The high price of filling your car's gas tank can put a damper on weekend plans that require a bit of a drive. But this summer, you can still get your outdoors time in while saving some bucks thanks to a free shuttle bus service that will run between Vancouver and Golden Ears Provincial Park.
Parkbus operated in the summer of 2017 as a pilot program, but for 2018, support from MEC and TD has funded the service, which means your ride will be free.
Golden Ears Provincial Park/Shutterstock
Operated by Vancouver-based Environmentall Sound Transportation, Parkbus will run every Saturday and Sunday, starting July 7 and ending on September 2, with departures from MEC Vancouver Store (130 West Broadway) in the morning, and returns in the late afternoon.
You'll need to pre-book your seat online with a credit card deposit (to prevent no-shows), and the reservations will open up in mid-June.
Ahead of your reserved trip, riders will get safety information and park details via e-mail. While on board, you can learn about Leave No Trace principles from a ride facilitator.
At 62,540 hectares, Golden Ears is one of the biggest parks in B.C. Known for its extensive trail system for hikers and equestrian use, Golden Ears also is home to Alouette Lake, which is a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, water-skiing, canoeing, boating, and fishing.
Oh, and if your summer plans find you in Edmonton, Montreal, or Toronto, those cities also have Parkbus service running this year, too.
