Most people walk through forests. Very few ever experience them from above.
Canopy Expedition is a guided tree climbing adventure inside the iconic UBC Botanical Garden. You’ll ascend into a mature forest tree using harnesses and professional rope systems, then explore the upper canopy with your guide as you learn about tree biology, forest ecology, and the living world around you. Enjoy sweeping ocean and mountain views, in a place few people have ever been to.
This is not a rushed thrill ride — it’s a slow, immersive expedition designed for curious adventurers, friends, couples, and families looking for one of the most unique outdoor experiences in Vancouver.
With small group sizes, expert instruction, and optional battery-assisted ascent support, the Canopy Expedition is accessible, safe, and unforgettable.
If you can get into a harness, we can get you into the tree.
The tour takes place in the UBC Botanical Garden, Canada’s oldest operating botanical garden and a living museum of plant collections from around the world. A visit to the garden pairs perfectly with your tree climbing adventure, offering beautiful walking trails, diverse ecosystems, and world-class plant collections that deepen your appreciation for the forest from the ground up.
Itinerary:
Welcome and Introduction, Gear Orientation
– Brief welcome and introduction to the tour; introduction to the forest and tree you will be exploring
– Equipment fitting and safety talk
– Overview of climbing techniques, including significant time for practice and guide feedback prior to climbing to height
Tree Climbing
– Group begins climb to height, with each participant ascending at their own pace, with guidance from instructor and rest stops as needed
– Short breaks at different points for photo ops and discussion
– Along the way, the guide shares insights into the tree’s biology and it’s role in the ecosystem
Enjoy the Upper Canopy
– Reach the highest branches for a stunning aerial view of the nearby ocean and surrounding forest
– Hang out in the tree, enjoy the surroundings, and engage in further discussions with the guide about the forest and local wildlife
Descent and Wrap-up
– Safely descend with guidance from the instructor
– Conclude the tour with a debrief and a final reflection on the experience
