Exploring Vancouver SUrrounds
 

We are planning our trip to Vancouver in mid September. We hope to see some of the "in town" spots like the UBC Anthro Museum, Stanley Park, Granville Island but would also like some tips for places to visit outside of Vancouver proper. We'd like easy paths to walk and perhaps just someplace lovely to explore. I've just begun to do research. I know folks say to take a drive to Whistler..which route? Someone mentioned Shannon Falls to me last evening..any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to stay under an hour travel time each way. We will have a car and are staying in the West End while in Vancouver. We have already been to Victoria and are looking to explore the mainland a bit more. Thanks

PamSF: Capiolani Bridge, just north of the city, has some easy walking paths; fairly level with stops along he way with interesting facts posted. The walk across the bridge itself is a hoot, and the nice wooded paths are a plus. The whole thing can be done in 2 hours at a slow pace.
Far as I know there's only one highway to Whistler. Don't recall the number, but any map will show it. The drive is scenic. In Whistler be sure to take the ski lifts up to the glacier. On a clear day the view is spectacular. Also, Whistler has very nice walking routes, both in the village and out along some lakes --very nice early morning walks. Be sure to take along a good sweater or jacket. We were there in July and needed them!

On a nice day, White Rock is fun. It sort of reminds me of Brighton Beach in England. I also second the motion for a daytrip to Whistler (more than an hours drive though) Stop at the falls on the way up. The Buntzen lake area in Port Co. has some decent walking trails but nothing that beats Whistler or Stanley Park.

What exactly is there to do in Whistler? I too am looking for some excursions outside of Vancouver...but when I do research on different places, all activities seem to be for the athlete! I have fibromyalgia. I never know what kind of a day I am going to have from one day to the next. I really enjoy walking around, but anything strenuous is definitely out (or I may end up ruining the rest of my vacation). I hear Whistler is gorgeous and I would love to visit...but all I hear about is the hiking and skiing.

Well being that Whistler is in the mountains it's pretty much all up 'n down.
The worst idea is to pay (in $US!) for a Guide to take you for a Hike on a Public Trail-but people do every day.
Maybe a walk around town-10 minutes tops-and if you're feeling good a walk around Alta Lake.
http://www.bcadventure.com/adventure...amish/alta.htm
A detailed search of the BCAdventure site may unearth something.

Thank you everyone!