Walk a three-hour route through Stanley Park’s last old-growth stands with a knowledgeable guide. See 600+ year-old Douglas firs, 1,000-year cedars, and learn the human and natural history that preserved these giants.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Fog lifts off the seawall as you step into the park and the city noise thins; trunks thicken and the air cools. Under a canopy of needle and leaf, Douglas firs and cedars loom like living columns — some more than 600 years old, cedars exceeding a millennium — while your guide points out hidden giants that most visitors miss.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk on uneven ground for three hours with rest stops
Wildlife
History
Stanley Park sits on lands used for thousands of years by Coast Salish peoples and was designated a public park in the late 19th century; many trees predate the park’s formal layout.
Conservation
These old-growth pockets face urban pressures and invasive species; guided visits help foster stewardship while keeping visitors on trails to protect root zones.
Reserve your spot on the Ancient Trees of Vancouver Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Sturdy, grippy footwear
Trails include roots, damp soil and short stair sections—wear supportive shoes with traction.
Bring a refillable water bottle
There are no guaranteed water stops on the route—carry at least 1 liter for the three-hour tour.
Early start for bird activity
Mornings are quieter and better for spotting forest birds and enjoying cooler temperatures.
Respect sensitive areas
Stick to trails and follow the guide; some ancient tree root zones are fenced or fragile.
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
Provides traction and ankle support on root-strewn, uneven park trails.
Waterproof rain jacket
Pacific Northwest weather is changeable—stay dry and comfortable during coastal rains.
fall
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through the three-hour tour—there are limited refill options en route.
summer
Camera or binoculars
Helpful for documenting large trees and spotting birds or distant shoreline wildlife.