Day One
Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier
A simple but satisfying start: a cappuccino with a brioche breakfast sandwich layered with pork sausage, fried egg, aged cheddar, and a roasted garlic chipotle aioli. A delicious way to fuel up.
Takaya Tours
At Cates Park, I joined Takaya Tours for an Indigenous canoeing experience on the traditional waters of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. In a 45-foot ocean-going canoe, guided by James and Seth, we paddled Burrard Inlet while listening to Coast Salish songs and stories. Seth’s voice carried ancestral histories that resonated deeply, creating goosebumps as we moved in rhythm together. More than a tour, it was a reminder of the canoe as both a vessel and a storyteller, a link between people, place, and history.
Wildeye Brewing
After paddling, we gathered at Wildeye Brewing, a spacious industrial-style brewery with darts, shuffleboard, and a welcoming patio perfect for dogs and summer sunshine. Their tasting flights tell stories through flavour:Neon Nectar IPA – crisp, hoppy, and well-balanced.Spicy Margarita Sour – rimmed with tajín, it offered a playful punch of lime and spice.Pineapple Radler – bright, tropical, and refreshing.Mango Sticky Rice IPA – a surprising twist: classic hops with a lingering smooth mango note.Alongside the beer, I savored pulled-pork tostadas topped with slaw and house-made pilsner BBQ sauce. Wildeye has a knack for making beer an experience — each pour layered with creativity.
Seaside Provisions
Steps from the hotel, Seaside Provisions delivered casual chic with exceptional hospitality. Known for its charcuterie, we indulged in artisan cheeses (including Truffle Manchego) alongside duck prosciutto and bison herb. The highlight was the seafood platter — oysters, lobster rolls, ceviche, prawns, tartare, mussels, each dish beautifully plated and prepared with intention. Later, we strolled the pier at Lower Lonsdale, its lights reflecting the shipyard’s storied past. Once a cornerstone of shipbuilding during WWII, the area is now one of North Vancouver’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, proof of how history can be transformed into community.
Day Two
Jam Cafe
Retro décor and a warm vibe made Jam Café a cheerful start. Jen ordered the famous Blackstone Benny with sugar-cured bacon — a house specialty worth the hype.
Grouse Mountain – The Peak of Vancouver
I hadn’t been to Grouse since childhood, and experiencing it without snow was transformative. We rode the new “Blue Grouse Gondola,” opened December 2024, with sweeping views of the city and mountains. At the top, we explored totems and the Grizzly Bear Sanctuary, home to Grinder and Coola, who roamed peacefully in their forest enclosure.The Eco Walk offered insights into Indigenous plant knowledge, such as the Coast Salish use of yellow cedar for paddles, masks, and tools. Grouse proved itself a true four-season destination, from skiing and snowshoeing in winter to hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences in summer.
Beva Brewing & Blending Ltd.
We biked the Spirit Trail to Brava Brewing, greeted by owner Morgan, who exudes enthusiasm for her craft. Paired with nostalgic onion dip and spiced sour cream with fresh bread, the taster rack was a delight:Brico Stout – smooth chocolate and coffee notes.Mutzadel Hazy IPA – crisp and lightly spiced.Beva Lager – classic, light, and refreshing.Juciful Hazy IPA – juicy citrus and tropical hops.
Strathcona North – Strathcona Beer Company
From there, we sampled at Strathcona Brewery, where the Raspberry Wit and Beach Peach Radler were standouts, bright, fruity, and perfect for summer.
Fishworks
Known for sustainable seafood and a stellar BC wine list, Fishworks delivered a feast. We shared the seafood tower: lobster tail, crab legs, scallops, mussels, and oysters, paired with a buttery Chardonnay recommended by our host. The rustic-contemporary setting and local artwork made the meal as memorable as the food.
Reckless Shipyards North Vancouver eBikes
New to the world of e-bikes, I was excited to explore the Spirit Trail. This scenic route blends ocean views with cultural experiences. Jen and I met Tony and Bosco at Reckless Bike Rentals, conveniently located just steps from the Pinnacle Hotel.Bosco provided a quick orientation on the bike features and safety reminders before we set off. The Spirit Trail offered a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural storytelling, featuring incredible Indigenous artwork along the route. The trail wound gently between the ocean and forest, with smooth, well-maintained paths that made for an effortless and nostalgic ride. The kind where you can’t help but smile with the wind in your hair.
Day Three
Loam Bistro
Loam Bistro brought global comfort flavors to the table. I loved the avocado croissant with guacamole, poached egg, and pea purée, while Jen raved about the potato latkes. Rahul, the owner, shared his culinary inspirations from around the world, and insisted we try the pistachio French toast an indulgent finale worth every bite.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Capilano is more than its iconic bridge it’s a legacy. Passed down through generations, it has evolved into a showcase of stewardship and regenerative tourism. Beyond the swaying bridge, we explored treetop adventures, the Cliffwalk, and forest trails highlighting the cultural and ecological significance of the region. Walking away with a certificate of accomplishment felt like a fun celebration of the journey.
Shipyard Tour – MONOVA
On a guided walking tour, Sophie was in character as a WWII shipyard worker and brought history to life. From employment cards to murals, she connected us to the workers who built the ships between 1940–45. We ended at the pier, standing before a mural of a traditional canoe. Sophie shared the “Paddle Song,” sung during the Great Vancouver Fire of 1886, when the Squamish Nation rescued survivors by canoe. It was a poignant reminder of resilience and community.From there, we celebrated the present at local breweries, North Point, Beere Brewing, Braggot Brewing, and Copperpenny Distillery each offering not just unique beers and spirits, but stories of family, passion, and place.
North Point Brewing Co.
Tucked away just steps from the Shipyards, North Point Brewing feels like slipping into a cozy cabin retreat in the middle of the city. The brewery was founded by four lifelong friends “cabin besties”, who wanted to recreate the feeling of those cherished getaways. The space is warm and rustic, decorated with wood accents and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to linger. Upstairs, there’s a classy gathering space perfect for private events, and owner Shaun proudly shared how they now do custom cans for corporate collaborations. Their beers are named after their kids, which makes every pint feel personal. Sitting out on the patio, I met Kyaro, a friendly Shiba Inu with her own Instagram account (@kyaroblackheart), which perfectly summed up the playful, community-driven vibe of the place.
Beere Brewing Co.
Just a short walk away is Beere Brewing, run by Matt Beere, the head brewer and son of the founder. The space is simple and casual, designed for easy sipping and people-watching while the community buzzes around you. Behind the bar, Kalla kept things lively while pouring flights of some of their most popular beers. Their Go Easy Pale Ale is the crown jewel here—fresh, light, and endlessly drinkable. The IPA had that classic West Coast snappiness, while the Pink Tuscadero Sour was bright, tart, and unforgettable. My personal favorite was “I Love You, Say It Back”, a hazy IPA bursting with juicy hops, the kind of beer that keeps you coming back for just one more.
Braggot Brewing
A truly unique stop, Braggot Brewing blends Old World tradition with a modern twist. Owner Enrico, who moved from Italy in 2006, opened this brewery just three years ago with a signature ingredient: his family’s honey, harvested in Delta, BC. The result is beers with a distinct character, rich with floral and natural sweetness. We sampled thoughtful creations like Melones, which carried a zesty orange finish, the crisp and lightly bitter Golden, a honey-kissed Brown Ale, and the refreshing Classic Pilsner. Their standout, Ambrosia, is brewed with 50% amber honey from midsummer nectars, a glass of liquid sunshine. Right next door is Tipo Foods, run by Maryam, offering fresh salads, sandwiches, and pizzas that pair perfectly with Enrico’s beers. We couldn’t resist sampling a few bites, and it was the perfect complement to the honey-forward brews.
Copperpenny Distilling Co.
On our way back toward the Shipyards, we discovered Copperpenny Distilling, a Gatsby-inspired gem with golden accents and an atmosphere straight out of a movie. The story behind the distillery is as fun as the cocktails: owners Jennifer and Yan started the venture on a dare “Gin made me do it,” Jennifer joked during our visit. Behind the beautiful bar, Ky mixed up a perfectly spiced margarita for Jen, while Yan shared their passion for creating spirits with locally sourced ingredients. Their wheat comes from a single-source farmer, Ebert Schutter, in Invermere, BC. Everything is mashed, fermented, and distilled on-site. The highlight was their Oyster Shell Gin, created in partnership with Fanny Bay Oysters. It carries a smoky, mezcal-like depth with a briny finish—a flavor that practically begs to be mixed into a Caesar. While rooted in local collaborations, they also serve their beloved Czech Pilsner, the only beer on tap and now the number one Czech Pils account in BC. This balance of classic imports and experimental creations made Copperpenny a standout, a space that celebrates both community and craftsmanship
King Taps Lonsdale Quay
We ended the night with pizza overlooking the waterfront. The Shipyards Boardwalk was glowing, a lively community where history, dining, and nightlife converge.Leaving North Vancouver, I carried with me a renewed appreciation for this place where mountains meet the sea. It’s a destination layered with history, adventure, food, and stories, a reminder that among the skyscrapers, the forest and its spirit are never far away.
Plan for a safe and well informed adventure
At Paddle BC, we’re as excited about your upcoming adventure as you are! Our goal is to help you experience the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia’s waterways, but we want to ensure you return home with only good memories. While we provide the gateway to these wild places, your safety is ultimately a personal commitment. We embrace a “challenge by choice” philosophy, which means you are the best judge of your own abilities. By staying within your skill set and taking personal responsibility for your journey, you ensure that your trip is as safe as it is spectacular. To help you prepare for a successful multiday adventure, we’ve outlined these six essential safety pillars:
Carry Mandatory Gear
Ensure you have all Transport Canada required equipment: a lifejacket (PFD), throw bag, whistle, bailing device, and a reflective signaling device. This gear is your first line of defense.
Plan for Conditions
River levels and weather in BC change rapidly. Check forecasts regularly, be aware that many hazards may be hidden, and always have a solid contingency plan in place.
Respect Nature
Expect to encounter wildlife in the BC wilderness. Respect their space, protect the ecosystem, and strictly follow “Leave No Trace” principles to keep our waters pristine.
Dress for Immersion
Always “dress for the swim, not the paddle.” Use appropriate thermal layers to protect against cold water shock, which can occur instantly and lead to physical incapacitation.
Know Your Limits
Practice “challenge by choice” and never attempt water that exceeds your ability. Don’t let a multiday itinerary pressure you into paddling beyond your personal skill set.
Assess and Manage Risk
River paddling carries inherent risks like injury or entrapment. Remain vigilant, scout ahead when necessary, and remember that help may be far away during your adventure.