Salmon Fun Itinerary

Salmon Run = Salmon Fun
Highlights of this Two Day
Salmon Trail Itinerary
• See local salmon in their natural habitat.
• Learn about the lifecycle of salmon at
the Fish Hatchery.
• Taste our west coast specialty at the
Salmon House.
• Go salmon fishing! Watch our video.
DAY 1
Everything Salmon
DAY 2
Salmon Fishing Adventures
Salmon are to Vancouver’s North Shore like maple syrup is to Quebec. So,
there is no better place to savour “everything salmon” than right here.
If you want to come and get involved in the sport of fishing there are
options. You can book a fishing charter or set out on your own.
SEE SALMON IN THEIR NATURAL HABITAT
Start the day with a walk on the beautiful Coho loop in Capilano Canyon
Park. Depending on your energy level, explore the many other trails this
park has to offer, including the spectacular Cleveland Dam. (Allow 1 to
3 hours depending on how much hiking you want to do).
GET OUT ON THE RIVER FISHING
If you are a fishing pro and you want to try fishing for salmon in our local
rivers or streams, just bring your gear and head to the Capilano River for
some of the best salmon fishing opportunities in the Lower Mainland.
The early Coho salmon run typically peaks in June and July. In addition,
summer steelhead are often found between July and September. It is
important to note that ALL steelhead (both wild and hatchery marked)
are required to be released. And don’t forget, you must have a valid
British Columbia freshwater fishing license which you can purchase online.
When you are in the area, don't miss the remarkable Capilano Fish
Hatchery Interpretive Centre and self-guided tour visited by 400,000
people annually. Learn about and see fish develop from eggs to juvenile
stage, when they are released to the river in spring. Be sure to visit the
"Fishway" where you can see how salmon climb the fish ladders by
jumping from one pool to the next. Admission is free. (1 hour)
SEAFOOD LUNCH ON THE WATERFRONT
Want to taste our local seafood? Head down Capilano Road to Marine
Drive and drive west to Dundarave. At the foot of West Vancouver’s
Dundarave Pier is one of Vancouver’s iconic restaurants – The Beach House
Restaurant and Lounge. Choose to eat in the west coast style dining
room or lunch in the beachside patio. Either way you’ll enjoy gorgeous
views of the water and the Dundarave seawall where locals of all ages
enjoy an oceanside stroll or run. (2 hours)
EXPLORE SALMON ART AND CULTURE
After lunch walk east along the Dundarave
seawall to see some public art celebrating
our salmon runs. At the end of the
pavement, cross the bridge and you will see
Lawson Creek Studios. Walk to the backside
of the building and you will see a lovely
salmon sculpture over a local stream.
(Allow 1 to 2 hours)
Be sure to stop in at Lonsdale Quay Market and Shops and pick up some
smoked salmon to take home for your family and friends from The
Salmon Shop. Kosta the Fishmonger has fresh local fish including BC
salmon, halibut, cod fillets, prawns and shrimp. (1 hour)
GET OUT ON A BOAT FISHING
Experience excellent deep-sea fishing when
you book a salmon fishing charter from
Sewell’s Marina. Within 15 to 20 minutes from
Horseshoe Bay, you can be fishing from
different spots with their knowledgeable local
guides. The five salmon species: Chinook
(King), Coho (Silvers), Pinks, chum and Sockeye
all can be found in the waters surrounding Vancouver’s North Shore.
Group Fishing Derbies are also available. (Minimum 5.5 hours)
SHOP FOR SOUVENIRS
After a day’s adventure fishing, spend some time in Horseshoe Bay and
visiting the local shops. Have a snack, craft beer or coffee and then visit
the Spirit Gallery. This store offers a fabulous collection of West Coast
Native art, stunning gold and silver jewelery, salmon inspired fine art
prints, bentwood boxes, Inuit art and hand carved masks. (2 hours)
DINE AT THE SALMON HOUSE ON THE HILL
Top off your day with a visit to West Vancouver’s renowned Salmon
House on the Hill. Start with drinks in the Coho Lounge where the wrap
around windows give you an amazing view of downtown Vancouver
and the Burrard Inlet. This award winning restaurant has a menu that is
just as spectacular as the view. Be sure to try their Pesto Crusted
Chinook Salmon or their Alder Grilled Salmon Trio. (2 hours)