A vibrant and bustling city in Canada, Vancouver is a place every dedicated traveler would love to plan a holiday in – consider this as a fact, as there’s a lot to explore and experience in this Canadian city. Winters in this part of Canada make this place all the more happening, as the options here are endless during this season. Also, who will miss a chance to try out skiing and snowboarding afterall? However, there’s more to Vancouver in winter than trying these two thrilling recreational activities. The vibe during this period is quite festive and gives a fair chance to the tourists to break the ice with locals. Read on to know more about the same.

What To Expect From Vancouver In Winter

Located in the province of British Columbia, Vancouver is considered to be the warmest amongst the metropolitan cities of Canada. The winter season in Vancouver begins in the month of December and stays till February. The season brings snow but the city essentially stays wet during this time. More than snowfall, there’s rain. However, there will be times when you’ll witness flash freezing which may cause some difficulty while driving.

The depth of snowbeds here is 1 centimeter that remains for almost 10 days. Apart from the wetness and warmth, the city also considered to be the foggiest – it is advised that you take necessary precautions when you plan to drive. The weather of Vancouver in winter months is subjected to fluctuations and therefore your holiday in this city might as well turn out to be quite surprising.

Things To Do In Vancouver In Winter

Winter season in the city of Vancouver is quite fun and interesting and the locals as well as tourists reap utmost benefits from this weather. Add these fun things to do in Vancouver in winter in your itinerary to make sure you have a memorable vacay here.

1. Indoor Bouldering

Woman taking part in indoor bouldering

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If you are an adventure lover, then this activity will definitely make you happy. Bouldering indoors is the best way to experience rock climbing. The thrill that you’ll experience here will be no less and since you are being assisted by some great professionals and will be properly harnessed, there’s no danger involved. There are a number of gyms that have arranged for a hassle-free indoor bouldering setup.

Average Cost: 1,570 INR (adults); 1,180 INR (16-17 years old); 850 INR (15 – below 6)
What’s so special?: this can be a fun activity to do if you’re traveling in groups

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2. Skiing

Skiing

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Though it does not snow much in this part of Canada, however, the city of Vancouver is visited by tourists during winters so that they can enjoy skiing. You can find many tourists as well as locals indulging in this activity. Some of the well-known cross-country as well as downhill ski services are easily accessible and a lot of people can be seen seeking for them.

Average Cost: 1,900 INR
What’s so special?: skiing on the famous mountains, Blackcomb and Whistler will be an adventurous and breathtaking experience

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3. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing

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This winter sport is gaining a tremendous popularity of late. The mountains in and around the city of Vancouver is visited by a large number of people who want to try this interesting activity. These mountains include Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Mount Seymour. You’ll get to enjoy this activity on a trail that is more than 20 kilometers long. Snowshoeing will definitely help you enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the city.

Average Cost: INR 845 (approx.); at some places, you can even enjoy it for free
What’s so special?: the best part about this activity is that it is more convenient than any other winter sport and therefore perfect for the amateurs

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4. Sledding

Sledding

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As already mentioned, snowfall doesn’t occur for a long time in the city of Vancouver and sledding can only be enjoyed for a few days here. Nevertheless, this adventurous activity, regardless of the time period, is definitely worth enjoying, as there are various hills in this side of Canada, giving people a huge number of options to try. You can go for sledding in different hills of Queen Elizabeth Park, China Creek North Park, and West Point Park.

Average Cost: INR 705 (approx.)
What’s so special?: this is one of the things you can try with your children for a memorable family holiday

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5. Ziplining

Ziplining

The experience you can undergo in winter ziplining would be a memorable one. Ziplining at the top of Grouse Mountain will take your breath away as you’ll cross over the snow-covered slope. If you’re trying this activity for the first time, then you don’t need to worry about anything as you’ll be securely harnessed and assisted by the professionals. You’ll be hung at a height of around 200 feet from the ground and will be sent from one point to another at a speed of 80 kilometers per hour.

Average Cost: starting from INR 3,160 (approx.)
What’s so special?: from above, you’ll get to witness the mesmerising view of the beautiful lush-green trees covered with snow and peaks of mountains

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6. Hot Spring

Hot Spring

The province of British Columbia is known for its hot springs. These hot springs can be found at some distance from the city of Vancouver. There are a number of hot springs in British Columbia located close to the city – St. Agnes Well or Skookumchuck Hot Springs, Harrison Hot Springs, Hot Springs Cove, and Crazy Creek Hot Pools. This is the ideal experience you can undergo if you’re looking for a way to unwind yourself when exploring different places in Vancouver during the winters.

Average Cost: INR 7,000 (approx.)
What’s so special?: apart from being one of the must-have experiences, hot spring is the best way to make the cold weather of Vancouver bearable

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Events And Festivals Happening In Vancouver In Winter

Events And Festivals Happening In Vancouver In Winter

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Starting from December, the events in Vancouver in winter will make your vacation here more happening, giving you a reason to remember your visit to Canada. The celebrations for the festival of Christmas are quite long, as the vibe can be felt from the day of Thanksgiving. However, during the winter months in Vancouver, you’ll get to be a part of more events than just the day of Christmas. The events or festivals celebrated during the winter season in Vancouver are listed below!

  • Christmas events: Yule Duel, Tree Lighting Celebration, Carol Ships Parade, Santa Claus Parade, Winter Solstice Lantern Festival, and Coquitlam’s Lights
  • New Year’s Eve Celebrations
  • Chinese New Year Festival and Parade
  • Family Day

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How To Reach Vancouver

How To Reach Vancouver

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The different modes of transport can be easily used to reach the city of Vancouver. If you are planning to visit this Canadian city, then make sure you are aware about these different ways that have been mentioned below!

By air: you can reach this city from any part of the world because of the presence of Vancouver International Airport. This airport is located in Richmond in Britsh Columbia, at a distance of 12 kilometers from Downtown Vancouver.

By Train: railways too are considered to be a hassle-free option for reaching Vancouver. It is even considered to be one of the inexpensive ways to visit the city. The popular rail service, VIA Rail Canada links the cities like Calgary, Banff, and Jasper with Vancouver.

By bus: the city of Vancouver connects well via bus and there are various bus lines here that connect this city with any other cities of Canada, namely Edmonton, Calgary, Whitehorse, Whistler, and more.

Further Read: 10 Places To Experience The Wildlife In Canada

Now that you know what Vancouver in Winter would be keeping in store for you, make sure you keep this guide handy in order to prepare a comprehensively productive itinerary. Your Canada holiday will definitely be an unparalleled travel experience if you plan to visit the city of Vancouver during winters and follow the guide.

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Category: Canada, Travel Guide, Vancouver

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