a National Historic Site. Known for its chateau-style architecture, the grand building houses 464 guest rooms, several restaurants and a spa. The Fairmont Empress is situated in the bustling Inner Harbor area and is close to many attractions, such as the Victoria Bug Zoo and Maritime Museum of British Columbia. But you’ll want to stay at the hotel for afternoon tea and one of its infamous scavenger hunts. Best times to go: All Year

The Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria, British Columbia 94

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HATLEY CASTLE

Hatley Castle, Victoria, British Columbia

Located in Victoria, British Columbia, Hatley Castle is a National Historic Site of Canada. It's known for its beautiful architecture, though it also houses part of Royal Roads University. Wander among 200 heritage trees in the formal gardens. Next, take a guided tour of the estate to learn about its history — including the story of its land, which was once a burial site for the Coastal Salish Indigenous peoples. Before you leave, enjoy exhibits in the castle's museum. Best times to go: All Year

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VICTORIA’S INNER HARBOUR

Victoria's beautiful Inner Harbour, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Located in Victoria, British Columbia, Inner Harbour encompasses both the innermost part of Victoria Harbour and the neighborhood nestled against it. It’s known for its beauty, history, and wealth of exciting events. Hop on a ferry for some whale watching before exploring the Inner Harbour neighborhood. When you step on land, you can wander among street vendors and buskers. You might also enjoy the Royal British Columbia Museum, which focuses on the region’s history. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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Ksan Historical Village and Museum, Hazelton, British Columbia

KSAN HISTORICAL VILLAGE Located near the community of Hazelton in central British Columbia, Ksan Historical Village provides the unique opportunity to learn about the lives of the ancient Gitksan people who inhabited the area prior to the arrival of European settlers. The site features reconstructed longhouses, a museum filled with local artifacts and a gift shop for finding the perfect momento. Visitors can come for the day or enjoy a longer stay by overnighting in the convenient, full-service campground. Best times to go: Summer 100

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SCIENCE WORLD

World of Science, False Creek, Vancouver British Columbia

Located near the end of False Creek in British Columbia, Science World is an organization that's operated as a non-profit. Known for offering several interactive exhibits that teach guests about various topics of science, the attraction features indoor and outdoor areas. Several special events are planned throughout the year with members of the community often offering educational lessons, especially for large groups. An OMNIMAX theater allows you to immerse yourself in settings across the world to learn in a 3D format. Best times to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

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HELMCKEN FALLS

Helmcken Falls, Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia

One of six waterfalls on the Murtle River, Helmcken Falls is a plunge waterfall located in central British Columbia's Wells Gray Provincial Park. The falls are accessible through Gattling Gorge trail, through a walk around the rim of Helmcken Canyon, and through an 80-minute trek up Brink Trail. Frolic in the meadows of Trophy Mountain, watch the salmon leaping from the river at Bailey's Chute, and rent a canoe to paddle down Clearwater Lake! Best times to go: Summer, Fall, Winter

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