Reasons to go
1. You love trees
2. You love walking
3. You want to explore the best streets & neighbourhoods in Vancouver
How to do it
1. Choose a walk
2. View online or download PDF (coming soon)
3. Get going!
What is a tree map walk?
A self-guided walk using significant and striking street trees as route markers. These routes will steer you clear of common touristy traps, and take you to where locals live and breathe. Delight in the beauty, spirit and utility of street trees in Vancouver whilst visiting some of its most interesting neighbourhoods.
How do I find the start?
All of these tree walk are circular so you can pick them up at any point. However, they have been designed to be walked in a given direction and the recommended starting point is usually the main public transport hub into the area. See Translink for public transport options from downtown Vancouver and around.
How long do the walks take?
Each self-guided walking route gives an approximate time and length. They are designed to enable you to experience each area fully, visiting some of the best parts and streets of each neighbourhood. However, if the walking route is too long, or you are time limited, use a pen and adapt it to your required length. There are lots of places for short-cuts! Each walk has recommendations on how to break up your day.
When should I go?
The answer is any time. The trees are ready to welcome you all year.
If you are lucky enough to visit Vancouver from March through to May you will catch the cherry blossoms. There are thousands of these trees all over Vancouver and the city becomes awash with waves of pink and white. All the walks will ensure that should you visit at this time, you will get to pass by some of the best specimens the area has to offer.
Late spring and summer are just as spectacular in Vancouver and the force of the trees in full leafage make you appreciate the green abundance of the city.
Fall is also incredible with some of the normally green tree-lined streets turning bright yellows, oranges, purples, reds and pinks. Some years are better than others, when a good a year comes it can be quite remarkable.
If you are into tree identification, winter is a more challenging time, especially for those trees who like to shed their leaves for the winter. Yet, the advantage of doing the walk at this time of year is that you get to experience naked branches in their full and intricate glory.
What is a theme?
Each walk has a theme. kitsTREEmap is connecting with nature in Kitsilano, driveTREEmap is the meaning of tree names both scientific and common in and around Commercial Drive, and WestEndTREEmap looks at the origins of the street names in the West End. Giving a walk a theme we hope adds interest by providing a narrative or focus that enhances engagement and exploration. Themes can help walkers learn about specific aspects of the area, and create a more fun and memorable journey.
What is so special about Vancouver trees?
Vancouver is one of the greatest and greenest cities in the world, often topping quality of life charts worldwide yet perhaps more spectacular than anything is the thousands and thousands of trees lining the streets and growing in residential gardens. So make the most of a time here and let the trees guide your way!
Spot a tree change?
That’s the thing about living and breathing things, they are not permanent. These walks are a few years old now but no less good, but if you spot a change, please let us know, it will be much appreciated.
Downtown Vancouver Walk Location Map
