5 Great Things About Deep Cove

The Backdrop of Mountains and Ocean Bleed Into Your Soul

Deep Cove is a hidden gem nestled at the very eastern edge of North Vancouver. An Oasis of a neighbourhood that has transformed immensely over the years. I’m telling you that there must be something in the water here. It’s not a legendary tale or myth, but a true story of those from here. Deep Cove has bred some truly talented and famous people, from NHL hockey players to Olympic Athletes.  The reason being is what Deep Cove has just in its backyard. The backdrop of mountains and ocean bleed into your soul.

So by now Deep Cove is no secret, just try going there on a beautiful sunny weekend day in the summer. Good luck at finding any parking, unless you have friends or family here. It is truly a crazy, busy place during this time of year. But that’s not the only time of year it’s busy. It seems that what Deep Cove has to offer is something that people want all year around.

I could talk about 5 things just in my below list of Usual Suspects. But this area has so much more to offer, some that only the locals know and some that deserve to be spoken about. So instead of just focusing on what every other blog will talk about.

Let’s also talk about the other things that make Deep Cove truly special.

1. The Usual Suspects 

• Quarry Rock – An nice little hike that has a great payoff at the end. A view that overlooks the Cove and the Marina. There’s a reason that it’s hard to find parking when visiting Deep Cove, this is one of the major culprits. On any given weekend you will see the hoards of people flocking here to make this a part of their day. It really is a great hike, great for those who don’t want anything crazy and intense like the Grouse Grind. But also those who want to run up and down as exercise or take their dog for a good little outing. Be sure to leash your pet at the top, their noses will guide them to everyones treats and into some trouble with the cliffs.
• Deep Cove Kayak – Perfectly placed within the sheltered waters of Deep Coves Inlet at Panorama Park. You will have the chance to rent a Kayak, stand up paddle board (SUP) or canoe. Then venture up Indian Arm, 25 km of water surrounded by mountains, scattered with secluded beaches and islands.
• Honey’s Doughnuts – A charming hidden gem of a spot. Well, not really hidden at all, try walking by it on a sunny summer day. The crowds of people will make you want to check out whats going on. The doughnuts in hands will make your mouth water and soon you will find yourself in line. This is a must stop spot, especially after a hike up Quarry Rock or a walk around the water.
• The Raven – Those who know, know of The Raven. The pub hosting locals for generations, is a staple for Deep Cove. It’s a 100% chance that you will run into someone you know here if you grew up in Deep Cove. The local watering hole that all Deep Cove residents have grown up with is about to change dramatically. As some major development is coming but The Raven will stay, it just will be moved down to the corner. The very corner that’s the gateway to Deep Cove. Do yourself a favour and get there now, order a pizza and a pint.
• Deep Cove Brewers and Distillers – It’s no secret that the Craft Beer industry has taken over Vancouver. So where better to have a brewery than Deep Cove. Now this isn’t based in Deep Cove but rather a short distance away, still in North Vancouver. A great stop to have some food, beer and even spirits. As they too are a distillery and make their own Gin and Vodka. If there on the weekend you’ll be surprised with some live music.

2. Mount Seymour

Deep Cove residents are serious spoiled when it comes to nature and all its benefits. Here’s a list of some of my favourite spots to venture. Now the mountain in question here is Mount Seymour, located near Deep Cove in North Vancouver. A local ski hill that has so many other benefits to offer. Some for summer, some for winter.

• The Trails – There are too many trails to mention. Whether you are a mountain biker, hiker or trail runner. This is where you must visit and explore. Just get up to the top of this mountain and see where the trails take you. You will even find some great trailheads along your way up.
• Dog Mountain – Okay so I get it, you started reading the portion above and it went nowhere. You ask yourself why doesn’t he at least mention one trail to explore. So here we are, Dog Mountain is a must hike. Whether in the summer or winter. The beauty of this trail is its great all year round. Amazing trail to take your dog on, and when you get to the top the pay off is huge. At least as long as it’s a clear day. An amazing view of the city below and views that extend forever.
• Mystery Lake – This took me 20 years to find. It actually took a Deep Cove local (My Wife) to tell me about it. Sure it’s called Mystery Lake, but it’s no longer a mystery to many. But in the summer this is a great swimming hole, one that’s made for hanging out with friends, family and your dog. A short hike from the parking lot at the top of Mount Seymour.

3. Northlands Golf Course

• Northlands Golf Course – This is must on any golfers list, one of the best courses Vancouver has to offer. At the fingertips of Deep Cove locals and showcasing all that North Vancouver has. Set in the mountains and tough terrain, a challenging but fun course. One that will make you come back again and again. Do yourself a favour, get a golf cart or at least a pull cart. Nothing worse than wasting all your energy on a sore back after hauling your clubs on this course. Trust me, I’ve been there and done that for you.

4. The Ocean

The true beauty of Deep Cove and what it truly has is the Ocean that surrounds it. Get yourself out there someway, somehow. Rent a paddle board or kayak. Maybe if you are one of the lucky ones you have access to a boat. Either way be sure to explore one or more of these options below.

• Jug Island – A short paddle away but a great payoff at the end. You will approach Jug Island if you head straight out from the Deep Cove Marina. Once you are there, head across to the adjacent beach and have yourself a picnic. It’s here that your mind will be blown that you are actually now at Belcarra Park, Port Moody. Port Moody?! Yup, that’s right Port Moody is this close to Deep Cove.
• Twin Islands – This is about double the distance of Jug Island away from the marina. But a great location to call your hub. You can even camp overnight here and will probably see one of the local cliff jumping into the ocean. Do so at your own risk but you must make this one of your stops when put in the water. Hike around the island, it’s really a small island but a great time to be had.
• Granite Falls – Located 18km up Indian Arm from Deep Cove Marina. I would recommend boating to this but it can be done in a kayak. You’ll want to camp when you get here if done this way. But these waterfalls are awesome, flowing hundreds of feet down a rock fdace. Truly a must if you can find a way to get here.
• Cates Park – Really a location that most would drive to but a good spot none the less. A ton of different beaches spread across this park and if you find yourself on the water. This is a family fun park to picnic at or pick up a friend while on the water. Odds are you’ll see a movie being filmed here at any given time.

5. The Village of Deep Cove

The Village of Deep Cove has so much to offer on its own. A village full of mom and pop boutique shops like Cafe Orso for your coffee fix. Also shops like Room 6 which is full of little special things you would love or love to give as a gift.

Deep Cove embodies a cabin like lifestyle with a year round setting that’s been built by the locals over generations. You will find yourself wanting more and in fact probably checking out local listings. Reconsidering where you live and thinking maybe, just maybe I can afford a place here.

Trust me when I tell you that this is a great neighbourhood to raise a family. Even better for the kids as they grow up with this as their backyard.