Vancouver is about to transform into a winter wonderland.
A recent snowfall warning anticipates a dusting of snow to sprinkle the city over the weekend, while many hills in the Lower Mainland are already seeing fresh powder.
Earlier this week Metro Vancouverites shared footage of the first snowfall in elevated parts of the region late Thursday (Nov. 3) night.
The annual return of the spellbinding powder is a sight to see. However, getting around in the snow isn't as pretty.
Thankfully, Vancouver is not only a walkable city, but a transit-friendly city too, and there are many ways to see the snow without a car.
These spots in and around Vancouver are elevated, easy to get to by transit, and make for a fun snow day adventure.
UBC Vancouver campus
The university is elevated above the city, making it more likely to see snowfall that sticks around. The campus is big enough to be its own little town so there's lots to see and do when it snows. Hop on the 4, 14, 84, and 99 B-Line bus routes to get to this spot.
SFU Burnaby campus
This Metro Vancouver location is a great spot to see the snow due to its elevation. Getting there isn't a difficult trek as there are many various routes to get to this snowy hill. Take the "R5 SFU" Rapid Bus from Burrard Station or hop on the SkyTrain and take the 145 bus from Production Way-University Station.
Queen Elizabeth Park
This winter wonderland is a quick Canada Line ride away and the 50 bus route will take you directly to the park.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
This nearby garden is another good spot to see fresh snow. The Canada Line and 17 bus route will take you right to the park. Both this spot and Queen Elizabeth Park are located in an elevated part of Vancouver, increasing the likelihood of seeing more snow.
Ski Resorts
You don't need to ski or snowboard to visit a ski resort. Some mountains offer scenic winter hikes while others have additional winter activities available, like tobogganing.
These Metro Vancouver ski resorts are transit-friendly or offer bus or shuttle services:
Whistler - YVR Skylynx and Epic Rides offer express bus service between Vancouver and Whistler.
Seymour - The ski resort runs a round-trip shuttle bus service from Rupert SkyTrain Station.
Grouse - Take the 240 or 246 bus routes to North Vancouver, then switch to the 236 or 232 bus routes to get to the mountain. (Note: Grouse is set to re-open Nov. 11)
Cypress - The mountain operates a direct bus service that takes locals up to the mountain.
