Cates Park

Cates Park in North Vancouver is more of a relaxed waterfront hangout than a hardcore hike, and that’s exactly its charm. This 3.7 km out-and-back route is flat, easy, and usually done in under an hour, making it ideal for a quick walk before or after work or a mellow weekend outing with kids, grandparents, and the dog.

The Cates Park trail weaves through a mix of forested paths and open park space with constant peeks of Burrard Inlet. You’ll pass sandy beach access, a long wharf, sports fields, and playgrounds, with views stretching across the water toward Deep Cove and the North Shore mountains. The path is wide, smooth, and friendly for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes, so it feels more like a community promenade than a remote hike.

Recent visitors say Cates Park is very child friendly and a great “nice afternoon stroll,” with lots of families and leashed pups on the go. Dogs are allowed on the signed trails, with one designated off-leash section, but they’re not permitted on the beaches or fields, so watch the signs if you’re bringing your pet. The trail is open year-round and stays easy in all seasons, though it can be damp after rain, so expect a few slick patches under the trees and bring a light layer for the breeze off the water.