Talking Trees: Stanley Park Indigenous Walking Tour Led by a First Nations Guide
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Each Talking Trees tour is unique, shaped by the land, the season, and the stories shared along the way.
Your experience begins with a brief land acknowledgment and gentle introduction from your Cultural Land Ambassador. Together, you’ll walk among towering cedars, maples, firs, and wild berries, learning how Indigenous peoples have lived sustainably in this region since time immemorial.
Through engaging storytelling and land-based teachings, you’ll discover how local plants and trees were traditionally used for food, medicine, technology, and cultural practices. Your guide will share the story of the “Tree of Life” and its many gifts, including uses connected to transportation, housing, clothing, and ceremony.
Along the way, you’ll learn how Indigenous communities practiced stewardship through selective harvesting and reciprocal relationships with the land, knowledge systems that continue today. Each tour is shaped by the season and the interests of the group.
Available options
12 pm Tour Option
Talking Trees 12 noon Tour: Talking Trees Tour 12:00 pm Tour Option
What's included
Local Cultural Land Ambassador (Guide)
Talaysay Hush Tea (Indigenous Tea Blend) - Single Cup
Detailed itinerary
1
When driving, You enter into Stanley Park from Georgia Street via the Causeway. You will go on the Round About. Pass the first exit and continue onto the exit for Pipeline Road. You will drive up the hill past the Rose Garden and turn right into the Parking Lot for the Stanley Park Mini Train and Aquarium. Also in this location is the Stanley Park Bus Loop. There is only one Bus Loop that picks up and drops off passengers in the Park. Your guide will be waiting in the round wooden Gazebo for you. The building is a hut like dwelling with open spaces (no walls). The guide will introduce themselves to you when they see you.
2
From the Stanley Park Bus Loop, guests will set out on a guided walking route toward Beaver Lake, following shaded forest trails and pausing at several iconic points along the way for storytelling and knowledge sharing.
As the group walks, the Cultural Land Ambassador will introduce key plants, trees, and landscape features, sharing Indigenous teachings, stories, and traditional uses connected to food, medicine, technology, and cultural practices. The pace is relaxed, with regular stops to observe the land, ask questions, and engage in discussion.
The route loops around Beaver Lake before returning along the trail toward the Stanley Park Bus Loop. The walking portion of the experience takes approximately 90 minutes in total and concludes at the same meeting point where the tour began.
3
After completing the loop around Beaver Lake, the group will make their way back along the forest trail toward the Stanley Park Bus Loop, where the tour concludes.
The return walk offers a relaxed opportunity for guests to ask additional questions, reflect on what they’ve learned, and engage in informal conversation with their Cultural Land Ambassador. The tour ends at the same meeting point, allowing guests to easily return to their cars, buses, or continue exploring Stanley Park on their own.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Stanley Park has paid parking throughout the park.
Public transportation to get to meeting location is not included in the cost of the tour.
(Optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
26 reviews
5★
24
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
60 reviews
5★
58
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
This location is at the round wooden Gazebo (Public Transit drop off location right in Stanley Park) via Pipeline Road. The site is called the Stanley Park Bus Loop
Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2.
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Dress for the weather.
About Vancouver
Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban living and wilderness adventures.
Top Attractions
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 400-hectare public park that boasts stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and the city skyline. It is one of the largest urban parks in North America and offers a variety of recreational activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (Vancouver Aquarium has an admission fee)
Granville Island
Granville Island is a bustling hub of activity, known for its public market, artisan shops, and waterfront restaurants. It is a great place to sample local food, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy live performances.
Market/Entertainment
Half day
Free to explore, costs vary for food and shopping
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a thrilling experience with its suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliffwalk. It provides a unique perspective of the lush rainforest and offers educational programs about the local ecosystem.
Adventure/Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $55 CAD for adults)
Gastown
Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, known for its Victorian-era architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place to explore the city's history, shop for unique items, and enjoy a variety of dining options.
Historical/Shopping
Half day
Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining
MuseuM of Anthropology
The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a world-renowned museum that showcases the art and culture of the First Nations peoples. It features an impressive collection of totem poles, carvings, and artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $18 CAD for adults)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sushi
Vancouver is renowned for its high-quality sushi, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a large Japanese community. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are used to create delicious sushi rolls and sashimi.
Dinner
Contains fish, seafood, and sometimes raw ingredients
Poutine
A Canadian classic, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Vancouver.
Snack
Contains dairy and often meat-based gravy
Japadog
A Vancouver street food staple, Japadog is a hot dog with Japanese-inspired toppings such as teriyaki sauce, seaweed, and bonito flakes. It's a unique and delicious snack to try while exploring the city.
Snack
Contains meat and sometimes seafood
Bubble Tea
Originating from Taiwan, bubble tea is a popular beverage in Vancouver. It consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, served either hot or cold. There are many flavors and variations to choose from.
Drink
Varies by flavor, often contains dairy and sugar
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Snowboarding
Rock climbing
Kayaking
Spa
Beach
Picnic
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and driest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches and parks. It's also the peak tourist season with the most crowds.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Punjabi, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vancouver is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Vancouver International Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Pacific Central Station
By bus
Pacific Central Station, Greyhound Bus Depot
Getting around
Public transport
The SkyTrain is a fast, efficient, and affordable way to get around Vancouver. It consists of three lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
West End
Kitsilano
Gastown
Mount Pleasant
Day trips
Whistler
120 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight
Whistler is a world-renowned mountain resort known for its skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering stunning mountain views and a variety of recreational opportunities.
Victoria
100 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight
Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Steveston Village
25 km from Vancouver • Half day to full day
Steveston Village is a historic fishing village located in Richmond, known for its waterfront views, fresh seafood, and charming shops. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a taste of coastal life and local flavors.
Festivals
Vancouver International Film Festival • Late September to mid-October
Celebration of Light • July to August
Vancouver Folk Music Festival • Mid-July
Pro tips
- Use the SkyTrain and other public transportation options to get around the city efficiently and affordably
- Visit Granville Island Public Market for a taste of local flavors and unique gifts
- Explore Stanley Park by bike or on foot to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty
- Try local specialties, such as sushi, poutine, and Japadog, for an authentic Vancouver experience
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons and events
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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