Take a FREE bus from Vancouver to Cypress Provincial Park this summer

While Vancouver is surrounded by an abundance of nature, sometimes just getting out of the city itself can be the biggest barrier to exploring all the great outdoors has to offer.

For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.

See also

• You can visit these national parks and historic sites for FREE this Canada Day (PHOTOS)
• BC adding almost 600 new campsites to provincial parks and recreation sites
• Take an illuminated nighttime standup paddleboard tour of Vancouver this summer

However, thanks to the return of a free shuttle bus service this summer, some of that nature is now within closer reach.

Known as Parkbus, the shuttle service takes visitors from Vancouver to Cypress Provincial Park in West Vancouver.

Departures will be from MEC Vancouver Store (130 West Broadway), as well as at the Bank of China (near the Burrard SkyTrain station), in the morning, and returns in the late afternoon will be made in the same spot.

Now in its third year, the excursions were first piloted as a paid service, but last year the service was made free – after support from MEC and TD – and will remain that way this year.

The Parkbus service is operated by Vancouver-based charity, Better Environmental Sound Transportation.

While the service is free, seat reservations are made through the use of a valid credit card and will begin in mid-June.

Every bus will be accompanied by a facilitator who will offer outdoor safety information and promote “Leave No Trace” principles to first-time visitors to the park.

All passengers will receive pre-departure safety and park orientation information by email, as well.