6 Ways to Appreciate Nature in Vancouver

You don't have to deep dive into a camping excursion to get your dose of nature. Keep the spirit of adventure alive with these six suggestions.

Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre is always buzzing with the sound of excited children discovering something new about the plants and animals of the surrounding rainforest. On the first and third Friday of the month, you'll find a cozy drop-in centre with a gathering ready for Treetop Tales. If your little one (three to six years of age) is keen to explore more, then the two of you can sign up for a Saturday session with titles like Itty Bitty Critters designed to spark their interest.

Stanley Park Ecology Society is the place to go to get your kids off the beaten track at the city's biggest (and arguably best) park. It's fun and easy to enjoy with an informative guide and stroller-friendly paths. Try a Sunday morning Discovery Walk where heron colonies and beaver lodges are just two of the fascinating places you'll explore.

Take a short stroll along the Coho Loop trail where the old growth cedars and sheer walls of the canyon will draw oohs and aahs from your kiddie crowd. If you've packed a lunch, there are picnic tables and restrooms available. The hatchery is open from 8 am to 7 pm and (another bonus) admission and parking are free.

Out at Burnaby Lake, the ducks are always looking for a handful of birdseed and the beavers are busy building dams (best time to see these slick creatures is in the early evening). Make your first stop the Piper Spit Boardwalk where there's a viewing tower with a ‘birds-eye' of the wildlife that make this oasis in the middle of the city their home. You can also launch your canoe from here for an up close and personal view!

Go for a ‘green' global trek through the UBC Botanical Garden, where you'll not only see gorgeous plants in full bloom that are native to BC, but you and the kids can also discover international flora and fauna. Afterwards, take a quick walk through the campus to the Museum of Anthropology and visit the Nitobe Memorial Garden to enjoy the traditional Japanese ‘tea and stroll' garden.

Your kids enjoy being out in the elements while learning lots about the forest, from birding and plant identification to living off the land and co-existing with nature. It is a great way to create a love of the great outdoors, natural play and getting dirty, all while learning basic problem solving skills, team building and deepening the sense of community and respect for nature.