Ask any local what’s the #1 must-do summer activity at or near Stanley Park and you’d probably get a unanimous response: go for a stroll or cycle! Recently rated the #1 urban park in the world by Trip Advisor with some of the most scenic bike trails bar none, it is suitable not only for cycling, but also running, walking, in-line skating and stroller pushing, too. Step outside the doors of the hotel with JP, Lord Stanley Suite’s handyman extraordinaire for a scenic little ride!
First stop is getting a bike: look no further than Spokes Bicycle Rentals; (just down the street from the hotel) open daily with a huge selection of bikes to choose from for riders of all ages and ability levels. Once you’ve selected your bike and helmet, you’re good to go!
Starting at the most widely used as well as most popular route, the Stanley Park Seawall (foot of Denman and W. Georgia) overlooks a sweeping view of Coal Harbour and downtown Vancouver, one of the prettiest vistas of the city. From there, get off your bike and walk to the totem poles, just steps from the Seawall bike route to take some obligatory photos. Cruise around the bend to Brockton Point Lighthouse and catch a stunning water and mountain view of the North Shore, the Lions Gate Bridge and Burrard Inlet; another perfect photo op.
From here, veer off the beaten track to enjoy a quiet ride around Beaver Lake, a lush, green overgrown wetland teeming with life: it’s a habitat for waterfowl, fish and frogs; there’s a beaver lodge, too. Take the Beaver Lake Trail (across the Stanley Park Causeway where it becomes Lovers Walk) straight through; ending up at Second Beach, a quiet stretch of water for all kinds of water activities. Not more than a few hundred meters away is the crown in the jewel of the West End; English Bay, a busy hub of activity year round.
Our finishing point just up the block from Lord Stanley Suites is Lost Lagoon, the largest body of water in Stanley Park, complete with a fountain, pedestrian walkway and an easy to navigate bike route all the way back to the hotel.