Having lived in North Vancouver since 2016 I’m really starting to really understand and appreciate this city and take advantage of everything it offers. I’ve spoken to many people who live in the city of Vancouver that have never explored the north shore other than passing through on the sea-to-sky when they head up to Squamish or Whistler. People often ask why I live in North Van and I’m always thinking “why wouldn’t I live in North Van?” Having said that, I obviously know it’s not for everyone and I totally understand why people choose to live elsewhere.
I decided to share why I love this place so much and why I chose to grow my Real Estate business here…So if you’re thinking of moving here….I know a guy!!
Proximity to downtown and skytrains
Many people have never taken the Seabus before but let me tell you…it’s great! No more dealing with traffic on the bridge, it drops you right in historic Gastown and connections with both skytrain lines. Almost all the buses in North Van go to the seabus station so its super easy to get there. You’re also able to bring your bike aboard too.
If you’re driving it’s not bad either. Sometimes the bridges can get a bit clogged up but you just have to plan your trip into the city to work around that. Usually I can get to my office located downtown in about 15-20 minutes. Also the drive going over the Lionsgate is pretty nice too, just make sure to keep your eyes on the road because the view can be very distracting.
World class skiing in your backyard
Whether you’re an expert skier/snowboarder or just starting out, there’s something for everyone on North Van’s 3 local mountains that offer great skiing, snowshoeing, and access to backcountry in the winter. Cypress Mountain is technically in West Van, but it offers the most mountain terrain and amazing views of Howe Sound. Grouse Mountain is in the middle of the three mountains and could be argued that it’s the most accessible because of its location and tram that gets you up the mountain. Mount Seymour is last but not least. Although it is a bit smaller than the others, you can’t beat its affordable lift tickets and “mountain vibes” you know brah?
If you are hungry for a little more mountain and epicness, Whistler Blackcomb is a quick 1.5-2 hour rip up the sea-to-sky highway, which flies by with its incredible views the whole way there. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America and I can honestly say its pretty mind blowing. So que up Bend it like Beckham for the car ride and you’ll be there by the time it finishes.
Beautiful neighbourhoods
From Lower Lonsdale to Deep Cove to Edgemont Village, each neighbourhood has something unique and special to offer. Lower Lonsdale is filled with cute shops and cafes like Lift Bakery, Foxy Market, Mo’s General Store , and many more. Deep Cove has some breathtaking views and is the perfect place if you’re looking for a quiet place near the water. There’s some great hiking and paddling you can do there as well and the water is great for swimming. Edgemont Village is a cute little strip of shops and cafes that really makes you feel like you’re in a small town. People know each other and say hi, which is a welcomed change from the city life. If you’re in the mood for a good coffee or pastry you can go to BjornBar Bakery.
These are just a few examples of some great neighbourhoods, but whether you’re looking for suburbs, downtown feel, or a secluded A- Frame in the forest, North Van can accommodate.
Hiking, biking, and swimming
This is probably my favorite part about living in North Van. In a 5 minute drive you can be surrounded by massive trees and jumping into some (very cold) fresh river water. There are so many cool spots to swim and even some rope swings/cliff jumping. Even on a busy day it’s not hard to find your own private swimming hole.
Mountain biking is a way of life in North Van, and rightfully so. The mountains here are home to some of the best biking trails the world has to offer. I personally haven’t tried the biking here but I know that a lot of my friends love it. There’s a trail for every level of rider, I’ve even seen toddlers out there shredding it!
The hiking trails here are amazing. There’s endless amounts of trails and look out points to explore. If you’re feeling adventurous there’s full day excursions you can do or if you’re tight on time you can just do a scenic 1 hour rip. Some of my favourites include Pump Peak on Mount Seymour, Powerline trail off skyline road, and Quarry Rock in Deep Cove with a Honey’s donut after.
Everyday beauty and fresh mountain air
There’s something about breathing the mountain air that can make anyone feel great, I don’t care who you are! Having come from London, Ontario this is one of the things I noticed right away after I moved here. No mugginess in the summer and no freezing cold winters. As long as you can deal with the rain it is certainly a nice change.
The other thing that I love is just how nice the scenery is here. It literally feels like i’m on vacation all the time. Sometimes the sun will hit the mountains in West Van when it sets and it gives the hole thing an amazing golden glow. If you go down to the pier at sunset the vancouver cityscape puts on a decent show as well. North Van is littered with natural beauty, and to me it’s the perfect mix of city life and wilderness. Waking up here everyday really does make me feel proud and lucky to be Canadian!
