It may be early December, but it’s been a beautiful past couple of days in Vancouver–cold but sunny– which is a timely reminder that outdoor activities are not just for the summer here, they’re for any time it’s not raining!

Lighthouse Park is a perfect destination for a winter or summer ramble, a combination of classic west-coast forest with soft paths and giant tree stumps (and giant trees) and picture perfect rocky cliffs complete with, of course, a lighthouse. The dark density of the forest makes a striking and beautiful contrast with the grey rocks, the bright sky, and the crashing waves when you reach the beach. And luckily, there are benches in the form of washed-in driftwood and carved fallen logs from the forest on which to sit, and contemplate the scenery, with waves and screaming seagulls providing the only noise.

It’s located on the far west side of West Vancouver, and is reached by driving west along Marine Drive, until you encounter a wooden sign indicating the park. There is a large parking lot, and from there it’s an easy walk to the beach. Horseshoe Bay, a 10 or 15 minute drive away, makes a perfect after-hike destination for fish and chips or an ice-cream, and perhaps some seal-spotting.

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