Listen to the Silence
The Pacific Spirit Park separates Vancouver's western suburbs from the University of British Columbia. The area runs south from Burrard Inlet to the Fraser River's north arm. Sounds begin to soften and lengthen just a few meters inside the forest of old trees. Jets, cars, voices take on a whispery, dream-like hum. It's this aural quality that makes the Park the place to look for peace, within a restful palette of greens. In the more open Camosun bog on the eastern edge, carefully constructed walkways give you panoramic views of interesting flora.

Calorie Burner
More practically, this park can really soak up kid energy, and is lovely for both short ambles and whole day treks. You can choose to walk in sun or shade, travel by foot or bicycle, and perhaps finish up on the beach for a swim. Bring your dog, ride your horse, or look at the scene through the lens of your camera. You can't camp, make fires, consume liquor, or make your own paths, but the existing ones are so extensive it would take days to tread them all, regardless. They're well sign-posted, so it's almost impossible to get lost. There is plenty of small wild life to view. Coyotes exist, but when spotted, warnings are posted at major entrances to the Park. You can get free maps & brochures at the same places.

Alternative TravelFrom mid-May to the end of August, BC Mobility Opportunities Society volunteers provide trail access to the park with a 'TrailRider', a vehicle designed specifically to allow people who are physically disabled to explore to the wilderness.