8 Urban Adventures to Try in Canada

An adventure doesn’t have to mean spending hours and hours travelling by land, sea, or air. Instead, you can find adventures near, or even in, most Canadian cities. Depending on the level of thrill you seek, you’ll love exploring your wild side, while seeing Canada’s too.

Earn your view near Vancouver

Just a 20-minute drive north of Vancouver sits Grouse Mountain. A popular ski hill in the winter, in the summer people flock to the mountain to test their fitness on the “Grouse Grind.” The challenging hike sees you climb stairs up 850 metres, usually taking about 90 minutes to the top. Your legs might be a little tired the next morning, but the views (and the beer you drink while enjoying them) will be well worth it.

Hang ten in Edmonton

Edmonton is known for its mall, but did you know it’s also known for its surf? The West Edmonton Mall World Waterpark features all sorts of attractions to keep you busy for a day. Sure you could lounge pool-side in the Palm Cove Cabanas, but that’s not quite your speed. To spike your adrenaline instead, check out Flowrider, an indoor surfing experience that allows you to practice your wave riding skills in a controlled environment. Not a wave-catching pro? Don’t worry, surf lessons and even a surf club are offered at the waterpark. Now’s the time to find a little paradise in Edmonton. Mahalo!

See Saskatoon from the sky

When you think of Saskatchewan, the first thing that comes to mind probably isn’t the extreme outdoors. But don’t let your first impressions fool you. Head to Saskatoon or Regina and experience this prairie province from above by jumping out of a plane. Tandem dives are offered by various companies and give you a whole new perspective on the province. Of course, skydiving is no good unless you have proof, but fortunately you can get a DVD of your experience and take it home to share your sky-high Canadian adventure with friends and family.

Climb a tree in Winnipeg

Urban tree climbing in Winnipeg is the ultimate way to escape to the trees without leaving the city. Hang out with Travel Roots, a company that will take you on a tour of the city’s tree canopy. Clamber from branch to branch and connect with nature, before calling it a day and retiring to one of Winnipeg’s hip pubs or restaurants. Be sure to bring a camera to capture your time amongst the elms, oaks, cottonwoods, and pines.

Zip over Montreal

Keep it short, sweet and zippy with Mtl Zipline. This exhilarating ride in the Old Port area of Montreal will have you flying over the Saint-Lawrence River and seeing the city from above. Open throughout the spring and summer months, this experience offers spectacular views and is a safe and fun way to experience a free fall.

Live on the edge in Toronto

They say if you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much room. Live according to this motto at EdgeWalk at the CN Tower. High above the city, on top of Toronto’s most well-known landmark, you’ll be kitted out in a special suit to trek around the circumference of the restaurant, becoming part of the skyline. Enjoy views of the city from 51m above the streets, and if you’re feeling romantic, plan your wedding high in the sky.

Spot splashing whales in Newfoundland

Seeking out whales in Newfoundland and Labrador is a must-do if you’re an adventurer, especially since Signal Hill and Cape Spear, hot viewing spots for whales, are both within a short drive of St. John’s. Whether you explore by boat, sea kayak, or land, you could be lucky enough to see up to 22 different species of whales, including the largest population of humpbacks. Each summer, you’ll be treated to one of the most majestic experiences, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot icebergs and unique seabirds—it’s known in the area as the ‘Triple Play’ when you see all three. If you’re on the East Coast, be sure to take a tour by sea or zip around the coast to follow these beauties.

Glide over the Yukon’s glassy waters

Stand up paddle boarding, or SUPing, has become a must-do activity for most urban adventurers and the Yukon provides the perfect place to try it. Whether you’re a beginner looking to gain some balance— like at a SUP yoga class—or a SUP junkie who wants to explore kilometres and kilometres of pristine river starting in the city, this northern territory has something for you. There’s no better way to explore the Yukon than on the river that runs through its capital city, Whitehorse—time to dive in.

There’s no need to trek into the wilderness to get a bit wild. Add one of these adventures to your Canadian travel itinerary and indulge your inner adrenaline junkie.