With towering deciduous trees in vibrant shades of orange and views of snow-capped mountains in the distance, Vancouver sets the stage for a beautiful autumn walk. Here are some of our favourite routes to explore on a brisk fall afternoon. 
1. The Arbutus Greenway
This nine-kilometre walk takes you on a journey through some of the West Side’s most beautiful neighbourhoods. Walk, bike or run through Kerrisdale, Shaughnessy and Kitsilano as you take the beautiful leafy surroundings, ideally with a coffee in hand. One of the most pleasant discoveries about this walkway is that it passes by numerous green spaces, such as Quilchena Park and Maple Community Garden, making for a welcome detour to throw a frisbee for your dog or swing on the monkey bars with your children. 
2. West 10th Avenue
With its quaint neighbourhood shops and tree-lined streets, Point Grey Village can often feel like a scene out of a Hallmark movie. Grab a cinnamon bun from the legendary Grounds for Coffee to fuel your hike up the hill to this warm and welcoming community, where you’ll find Trimble Park, a sprawling green space with breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains. Then spend an hour or two admiring the charming character homes on Point Grey’s narrow residential streets, and if you’re in need of some ocean air, you can walk down the hill to Jericho Beach. 
3. The University of British Columbia
Nothing says fall quite like a university campus, and lucky for us, UBC is particularly spectacular this time of year. While there are plenty of handsome brick buildings and wide, leafy walkways to inspire an autumnal feeling, you’ll also be able to see some of the school’s state-of-the-art new builds. Over the years, the University of British Columbia has transformed into a leading institution in more ways than one, and its vibrant atmosphere reflects that. 
4. Vanier Park
Vanier Park is a bustling Mecca for Kitsilano locals to get in their morning workouts. Begin your walk at Kits Beach and head west along the water towards the Burrard Street Bridge. As you stroll along the gravel path, you’ll be able to take in stunning views of English Bay’s changing colours. Conclude your walk at Granville Island, where you can reward yourself with a Lee’s Honey Dip doughnut, a frosty beer at Tap & Barrel, a leisurely grocery shop at the Public Market, or, of course, all of the above. 
5. Stanley Park
Although it’s quite the obvious choice, it’s easy for locals to forget that we have this magnificent outdoor space at our doorsteps. If you have a step count goal to reach, you’ll want to do the Sea Wall loop, but otherwise, a stomp through the park’s vast geography will provide ample opportunities to admire its beautiful trees. The Vancouver Rowing Club will present some of the best views of changing foliage, but a stop at one of the park’s cafes or restaurants will allow you to do so from a more comfortable seat.
For lovers of nature, cycling, dogs, or closing their rings, Vancouver is a walker’s paradise that shines especially bright in early autumn. If living in a neighbourhood with a high walk score is important to you, contact a rennie advisor who can assist you in finding a home that suits your needs.
