Big Adventures, Small Time Commitment
From cliffside railways to waterfall hikes and forest zip lines, these escapes deliver maximum fun with minimum hassle. Whether you’ve got toddlers or teens in tow, there’s something for every level of thrill-seeker.
The best part? You can be home by dinner (or bedtime). These spots are ideal for spontaneous weekend outings, long summer days, or screen-free school holidays. Many locations offer on-site dining, picnic areas, and accessible trails, making it easy to pack up the family and hit the road with confidence.
You’ll find breathtaking viewpoints, immersive nature experiences, and unique local attractions that make for standout family memories. Plus, the shorter travel time means less whining from the back seat and more energy for climbing rocks, crossing suspension bridges, or chasing waterfalls.
So load up the car with snacks, water bottles, and sunscreen. Whether you’re hunting for tide pools, spotting wildlife, or just soaking in the mountain air, these mini adventures prove you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere extraordinary.
Top Adventurous Day Trips Within 90 Minutes of Vancouver
- Britannia Mine Museum (Britannia Beach)
Located just 10 minutes south of Squamish, this award-winning museum and National Historic Site offers an immersive experience into British Columbia's mining history. Families can ride an underground mining train, explore interactive exhibits, try gold panning, and enjoy the multi-sensory BOOM! show in the historic Mill No. 3 building. - Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (North Vancouver)
Iconic and exhilarating. Cross the famous suspension bridge, explore the Treetops Adventure, and test your nerve on the Cliffwalk. - Lynn Canyon Park (North Vancouver)
A free alternative to Capilano with its own suspension bridge, swimming holes, and rainforest trails. Great for adventurous but budget-conscious families. - Sea to Sky Gondola (Squamish)
Ride high above Howe Sound, explore alpine trails, and walk across the thrilling Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. Perfect for all ages. - Golden Ears Provincial Park (Maple Ridge)
Offers hiking trails, swimming beaches, and waterfalls. Lower Falls Trail is easy and scenic for families. - Hell’s Gate Airtram (Fraser Canyon)
Glide over the Fraser River’s narrowest point. Includes historic exhibits, river walks, and a suspension bridge. - Grouse Mountain (North Vancouver)
Take the Skyride gondola, meet grizzly bears, explore mountaintop trails, and try ziplining or ropes courses in summer. - Belcarra Regional Park (Port Moody)
An ideal spot for families to kayak, crab fish, hike to Jug Island, or picnic by the beach with forested views. - Mundy Park Adventure Playground & Trails (Coquitlam)
Combine a unique playground with forest biking trails, duck ponds, and an easy family-friendly loop trail. - WildPlay Element Park (Maple Ridge)
An aerial adventure park with ziplines, obstacle courses, and a giant bungee swing for ages 5+. - Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park (Chilliwack)
A short, rewarding walk to a breathtaking waterfall. Great for beginner hikers and young explorers.
Adventure is just around the corner. So pack snacks, load up the car, and make a day of it—these epic escapes are closer than you think!
Wondering what to do with the kids in Metro Vancouver this weekend, or what to make for dinner? You can find it at HealthyFamilyLiving.com! From the Sunshine Coast to the Fraser Valley, we’re the best online resource for busy parents looking for practical tips for healthy, active, sustainable living. For the latest on family events, outdoor adventures, birthday parties, camps & classes and kid-approved recipes, follow us on Facebook and sign-up for our parent-approved e-newsletter!
