Cates Park / Whey-ah-Wichen - Image 1
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Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen)

4.6
·2k reviews·North Vancouver, Canada

Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park) is a historic Tsleil-Waututh Nation site offering waterfront trails, beaches, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Cates Park / Whey-ah-Wichen - Image 1

Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen)

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park) is a historic Tsleil-Waututh Nation site offering waterfront trails, beaches, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A hidden gem in North Vancouver, offering stunning waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere for all ages."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early or on weekdays for easier parking. Free for 3 hours, with overflow options available.

🛶 Water Activities Ready

Bring your kayak or paddleboard! Rentals are often available nearby for exploring Burrard Inlet.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whey-ah-Wichen (Ancestral Village Site)

Whey-ah-Wichen (Ancestral Village Site)

Explore the historical heart of the park, an ancestral village site of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation for thousands of years.

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Waterfront Trails & Beaches

Waterfront Trails & Beaches

Stroll along scenic seaside trails offering stunning views and discover secluded pebble beaches perfect for relaxation.

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Kayaking and Paddleboarding Launch

Kayaking and Paddleboarding Launch

Easily launch your kayak or paddleboard from the boulder beach, with rentals often available nearby.

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Family-Friendly Amenities

Family-Friendly Amenities

Enjoy playgrounds, expansive grassy areas for picnics, and convenient facilities for a fun family day out.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Indigenous Heritage

Cates Park, known as Whey-ah-Wichen, is a significant ancestral village site of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect its rich history and cultural importance. Consider a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the land and its stories. Instagram+2

Parking and Access

While Cates Park offers ample parking, it can fill up quickly on busy days, especially during summer weekends. Free parking is available for up to 3 hours, with overflow options. Arriving early or on weekdays is recommended. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
During cultural events
Why
Experience local traditions
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Every year, səlilwətaɬ Tsleil-Waututh Nation holds an annual canoe race based at our traditional village site, Whey-ah-Wichen (Cates Park) in North Vancouver, B.C. July 28-30 . . #canoefestival2014 #canoerace #canoeracers #inspireyouth #northvancouver #northvancouverbc
lornagemstonejewelry
14 likes • 226 views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early or on weekdays for easier parking. Free for 3 hours, with overflow options available. InstagramReddit

🛶 Water Activities Ready

Bring your kayak or paddleboard! Rentals are often available nearby for exploring Burrard Inlet. InstagramReddit

My beach: Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen) Beach … ☀️ 🏖️ #catesparkbeach #northvan365 #northvancouver
catewaggy
16 likes • 191 views
As a studio, we've been looking to learn more about the land we live on and the stories and histories it holds. Earlier this month on a drizzly but atmospheric day @takayatours led our team on a canoe tour. We started at Whey-ah-wichen (Cates Park), an ancestral village site of the səlilwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) people for thousands of years prior to European contact, and looped in the waters nearb...
humanstudio_
52 likes • 1.8K views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the expansive grassy areas or by the pebble beach. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the ~1km shaded trail along the waterfront. Reddit

Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen) with the Palz Aug 17! We hit it at the perfect time, and celebrated with a little beverage on the water for sunset as usual 😀 🍻 Cheers to the queers who came out for our Pride Paddle part II 🫶🏽🌈and big sis T who was super helpful again 🫂 . . . @arcteryxbc @sup.and.foil @justcallsleddy
allaccess_adventures
58 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early or on weekdays for easier parking. Free for 3 hours, with overflow options available. InstagramReddit

🛶 Water Activities Ready

Bring your kayak or paddleboard! Rentals are often available nearby for exploring Burrard Inlet. InstagramReddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the expansive grassy areas or by the pebble beach. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the ~1km shaded trail along the waterfront. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially in summer, bring water. Convenient washrooms are available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cates Park is widely praised as a beautiful and serene waterfront gem in North Vancouver, offering a great mix of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. Visitors love the peaceful atmosphere, scenic trails, and excellent facilities for picnics and water activities. While parking can be a challenge on busy days, most find it worth circling around for a spot.

"Pleasant park, lots of space for picnicking and good access to launch kayaks. About ~4.5km paddling to Deep Cove. Plenty of parking 3hrs max (hope it remains free). A good stretch of boulder beach for all activities. Trail is a bit short (~1km) but a good walk in the shade. Staff at the convenience kiosk was nice and prompt and the sandwiches were OK. Definitely a place to revisit."

carpe diem

"One of our favorite spots to unwind is definitely this gem! We love coming here for paddleboarding and soaking up the sun on the beach. In the summer, there are convenient washrooms and a place to grab a bite to eat. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for picnics, and while parking can be a challenge on busy days, don’t worry—you’ll find a spot if you circle around a bit! Plus, there’s a delightful park for the kiddos to enjoy. It’s the perfect place for a fun-filled day!"

Julia Mitchell

"Serence and peaceful good-sized park with pebble beach along the water. Perfect for those looking to chill and bbq, as well as those looking for sport and action. Children, adults, and pets will all enjoy this tranquil area. Please respect the area and keep our parks clean!"

Harinder Singh Dhatt

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Scenic waterfront views
Family-friendly amenities

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cates Park is located in North Vancouver. You can drive across the Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Bridge and follow Dollarton Highway. Public transit options are also available via bus routes. Instagram

Yes, several TransLink bus routes serve the area around Cates Park. Check the TransLink website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Instagram

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Cates Park for kayaking, as it allows you to transport your gear easily. There is parking available near the water access points. InstagramReddit

Yes, cycling is a great option. There are bike paths and racks available at the park. It's a scenic ride along the waterfront. Instagram

The park has paved trails and accessible washrooms, making it reasonably accessible. Some beach areas may be more challenging. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cates Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities for free. Instagram

Cates Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facility hours, like washrooms or kiosks, may vary seasonally. Instagram

For general park visits, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to host a large event or reserve picnic areas, you may need to check with the local parks department. Reddit

Pets are generally welcome in Cates Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Please be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet. Reddit

Information about events like the annual canoe race or cultural performances can often be found on local community websites or social media pages. Instagram+2

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking the trails, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, playing at the playground, and simply relaxing by the water. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Cates Park features a fantastic playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around. The beach area is also great for them to explore. InstagramReddit

Expect beautiful waterfront views of Burrard Inlet, lush green spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere. The park is known for its natural beauty. Instagram+1

Yes, public washrooms are available within the park, which are convenient for visitors. InstagramReddit

While swimming is not the primary activity, the pebble beach offers access to the water for wading and cooling off. Reddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

During the summer, there's a convenience kiosk that offers sandwiches and snacks. Otherwise, it's best to bring your own food for picnics. InstagramReddit

Yes, Cates Park is a great spot for BBQs. There are picnic tables available, and the open grassy areas are perfect for gatherings. Reddit

For more extensive dining options, you'll need to travel a short distance to nearby neighborhoods in North Vancouver, which offer a variety of restaurants and cafes. Reddit

Yes, there's a convenience kiosk that sells snacks and drinks, particularly during the peak summer season. InstagramReddit

Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and easy-to-eat snacks are perfect for a picnic. Don't forget drinks and any necessary utensils. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning waterfront views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The totem poles and the natural landscape offer great photographic subjects. Instagram+2

Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Sunset is particularly popular. Instagram

The totem poles, the pebble beach, and the expansive views across Burrard Inlet are iconic spots for photos. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the local authorities or park management for current rules regarding drone operation. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant scenery. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cates Park is a top-notch destination for families. The fantastic playground is a huge hit with children, and the large grassy areas are perfect for running around and having picnics. The pebble beach offers a safe place for kids to explore the water's edge. InstagramReddit

Pack a picnic basket and make a day of it! The park's amenities, including washrooms and a seasonal snack kiosk, make it convenient for families. It's a place where kids can have a blast while parents can relax and enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting. InstagramReddit

🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts

For those who love being on the water, Cates Park is a dream. It's an excellent launch point for kayaking and paddleboarding on Burrard Inlet. The boulder beach provides easy access, and the surrounding waters offer scenic routes, including a popular paddle to Deep Cove. InstagramReddit

Consider timing your visit for a sunset paddle for an unforgettable experience. While rentals aren't on-site, nearby options make it accessible. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the marine environment and get some exercise. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers

Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic waterfront trails at Cates Park. The approximately 1km trail offers lovely views and a peaceful escape. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities, especially during the golden hours, to capture the stunning inlet vistas and the park's natural beauty. Instagram+1

Don't miss the totem poles, which add a cultural element to the landscape. The combination of natural scenery and cultural markers makes for a rewarding experience for both walkers and photographers. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cultural Significance of Whey-ah-Wichen

Cates Park is more than just a recreational space; it is Whey-ah-Wichen, an ancestral village site of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. For thousands of years, this land was a vital hub for the Tsleil-Waututh people, serving as a place of gathering, sustenance, and cultural practice. The name 'Whey-ah-Wichen' itself holds deep meaning, often translated as 'faces the wind' or 'faces both directions,' reflecting its strategic location and the interconnectedness of the people with their environment. Instagram+2

Today, efforts are being made to honor and share this rich heritage. Visitors can learn about the Tsleil-Waututh Nation's history through guided tours, often involving traditional canoes, which offer a unique perspective on the land and its significance. These experiences provide a deeper appreciation for the enduring connection between the people and their ancestral territories, highlighting the importance of respecting and preserving this sacred place. Instagram+2

Waterfront Activities: Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The calm waters of Burrard Inlet make Cates Park an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The park features a convenient boulder beach that serves as an excellent launch point for watercraft. Many visitors enjoy paddling out to explore the inlet, with some even making the approximately 4.5km journey to Deep Cove. InstagramReddit

While rentals are not directly within the park, nearby facilities in Deep Cove offer options for those looking to rent equipment. The experience of being on the water, with the city skyline on one side and the natural beauty of the North Shore mountains on the other, is a major draw. Sunset paddles are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Instagram+1

Family Fun and Amenities

Cates Park is a haven for families, offering a range of amenities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. The playground is a standout feature, providing a safe and engaging space for children to play. Beyond the playground, the park boasts expansive grassy areas that are perfect for picnics, games, or simply lounging in the sun. InstagramReddit

The park's layout, with its mix of open spaces and waterfront access, makes it easy for families to spend an entire day here. The presence of convenient public washrooms and a seasonal kiosk for snacks adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment for families. It's a place where kids can burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings. InstagramReddit

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